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"Astrology is a concern of the Christ and the work of [the Archangel] Michael." --
Hermann BeckhDuring the brief window between the two World Wars, the Rev. Prof. Hermann Beckh led research at The Christian Community Seminary in Stuttgart. In those precious years he published on music, the gospels and the ancient Mysteries. By 1930, in his "Contributions to the Priests' Newsletter," he had produced the most far-reaching account of the cosmic order ever written. The typescript of that great work was destined to gather dust in the Berlin Archiv, however, until it was discovered in recent years. Published here for the first time, it is the crowning masterpiece to Beckh's Collected Works.
The translated and annotated text is accompanied by Rudolf Frieling's profound application of Beckh's principles of the cosmic starry order to the Creed of The Christian Community. The book also includes a number of appreciations and relevant book reviews.
Through ever-deepening meditation guided by Rudolf Steiner, as well as his vast knowledge of Tibetan, Sanskrit, Pali and Avestan sacred texts--scarcely to be equaled in Europe at the time--Beckh came to the first-hand realization that human and cosmic life is ordered. He perceived directly that this cosmic order is
good, as originating from the World-will;
true, as from World-thinking; and
beautiful, as from World-feeling. All three could be personally experienced in disciplined consciousness that can enter dream, sleep, and prenatal life. This, then, was Beckh's method and inspiration, as shown in this extraordinary work.
About the author
Hermann Beckh (1875-1937) studied Law and later Sanskrit, becoming Professor of Oriental Studies at the University of Berlin. A master of ancient and modern languages, he wrote extensively on religious and philosophical subjects, including Buddhism, Indology, Christianity, alchemy, and music. In 1911, he heard a lecture by Rudolf Steiner and was inspired to join the Anthroposophical Society, where he became a valued coworker. In 1922, he helped found The Christian Community, a movement for religious renewal. His many books are gradually being translated from the original German and published in English.
Summary
A theological study of the zodiac and the Christian creed.
