Medlemsblad 9

Magazine Overview

Title: Brevcirkeln
Issue: 9
Volume: 9
Date: Undetermined, likely 1965 based on context.
Publisher: Brevcirkeln
Price: 2.64

This issue of Brevcirkeln, a Swedish publication, focuses on the establishment of a new lending library and features a series of discussions and letters concerning spirituality, comparative religion, and the importance of free thought.

New Lending Library Initiative

The main announcement is the upcoming launch of a lending library, referred to as 'Brevcirkelns Boktjänst' (BB). This initiative, born from discussions with like-minded individuals in Malmö, aims to create a resource for participants interested in a variety of subjects. Yngve Freij in Malmö has agreed to manage the library's operations and has established a postal address for it: Postbox 12029, Malmö 12. The library's collection will be built through donations of books and periodicals from participants, covering a wide range of topics including astronomy, archaeology, geology, anthroposophy, cosmogony, occultism, the new age, religion, philosophy, psychology, parapsychology, psychic research, healing, Waerlandism, vegetarianism, and macrobiotics. Participants are encouraged to donate duplicate books or those that are no longer being read. The library will accept materials in Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, English, German, and French. Yngve Freij will inspect donated books, removing any personal markings. Books sent without reservation will automatically become the property of the BB. The future of the library, should operations cease, is still being considered, with plans to arrange for continued lending through other societies or libraries.

Discussion on Free Thought and Controversy

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to addressing a controversy sparked by a previous article or letter, presumably from someone named Perjons. The editor, L. Lind, acknowledges that this contribution has caused a crisis within the circle, leading to discussions about its continuation. Lind reaffirms that the guiding principle of the circle is free thought and that it is unreasonable to expect everyone to hold identical views. He emphasizes that the circle's call for free thinking implies the right to express these thoughts in writing, which he considers fundamental to the circle's existence. He questions whether compromising this principle would diminish the circle's vitality.

However, Lind also stresses the importance of avoiding emotional engagement and preventing irritation or conflict among participants. He urges members to be considerate in their submissions, ensuring that their contributions do not provoke negative reactions. He clarifies that all published submissions, including Perjons's, are reproduced without endorsement and that the views expressed are solely those of the authors. The deadline for submissions related to this discussion is set for March 15th.

Letters and Articles on Spirituality and Religion

Several contributors offer their perspectives on spiritual and religious matters:

• Anna-Lisa Helle responds to Perjons, defending the importance of spiritual development and the 'spiritual guides' of humanity. She discusses the concept of 'inner kingdom' and the universal truth experienced by all masters, suggesting that misinterpretations by followers have led to the distortion of these teachings.

• G. B. also addresses Perjons, defending the concept of 'free thought' and the right to express differing opinions. He then delves into the historical and religious significance of Mitra, linking it to ancient Persian and Indian cultures, and discusses the evolution of religious thought, including the concept of a single God.

• Anna-Lisa Helle (again) contributes a piece that seems to be a continuation or a related thought, discussing the 'spiritual evolution' of humanity and the development of inner thinking. She highlights the significance of the 'Noble Eightfold Path' and 'Right Thought' as taught by Buddha.

• G. B. (again) discusses the historical context of Judaism and Christianity, emphasizing the compassionate teachings of Jesus and contrasting them with the harsh realities of the Roman world. He posits that the core of all religions stems from a universal divine wisdom.

• An anonymous contributor discusses the nature of 'Divine Wisdom' (GUDOMLIG VISDOM), suggesting that different religions and movements offer only partial aspects of this universal truth. They advocate for careful discernment when evaluating sources and emphasize that true understanding comes from within and through dedicated service and study.

• Anna Hinde clarifies the meaning of 'VÄRLDSHISTORIA JUST NU' (World History Now), stating it is not antisemitic or about 'Aryan superiority' but rather a call for understanding, love, and work towards a unified brotherhood in the New Age. She suggests that the Bible and other holy scriptures, while significant, may contain errors due to human interpretation and translation, and that hidden meanings might exist within them.

Notiser (Notices)

• Literature: A limited number of copies of a publication titled 'ET VERDENS BUDSKAB FRA DEN AFDØDE, BERØMTE OG ELSKEDE PAVE JOHANNES D. XXIII' are available upon request, with postage costs to be covered by the requester.

• Correction: Gert Carlsson points out an error in a previous letter (letter 3, series C, page 3), stating that plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air, not oxygen.

• Reprint: Circle letters A-4, B-2, and C-1 are being reprinted and will be available in about 14 days for 50 öre per letter, postage-free.

• OBS (Attention): A discussion regarding the increasing size of the member bulletin has led to a proposal to limit submissions to a maximum of 10-15 lines. This proposal is being implemented, with future submissions limited to 15 typed lines. This measure is intended to reduce costs and potentially allow for an additional circle letter within the budget.

• Sven Magnusson's submission titled 'Fallet Jürgensen' will be deferred to the next issue due to space limitations.

Contact Information

• Brevcirkeln: Postal Address: Fack 1209, Bromma 12. Giro Address: L. Lind, Bromma 12. Giro Number: 65 29 48.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the promotion of spiritual and esoteric knowledge, the establishment of community resources like the lending library, and the defense of free thought and open discourse. The editorial stance, as articulated by L. Lind, strongly supports freedom of expression while advocating for respectful dialogue and a focus on shared spiritual exploration. There is a clear emphasis on universal wisdom, the evolution of consciousness, and the interconnectedness of various spiritual traditions. The publication appears to be a platform for individuals interested in alternative spiritualities, occultism, and philosophical inquiry, fostering a sense of community among like-minded individuals.