Pentagram - 1996 No 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of Pentagram magazine, identified as NR 1 1996, is a Swedish publication priced at 39 KRONOR. The cover features a striking black and white image of two women and is emblazoned with a dense headline listing various topics covered within, including UFOs, horoscopes, esoteric stories, Madam Blavatsky, film reviews, the Age of Aquarius, tarot, astral travel, magic schools, and a calendar of events, with a prominent mention of 'Iodine Jupiter'. The magazine's editorial team includes Herberth Svahn as the responsible publisher and Cyril Tönisberg as the editor-in-chief.

Articles and Features

"Tro och hopp" (Faith and Hope) - Editorial by Red.

The editorial reflects on the growing search for new paths and beliefs in Sweden, suggesting that while traditional institutions still exist, they face competition from a burgeoning new way of thinking. The editor notes the significant reader response to the magazine, indicating a strong interest in the topics covered. The editorial also announces the introduction of a reader's letter section ('Insändarsida') and a 'Questions & Answers' section for the next issue.

"Själens Resor" (Soul Journeys) - Text & Bild Thomas Karlsson

This article explores the concept of astral projection, or soul travel, a phenomenon reported across cultures and throughout history. It describes near-death experiences where individuals report leaving their physical bodies, seeing lights, and encountering entities. The article explains that 'astral bodies' are thought to be composed of a finer, invisible material and that these journeys can occur during sleep or upon death. It details the different levels of astral worlds, from the familiar to the surreal, and mentions encounters with deities and archetypal beings. The author shares a personal experience of astral travel, emphasizing the heightened sensory perception and altered sense of time and space. A quote highlights the recurring feeling of 'almost overwhelming freedom' during these experiences, which can be either frightening or euphoric.

"Dödsdömd friad efter 17 år i amerikanskt fängelse" (Sentenced to Death Acquitted After 17 Years in American Prison)

This piece recounts the case of Sonia Jacobs and Jesse Tafero, who were sentenced to death in Florida on May 15, 1976, for the murder of two police officers. Jesse Tafero was executed after 14 years, with his execution described as gruesome. Two years later, Sonia Jacobs was released as a free woman after a new investigation proved her innocence, suggesting Jesse was also likely innocent. The article includes a protest from Amnesty International against the death penalty, arguing it is a violation of human rights and not a deterrent to crime. It urges readers to demand the abolition of capital punishment and includes a form to join Amnesty.

Interview: "iodine JUPITER"

This interview features the artist Iodine Jupiter, described as the first in the Swedish hard rock scene to incorporate magic into his music. He discusses his background, his name (a combination of a planet and a disinfectant), and his alter ego, Dr. Death. Iodine Jupiter explains that Dr. Death is a character representing the most terrifying nightmares, a guide into the forbidden. He talks about his music's themes, which often flirt with death and drama, filling a niche in Swedish rock music. He mentions his connection to 'Universal Family of Love' and 'Hororna från helvetet' (The Horrors from Hell), which he describes as a group that combines rock, magic, ritual, and theater. He emphasizes the desire to explore the dark spiritual world through his music, making it the first truly Swedish hard rock album to do so.

Book Advertisements

The magazine features advertisements for books by Dénis Lindbohm, including "PENTAGRAM Maktens Portal" (Pentagram: Portal of Power), "Fången är den fries dröm" (The Captured Fries Dream), "Bortom Barriären" (Beyond the Barrier), and "Gudarnas Lekskola" (The Gods' School of Play). These books are described as guides to witchcraft, reincarnation, interdimensional travel, and spiritual freedom.

Product Advertisements

Advertisements for 'Chi Gong - Kinesiska Hälsokulor' (Chinese Health Balls) and exclusive silver jewelry offered by Pentagram to its readers are also present. The health balls are described as stimulating acupressure points, and the jewelry is available in two sizes and designs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Pentagram are the exploration of the occult, magic, spirituality, and paranormal phenomena, including UFOs and astral travel. The magazine also touches upon social issues such as the death penalty, advocating for human rights. The editorial stance appears to be one of openness to alternative beliefs and a critical view of traditional societal structures, encouraging readers to explore new ways of thinking and to engage with the magazine through letters and questions. The magazine positions itself as a pioneer in bringing these topics, particularly magic and the occult, to a wider audience, especially within the rock music scene.

