Gralsvsktarnas budskap - 1972 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of GRALSVÄKTARNAS BUDSKAP (The Grals Watchmen's Message), volume 3, issue 1, dated January-February 1972, is a stencil-printed journal from the GRALSVÄKTARNAS SAMFUND (Grals Watchmen's Society). It is priced at Kr. 1:50 per issue and Kr. 12:-- per year, with 8 issues published annually. The Stockholm office is located at Möregatan 8, 1 tr.ned, with contact numbers 08/25 23 44 and 43 05 79. A sister lodge in Gothenburg can be reached at 031/ 16 47 82. Most articles are written by Elisabeth Ståhlgren.

Nya Möjligheter (New Opportunities)

The editorial introduces the new year and the magazine's new volume, emphasizing the strengthening of the feeling that useful things can be brought forth, leading to greater understanding of the formation of all things and the cosmic laws. It states that the world is a manifestation of these laws, connecting the cosmos with the individual. The article calls for a shift from old patterns to new ones, urging readers to move beyond historical falseness and deceit, particularly in international relations and the concept of chivalry. It suggests that patriotism has been replaced by love for all living things and that the ideals presented by today's youth should be taken seriously. The core of progress lies in the experiences gained from comparing the old with the new, which serve as building blocks for future structures. The aspiration is to build temples for future divine services in a new world with new people, based on past experiences and an open outlook towards the blessings of a new life philosophy.

Ur Våra Mästares Liv Och Lära (From Our Masters' Lives and Teachings) by Baird T. Spalding (continued)

This section continues the account of a cosmic visitor's conversation with three Americans. The visitor explains that the difference perceived is only between the eternal and the transient in humanity. By focusing solely on the divine quality in every person, one would see everyone as equal. The visitor states that they see perfection or have perfect sight, while others see imperfection. They clarify that their teachings are not inspiration but rather instruction to guide individuals towards receiving true inspiration directly from God. When one allows God to express through them, they are aligned with the Masters. The analogy of a flower's ideal image within a seed is used to illustrate God's perfect ideal for every child. The Masters emphasize that problems arise when individuals try to take matters into their own hands instead of allowing God's will to manifest. They assert that they are not different from humans, but the difference lies in understanding. The article touches upon various 'isms' and doctrines as paths leading to the realization of a fundamental factor that has been overlooked or neglected. This realization is seen as the driving force for human progress. The idea for progress is implanted by God in human consciousness, and when an individual recognizes this, they should acknowledge the divine source rather than attributing it to themselves. This leads to expressing oneself rather than God's perfection.

The text further elaborates on the idea that every idea is a direct expression of God. Individuals are encouraged to embrace these ideas as their ideals and avoid mixing them with transient elements. The cosmic visitor explains that they are not different from humans but have developed their God-given faculties to a higher degree. When asked why others cannot perform the same works, the response is that no one is forced, and individuals have the freedom to live according to their own desires. The Masters aim to show a simple and satisfying path. The narrative then describes an encounter during breakfast where Spalding observes four individuals who have attained a high level of spiritual development. One had lived for nearly two thousand years, maintaining a youthful appearance. Others had lived for hundreds of years, appearing much younger than their actual age. These individuals exhibited no superiority but were simple, friendly, logical, and free from mysticism. The day was spent with Emil, Jast, and the cosmic visitor, learning about the twelve years John the Baptist spent in the area. Spalding felt transported back in time, experiencing John the Baptist as a real, living figure.

Upon returning to their quarters, the Americans were surprised to see their companions, who had been with them all day, showing no signs of fatigue or dirt. The Masters explained that this is because no part of God's created substance can adhere to anything where it is not desired or does not belong. With the right attitude, this is not possible. The Americans then realized they too were clean and refreshed, their fatigue gone. That evening, they felt a deep sense of peace and a growing love for the Masters, who always attributed their actions to God expressing through them.

The next morning, they set out to visit a temple glimpsed on a mountaintop. The journey involved riding for fifteen English miles and then proceeding on foot, climbing narrow mountain paths. The description of the journey highlights the challenging terrain and the spiritual anticipation of the Americans.

Tiden Som Dimension (Time as a Dimension)

This article argues that measuring time using earthly metrics is a mistake, as these instruments are not equivalent to cosmic units. It criticizes the scientific approach, which bases its measurements on earthly thinking, assuming universal applicability. The author contends that while measurements of celestial distances are precise, the concepts of time and space are human-specific. The article posits that cosmic laws are universal but interpreted differently depending on the quality of things. Higher realms, where the Masters operate, perceive qualities without fixed spatial placement, yet these qualities are as stable as earthly counterparts. The measurement techniques differ accordingly. The article then addresses the human fear of time's passage towards the end of life. It suggests that understanding time not as a linear progression but as an 'eternal being' (EVIGT VARA) can alleviate this fear. This requires a shift in thinking to integrate other aspects of life. The author proposes that time can be understood as a dimension, similar to line, surface, and space, where lower dimensions contribute to higher ones. Time complements space, and while we measure it sequentially, it is an eternal presence. Experiencing this 'eternal being' is described as peaceful and can be attained through meditation. The article concludes that by learning and understanding the truth about time, the fear of life's end diminishes, replaced by a clear certainty that life continues in another world.

