Pentagram - 1995 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: Pentagram
Issue: Nr 1, 1995
Publisher: Pentagram
Country: Sweden
Price: 39 Kronor
Cover Headline: OCKULT TIDSKRIFT. NR 1 1995.

This issue of Pentagram, a Swedish occult magazine, presents a diverse range of topics within the esoteric and spiritual realms. The cover features a striking, close-up image of a woman's face, with the magazine's title prominently displayed. Listed on the cover are key themes such as Mystik (Mysticism), Astrologi (Astrology), Shamanism, Tarot, Magi (Magic), Satanism, Ufo, Healing, Ouija, and Spiritualism.

Editorial Welcome

The editorial, titled "VÄLKOMMEN!" (Welcome!), introduces Pentagram as a unique first issue dedicated to occult connections and phenomena. The magazine aims to explore magic, shamanism, healing, religion, mythology, unexplained events, tarot, astrology, UFOs, and more, with an open and unprejudiced approach to the supernatural. The editors express their belief in a transcendent, spiritual reality beyond the material world and explain the choice of the name 'Pentagram,' noting its historical use as a protective symbol against evil spirits, its connection to Norse mythology ('Hrungner's heart'), and its association with King Solomon's seal in Jewish tradition. The dual meaning of the pentagram, with its point upward representing white magic and downward representing dark magic, is also mentioned.

Featured Articles and Content

Mot Alla Odds: John Dee's Magical Works

This article, written by Lars B. Lindholm, delves into the life and work of the 16th-century magician John Dee. It highlights Dee's prodigious intellect from a young age, his studies at Cambridge, and his mysterious commission from King Edward VI. The piece details Dee's travels and his eventual partnership with Edward Kelly, a man with a questionable past. Their collaboration involved writing in an 'angelic' language called 'Enochian.' The article recounts the disappearance and subsequent rediscovery of Dee's valuable manuscripts, which were hidden after his house was plundered. It touches upon the historical context of witch hunts and the suppression of occult knowledge during the reign of King James I. The survival and eventual publication of Dee's works, particularly through Meric Casaubon and later by Samuel Lidell Mathers and Aleister Crowley, are discussed. The article concludes by mentioning the potential connection of Dee's writings to H.P. Lovecraft's 'Necronomicon,' as researched by Robert Turner.

Shamanism: The Return of the Shaman

Authored by Niklas Törnlund, this article explores the ancient phenomenon of shamanism and its resurgence in contemporary society. It defines the shaman as an individual with supernatural abilities who connects with the spirit world to heal, divine, and guide. The article traces the historical study of shamanism, initially viewed as a psychological abnormality, to more recent research that recognizes its value for survival and its role in connecting with life's boundary experiences. Shamanism is presented as a holistic worldview that integrates ecological awareness with spiritual understanding. The article quotes Michael Harner, a professor of anthropology, who advocates for learning from indigenous knowledge and views shamanism as a significant anti-colonial endeavor. Harner's experiences and his book 'Shamanens väg' (The Shaman's Way) are mentioned, emphasizing its practical guidance for exploring altered states of consciousness. The article also touches upon the challenges shamanism faced from established religions and modern medicine, which often dismissed its practices as unscientific.

Medium: Ann-Kristin, A Psychic

This section features an interview with Ann-Kristin, a 37-year-old psychic from Malmö. She describes her ability to 'see' into people's inner lives and help them release negative energies that can lead to illness. Ann-Kristin explains that she sees people's problems and offers guidance, but does not reveal everything, assessing what each person can handle. She emphasizes the importance of being open and harmonious to perform her work effectively and mentions that she does not charge if a client does not feel they have received value. Her ability is attributed to a lineage of psychics in her family.

