Vol. IV
INTRODUCTORY NOTE
Extract
from the lecture given by Rudolf Steiner, 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 world 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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