De Mänskliga Krafterna (The Human Powers) - 1) Viljan (The Will)

This section emphasizes the need to expand knowledge in the spiritual sector, beyond religious thinking, to encompass cosmic knowledge, in order to develop fully as human beings. It challenges the notion that spiritual studies are mere whims, arguing that these pursuits are valuable and should be taken seriously. The author calls for dispelling the misconception that occult thinking is mere trickery or humbug, noting a growing curiosity among thoughtful people. The word 'magic' (magi) is explored, defined as power over all things. The article states that throughout history, humanity has sought power, particularly over fellow humans. To wield magic effectively, one must first master their own ego. Without this self-mastery, magic becomes 'black magic.' This teaching was historically conducted under secret norms in ancient orders. The text notes that with Lucifer's influence over humanity having ceased (though his power is not broken), black magic is now excluded from our world. This exclusion is from humanity's physical nature, and his continued presence is temporary. The ability to practice magic as a science is now possible without fear. The primary rule for its use is self-knowledge, driven by the desire for everyone's happiness and development into true human beings. True mastery of the ego allows magic to be used in the right spirit, with the will guiding thought towards helping humanity overcome challenges and evolve towards higher thinking. This process is described as a great sifting, where individuals are purified and led towards better opportunities for development. Those bound by past actions and earthly influences will find it easier to connect with higher spiritual powers. This 'great sifting' is described as a process that awaits everyone, leading to a new era of understanding and transformation, not necessarily destruction, but a path to higher development. The article mentions the 'three VE' from the Book of Revelation as a process of learning through suffering.

It is stated that the path to this transformation is chosen by each individual. The will is tested, and those who cannot endure the trials may be guided to further testing. Divine love never abandons anyone. The article contrasts the mildness of this understanding with the harshness of biblical condemnations, suggesting that the former is more aligned with modern thinking and a broader love for humanity. The author encourages belief in the Father's love for all His children.

To prepare for what awaits, one must flee from governmental decrees that deny the existence of higher beings from other planets who are present to help humanity. These beings have appeared at low altitudes to make their presence known. Denying them is to embrace falsehood, as their purpose is to assist humanity and guide them to safety when danger passes. They will come in large numbers to escort people to open vessels, and one should trust them implicitly.

Gralstankar (Gral Thoughts)

This section discusses the significance of the Last Supper, where Christ established a bond between the old and the new covenant. The 'cup' is presented as a symbol of this new covenant, intended to unite humanity under Christ's teachings and the symbol of the Gral (Grail) cup. This teaching is meant to transcend earthly religions and unite them into a single 'Universal Religion.' The article states that this unification, which could not be fully realized in Christ's time, is now becoming a reality. The Gral is said to teach humanity to see clearly, perceive the eternal tone that resounds through the ages, and understand the secret to reaching God's kingdom. The Gral replaces the cross as the primary symbol in this new era, though the cross is not discarded but will be depicted as equilateral, signifying its past role as an instrument of suffering. The Gral symbolizes light, clarity, and the new plan's hallmark.

Tonernas Värld (The World of Tones)

Spirituality is encountered in the world of music. When our senses are open to the effects of tonal sounds, we feel a warming breeze. In the world of tones, the experiences of everyday life are echoed, and this is what we are to learn to know by its true name. The article suggests that the song of nature, the sounds of wind through trees, and the rush of waterfalls are the voice of God. If one does not possess an innate understanding of this music, it can be learned through moments of devotion when rhythms from unknown realms are perceived. Humanity must learn the truth indirectly, as direct reception is not possible due to our current level of development. The world of music offers explanations for many questions. Listening to harmonious tones allows for a purer connection with others than is possible in our everyday world. This connection is described as a reaction against the weariness of daily life, a higher emotional response. We vibrate in tune with beings from higher spheres, making contact that would otherwise be unimaginable. This experience can have a lasting effect, allowing us to remain in the elevated states achieved through music, bringing new color to life and creating an atmosphere of harmonious connection with higher powers. The sound of waves on the shore and the wind in the leaves are presented as examples of music of the highest class, possessing an eternal value. Musicians are said to have tapped into this natural rhythm, finding the basis for all music. The article explains that this strong sense of rhythmic harmony with eternal values is characterized by an inherent harmony and a resonance that is more perceptible to those who are attuned. Rhythm is the hallmark of beauty, and it signifies the harmony of all things, a vibration of special quality.

