An Esoteric Cosmology

It is only of recent times that the truths of occultism have been the subject of public lectures. Formerly, these truths were only revealed in secret societies, to those who had passed through certain degrees of initiation and had sworn to obey the laws of the Order through the whole of their life. Today, man is entering upon a very critical period. Occult truths are beginning to be disclosed to the public. In a matter of twenty years or so, a certain number of them will already be common knowledge. Why is this? The reason is that humanity is entering upon a new phase which it is the object of this lecture to explain.

Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) was an Austrian philosopher, esoteric teacher, lecturer, editor, and founder of Anthroposophy, a spiritual movement that sought to unite disciplined inner development with knowledge of the spiritual dimensions of human life and the cosmos. Educated in science, literature, and philosophy, Steiner first became known for his work on Goethe's scientific writings and for his philosophical study The Philosophy of Freedom before developing the body of spiritual teaching that became Anthroposophy. His lectures and books address metaphysics, spiritual science, Christianity, reincarnation, karma, education, agriculture, medicine, art, architecture, and the evolution of consciousness.Steiner's influence has extended far beyond esoteric philosophy. His ideas helped shape Waldorf education, biodynamic agriculture, anthroposophical medicine, eurythmy, and a wide range of twentieth-century spiritual and cultural movements. In works such as An Esoteric Cosmology, Knowledge of the Higher Worlds, Theosophy, and An Outline of Occult Science, Steiner presents a systematic vision of the human being as physical, soul, and spiritual, situated within a larger cosmic process of development. His work remains important for readers of Anthroposophy, Western esotericism, occult philosophy, spiritual science, metaphysical religion, and the history of modern alternative spirituality.