Other Content

• Advertisements: The magazine includes advertisements for a 'Ouija Board' with a unique design, exclusive silver pentagram jewelry offered to readers, astrology courses, spiritual guidance services from Ingegärd Johansson and Ann Hallberg, a product called 'Catuaba Plus' for sexual health, and tarot reading services from Eva Palmgren.
• Table of Contents: A detailed table of contents lists articles such as "Mot alla odds" (Against All Odds), "Fönster mot energivärlden" (Window to the World of Energy), "Shamanernas återkomst" (The Return of the Shamans), "Magi, tro eller vetenskap" (Magic, Belief or Science), "Korpens son" (The Raven's Son), "Hade Nazismen ockult ursprung?" (Did Nazism Have Occult Origins?), "Samantha Khury," "I sin fjärde kista" (In His Fourth Coffin), "Jack the Ripper," "Oz-faktorn" (The Oz Factor), "Ouja," "Nästa nummer" (Next Issue), "Läsarberättelser" (Reader Stories), "Tid att tänka om" (Time to Think About It), "Aleister Crowley," "Mynt till Satan" (Coins for Satan), "Kort med kraft" (Cards with Power), and "Emanuel Swedenborgs förkunnelse" (Emanuel Swedenborg's Proclamation).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pentagram revolve around the occult, esoteric, and spiritual. The magazine adopts an open and exploratory stance, presenting various phenomena and practices without judgment. There is a clear interest in historical occult figures like John Dee and Aleister Crowley, as well as contemporary spiritual practices such as shamanism and psychic readings. The magazine also touches upon unexplained phenomena like UFOs and explores the intersection of magic, belief, and science. The editorial stance appears to be one of seeking knowledge and understanding in areas often considered outside the mainstream, encouraging readers to explore these subjects with an open mind.

Pentagram, Volume 19, Issue 199, published in 1999, is a Swedish magazine focusing on occult, spiritual, and esoteric topics. This issue features a prominent cover story questioning the occult origins of Nazism, alongside articles on shamanism, mediumship, magic, and reincarnation.

Shamanism and Modern Spirituality

The issue includes an interview discussing shamanism, presented as a path to a deeper spiritual experience that modern people seek, even within existing religious frameworks. The interviewee, who was initiated into shamanism among the Jivaro and Conibo tribes, highlights that shamanism is not an escape from reality but provides inner strength and an understanding of eternal principles for respecting the planet. The discussion touches upon the challenges faced by indigenous peoples due to environmental destruction and the role of shamanism in their communities. It also addresses the misconception that shamanism is solely linked to psychedelic drugs, emphasizing that various methods, including drumming, can open doors to altered states of consciousness, leading to a shared spiritual realm.

Magic: Belief or Knowledge?

Another extensive article, 'Magi, tro eller vetenskap' (Magic, Belief or Science), by Torsten Bodekull, traces the history of magic from ancient times to the modern era. It explores its roots in human history, its connection with religion in early civilizations, and the distinction between religious rituals (appeasing divine powers) and magical rituals (compelling divine powers). The article notes the peak of Western magic during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, its decline during the Enlightenment, and its resurgence in the mid-19th century, particularly during the psychedelic hippie period of the 1960s. King Solomon is highlighted as a significant mythical figure in Western ritual magic, with works like 'Clavicula Salomonis' attributed to him. The article also discusses the influence of Aleister Crowley and the founding of magical societies like the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn. It categorizes magic into sympathetic magic (homeopathic and contagious) and ritual magic, and differentiates between white and black magic, noting that black magic is believed to eventually rebound on the practitioner.

Elias Levi and Occult Sciences

The magazine features Elias Levi (Alphonse Louis Constant), a Parisian born in 1810, who significantly contributed to the spread of magical knowledge. His key works, 'Dogme de la magie' and 'Dogme et riuel de la haute magie,' laid out theories on how magic functions, proposing three fundamental laws: the measurable force of human willpower, the influence of the astral light, and the principle of correspondence between the macrocosm and microcosm. Levi's teachings were influential in occult circles and further developed by members of the Golden Dawn.

