An Outline of Esoteric Science

"Esoteric science is the science of what takes place esoterically, in the sense that it is perceived not outside in nature but where one’s soul turns when it directs its inner being toward the spirit. Esoteric science is the opposite and counterpart of natural science." 

—Rudolf Steiner

This masterwork of esotericism places humankind at the very heart of the vast, invisible processes of cosmic evolution. When we use the term “natural science,” don’t we mean that we are dealing with human knowledge of nature? 

Steiner worked and reworked his Rosicrucian cosmology to make it increasingly precise and accurate. An Outline of Esoteric Science is as vital and relevant now as it was when first published in 1910 and remains the most comprehensive and effective presentation of a spiritual alternative to contemporary, materialistic cosmologies and a strict Darwinian view of human nature and evolution.

In this foundational work of spiritual science, we see how the creation and evolution of humanity is embedded at the heart of the vast, invisible web of interacting cosmic beings, through whom the alchemical processes of cosmic evolution continue to evolve. Included are descriptions of the physical-spiritual makeup of the human being; the relationships of the different "bodies" of the human being to sleep and death; and a detailed, practical guide to methods and exercises, including the “Rose Cross Meditation,” through which we can attain knowledge of the spiritual worlds. 

The most remarkable and revolutionary aspect of this work is the central function that Steiner attributes to the Christ and his involvement in human and earthly evolution through the Mystery of Golgotha. 

Contents: 

Introduction by Clopper Almon

Preface by Rudolf Steiner

The Character of Esoteric Science

The Makeup of the Human Being

Sleep and Death

Cosmic Evolution and the Human Being

Knowledge of Higher Worlds—Initiation

Cosmic and Human Evolution—Now and in the Future

Details from the Field of Spiritual Science

Appendix: Rudolf Steiner’s Early Introductions

Further Reading

This is essential reading for all serious students of esoteric spirituality. 

Previous translations: An Outline of Occult Science and Occult Science: An Outline. 

An Outline of Esoteric Science is a translation of Die Geheimwissenschaft im Umriss (GA 13).

• Written by Rudolf Steiner, CW 19
• Translated by Catherine E. Creeger
• Introduction by Clopper Almon
• 448 pages
• Published October 1997
• Paperback