This issue of Jupiter magazine, identified as issue 11, delves into themes of occultism, spirituality, New Age concepts, and African religious traditions. The cover features a striking image of a person in witch-like attire, setting a mystical and dark tone for the content within. The magazine explores the intersection of music, magic, and personal beliefs.

Interview with a Musician

The magazine features an interview with a musician who discusses their music, which is heavily influenced by occult themes and dark aesthetics. The artist describes their lyrics as a 'sexual penetration of the obscure darkness in your soul,' aiming to evoke a sense of allure, drive, and desire, inviting listeners to explore their inner shadow self. They draw inspiration from artists like Black Sabbath and David Bowie, and their music is described as a blend of hard rock spanning three decades, infused with magic, occultism, and horror. The artist expresses a fascination with the forbidden and the 'night side' of human nature, finding it more compelling than the rational and the mundane. They also touch upon the painful aspects of love, viewing ballads as expressions of the soul's tenderness and the driving forces of sorrow, pain, and anger.

African Religion and Ancestor Worship

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with Lennox Mhlanga from Mozambique, who shares insights into the life, culture, and religion of the AmaNdebele people. A core belief is that deceased family members, particularly the most recently departed, become ancestor spirits who watch over their families. This role carries a great responsibility, requiring the individual to live an impeccable life. The interview also touches upon the concept of a single, incomprehensible God, similar to Western religions, but emphasizes that religion is more integrated into daily life in Africa. Rituals surrounding births, weddings, and funerals are highlighted, with a specific ceremony for the deceased to transition into the spirit world and be accepted by other ancestors. If not performed correctly, the deceased can become a 'spöke' (ghost), a lost soul that is easily angered.

Mediumship and Spiritual Practices

Lennox Mhlanga discusses the concept of mediumship within his family, noting that it is a hereditary gift. He recounts an experience where his grandmother was possessed by three different spirits, speaking in languages she did not know and exhibiting knowledge of medicinal herbs. The interview also touches upon the practice of 'demon driving' or exorcism, which is described as a violent process requiring great spiritual power. While these ceremonies were once public, they are now conducted in secret due to legal restrictions and the influence of Christianity. There is a concern that Western influences, particularly Christianity, are attempting to supplant traditional African religions.

The Age of Aquarius

Another article explores the concept of the 'Age of Aquarius,' a widely discussed idea within New Age circles. It explains that this concept is rooted in astrological beliefs about cyclical ages of human history, similar to the ancient Greek ideas of gold, silver, bronze, and iron ages. The article details how the precession of the equinoxes causes the vernal equinox point to shift through the zodiac over approximately 25,000 years. Currently, humanity is transitioning from the 'Piscean Age' (roughly 2000 years, characterized by religion and materialism) to the 'Age of Aquarius.' This new era is predicted to be marked by a greater focus on spirituality, introspection, and the realization of the self, moving away from materialism towards a more holistic understanding of existence. The article traces the origins of these ideas to the Theosophical movement in the late 19th century and their popularization during the hippie counterculture of the 1960s.

Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Jupiter magazine strongly leans into themes of the occult, mysticism, spirituality, and the exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and belief systems. The editorial stance appears to be one that embraces these subjects, presenting them without judgment and often with a sense of fascination and inquiry. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in alternative beliefs, esoteric knowledge, and the intersection of art, music, and spirituality. There is a clear interest in exploring the 'shadow side' of existence and the hidden forces that may influence human lives, whether through music, ancient traditions, or astrological cycles.

This issue of MHLANGA, titled 'Magi för alla' (Magic for All), is the third part of a series on magic. It was published in April 2000 and features articles on practical magic, reincarnation, Theosophy, and Tarot.

Magi för alla – Del 3

This section, authored by Lars B Lindholms, continues the series on magic, focusing on practical applications and correcting a previous error regarding pentagram diagrams. The article explains the use of pentagrams in elemental rituals, distinguishing between invoking and banishing rituals for elements like Earth, Fire, Air, and Water, as well as Spirit. It details how to draw pentagrams correctly for different purposes and emphasizes the importance of understanding the symbolism and intent behind the rituals. The author also discusses the role of astrology in magic, suggesting that knowledge of planetary influences and timings can significantly enhance the effectiveness of magical practices. A key quote from Madam Blavatsky is featured: "The means that most quickly and easily achieve what the magician desires are the means that he wishes to use." The article provides a detailed explanation of how to determine the correct planetary hours for rituals, using Wednesday (associated with Mercury) as an example, and includes a table of planetary hours for each day of the week.