Aleister Crowley and the Golden Dawn

The article on Aleister Crowley details his life, his involvement with the Golden Dawn, and his eventual founding of the Argentum Astrum order. It describes his unconventional lifestyle and his influence on ritual magic. The Golden Dawn, founded by Wynn Westcott and Macgregor Mathers, is presented as a significant magical society that influenced many modern magical groups.

Mediumship and Spiritualism

An interview with medium Thor Ravnson, titled 'Korpens Sonn' (The Raven's Son), explores modern spiritualism and the belief in reincarnation. Ravnson, who has been helping people connect with the deceased for nearly ten years, describes his abilities as a medium and the process of spiritual communication. He emphasizes that contact with the spirit world is not inherently frightening and that spiritualism is a natural part of his Icelandic culture. The interview also touches upon the training of mediums, the role of spiritual guides, and the concept of life as a school for learning across multiple incarnations.

Nazism and Occultism

A major article, 'Hade Nazismen Ockult Ursprung?' (Did Nazism Have Occult Origins?), by Torsten Bodekull, investigates the potential links between the Nazi party and occultism. It suggests that the Nazis implemented occult doctrines, particularly those promoted by the Thule Society, and sought to replace Christianity with a neo-pagan ideology. The article highlights the significance of Hitler's death date (April 30th), which coincides with Walpurgis Night, and the importance of the Spear of Destiny to Hitler. It details the Thule Society's origins, its antisemitic nature, and its influence on the formation of the Nazi party, with many of its members playing key roles in the NSDAP. The article also mentions Heinrich Himmler's fascination with occultism and his efforts to establish a neo-pagan SS state.

Book and Product Reviews

The magazine includes reviews of several books: 'Gåvan från stjärnorna' (The Gift from the Stars) by Lennart Lindfors, a novel about past lives and reincarnation; 'Sökandet efter mina barn från ett tidigare liv' (Searching for My Children from a Past Life) by Jenny Cockell, a true story of a woman seeking her lost family from a previous incarnation; 'Genombrott' (Breakthrough) by Whitley Strieber, a follow-up to 'Communion' discussing alien contact; and 'Där Änglar Går' (Where Angels Walk) by Joan Wester Anderson, a collection of stories about encounters with guardian angels. There is also a section on crystals and minerals, and an advertisement for a catalog offering pendulums, incense, oils, and tarot cards.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the occult, spirituality, and the paranormal, with a particular focus on the intersection of these subjects with historical events and figures, such as Nazism. The magazine presents a perspective that views these phenomena not as mere superstition but as significant forces that have influenced history and continue to shape human understanding of reality. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these often-marginalized fields, presenting information and theories for the reader to consider, rather than asserting definitive truths. The inclusion of book reviews and product advertisements suggests an aim to cater to an audience interested in practical application and further study of these subjects.

This issue of MYSTIK, identified by its issue number 26, presents a collection of articles exploring paranormal, historical, and occult themes. The cover prominently features the title "I sin fjärde kista" (In his fourth coffin), hinting at a story about a preserved body. The magazine is published by Work Shop and appears to be from Sweden, with content primarily in Swedish.

Animal Communication with Samantha Khury

The lead article introduces Samantha Khury, described as an animal psychotherapist who communicates with animals through telepathy and visualization. Khury explains her method, which involves immersing herself in the animal's perspective, feeling their sensations, and visualizing desired changes. She recounts instances of helping animals with various issues, from cats not using litter boxes to elephants being irritated. She also shares a personal experience of communicating with a seal on a beach, understanding its distress and illness.

Khury's ability is presented as an innate talent, possibly linked to a non-linear, visual way of thinking, similar to how she perceived animals thought. Her own challenging childhood, marked by adoption and a lack of parental connection, led her to find solace and acceptance with animals. The article also touches upon her healing abilities, exemplified by the case of her cat, Frosty, whom she healed from cancer through prayer and a laying-on-of-hands technique.

