Herman Weidelener
Herman Weidelener (*April 21, 1903 in Bartholomä, Swabian Alb; †November 17, 1972 in Munich) was a German religious philosopher, priest of the Christian Community, and author.
Biography:
Early years and education: The third son of the Protestant pastor Ernst Max Weidelener, Herman Weidelener attended a humanistic grammar school and subsequently studied philosophy, theology, and musicology in Tübingen, Berlin, and Rostock.
Involvement in the Anthroposophical Society: In 1924, he joined the Anthroposophical Society founded by Rudolf Steiner and soon assumed a leading role within this movement.
Ordination and activities: On November 7, 1926, he was ordained a priest of the Christian Community in Nuremberg and subsequently worked as a pastor in Augsburg.
Foundation of the Religious Philosophical Working Group: In 1933, he separated from Anthroposophy and founded the Religious Philosophical Working Group, which he led until his death.
Work and Influence:
Weidelener gave over 10,000 lectures on philosophical, religious, and mythological topics, with the question of Western meditation at the center of his efforts.
Publications (selection):
The Gods Within Us: Knowledge of Life through the Images of Myths
The Myth of Parzival and the Grail
Western Meditations: Introduction to Meditation
Paths to Existence
His extensive oeuvre includes over 500 titles dealing with questions of inner training, meditation, and the wisdom of language.
Legacy:
The Herman Weidelener Foundation, based in Augsburg, is dedicated to preserving his work. It regularly organizes readings and events that explore his writings and teachings.