Description This volume presents fifteen of those introductions to some of Steiner’s most essential books and lectures on anthroposophic practices, Western esoteric streams, religious renewal, and inner development, as well as practical applications of anthroposophic principles for a threefold society and contributions to modern holistic medicine. Taken together, these introductions provide one of the best possible means of encountering Rudolf Steiner by revealing the background, significance, and relevance of his philosophy and insights for humanity today and in the future. This book is for anyone seeking a way into Steiner’s worldview, as well as for those who are already familiar with the work of Rudolf Steiner and wish to delve more deeply into the many aspects of the anthroposophic path of knowledge. The deep aim, or intention, of an introduction (understood esoterically) is a ‘living understanding,’ or, as the poet William Blake put it, the ability ‘to catch the bird in flight and fly with it.’ If successful, this makes it possible for any reader to hear or translate, into his or her own understanding, what Rudolf Steiner is offering, within and beyond his words, in these texts of The Collected Works. — Christopher Bamford Contents Foreword by William M. Jensen Preface by Christopher Bamford Introduction by Robert A. McDermott 1. Rudolf Steiner’s Biography and Mission Autobiography: Chapters in the Course of My Life, 1861–1907 From the History and Contents of the First Section of the Esoteric School, 1904–1914 2. Anthroposophic Practice Start Now! A Book of Soul and Spiritual Exercises A Way of Self-knowledge: And the Threshold of the Spiritual World 3. Western Esoteric Traditions Spiritualism, Madame Blavatsky, and Theosophy: An Eyewitness View of Occult History The Secret Stream: Christian Rosenkreutz and Rosicrucianism Isis Mary Sophia: Her Mission and Ours 4. Esoteric Christian Renewal Christianity as Mystical Fact and the Mysteries of Antiquity First Steps in Christian Religious Renewal 5. Fidelity to Those Who Have Died Staying Connected: How to Continue Your Relationships with Those Who Have Died The Influence of the Dead on Destiny 6. Anthroposophy in The World Freedom of Thought and Societal Forces: Implementing the Demands of Modern Society Becoming the Archangel Michael’s Companions: Rudolf Steiner’s Challenge to the Younger Generation The Healing Process: Spirit, Nature, and Our Bodies Love and Its Meaning in the World