The Mystery of Nikolaus Rungius

Another significant feature delves into the enigma of Nikolaus Rungius, a 16th-century church minister from Kemi, Finland. Rungius famously declared that if his teachings were true, his body would remain intact, and if not, it would rot. Nearly 400 years later, his body, buried in the church's choir, remains remarkably preserved, while other bodies interred in the same location have decayed. Scientific investigations, including cell samples and physiological measurements, have been conducted by Finnish universities, but a definitive explanation remains elusive. The article notes that the church, which still displays Rungius's body, attracts thousands of visitors annually.

Astrological Analysis of Jack the Ripper

The magazine also features an article by Lars B. Lindholm, exploring the identity of Jack the Ripper through an astrological lens. Lindholm acknowledges the difficulty of creating a horoscope without a birth date but proposes analyzing the horoscopes of the victims at the time of their deaths. Focusing on the most reliably documented cases, he identifies a recurring pattern involving Saturn and the ascendant in Leo, suggesting a potential astrological link to the crimes. The article discusses the murders of Mary Ann Nichols, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes, and Mary Jeanette Kelly, noting the astrological correlations and the possibility of copycat crimes.

Occult and Esoteric Book Catalog

Several pages are dedicated to a catalog of books available from "Work Shop," covering a wide range of occult and esoteric subjects. Titles include works on Necronomicon, Crowley, Satanism, magic, witchcraft, tarot, alchemy, and shamanism. Notably, there are also sections featuring H.R. Giger's artwork, including prints of his "Biomechanoid" series and other dark, iconic pieces, with details on their size and framing.

Other Features and Advertisements

Additional sections include advertisements for various services such as astrology consultations, tarot readings, regression therapy, and personal ads for finding companions. There is also a listing of authorized tarot readers from the "Svenska Tarotförbundet" (Swedish Tarot Association).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MYSTIK revolve around the unexplained, the paranormal, and the esoteric. The magazine appears to embrace a perspective that is open to phenomena beyond conventional scientific understanding, including animal communication, unexplained preservation of bodies, and astrological interpretations of historical events. The editorial stance seems to be one of exploration and presentation of these often-unconventional topics, inviting readers to consider alternative explanations and engage with mysteries that challenge ordinary perceptions.

Title: Pentagram
Issue: 5
Volume: 1
Date: October 1989
Publisher: Pentagram
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0284-2627
Price: 199:- (for 6 issues)

This issue of Pentagram explores a range of paranormal and mysterious phenomena, including the Jack the Ripper case, UFO encounters, spiritism, and the use of Ouija boards.

Jack the Ripper and Astrology

The article 'Astrologi' by an unnamed author analyzes the Jack the Ripper murders through the lens of astrology. It suggests that the timing of the murders, particularly the early morning hours, might be linked to planetary alignments, specifically Saturn's influence on the ascendent. The author speculates on the Ripper's psychological state, suggesting a man driven by an irresistible urge to kill, possibly stemming from a personal crisis and feelings of inadequacy. The analysis attempts to correlate astrological configurations with the timing and nature of the crimes, including the murders of Martha Turner, Eddowes, Elizabeth Stride, and Catherine Kelly.

The Oz-Factor: A Dreamlike World Outside of Time

'Oz-faktorn' by Mikael Sjöberg introduces the concept of the Oz-factor, as described by UFO researcher Jenny Randles. This phenomenon is characterized by experiences that feel like a dream world outside of time, often associated with UFO abductions, bedside visits, and close encounters. Several cases illustrate this: a 1944 incident in Le Verger, France, where a 13-year-old girl encountered small men and a strange object, experiencing a loss of time; a story from Tanzania about a woman who felt watched by a small figure, leading to migraines; and a 1830 account of a French girl's encounter with a luminous child-like figure identified as the Virgin Mary. The article also touches upon the psychological aspects, such as hypnagogic experiences and lucid dreaming.

