Table of Contents
Chapter X describes the evolution of the second root race, known as the Hyperborean Race, following the first, or Polar, Race. This period marks a significant advancement in the physical and spiritual development of early humanity.
Evolution from Firemist
Steiner begins by explaining that the Hyperborean Race emerged from an era when humans were incorporated into subtle matter known as “firemist.”
This ethereal state characterized early human development, where individuals existed in forms comparable to water vapor or clouds.
Though this description is a superficial approximation, it highlights the early ethereal nature of humans who were internally vitalized and organized.
Bodily and Conscious Development
During this stage, humans had not yet developed dense physical bodies, which only emerged gradually over time. The Hyperborean Race’s bodily appearance can be likened to a slumbering state of consciousness, lacking intelligence, understanding, and reason. Movement was more akin to floating, enabled by limb-like organs allowing multi-directional motion.
Guidance by Higher Beings
Despite their dim consciousness, the Hyperborean beings exhibited perfectly regulated movements and life expressions. This regulation was due to guidance from higher beings who hovered around them, directing their actions. These higher beings were more developed than the Hyperboreans and had the capacity to incorporate themselves into the firemist, facilitating communication and interconnection with humanity.
Influence of Higher Intelligences
The Hyperboreans’ inclinations, instincts, and passions were clothed in firemist, providing a medium through which higher beings could exert influence. These beings created within the firemist, using their reason and intelligence, guiding the evolution of the Hyperborean Race. The cooperation between these higher intelligences and the early humans played a crucial role in shaping the race’s development.
The Transition to Physical Existence
As the Hyperborean Race evolved, their physical forms began to solidify, gradually adopting more defined and structured characteristics. The earth’s cooling allowed for the condensation of matter, contributing to the development of more complex physical bodies. These changes marked the transition from an ethereal existence to one increasingly anchored in the physical world.
