Gralsvsktarnas budskap - 1973 No 4

Magazine Overview

This issue of GRALSVÄKTARNAS BUDSKAP (The Grals Watchers' Message), volume 4, number 4, dated May 1973, is published by GRALSVÄKTARNAS SAMFUND and is written in Swedish. The cover headline is "BÖRJAN OCH SLUTET" (Beginning and End).

Content Overview

The magazine features a table of contents listing several articles, including:

• Början och slutet (Beginning and End)
• Ur våra Mästares liv och lära (From the Lives and Teachings of Our Masters), retold by Gulli Bergvall
• Vissheten är oss given (Certainty is Given to Us)
• Judafolkets historia i ny belysning (The History of the Jewish People in a New Light)
• I trängda tider (In Troubled Times)
• Andens frihet (Freedom of the Spirit)
• Människan hälsar Gralen (Man Greets the Gral)
• Tankar om framtiden (Thoughts on the Future)

The publication details indicate it is a stencil-form journal from GRALSVÄKTARNAS SAMFUND, with addresses and phone numbers for Stockholm and a sister lodge in Gothenburg. The subscription price is Kr. 12 per year, with individual issues available for Kr. 1:50. All articles are written by Elisabeth Ståhlgren unless otherwise noted.

Början och Slutet (Beginning and End)

This lead article discusses the cyclical nature of events, emphasizing that endings are not absolute but rather transitions into new beginnings. It stresses the importance of integrating the past's lessons into the future, viewing past experiences, even negative ones, as sources of renewed knowledge. The article uses metaphors of building and purity, suggesting that the 'gold' and 'precious stones' of the new era are love and wisdom, not material wealth. It concludes that understanding and embracing the 'pure' in all things prepares one for the new, bringing happiness.

Ur våra Mästares liv och lära (From the Lives and Teachings of Our Masters)

This section, retold and excerpted by Gulli Bergvall from Baird T. Spalding's work, recounts an experience involving Jesus. In a profound moment, Jesus speaks of death not as an end but as a transition, a 'valley of death' that is merely a construct of thought. He describes a realm of pure life and eternal existence, where the physical body is not left to decay. The narrative emphasizes the overwhelming light and beauty experienced, transcending earthly dreams and offering a glimpse into eternal life. The text highlights that this profound experience is not a dream but a reality that surpasses dreams, offering a privilege to witness the eternal life beyond shadows.

Later in this section, the narrative continues with a dialogue where Jesus addresses his followers, expressing joy at their sincerity and the recognition of divine helpers. He speaks of a future where all will stand where he stands, experiencing the same joy and understanding. He conveys a message of universal welcome, irrespective of race, belief, or church. The account concludes with Jesus vanishing, leaving his companions to ponder the reality of the experience, with some having physically touched his hand.

A villager then explains that such events are not staged but are manifestations of their ability to overcome crises. The 'water divider' (a metaphor for death or a significant transition) was crossed by a friend who, though his soul had left his body, received help to return and achieve completion. This assistance is described as a great privilege.

Vissheten är oss given (Certainty is Given to Us)

This article posits that the 'Gral', like any symbol used by the Samfund, is a source of great power. It explains that by absorbing its meaning, one can overcome doubt and mistrust towards higher spiritual powers. The article emphasizes that the strength derived from this source must not be hoarded but shared, acting as channels for divine will. It describes the 'Gral's Chalice' as a source of clarity that dissolves doubt and brings a sense of security. It encourages sharing this truth and acting as channels for higher powers, especially through acts of kindness and support.

The text highlights the current era as one where people need comfort and faith to overcome hardships. It notes that suffering is widespread, often hidden beneath a veneer of prosperity. The article suggests that true peace is not found in material possessions but in inner strength. It asserts that the certainty of divine guidance allows one to share this truth with others, acting as a conduit for the divine force. The article concludes by stating that this force is indestructible and that humanity must strive to rise from its current low state towards higher states of being, achieved through love and wisdom.