Astraläventyr (Astral Adventures)

Written by Dénis Lindbohms, this article explores the concept of past lives and reincarnation. Lindbohms shares personal reflections on the experience of remembering multiple past lives, describing a sense of cosmic emptiness and a lack of stable identity. He contrasts lives of cruelty and self-interest with those of self-sacrifice, illustrating the vast spectrum of human experience. Lindbohms posits that the purpose of reincarnation is to gain diverse experiences and increase understanding of existence, though complete comprehension of the universe's infinite variations may be impossible. He also touches upon the idea that disembodied beings possess more knowledge than humans, who are limited by their physical forms. Lindbohms expresses skepticism about individuals claiming to have profound knowledge from other worlds, particularly when their message is simply "love one another," which he finds to be an overused and ineffective solution to humanity's problems. He suggests that he possesses knowledge that could significantly improve the world, referencing his books "Skuggor över Elysion" and "Vägen som mörkret belyste," but questions whether humanity, trapped in its current state, is capable of implementing such solutions.

Madam Blavatsky

This section, authored by Tommy Cronham, provides a biographical sketch of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, a prominent figure in occultism and the co-founder of the Theosophical Society. It recounts her early life, her marriage, and her adventurous spirit, which led her to travel extensively, particularly to the East. The article highlights her founding of the Theosophical Society in 1875 with H.S. Olcott, which established a center in Adyar, India. Theosophy is described as a synthesis of religious and philosophical teachings, drawing from traditions like Hinduism and Buddhism. Blavatsky claimed to have accessed ancient knowledge from a global brotherhood, including experiences in hidden Tibetan museums. Her extensive studies resulted in "The Secret Doctrine," a multi-volume work detailing her theories on human origins, ancient civilizations like Lemuria, and the evolution of races. The article notes that the Theosophical Society has spawned other movements and directions.

Tarot – en intuitiv väg till självkännedom (Tarot – An Intuitive Path to Self-Knowledge)

Authored by Carl Johan Rehbinder, this article introduces the Tarot as a tool for self-discovery. It features an image of 'The Hierophant' card from Aleister Crowley's Thoth tarot deck. The article suggests that the Tarot can be used to gain intuitive insights into oneself and one's life path.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge. The magazine appears to take a neutral but informative stance, presenting various perspectives on these subjects without necessarily endorsing them. The articles aim to educate readers on practical magical techniques, philosophical concepts like reincarnation and Theosophy, and tools for self-exploration such as the Tarot. The overall tone is one of exploration and inquiry into the deeper aspects of existence and human potential.

This issue of Pentagram magazine, identified by its issue number '31', delves into the realms of Tarot and UFO phenomena, exploring their historical context, practical applications, and psychological impact. The cover features a dramatic depiction of a fortune teller, setting a mystical tone for the content within.

The Mystical World of Tarot

The magazine begins by introducing the mystique surrounding fortune-telling and the evolution of methods used throughout history. It highlights Tarot cards as a persistent tool for seeking guidance and understanding the future.

History of Tarot Cards

The history of Tarot cards is presented as equally mysterious as the cards themselves. While some theories attribute a glamorous and spiritual past involving Egyptian mystics and Kabbalists, others suggest a more mundane origin as simple playing cards that were later adapted for divination. The article leans towards the theory that Tarot decks originated in India or Persia and were assimilated into European culture during the Middle Ages, possibly through the Roma people or the Cathars. The spread of Tarot in the 14th and 15th centuries is noted, despite church prohibitions. The 18th century saw a resurgence of interest in occult phenomena, with Napoleon Bonaparte reportedly consulting Tarot for important decisions.

The Rider-Waite Revolution and Beyond

A pivotal moment in Tarot history is identified as the 1909 publication of the Rider-Waite Tarot deck. Commissioned by Edward Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman-Smith, this deck was revolutionary for featuring illustrations on all 78 cards, making interpretation more intuitive. This innovation is compared to the Reformation's impact on Christianity by making spiritual knowledge accessible to the common person. The article also mentions Aleister Crowley's 'Thoth' deck, illustrated by Frieda Harris, as another significant development in modern Tarot.