The article continues by stating that while our songs may not always bring immediate joy, they have a profound effect, creating a sense of rightness in our state of mind. Even sorrow can be a path to new hope and a certainty that helping forces are available. Sorrow lifts us beyond our limitations, showing us paths to new vistas. On the highest mountain peaks, where the air is clear and the space is vast, we receive tones from other worlds. We all carry within us a longing for eternity, a spiritual striving that answers this desire to reach the unlimited and the yet-ununderstood. Our limited human minds are confronted daily, but within our awareness lies a rich world of knowledge and memories from past earthly lives and spiritual sojourns. This world opens up when we increase our vibrations through tones, aligning with worlds of higher order. Our bodies become lighter, and we leave the earthly realm to ascend to kingdoms corresponding to our deepest longings. Without harmony, this spiritual shift is not possible; joy in rhythm is necessary to reach the desired heights. The article acknowledges that people today sense this but lack clarity. Youth seeks rhythm in music, but often chooses paths that lead to fleeting excitement rather than true aspiration. Haste is condemned. While youth may be bound by the demands of the world for experiences, a time will come when they too will long for something higher, and their music will change. The conditions for achieving true happiness must be met by renouncing earthly attachments to transient values. True happiness is not found in material possessions, which decay. We must seek what is not subject to time's erosion. This is found in spiritual seeking, where treasures are stored in the subconscious, available for retrieval and enjoyment. In the rhythm of tones, we encounter a spirit from a world with which we aim to unite. This is where we should direct our longing, and we can reach it on the wings of song. The Master's greeting to the disciple states: Blessed is the human who has freed themselves from worldly limitations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spiritual evolution, the nature of reality beyond the physical, and the development of inner potential. The magazine promotes a philosophy that emphasizes self-mastery, cosmic understanding, and the pursuit of higher consciousness. There is a strong focus on the teachings of Baird T. Spalding and the concept of the 'Gral' as a unifying spiritual symbol. The editorial stance is one of guidance and enlightenment, encouraging readers to transcend limitations, embrace spiritual truths, and prepare for a new era of understanding and transformation. The articles advocate for a shift away from materialistic concerns and towards a deeper connection with the divine and the eternal.

This issue, titled "Korset - Gralen" (The Cross - The Grail), is the first issue of the third year of publication. It delves into profound philosophical and spiritual themes, exploring humanity's enduring quest for meaning and answers to existential questions.

The Human Quest for Meaning

The article posits that throughout history, human beings have been driven by a deep-seated longing to understand the purpose of their existence, their origins, and their ultimate destiny. This innate hunger for knowledge and fulfillment often leads to actions that seem irrational, stemming from a desire to grasp the unknown. The search for answers is described as an inherent drive, providing solace only when the sought-after truth is believed to be found.

Religion and Compromise

While religions have historically provided a framework and support for many, the text notes that the inherent imperfections of human endeavors create doubt. Adherence to religious forms often necessitates concessions and compromises, which can hinder progress. The article suggests that the ultimate answer awaits those who persevere and achieve a state of inner perfection and clarity.

The Symbolism of the Cross and the Grail

The central theme revolves around the symbolism of the Cross and the Grail. The Cross is presented as a symbol of the material, three-dimensional world, representing suffering and the crucifixion of souls within this earthly existence. It has been a dominant symbol for the past two millennia, often associated with pain and limitation. In contrast, the Grail is depicted as a symbol of future hope, representing the longed-for answer to the mystery of life and the ultimate fulfillment.

Cosmic Forces and Human Evolution

The text introduces the concept of cosmic energy streams, referred to as 'kraftlinjer' or 'jordströmmar.' These energies are vital for the Earth's nourishment and are channeled through human actions and willpower. The article emphasizes the principle of giving and receiving as fundamental to all life, suggesting a reciprocal relationship between humanity and the Earth. Human evolution is framed as a journey from an early, less developed state towards an 'overman' or superhuman stage.

Willpower and Reception

The power of symbolic language is highlighted, with its effectiveness tied to human interpretation and willpower. A strong will to receive is crucial for tapping into these cosmic forces. The article asserts that belief alone is insufficient; the underlying will to believe is the primary source of the receptive capacity.

Overcoming Limitations

There is a call to break free from the limitations imposed by the traditional understanding of the Cross as solely a symbol of pain and suffering. While its historical significance is acknowledged, the article suggests moving beyond this narrow interpretation. The concept of the Grail, representing hope and future fulfillment, is presented as a more forward-looking symbol.

The Grail as Humanity

The Grail is further described as representing humanity itself, encompassing its journey through various stages and its continuous striving for higher understanding. The article suggests that humanity, in its collective form, is the Grail, constantly receiving and transmitting cosmic energies.

FAQ Section

• The issue includes a FAQ section addressing key concepts:
• Symbolism of Cross and Grail: The Cross represents the material world and suffering, while the Grail signifies hope and life's ultimate answers.
• Humanity's Search: Humans seek meaning through religion and personal drives, facing doubts and compromises.
• Cosmic Energies: 'Kraftlinjer' or 'jordströmmar' are cosmic energy streams vital for Earth, channeled through human actions and willpower.
• Willpower's Role: Strong willpower is essential for receiving these cosmic energies, forming the basis of receptive capacity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the universal human search for meaning, the symbolic representation of spiritual and material existence through the Cross and Grail, and the importance of cosmic energies and human willpower in spiritual evolution. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a broader, more hopeful interpretation of spiritual symbols and a recognition of humanity's active role in channeling cosmic forces for personal and collective growth, moving beyond traditional religious limitations towards a more enlightened future.