Judafolkets historia i ny belysning (The History of the Jewish People in a New Light)

This section, divided into two parts, reinterprets biblical history. Part 8, "ATT BRYTA DEN ONDA CIRKELN" (Breaking the Evil Circle), addresses the common criticism that the origin stories of the Israelites lack historical basis. It argues that regardless of historical accuracy, these narratives offer insights into the journey of humanity through lower stages of development. It suggests that these stories reveal patterns of events that must be endured to break cycles of negative influences. The article emphasizes the need to interpret these ancient tales to benefit our future, learning from past mistakes to avoid repeating them.

Part 9, "I JAKOB FORTSÄTTER ÄTTEN" (In Jacob, the Lineage Continues), focuses on the story of Jacob and his twelve sons, the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. It recounts the story of Joseph, his enslavement and eventual rise in Egypt, and Jacob's later move to Egypt. The narrative highlights the divine blessing bestowed upon Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and the symbolic significance of Jacob's hand placement. It then questions the concept of an exclusive chosen people, particularly in relation to the Christian church's interpretation of God's favor. The article suggests that if Jahve is a supreme spiritual power, it is unlikely that such a power would favor one small, internally divided people over all others. It proposes that Jahve might be a high spiritual entity that once fell from a higher state and was assigned to lead this particular people.

10 MOSES

This article delves into the historical and spiritual interpretations of Moses. It notes the discrepancies in historical timelines regarding Moses' appearance and the character differences between the Moses who led the Israelites out of Egypt and the one who received the Ten Commandments. The article references Sigmund Freud's theory of two different individuals. It discusses the Pharaoh Achnaton's monotheistic teachings and his subsequent death, suggesting that Moses, as Achnaton's older half-brother, was intended to be Pharaoh but was supplanted. The narrative then follows Moses' biblical story, including his discovery in the Nile and his role in leading the Israelites. It contrasts Moses' actions with those of Esau, who lost his birthright through inaction. The article questions how a God who is universal could choose one people over others, suggesting that Jahve might have taken over the leadership role from a divine entity that once guided the Israelites. It describes Moses' role in leading the people into the land of Canaan, emphasizing the conflict with pagan tribes and the eventual conquest of Jericho. The article concludes by noting the Jewish people's enduring faith in Jahve despite numerous setbacks.

I TRÄNGDA TIDER (In Troubled Times)

This section discusses the Indian religion's understanding of cosmic cycles, particularly the deity Shiva, who is depicted as both creator and destroyer. It suggests that this perspective is more advanced than Western views, emphasizing the need for the old to give way to the new for progress. The article states that humanity is currently undergoing such a transformative process, where the 'lowest planet' is being erased to make way for new currents. It acknowledges that this destruction can be frightening but asserts that it is ultimately for the good, leading to a new era of growth.

Andens Frihet (Freedom of the Spirit)

This article proclaims the arrival of a new order and a transformed humanity. It describes this new human as one who will exhibit a different face and approach to life, valuing self-awareness and a new basis for judgment. The text highlights the rise of the individual and the increasing demand for accountability, with those in power needing to yield. It acknowledges that this transition period may appear chaotic but emphasizes that it is a sign of progress. The article encourages embracing this new time, where each person is responsible for their actions and a new sense of responsibility emerges, overriding the authority of superiors. It reiterates that even if the outcomes of these group movements are not entirely positive, the transitional phase should be recognized and valued.

Människan hälsar Gralen (Man Greets the Gral)

This article discusses the necessity of a new symbol for religious thought, as the old ones are no longer sufficient. It suggests moving beyond the negative influences of the crucifix, while retaining the cross as a symbol of Christ's suffering. The article proposes transforming the cross into an equilateral one, representing freedom from earthly ties and suffering. It emphasizes that this new symbol should not be the sole representation of achieved freedom but should be accompanied by other signs of liberation from the past.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a spiritual, esoteric, and New Age perspective. It emphasizes personal transformation, the evolution of consciousness, and the interconnectedness of all things. The editorial stance is one of optimism regarding humanity's spiritual progress, viewing challenges and changes as necessary steps towards a higher state of being guided by love and wisdom. There is a strong focus on reinterpreting religious and historical narratives through a spiritual lens, often drawing parallels between ancient wisdom and modern spiritual concepts. The publication appears to advocate for a unified, universal spirituality that transcends traditional religious boundaries.

