Abd-ru-shin German writer and philosopher, author of works devoted to religious and philosophical themes and united in the work “In the Light of Truth. The Message of the Grail” (German: Im Lichte der Wahrheit. Gralsbotschaft). Date of Birth: 18.04.1875 Country: Germany

1. Early Life and Education
2. Business and Travel
3. Literary Success and War
4. Spiritual Awakening
5. The Gralsbotschaft and Abd-ru-shin
6. Major Works and the Grals Settlement
7. Posthumous Legacy

Early Life and Education

Oskar Ernst Bernhard was born into an affluent family in Bischofswerda, Germany, on April 18, 1875. His parents, Emma Therese and Clemens Theodor, devotedly cared for him as the youngest of five children.

Business and Travel

Bernhard, at his parents' behest, pursued a career in commerce after completing his primary education. He graduated from the Dresden School of Economics and established his own business there. From 1900 onwards, he traveled extensively worldwide for commercial purposes. These experiences sparked his interest in writing.

Literary Success and War

Bernhard's travel essays and plays gained popularity in Germany. He traveled to India, Turkey, the Middle East, and the Americas. In 1913, he arrived in London, where he remained when World War I broke out. In 1915, he was interned on the Isle of Man as a German citizen.

Spiritual Awakening

Bernhard's time in internment, witnessing the suffering and chaos of wartime, led him to deep introspection. He sought out meaning and purpose in the face of crisis. His reflections on life's purpose, human destiny, and the relationship with God intensified his desire to help others find spiritual fulfillment.

The Gralsbotschaft and Abd-ru-shin

Upon his release and return to Germany in 1919, Bernhard recognized his mission to reveal the Laws of Creation and guide seekers out of spiritual darkness. From 1923, under the pseudonym Abd-ru-shin (meaning "Son of Light" in Persian-Arabic), he began publishing his lectures in the "Gralsblätter" (Gralsbrochure).

Major Works and the Grals Settlement

In 1926, Abd-ru-shin compiled his early lectures into the book "In the Light of Truth: The New Grail Message" (known as the "Small Edition"). He continued publishing additional lectures in the "Gralsblätter" and later in his magazine "Der Ruf." In 1928, he relocated to Vomperberg, Austria, where he welcomed seekers seeking guidance and community. The Grals Settlement, inspired by his teachings, was gradually established.

Posthumous Legacy

In 1931, Abd-ru-shin published the definitive edition of his work, "In the Light of Truth: The Grail Message" (known as the "Large Edition"). This comprehensive text offers a systematic and profound exploration of Creation, its laws, and the path to spiritual fulfillment. Abd-ru-shin's legacy continues to inspire and guide seekers worldwide through his extensive writings and the principles of the Gralsbotschaft.