Working with Tarot

The article prompts readers to consider their motivation for using Tarot: ego-enhancement or genuine help for others. It argues that healing oneself is essential for healing the world, and Tarot, along with other self-awareness tools, is invaluable for this purpose. The cards are described as containing archetypal psychological motifs that can facilitate discussions and therapeutic work, even without a belief in magic.

Getting Started with Tarot

With the growing popularity of Tarot, the magazine addresses the confusion for beginners in choosing a deck. It mentions various historical and modern decks, from the medieval Visconti Sforza and Marseille decks to digital versions. The Rider-Waite deck is highly recommended for beginners due to its fully illustrated cards, which aid intuitive interpretation. Other decks based on the Rider-Waite tradition, such as Hanson-Roberts and Robin Wood, are also suggested. The importance of finding a deck that resonates personally is emphasized, and owning multiple decks for different purposes is encouraged.

The Role of Ritual

The article discusses the importance of rituals in enhancing focus and intention, whether for mundane tasks or spiritual practices. For Tarot readings, a small ritual, such as lighting a candle or using a special cloth, can deepen the connection with intuition and higher guidance.

Major and Minor Arcana

The structure of a Tarot deck is explained, with the Major Arcana consisting of 22 cards representing powerful psychological archetypes, and the Minor Arcana comprising 56 cards divided into four suits: Wands, Swords, Cups, and Coins (corresponding to Spades, Clubs, Hearts, and Diamonds in standard playing cards). The modern playing card deck has lost one court card, reducing the total to 52, with the Fool (Joker) being the only remaining trump card.

UFOs and Personal Development

UFOs as Catalysts for Growth

Peter Palm's article, "Visits from Other Planets Accelerating Human Development," posits that UFO phenomena are not just about unidentified flying objects and aliens, but more significantly about the transformative power they exert on human consciousness, both individually and collectively. Jan Fjellander, a speaker for the peace organization Peace Quest, believes that UFO encounters accelerate personal development, particularly psychologically.

Personal Experiences and Beliefs

Fjellander, raised in a spiritual environment, describes his own dramatic UFO experience in 1974 near Södertälje, Sweden, where he witnessed a silent, oval craft and heard a voice confirming the existence of extraterrestrials. This experience initiated a long process of integration and understanding. He notes that such encounters often involve a psychic connection and a sense of pre-cognition.

Explaining UFO Phenomena

The article explores various explanations for UFO sightings, ranging from natural atmospheric phenomena and misinterpretations to psychological factors and even secret military projects. It questions the non-physical characteristics observed in many UFOs, such as incredible speeds and accelerations, suggesting that conventional explanations may be insufficient.

The Impact of UFOs on Consciousness

Fjellander suggests that UFO phenomena can create chaos and confusion but also offer opportunities to break down old barriers and think differently. He emphasizes that the psychological impact of these encounters and the developmental possibilities they create are more important than the physical UFOs themselves.

Research on Paranormal Beliefs

Youth and the Paranormal

An investigation by sociologist Ulf Sjödin from Uppsala University reveals that a significant number of Swedish youth believe in paranormal phenomena such as reincarnation, astrology, and spiritism. The study, conducted in four Swedish cities, found that about half of the youth believe in precognition, and one in five believe in psychokinesis and astrology. Contrary to assumptions, educational background and social class did not significantly influence these beliefs; rather, it appears to be a matter of lifestyle and self-development.

Gender and Geographical Differences

Girls tend to believe in supernatural phenomena more than boys, with the exception of belief in aliens, where boys show a higher conviction (38%) compared to girls (26%). This difference is attributed to gender roles and boys' potential greater interest in science fiction and technology. While most geographical areas showed similar belief levels, youth in Värnamo were more skeptical, possibly due to the region's strong religious norms.

Factors Influencing Belief

Sjödin suggests that the decline in the authority of traditional institutions like the church and science has opened up a market for diverse life philosophies. The perceived failures of technological progress, such as environmental destruction, also contribute to a search for alternative explanations and beliefs. The article concludes that belief in paranormal phenomena is a reality in the lives of many young people and should be included in religious education.

