INTRODUCTORY
NOTE
Extract
from a lecture given
by Rudolf Steiner
at Dornach, 22nd June,
1924.
The study of problems connected with karma is by no means easy
and discussion of anything that has to do with this subject
entails — or ought at any rate to entail — a sense of deep
responsibility. Such study is in truth a matter of penetrating into the
most profound relationships of existence, for within
the sphere of karma and the course it takes lie those processes which are
the basis of the other phenomena of world-existence,
even of the phenomena of nature. Without insight into the course taken
by karma in the world and in the evolution of humanity it is quite
impossible to understand why external nature is displayed before us
in the form in which we behold it ...
What
has been said in the lectures here since the Christmas Foundation Meeting
should not really be passed on to any audience otherwise than by reading
an exact transcript of what has been said here.
A
free exposition of this particular subject-matter is not possible at the
present stage. If such a course were proposed I should have to take exception
to it. These difficult and weighty matters entail grave consideration of every
word and every sentence spoken here, in order that the limits within
which the statements are made shall be absolutely clear ...
In
the fullest meaning of the words, a sense of responsibility in regard
to communications from the spiritual worlds begins the moment things are
spoken of in the way we are speaking of them now. It is in any case
very difficult to speak about these matters here in view of the limitations
of our present organisation which do not, however, admit of any other
arrangement. It is difficult to speak about these things because
such lectures ought really to be given only to listeners who attend the
series from beginning to end. Understanding will inevitably be
difficult for anyone who comes in later.
If,
however, friends are fully conscious that such difficulties
exist, a certain balance can be established.
Provided this consciousness is present, then all will be well. But it
is not always there ...
I
think that the meaning of what I have said will be understood. I
have spoken as I have in order that the necessary earnestness
may prevail in regard to lectures of the kind now being given ...
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