Encounters and Time Distortion

Further examples of the Oz-factor are presented. A 1912 incident involving two boys who encountered strange beings and a boat-like object, inducing a trance-like state, is recounted. Another case from August 1980 describes two women observing a UFO on a highway, experiencing a distortion of time and a complete absence of other traffic. The article notes that such phenomena often occur in populated areas but without other witnesses present.

Books and Paranormal Investigations

Page 3 of the magazine features a section titled 'Möte i gläntan' (Meeting in the Glade) by Clas Svahn and Gösta Carlsson, likely a review or excerpt from a book about a UFO encounter. It also lists several books for sale related to paranormal topics, including 'Jordstrålning' (Earth Radiation), 'UFO i myt och verklighet' (UFO in Myth and Reality), and 'PSI-SPÅRET' (The PSI Trail).

Ouija Boards and Contacting the Other Side

'Ouija' by Steve Sandström and Urszula Striner explores the use of Ouija boards for contacting the 'other side.' The article posits that Ouija boards function effectively, likening them to a telephone for communicating with spirits or deceased relatives. It acknowledges that some believe the entity contacted could be the devil. The article describes the method of using a 'glass moving' technique with a paper and glass, and mentions the history of automatic writing devices. A personal account details an experience with a Ouija board where the entity contacted, initially helpful, later revealed itself as 'Belsebub,' leading to a frightening encounter with a 'Man of Darkness.' The author warns of the dangers of losing control and becoming enslaved by such practices.

Spiritism in Brazil and Prophecy

'Det nionde barnet' (The Ninth Child) by Suzanna from Lund shares a story about spiritism in Brazil, where it is a common practice influenced by African traditions. The narrative focuses on the author's grandmother, who, during her ninth pregnancy, was told by a medium that the baby would die shortly after birth. The child was born with extensive bruises, fulfilling the prophecy and leading the family to embrace spiritism and Kardecism.

Reader Contributions and Future Issues

'Läsarernas berättelser' (Readers' Stories) features two personal accounts: 'Möte med Belsebub?' (Meeting with Belsebub?) by Per-Ola from Skåne, detailing a frightening Ouija board experience, and 'Det nionde barnet' by Suzanna from Lund. The magazine also includes sections for 'Läsarbrev' (Reader Letters) and 'Läsarnas annonser' (Readers' Ads), encouraging reader interaction. A preview for the next issue, dated October 15th, highlights articles on Freemasons, interviews, magic, crystals, film and literature, modern witchcraft, Satanism, and Lovecraft.

Time and Cosmic Messages

'Tid att tänka om...' (Time to Think About...) by Krystof Laczak discusses the importance of looking back to understand the future and mentions a recent retrograde Mercury transit between May 24th and June 19th as an opportunity to grasp cosmic messages.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, the supernatural, UFO phenomena, spiritism, and astrology. There is a clear interest in unexplained events and personal testimonies, encouraging readers to engage with these topics. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various phenomena and personal accounts while also acknowledging potential psychological explanations and inherent risks associated with some practices, such as Ouija boards.

This issue of MAGI magazine, identified as issue number 42 and published in 1995, delves into a variety of esoteric and spiritual topics. The cover prominently features the headline "MYNT TILL SATAN" (Coins for Satan), accompanied by an image of a coin with a devilish motif, suggesting a focus on satanism and occult findings. The magazine covers a range of subjects including astrology, the life of Aleister Crowley, tarot, spiritualism, and the teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg.

