Pentagram - 1996 No 1

Magazine Overview

This issue of Pentagram magazine, NR 1 from 1996, priced at 39 Kronor, is a Swedish publication focused on esoteric, paranormal, and occult themes. The cover features a striking black and white image of two superimposed portraits of a woman, with the magazine title prominently displayed. The cover also lists a variety of topics covered within, including 'The Spirits of the Dead Watch Over Us', 'UFO', 'Horoscope', 'Laser Stories', 'Madam Blavatsky', 'Private Ads', 'Film', 'The Age of Aquarius', 'Tarot', 'Denis Lindbohm', 'Astral Journeys', 'The Magic School', and 'Calendar'.

Editorial and Content

The editorial, titled 'Tro och hopp' (Faith and Hope), written by 'Red.' (likely the editor), reflects on the Swedish people's search for meaning beyond traditional religion, especially as the new millennium approaches. The editor notes the increasing interest in alternative beliefs and the magazine's role in being among the first to report on these topics. The editorial also highlights the significant reader response Pentagram receives, encouraging readers to submit their own stories and questions for a future 'Questions & Answers' section.

The table of contents reveals a diverse range of articles:

• Själens resor (Soul Journeys): Explores out-of-body experiences and astral projection.
• Iodine Jupiter: An interview with the artist.
• Vattumannens tidsålder (The Age of Aquarius): Discusses the astrological era.
• De dödas andar vakar över oss (The Spirits of the Dead Watch Over Us): Likely about communication with spirits.
• Magi för alla – del 3 (Magic for All – Part 3): Continues a series on magic.
• Dénis Lindbohms krönika (Dénis Lindbohm's Chronicle): A regular column.
• Madam Blavatsky: Focuses on the esoteric figure.
• Tarot: An article on tarot cards.
• Ufo: Coverage of UFO phenomena.
• Undersökning (Investigation): Likely an investigative piece.
• Film- & litteraturrecensioner (Film & Literature Reviews): Reviews of relevant media.
• Esoterisk ordlista (Esoteric Glossary): Definitions of terms.
• Kalendarium (Calendar): Event listings.
• Läsarnas egna berättelser (Readers' Own Stories): Submissions from readers.
• Brev till Pentagram (Letters to Pentagram): Reader correspondence.
• Horoskop (Horoscope): Astrological forecasts.

Key Articles and Features

Astral Journeys

The article 'Själens Resor' (Soul Journeys) by Thomas Karlsson delves into the concept of leaving the physical body during sleep or near-death experiences. It describes common elements like tunnels of light and encounters with figures. The article explains 'astral projection' as the soul's journey in an 'astral body' to worlds between the material and spiritual. It mentions that occultists have studied and systematized these journeys, with experiences ranging from frightening to euphoric. The text also includes a personal account of an astral journey, detailing vivid sensory perceptions and the experience of moving rapidly and perceiving colors, scents, and sounds more intensely than in the physical world. It also touches upon 'astral sex' as a possible experience.

The Death Penalty

A prominent feature on page 7 discusses the case of Sonia Jacobs, who was sentenced to death in Florida in 1976 for murder but was later exonerated after 17 years in prison. Her co-accused, Jesse Tafero, was executed. The article highlights the brutality of the electric chair and emphasizes Amnesty International's opposition to the death penalty, calling it a violation of human rights and questioning its effectiveness as a deterrent. It urges readers to demand the abolition of capital punishment.

Interview with Iodine Jupiter

An interview with the artist Iodine Jupiter, conducted by Alexis Starforce, reveals his background and artistic philosophy. He explains his stage name as a combination of a planet and a disinfectant. Jupiter, who is 35 years old, describes himself as a performer who embodies multiple characters, including 'Dr. Death', a figure representing nightmares. He discusses his music, which blends hard rock with occult themes, and how he uses Swedish lyrics to bring magic into the hard rock genre. He mentions his album 'Lilla flickan Zombie' and the challenges of getting his music, which deals with darker themes, accepted by record labels. He also touches upon his involvement with 'Universal Family of Love' and 'Hororna från helvetet' (The Horrors from Hell), which combine rock, magic, ritual, and theater.

Books and Products

Page 4 showcases books by Denis Lindbohm, including 'PENTAGRAM Maktens Portal' (Pentagram: Portal of Power), described as a textbook on witchcraft. Other books featured are 'Fången är den fries dröm' (The Fries Dream is Captured), 'Bortom Barriären' (Beyond the Barrier), and 'Gudarnas Lekskola' (The Gods' School). The advertisement for AURORA offers books, jewelry, stones, crystals, oils, pendulums, incense, and tarot cards.

Advertisements

Page 2 features advertisements for 'Chi Gong - Kinesiska Hälsokulor' (Chi Gong - Chinese Health Balls) and an exclusive silver jewelry offer for Pentagram readers. Page 7 includes a membership form for Amnesty International.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the occult, esotericism, spirituality, and the paranormal. It appears to champion alternative belief systems and practices, providing a platform for discussions on topics often outside the mainstream. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging reader participation and offering a unique perspective on magic, spirituality, and the human psyche. The magazine also takes a clear stance against the death penalty, aligning with Amnesty International's advocacy.

This issue of JUPITER, identified as issue 11 from 1993, is a Swedish publication focusing on themes of occultism, spirituality, music, and New Age beliefs. The magazine features interviews and articles that explore dark, mystical, and esoteric subjects.

