The imagery of the Book of Revelation St Johns Apocalypse has inspired centuries of interpretation, much of it symbolic or speculative. In this exceptional series of lectures, Rudolf Steiner approaches the least understood of Christian texts from a fundamentally different standpoint: that of direct spiritual perception and experiential knowledge.
Steiner presents the Apocalypse not as a prophecy of distant events, but as a living book of initiation that addresses the evolution of human awareness, the sacramental life and the future tasks of Christianity. The Apocalypse unfolds as a cosmic and historical drama: the Alpha and Omega of consciousness, the meaning of its sacred numbers, letters, seals and trumpets, and the downfall of the powers opposing the Christ Impulse. The Michael and Sun mysteries, the significance of 666 and the images of Babylon, the Beast and the New Jerusalem are explored in relation to karma, freedom and morality.
The Apocalypse emerges as a spiritual guide for our time, demanding engagement of the will and conscious striving. Central to this vision is the changing experience of the Communion service through successive Mystery epochs, culminating in a future knowledge of the human I. By revealing the unity of cosmic and earthly processes, religion and knowledge, Steiner presents the Book of Revelation as a living source for humanitys future development and the renewal of priestly work.
Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) called his spiritual philosophy anthroposophy, meaning wisdom of the human being. As a highly developed seer, he based his work on direct knowledge and perception of spiritual dimensions. He initiated a modern and universal science of spirit, accessible to anyone willing to exercise clear and unprejudiced thinking.
From his spiritual investigations Steiner provided suggestions for the renewal of many activities, including education (both general and special), agriculture, medicine, economics, architecture, science, philosophy, religion and the arts. Today there are thousands of schools, clinics, farms and other organizations involved in practical work based on his principles. His many published works feature his research into the spiritual nature of the human being, the evolution of the world and humanity, and methods of personal development. Steiner wrote some 30 books and delivered over 6000 lectures across Europe. In 1924 he founded the General Anthroposophical Society, which today has branches throughout the world.