Astrology: The Cosmic Connection

The first article explains the fundamental principles of astrology, positing a connection between celestial bodies and human life. It describes how planetary positions at birth, within zodiac signs and horoscopes, create unique patterns. The concept of 'transits' – the planets' movements relative to an individual's birth chart – is introduced as a clock indicating periods of change. The article highlights the apparent backward motion of planets ('retrograde') as an illusion caused by Earth overtaking them. It details how retrograde transits, particularly of Mercury, can disrupt communication and thought processes, urging introspection and a careful review of logic and past mistakes. While retrograde periods can cause confusion and errors, they also offer opportunities for deeper self-understanding and the resolution of past issues.

Aleister Crowley: The World's Wickedest Man?

This section profiles Aleister Crowley, a renowned 20th-century occultist and magician. Born in 1875, Crowley's upbringing in a strict fundamentalist Christian sect led him to rebel and explore opposing forces, identifying with the biblical 'beast' 666. He became deeply involved in occult studies, joining the secret society Golden Dawn, where he developed his theory of magic based on the will. His expulsion from Golden Dawn led him to found his own order, Argentum Astrum, and develop a unique form of sex magic. A pivotal event occurred in 1904 when, in Cairo, his wife Rose Kelly received a dictation from an entity named Aiwass, resulting in 'The Book of the Law,' whose central tenet is 'Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law.' Crowley's work influenced the O.T.O. (Ordo Templis Orientis) and his sex magic practices were later published. The article touches upon his controversial life, including rumors of sodomy and human sacrifice, which led to his expulsion from Italy. It also mentions the tragic fates of some of his wives and lovers.

Satanic Findings in Churches

This article details several instances of satanic artifacts being discovered in Swedish churches. It begins with the finding of a coin inscribed 'Civitas Diaboli' (Community of the Devil) in Sankt Petri Church in Malmö in January 1995, noting it was identical to previously found coins. The article recounts earlier satanic discoveries made in 1972 and 1973 on the Danish island of Anholt, which included ritualistic items like devil masks, black candles, and a peculiar box containing a doll's head pierced with needles. It also mentions the discovery of similar coins in Lund Cathedral in 1989. The practice of hiding these items near altars is explained as an attempt to neutralize Christian rituals. The article briefly mentions Anton La Vey and the founding of The Church of Satan in the USA.

Demon Exorcism Conviction

A brief report details a legal case from April 4, 1995, where three men were convicted in Varberg for unlawful detention and coercion. They had attempted to exorcise demons from a teenage boy with psychological problems, holding him down and speaking in tongues. The boy eventually sought help from his school, leading to the men's prosecution.

Scrying and Other Divination Methods

This section discusses the practice of scrying, or 'Andeskådning' (spirit gazing), using a mirror as a 'window' to the spirit world. It explains the basic setup involving a mirror, a candle, and darkness, and suggests that images and figures may appear over time. The article also briefly mentions crystal ball gazing and other methods like Ouija boards, pendulums, and 'spirit in the glass.' It dismisses fears about the dangers of these practices, comparing them to watching television, but notes that communicating with spirits can be challenging.

Tarot: Cards with Power

This extensive article serves as a guide to tarot cards. It begins by describing the atmosphere in a tarot shop and the initial experience of choosing a tarot deck, which typically consists of 78 cards divided into the Major and Minor Arcana. The Minor Arcana are further broken down into four suits: Wands, Swords, Cups, and Pentacles (or Coins). The article advises choosing a deck that resonates personally and suggests that developing a relationship with one's deck is important. It offers advice on caring for tarot cards, recommending they be stored in a dark, quiet place, and that the owner should sleep with the deck for the first fourteen nights to establish a connection. It debunks the superstition that one should not buy their own tarot deck, suggesting it might stem from the historical practice of tarot decks being given as wedding gifts. Several notable tarot decks are mentioned, including the Rider-Waite deck, the Hanson-Roberts deck, the Robin Wood deck, the Aleister Crowley Thoth Deck, the Motherpeace deck (notable for its round cards), the Golden Dawn Tarot, and the Tarot of Marseilles. The article emphasizes that there is a vast variety of tarot decks available and encourages readers to explore until they find one that suits them.