This issue, identified as "nr 4 årg.4" (Issue 4, Year 4), appears to be from the 1970s, likely early in the decade given the content's themes. The magazine is published in Swedish and focuses on spiritual, philosophical, and ecological themes, with a strong emphasis on personal transformation and the future of humanity.

The Symbolism of the Gralen

The primary article delves into the spiritual significance of the "Gralen" (Grail). It is described not just as a symbol of the new era but also as a vessel connecting to the past, particularly through its association with the chalice in the Last Supper. The Gralen is presented as a source of life-giving elixir and nourishment, born from the resolution of past suffering. By learning to approach the Gralen with the right spirit, in service to a higher power, individuals can become "superhumans." The article suggests that embracing the wisdom that leads to higher planes and experiencing the flow of love can bring one to their goal.

It draws a parallel between ancient warriors saluting their national symbol (the banner) and the need for people to salute the Gralen's chalice, showing the world that its significance for spiritual thinking has been understood. This understanding is said to make people stronger, giving them a purpose that offers more than worldly success or glory.

The Gralen is characterized as a "power center" that can provide strength during difficult times and enhance the will to live, offering courage to face adversity. However, the article strongly cautions against worshipping the symbol itself, distinguishing it from the veneration of religious icons like the crucifix. It recounts a legend of the Knights of the Round Table falling to their knees before the Gralen's radiance, not out of worship, but due to its overwhelming power.

The text expresses a longing for this "reception of power" and a desire to offer gratitude for spiritual insights. It suggests that a receptive mind will not lack the blessings of this spiritual gift.

Humanity's Relationship with Nature and the Future

A second major section, titled "Tankar om Framtiden" (Thoughts on the Future), takes a critical look at humanity's current trajectory. It begins by describing the beauty of spring and nature, then questions whether this is a description of the present or a reflection on the past, posing whether this is the end of such natural abundance.

The author criticizes the unchecked exploitation of natural resources, such as nuclear power plant planning and the damming of rivers, questioning if there are any limits to human actions and if nature has no power to stop the "ruthlessness of those in power."

The article asserts that nature does possess this power and that humanity is dangerously close to crossing a boundary beyond which there is no return. It warns that "life's own law will speak up: hitherto, but no further." This will lead to an inevitable confrontation with what humanity inwardly knows must happen, despite its efforts to deny it.

Humanity is depicted as believing it has dominion over the earth and the right to exploit its gifts, even though it knows it has gone too far. The descent is described as steep, with an accelerating speed, leading towards an unknown abyss.

This abyss is characterized as a "world's end," and humanity is likened to the "Beast of the Apocalypse," having lost its reason. The driving force is identified as the "competitive zeal of money-power," measuring success in fractions of minutes. When this civilization-ending event occurs, the article questions whether humanity will admit its own responsibility for destroying life, for the devastation that has left lands in ruins, and for causing natural disasters.

It poses the challenge: "Now, I, humanity, must start anew from the beginning, create new life instead of that which has died through me." The future is deemed saved only if humanity can honestly make this admission. A new world can then be built on a better foundation, with respect for life as its guiding principle. In response, life will offer its abundant riches with forgiving willingness.

Teachings of Peter Deunov

The issue also features teachings from "Master Peter Deunov: The Master's Greeting to the Disciple." These teachings emphasize the importance of intense life experiences, likening a life without them to that of "sleeping souls." Disciples are encouraged to hold their heads high, connecting them to positivity, and to maintain a calm, clear gaze that reflects divine thought. A straight posture is advised to keep consciousness awake and spur the soul to action. The ultimate resolution of all contradictions is said to occur within the divine plan, and those who free themselves from life's limitations are considered blessed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are spirituality, personal transformation, and a critical ecological awareness. The magazine advocates for a deeper understanding of spiritual symbols like the Gralen, emphasizing inner strength and love as antidotes to the world's coldness. It strongly criticizes humanity's destructive relationship with nature and warns of impending consequences, calling for a fundamental shift in consciousness and responsibility. The editorial stance is one of urgent warning combined with a message of hope, contingent upon humanity's willingness to acknowledge its mistakes and embrace a more spiritual and respectful way of living.