The History of the Esoteric School 1904–1914, Volume Two

GA 265

Note from the Publisher Regarding Pledge Taken

The usual formula signed by Rudolf Steiner and Marie von Sivers is not available in the original. According to an eyewitness, the original passed on by Reuß was destroyed. However, since copies of it exist, the unconfirmed wording of such a copy is given here so as not to be exposed to the accusation of a tendentious omission:

“Pledge and Obligation. I, the undersigned, do hereby solemnly pledge and promise to keep and obey the laws and customs of the Ancient and Primitive Rite of M.u.M. O.T.O.¹ To keep and obey the O. to the best of our ability, to help maintain the usual secret, to work for the preservation of the Sovereign Section for the German Reich, and to recognize the Souv.Gen.Groß. ad vitam Dr. Th. Reuß as the visible guardian of our secret, as well as the supreme and final arbiter in all matters. I further vow that I will not allow anyone to hypnotize or mesmerize me, or to put me in such a passive state in any other way that anyone, be it a profane or other person or persons, beings or forces, could thereby cause me to lose control over my thoughts, my will or my actions, lest the secrets entrusted to me be betrayed in this way through my fault and weakness. Should I ever break this my vow, may my soul restlessly wander through the immeasurable space-time without end. Eternal Jehovah hear my words and help fulfill my vow. Berlin, November 24, 1905. Rudolf Steiner.