Magi, Faith, or Science?

This section explores the intersection of magic, faith, and science, suggesting that humans possess unknown powers that science cannot yet explain. It touches upon parapsychology and the idea that modern civilization may have suppressed innate human abilities. The article then delves into the life and work of Aleister Crowley, detailing his role in the O.T.O. and his religion, Thelema. It recounts his prediction of his student Raoul Loveday's death and his subsequent expulsion from Italy due to rumors of satanism and human sacrifice. Crowley's influence on modern satanism is mentioned, though he is distinguished from it, identifying Satan with the ancient Sumerian deity Shaitan. The article also recounts tales of Crowley's magical feats, such as creating thunderstorms, and his magical battles with MacGregor Mathers. His key works, 'Magick in Theory and Practice,' 'The Book of Thoth,' and his autobiography, 'The Confessions of Aleister Crowley,' are highlighted.

Samantha Khury: Animal Communicator

This section introduces Samantha Khury, who communicates with animals and helps owners understand their pets' behavior. She emphasizes the importance of clear intentions and visualization when communicating with animals, stating that animals give 100% of their energy and will. Khury shares anecdotes, including helping a dog named Scout overcome a learning disability by using visualization and positive reinforcement, and assisting in resolving a conflict between elephants and their handlers. She is portrayed as dedicated to understanding the needs of wild animals worldwide.

Tid att Tänka Om (Time to Think)

This article delves into the principles of astrology, explaining the twelve houses of the horoscope, each representing a different area of life. It details the contents of each house, from personality and physical appearance (1st house) to the unconscious, hidden enemies, and escapism (12th house). The article explains how a retrograde Mercury transit affects the house it occupies, causing disruptions and requiring attention to specific life areas. It notes that retrograde Mercury transits occur approximately three times a year, each lasting about 24 days, and mentions that Sweden was affected by a transit in its first house around the time of the article's publication.

Emanuel Swedenborg: His Teachings

This section focuses on Emanuel Swedenborg, a Swedish scientist, theologian, and mystic who lived from 1688 to 1772. It highlights his multifaceted interests, spanning philosophy, technology, medicine, and religion, and notes the conflicting views he garnered, being called both a 'new Messiah' and a 'madman.' Swedenborg's early life, influenced by his father, Jesper Swedberg, a bishop, instilled in him a deep religious interest. He developed a conscious control of breathing, enabling him to experience spiritual states and communicate with higher worlds. After studying at Uppsala University and traveling extensively, he pursued scientific research, making significant contributions to mechanics, mining, and mathematics, and designing numerous inventions. The article describes his profound spiritual awakening in 1744-1745, which led him to believe he was divinely appointed to reveal the spiritual meaning of the Bible. Swedenborg's concept of the afterlife is explained: the human being is an spirit clothed in a physical body, and upon death, the spirit separates from the body and retains all its senses and memories. He describes the spiritual realms as having three heavens, each composed of countless societies, and emphasizes that hell is not a place of punishment but a self-chosen state of being for those who reject divine love and truth. His writings formed the basis for the teachings of the New Church (Swedenborgians). The article concludes by mentioning his later years spent in quiet seclusion in Stockholm, where he continued his work and received visitors interested in his spiritual insights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MAGI magazine revolve around the occult, spirituality, and the exploration of consciousness beyond conventional scientific understanding. The magazine presents a diverse range of topics, from the predictive nature of astrology and the controversial practices of satanism to the mystical insights of tarot and the profound spiritual revelations of Emanuel Swedenborg. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting them as valid areas of study and personal exploration, even when they challenge mainstream beliefs or are associated with controversy. The inclusion of personal accounts, historical figures, and practical guides (like the tarot section) suggests an aim to inform and engage readers interested in esoteric knowledge and alternative perspectives on reality, spirituality, and the human condition.

