The gospel according to Schuré

"Jesus, The Last Great Initiate" is a short book by French esotericist Edouard Schuré, who periodically had contacts with Rudolf Steiner and his Anthroposophical Society.

In contrast to many other occultists, Schuré didn't regard the Gospels as mere myths or allegories. Rather, he believed that they are more or less historically accurate, although certain portions have to be reinterpreted or amplified. Thus, Schuré doesn't believe in a literal virgin birth, since one of the gospel genealogies is Joseph's family tree. Rather, Mary conceived Jesus in the normal manner, but this child became the vessel for the Christ. The purpose of Jesus Christ was to restore the purity of the ancient mysteries, which had been gradually corrupted by the Greeks and completely rejected by the Romans (who play the chief role as villains in Schuré's account). The author regards Jewish monotheism as a positive step forward, especially the monotheism of prophets such as Isaiah, who challenged empty rituals in the name of a universal religion of peace. He also mentions Persian religion (presumably Zoroastrianism) as a positive influence.

As in similar accounts, Schuré claims that Jesus spent his "lost years" with the Essenes, depicted as an initiatory, Pythagorean order. He attempted to convince the disciples of his esoteric mission, with somewhat shaky success. Schuré also believes that Jesus stood for gender equality, and attacks Paul for misogyny. The Last Supper was an initiatory ritual.

Schuré denies the physical resurrection, believing that the mortal body of Jesus was somehow destroyed. His resurrection-body was a perfected version of the astral body, which Jesus could materialize on the physical plane in order to become visible to his disciples. This is the esoteric meaning of Jesus' words to Nicodemus about being "born again". All humans need to perfect their astral bodies in order to enter a new, higher and spiritual existence.

The Second Coming is allegorical and signifies a state of complete spiritualization of the cosmos, in which all humans have either evolved into perfected beings or devolved into a hellish existence. This state can only be reached after an extended period of reincarnations. It's interesting to note that Schuré sounds "social gospel"-like, regarding the reform and perfection of society and culture as important goals.

Yes, there do seem to be similarities between Schuré's message and the Christ-centred/world-centred esotericism of Steiner, although the latter is far more complex (at least if this short book is any indication of Schuré's message).

To be honest, I don't regard "Jesus. The Last Great Initiate" as a very interesting work. I skimmed most of it. A specialist on hidden influences on Steiner might perhaps find something of use in it, but I think most of us might as well give this gospel according to Schuré a pass. Two stars.