Rudolf Steiner Audio CW 117a: Gospel of John & 3 other Gospels: Lecture 9 (Stockholm, 13 January 1910) by Rudolf Steiner
Nov 12, 2025
Rudolf Steiner delves into the origins of the Gospels, arguing they stem from ancient mystery traditions rather than mere manuscripts. He discusses how modern criticism can obscure their spiritual meanings. Steiner also outlines a three-degree initiation process from ancient schools, emphasizing the interplay of symbolism and purification rituals. He draws intriguing connections between the Egyptian and Nordic initiations, positing that diverse paths converge in Christ. Additionally, he suggests the Gospel of John reflects an initiation drama rather than a typical biography.
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Gospels Rooted In Ancient Mysteries
- Rudolf Steiner argues modern biblical criticism misses the Gospels' true spiritual sources in ancient mysteries.
- He urges spiritual research to reveal real origins rather than hypothetical Aramaic documents.
Threefold Path Of Initiation
- Steiner describes initiation as three grades: imagination, inspiration, and intuition leading to direct spiritual vision.
- He says temples used external symbolic dramas to mirror inner development and prepare pupils for higher perception.
Egyptian Initiates Laid In Catalepsy
- In Egyptian rites pupils lay cataleptic for three and a half days, appearing dead in coffins or on a cross.
- Steiner says their ether, astral, and 'eye' withdrew to enable authentic experiences of the etheric world.