Title: Pentagram
Issue: 10
Volume: 15
Issue Date: October 15th, 2000
Publisher: Pentagram
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0283-4469

This issue of Pentagram magazine, a Swedish publication focusing on esoteric and paranormal topics, presents a diverse range of content including UFO phenomena, astrology, tarot, and New Age spirituality.

UFO-Aktuellt Advertisement

The magazine features an advertisement for "UFO-Aktuellt," an established Swedish magazine dedicated to UFO phenomena. It highlights key topics covered, such as 'What is UFO?', 'Who sees UFOs?', 'What evidence exists?', 'Contact cases?', and 'Hypotheses and theories.' The ad offers a trial issue for 40 SEK and a yearly subscription for 170 SEK. Contact information for UFO-Sverige is provided, including their address, phone number, and postgiro account.

Astrologiskt Månadsbrev (Horoscope & Tarot)

An advertisement for "Astrologiskt Månadsbrev" by Astrolog Joakim Schramm offers monthly horoscope and tarot readings for 69 SEK per month. Schramm promises to provide insights into personal life by interpreting planetary and tarot card energies, offering support for daily life and special deals. Subscribers receive a comprehensive overview of their life, and the service can be cancelled with one month's notice. An order form is included for interested individuals to fill out and send to Schramm in Hägersten.

Reiki Healing and Wind Chimes

A section promotes Reiki healing courses led by Reiki-master Birgit Näslund. Interested individuals are encouraged to register their interest. Additionally, there is a call for resellers of "prisvärda vindspel" (affordable wind chimes). Information about upcoming programs, including lectures and workshops, can be obtained by calling or writing.

Kristallfönstret (Crystal Window)

"Kristallfönstret" offers a mail-order service for a "Kristallpaketet" (Crystal Package) containing 15 different crystals with explanations for 198 SEK, plus an additional 45 SEK for postage and handling (cash on delivery). They also offer a mail-order catalog. The contact address and phone number for Kristallfönstret in Söderhamn are provided.

ToDej Stenar (Stones)

"ToDej Stenar" is a store in Kristianstad selling stones, crystals, jewelry, incense, gifts, wind chimes, and "Colour Energy" products. They are open weekdays from 10 AM to 6 PM and Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM. Contact details and address are listed.

Planetstadens Böcker (Book Club)

Page 2 features "Planetstadens Böcker," a book club for the curious. They offer a selection of books:

• Högre Inspiration (Higher Inspiration): By Helena Montelius & Elaiha. A 200-page softcover book (recommended price 192 SEK) described as a practical handbook with exercises for contacting one's spiritual guide and higher self. The book club price is 149 SEK.
• Runstenar i Älgsinnspåse (Runestones in an Elk Skin Pouch): This package includes 25 runestones in a pouch and an informational booklet explaining how to use them for divination and understanding inner forces. The price is 229 SEK.
• Vit Magi (White Magic): By Marina Medici. A 251-page hardcover book (recommended price 322 SEK) that teaches how to harness inner potential using herbs, stones, and spells, based on ancient knowledge passed down through generations. The book club price is 249 SEK.

A coupon is provided for ordering books. Customers ordering within 10 days receive a free gift valued at 49 SEK. Shipping costs (45 SEK), handling fees (9.90 SEK), and cash on delivery fees (25 SEK) are additional. Unclaimed packages are charged 175 SEK.

Catalog Offer

An offer is made to send a free catalog from Planetstadens Böcker without any obligation to purchase.

Next Issue and Advertising Deadline

The next issue of "Pentagram" is scheduled for release on October 15th. The deadline for advertising material is October 1st. A phone number is provided for booking advertisements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a New Age and esoteric worldview, emphasizing personal growth, spiritual exploration, and alternative practices such as astrology, tarot, and energy healing. The editorial stance appears to be one of providing information and resources for individuals interested in these subjects, with a focus on Swedish practitioners and publications. The inclusion of advertisements for related services and products reinforces this focus.