The Evolution of Consciousness: As Revealed through Initiation Knowledge (CW 227) - Softcover

Steiner, Rudolf

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1855841290 ISBN 13: 9781855841291

Publisher: Rudolf Steiner Press, 2006

Synopsis

13 lectures, 2 addresses, Q&A, Penmaenmawr, Wales, August 18–31, 1923 (CW 227)

According to the research of initiate Rudolf Steiner, humanity is in a continual process of transformation and evolution. Modern consciousness, based primarily on sensory perception and abstract logic, differs considerably from the consciousness of ancient human beings. Steiner tells us that the ancients saw human beings as microcosms, or concentrations, of cosmic laws and activities. The loss of such knowledge has led to an existential quest for meaning and even the cul-de-sac we know as atheism.

In these comprehensive lectures, delivered to an English audience, Steiner discusses the very real possibility of reconnecting to the cosmos today. He explains how we can develop higher faculties of consciousness―what he calls imagination, inspiration, and intuition―and vividly describes life after death and how individuals progress through the planetary spheres. In these spheres, he tells us, tasks and purpose for future incarnations are prepared in cooperation with spiritual beings of the heavenly hierarchies. The lectures culminate in a call for us to take charge of our own destiny through conscious, free development of our spiritual potential.

This new edition of a fundamental work from Rudolf Steiner features a revised translation, as well as previously unavailable addresses and Steiner’s answers to questions from his audience.

This volume is a translation from German of Initiations-Erkenntnis (GA 227).

About this title

About the Authors

Rudolf Steiner (b. Rudolf Joseph Lorenz Steiner, 1861–1925) was born in the small village of Kraljevec, Austro-Hungarian Empire (now in Croatia), where he grew up. As a young man, he lived in Weimar and Berlin, where he became a well-published scientific, literary, and philosophical scholar, known especially for his work with Goethe’s scientific writings. Steiner termed his spiritual philosophy anthroposophy, meaning “wisdom of the human being.” As an exceptionally developed seer, he based his work on direct knowledge and perception of spiritual dimensions. He initiated a modern, universal “spiritual science” that is accessible to anyone willing to exercise clear and unbiased thinking. From his spiritual investigations, Steiner provided suggestions for the renewal of numerous activities, including education (general and for special needs), agriculture, medicine, economics, architecture, science, philosophy, Christianity, and the arts. There are currently thousands of schools, clinics, farms, and initiatives in other fields that involve practical work based on the principles Steiner developed. His many published works feature his research into the spiritual nature of human beings, the evolution of the world and humanity, and methods for personal development. He wrote some thirty books and delivered more than six thousand lectures throughout much of Europe. In 1924, Steiner founded the General Anthroposophical Society, which today has branches around the world.

Marie Steiner-von Sivers (1867–1948) was born in Wlotzlawek, in Russian Poland and grew up in St. Petersburg. She trained as an actor, but left the stage when she met Theosophy through Edouard Schuré, whose works she translated. In 1900, she met Rudolf Steiner, whom she later married and worked alongside in the development of Anthroposophy. She died in Beatenberg, Switzerland.

Edition details

• Publisher: Rudolf Steiner Press
• Publication date: 2006
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1855841290
• ISBN 13: 9781855841291
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 304