Film and Literature Reviews

The magazine includes reviews of various films and books:

• Alien Nation: Dark Horizon (SF Video): A science fiction film that, despite competent handling of its themes of racism and xenophobia, is ultimately forgettable.
• Puppet Masters (Buena Vista): A film described as a rip-off of "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," featuring B-movie elements and gore.
• Village of the Damned (CIC Video): A return to form for director John Carpenter, this film is noted for its suspenseful atmosphere and explicit horror.
• Roswell (SF Video): A TV film based on the alleged UFO crash in New Mexico, praised for its historical context and Kyle MacLachlan's performance, but considered more informative than thrilling.
• Sekten (Scanbox): A film about a woman drawn into a cult, noted for its critical stance on cults but criticized for being predictable and cliché.
• Stargate (Scanbox): A well-made science fiction film involving an ancient Egyptian artifact that serves as a portal to another universe. It is recommended for fans of science fiction and ancient Egypt.
• Frankenstein (Egmont): A film adaptation criticized for Kenneth Branagh's self-indulgent direction and performance, despite a good story and excellent makeup effects.
• Witch Hunt (SF Video): A film set in 1950s Hollywood, where magic users are persecuted. It is described as a confusing and aimless film.
• Johnny Mnemonic and Other Stories by William Gibson: A collection of short stories, including the basis for the film "Johnny Mnemonic." While containing Gibson's signature style, the stories are considered somewhat disappointing.
• Three Books of Occult Philosophy by Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa: A significant work on magic and occult knowledge, considered a foundational text in Western occultism. The reviewed edition is a modern translation with extensive annotations.
• Närkontakt (Forum) by Whitley Strieber: A classic UFO literature book detailing Strieber's alleged abduction experiences and his description of "Strieber aliens."
• UFO - i myt och verklighet by Håkan Blomqvist: A serious compilation of UFO contacts since World War II, including phenomena like "men in black."
• Mötet i gläntan by Clas Svahn & Gösta Carlsson: An account of a 1946 UFO encounter near Ängelholm, Sweden, where the witness received inventions from extraterrestrials.
• Universums barn by Rauni-Leena Luukanen: A book by a Finnish doctor and ufologist discussing humanity's future and its connection to the cosmos, though criticized for being vague and lacking concrete examples.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the esoteric, the paranormal, and the unexplained, with a particular focus on Tarot and UFO phenomena. There is a clear editorial stance that these subjects are not merely subjects of fantasy but have profound psychological and developmental implications for individuals. The magazine encourages an open-minded yet critical approach, valuing personal intuition and self-discovery. The reviews of films and books suggest an interest in science fiction, horror, and occult literature, often with a critical eye towards the quality of the production or narrative.

This issue of Pentagram magazine, dated February 1996, serves as a comprehensive guide to esoteric and New Age topics, featuring a detailed glossary, an extensive event calendar, reader-submitted stories, and various articles. The cover prominently displays an "ESOTERISK ordlista" (Esoteric Glossary) aimed at helping readers understand the terminology of occultism and spirituality.

Esoteric Glossary

The glossary provides definitions for a wide array of terms, including:

• Alchemy: The ancient science of transforming base metals into gold and silver, also a philosophical system for soul transformation, using symbolic language.
• Animism: The belief that all nature is animated, including stones, water, and earth.
• Astral Body: The part of a human that can leave the physical body during astral travel.
• Aura: The invisible energy field surrounding living beings, which can be perceived through mental training.
• Chakra: The seven spiritual centers in the human body, originating from the genital area and extending to the crown of the head.
• Ectoplasm: A peculiar whitish, mist-like substance sometimes emitted by psychics, which can also take solid form.
• ESP (Extra Sensory Perception): Mental abilities beyond scientific explanation, such as telepathy and clairvoyance.
• Gnosticism: An early mystical and esoteric Christian movement focused on 'gnosis' or insight, aiming to know God.
• Grimoires: Medieval collections of magical rituals, formulas, and incantations.
• Inkarnation (Incarnation): The soul's dwelling in the body, synonymous with reincarnation.
• Initiation: A magical ceremony to induct individuals into occult mysteries using symbols and esoteric knowledge.
• Makrokosmos: The macrocosm, representing God's universe and the cosmos.
• Mikrokosmos: The microcosm, representing the human being and their world, believed to be created in God's image.
• Nekromanti (Necromancy): A form of divination involving summoning the spirits of the dead to gain knowledge of future events.
• Panteism (Pantheism): The belief that the universe is God, and every part of it is an aspect of God.
• Pentagram: A five-pointed star, often inscribed in a circle, considered a powerful symbol for protection against demons, representing the four elements and spirit.
• Reinkarnation (Reincarnation): The belief that the soul is reborn into a new physical body after death.
• Spiritism: The belief that mediums can establish contact with the deceased.
• Transcendent: Beliefs that lie beyond human comprehension.

Calendar of Events (February - April 1996)

The magazine provides an extensive listing of events across Sweden, primarily in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. These events cover a wide range of esoteric and spiritual topics:

• Stockholm: Includes lectures on Aura and twin souls, Reiki healing, meditation, chakras, crystal healing, tarot, Ayur Veda, and Martinus cosmology.
• Gothenburg: Features events on communicating with animals, spiritualist seances, dolphin encounters, trance channeling, astrology, spirituality and sexuality, the power of thought, water as cosmic energy, crystal healing, past life regression, and meditation evenings.
• Malmö: Offers events on UFO experiences, dolphin encounters, theosophy, dream interpretation, transforming negativity, clairvoyance demonstrations, near-death experiences, inner child work, dealing with life crises, astral bodies and illness, protection and astral energy, channeling, workshops on healing and body harmony, numerology, and the third eye.

Reader Stories

This section features personal accounts of paranormal and supernatural experiences:

• "DEN OKÄNDE BESÖKAREN" (The Unknown Visitor): A reader recounts experiences of unexplained footsteps and a mysterious, dark-clad figure in their bedroom, questioning its nature.
• "MANNEN I DEN SVARTA KÅPAN" (The Man in the Black Cloak): A personal account of an encounter with a man in a black cloak and a pentagram, who appeared after a branch seemingly fell towards the narrator but then changed direction.
• "VITTRA TOG DEN UNGE MANNENS LIV" (Vittra Took the Young Man's Life): A story based on an event from the 1930s in northern Sweden, involving a farmer whose cows disappeared and were believed to be taken by 'vittror' (supernatural beings), leading to a tragic drowning.
• "MITT MÖTE MED OUIJABRÄDAN" (My Encounter with the Ouija Board): A reader describes a frightening experience with a Ouija board, involving a luminous apparition of a man who passed through them.

Letters to the Editor

The "BREV TILL Pentagram" (Letters to Pentagram) section includes correspondence from readers:

• Information Needed: A reader seeks information about angels for a book they are writing.
• UFO Experiences: A reader interested in UFOs and extraterrestrial contact seeks to connect with others.
• White Magic: A woman interested in white magic, healing, and nature seeks like-minded individuals or a coven in Skåne.
• Crystals and Healing: A reader seeks contact with others interested in paranormal topics like ghosts, spirits, healing, and divination, specifically avoiding black magic.
• Meaning of Everything: A woman seeks like-minded friends in northern Sweden who believe that everything has a meaning.
• Pen Pals: A 25-year-old woman interested in the occult and magic seeks pen pals to learn from.
• Wicca Friends: A 27-year-old witch seeks like-minded individuals for discussion about Wicca and their way of life, emphasizing it's not devil worship.
• Artist: A 23-year-old artist, identifying as a witch and interested in New Age topics, seeks interesting companions in the Gothenburg area, drawn to darkness and cemeteries.
• Mysticism: A 17-year-old girl interested in magic, mysticism, witches, and spirits seeks friends to learn from and exchange ideas with.
• Stockholmer: A 20-year-old woman who loves Black Metal and the occult seeks like-minded individuals in the Stockholm area.
• Female Witch Wanted: A request for a female witch for an exchange of thoughts and friendship, seeking someone interested in the occult and unusual, who appreciates black and heavy rock.
• Black Magic: A male reader interested in black magic seeks contact with like-minded individuals for exchanging thoughts and experiences, mentioning interests in the shadow side of the soul, runes, black sun, and vampirism.
• Witches! Magicians!: A 30-year-old man seeks pen pals interested in magic, witchcraft, seances, and possession, possibly for joint rituals.
• Help Us!: A request for information about "Gravakanna" from Yngsjö, known for healing and helping people.

Other Articles and Advertisements

• Horoscopes: A section providing astrological forecasts for various zodiac signs for the period of February 15th to April 15th, 1996.
• Advertisements: Several advertisements for esoteric services and products, including Tarot readings, Reiki healing courses, talismans, divination, and books.
• Book Review: An advertisement for Deepak Chopra's "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success."
• CD-ROM Advertisement: An ad for a CD-ROM titled "Everything you wanted to know - but nobody would tell you!" containing information on UFOs, witchcraft, black magic, and more.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an interest in the esoteric, occult, and New Age movements. It provides a platform for diverse viewpoints, from spiritual healing and mysticism to discussions on UFOs and various forms of magic. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring a wide spectrum of beliefs and experiences, encouraging reader participation through letters and personal stories. There is a clear effort to demystify these topics and provide a resource for those seeking knowledge and community within these fields. The magazine also engages with controversial subjects, as seen in the letters debating Satanism and the nature of magic, indicating a willingness to address complex and sometimes conflicting beliefs within the esoteric community.

This document appears to be a promotional insert or a section from a Swedish publication, likely from 1995 or 1996, featuring advertisements for a Ouija board, a magazine called 'Tidskriften Sökaren' (The Seeker Magazine), and the film 'Seven'. The overall tone is informative and promotional, targeting individuals interested in the occult, New Age philosophies, and alternative spirituality, as well as film enthusiasts.

Ouija Board Advertisement

The primary advertisement on the first page showcases an "Äkta ouija-bräda" (Authentic Ouija board) with a wooden planchette. It is described as "Mycket fin!" (Very fine!) and comes in a black pouch. The board is attributed to "Dzyan, en av H.R. Gigers kollegor" (Dzyan, one of H.R. Giger's colleagues). The dimensions are given as 55 x 39 cm, and the price is 399 SEK, with additional postal charges. The advertisement is from "Work Shop" located in Malmö, Sweden, with contact details provided.

Tidskriften Sökaren (The Seeker Magazine)

Below the Ouija board advertisement is a detailed promotion for "Tidskriften Sökaren," described as "För seriösa sökare" (For serious seekers). The magazine aims to provide unique information for the intellectually curious, focusing on New Age and alternative thinking. It covers deep thoughts on spirituality and science, as well as older explanations of humanity and the cosmos. Its areas of interest include mysticism, wisdom, philosophy, religion, parapsychology, and inner personal development. The magazine emphasizes avoiding superstition and 'flum' (fluff/nonsense), instead seeking credible information from scientific researchers. Readers can request a free trial issue by calling 054-51 89 00 or writing to Sökaren, Box 10, 663 21 Skoghall. A subscription for six issues in 1996 costs 250 SEK, and for the first three issues costs 150 SEK. The magazine's issue is identified as "Nr 5, 1995 årgång 32" with a price of 50 SEK including VAT.

Film Advertisement: Seven

The second page features a prominent advertisement for the film "Seven." The poster displays the main actors, Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, with the Swedish translations of the seven deadly sins listed vertically between them: FROSSERI (Gluttony), GIRIGHET (Greed), LÄTJA (Sloth), AVUND (Envy), VREDE (Wrath), HÖGMOD (Pride), and BEGÄR (Lust). The film is directed by David Fincher. Testimonials are included: "Ett masterverk" (A masterpiece) from Owen Gleiberman/Entertainment Weekly and "En nervslitande thriller" (A nerve-wracking thriller) from Trade/Rolling Stone. The tagline for the film is "Sju dödssynder. Sju sätt att dö." (Seven deadly sins. Seven ways to die.). The advertisement also credits "New Line Cinema" and "Sandrews" as distributors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The content strongly leans towards the esoteric, spiritual, and alternative, with a clear focus on providing in-depth information for those seeking deeper understanding beyond conventional paradigms. The magazine 'Tidskriften Sökaren' positions itself as a credible source, distinguishing itself from mere superstition. The inclusion of the film 'Seven,' which deals with dark themes and moral decay, might suggest an editorial interest in exploring complex or challenging aspects of human nature and society, even if the film itself is a mainstream entertainment product. The overall stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity and a willingness to explore a wide range of topics, from the paranormal to philosophical and cinematic critiques.