Artist Interview: The Allure of the Forbidden

The issue includes an interview with an artist who discusses their music's connection to dark and forbidden themes. The artist explains that the forbidden is a source of fascination, a drive, and a desire that is more interesting than the safe. When asked about being called 'mentally ill' due to their music, the artist expresses joy, seeing it as a form of divine intoxication and ecstasy, highlighting the powerful effect of their expression. Critics have praised the album, calling it one of the best Swedish releases of the year. Influences cited include Black Sabbath and early Alice Cooper, with the artist describing their own music as a 'musical odyssey' through the best of hard rock across three decades, infused with magic, occultism, and horror. Love, as depicted in the song 'Vilda lilla blomma' (Wild Little Flower), is described as the tenderness of the soul's dark side, driven by sorrow, pain, and anger, representing a person's encounter with the inevitable and terrifying. The artist embraces various labels, including 'rock poet,' 'illusionist,' 'soul healer,' 'witch doctor,' and mentions undergoing an 'illegal priest training' within the 'Universal Family of Love' in Stockholm's underpasses. Their education includes university studies in film, literature, and art, as well as artistic practice in radio drama, video production, and film for TV, alongside studies in magic and occultism that have led to various forms of communication. Their writing projects include a pornographic version of the Bible and poetry collections exploring the union of Eros and Thanatos. A radio play titled 'Satan – the ultimate divine message' is noted for its significant impact, particularly among rock'n'roll enthusiasts and those interested in magic. The artist describes their lyrics as charged with presence, weight, and magical power, aiming to create a 'touch' that often occurs in the void between words. They believe words have magical power, acting as amplifiers that can conjure connections that don't necessarily exist but begin to exist through naming. This process leads to long development periods for their texts, driven by self-criticism and the desire to test their effectiveness. The artist aims to express a 'nearly sexual penetration of the obscure darkness within your soul,' an allure, a drive, and a desire, inviting listeners to step into their own shadow side, exploring moods, sensations, and inner images. The lyrics are seen as keys to a world of secrets and mysteries, a dreamscape that can be entered.

The Dark Side of Human Nature

The artist acknowledges the darkness in their texts, suggesting it might appeal to those who have lived good lives and longed to sin. Their music, 'Iodine Jupiter,' is described as a journey through the underworld to emerge into the light, offering a 'hell ride' into the subconscious darkness and the forbidden desires. The artist expresses a greater interest in the 'night side' of human nature – the unconscious, the irrational, and sexuality – rather than the rational and the sensible, which they leave for others to deal with during the day.

Death as Birth and Protest

Death is viewed not just as an end but as a birth, and also as a profound social protest. In a society with 'locked doors,' death is seen as the only way out of a sick and corrupt system. It is considered a significant challenge for the aesthetic mind, where the representation of death breaks down the illusion of the self. Through hypnotic methods and trance states, valuable information about the future can be obtained. Death is unique in forcing individuals into solitude and towards the core of their spiritual being, summarizing the dominant force of a life.

Beliefs: God and the Devil

The artist has made two contracts: a public one with God and a private one with the Devil, seeking insight into human nature. They believe the Devil would know if God truly exists. The artist states that heaven and hell are states of the soul, and the dominant force carried within is a genetic code or an inherited trait that travels through generations, leading to one receiving what they deserve. They are also working on rewriting the Bible, finding it to be a 'soap opera' and a 'schizophrenic power struggle' with a negative influence, particularly its commandment against other gods, which they interpret as paranoid and sadistic.

Magic and Sexuality

The artist is involved in 'sexual magic,' which they see as a way to bypass moral barriers of limitation and conformity, a practice taught to members of the Universal Family of Love. The aim is to achieve divine intoxication and ecstasy for the girls. Magic is defined as a way to change one's own and others' reality, by exploring personal capacity and focusing energy through practical application. The goal is to gain control over one's own purpose and abilities. This practice has been ongoing since the mid-80s, involving solo work, collaboration, and rock music rituals. The artist describes their life as a paradoxical blend of witchcraft, magic, and Marquis de Sade.

The Age of Aquarius: A New Era

An article titled 'Vattumannens Tidsålder' (The Age of Aquarius) explores the concept of dividing human history into different ages, a practice dating back to ancient Greek philosophers who spoke of gold, silver, bronze, and iron ages. The current 'iron age' is characterized by a deep decline into materialism and sensuality. Hindu cosmology also features similar cycles, with the current era being Kali Yuga. The concept of astrological ages, linked to the precession of the equinoxes, suggests that the vernal equinox point moves backward through the zodiac over 25,000 years. Each sign is occupied for approximately 2,000 years. The current Age of Pisces, which began around the time of Jesus' birth, has been marked by religion and materialism, with a focus on the macrocosm. The upcoming Age of Aquarius is predicted to bring a shift towards less materialism and more spirituality, with a focus on the microcosm and inwardness. This idea gained traction in the hippie counterculture of the 1960s, influenced by Eastern philosophies and religions, and was reflected in music and film, such as the musical 'Hair.' The New Age movement is largely founded on the entry into the Age of Aquarius, advocating for self-realization through introspection. The article notes that while the technological development of the modern world has outpaced mental and spiritual development, the Age of Aquarius offers hope for humanity to catch up.

Origins of the Age of Aquarius Concept

The concept of a new age beginning around 1900 was published by Theosophists in 1888. Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, a key figure in Theosophy, synthesized world religions, suggesting a common origin and a future where humanity would realize its divine nature. Theosophy opened the door to much of the thought that now defines the New Age movement.

Ancestor Worship in Mozambique

An interview with Lennox Mhlanga from Mozambique discusses the strong belief in ancestor spirits in his culture. He explains that the most recently deceased family member becomes a protective spirit. To become a family spirit, one must have lived a righteous and good life. These spirits watch over the family, and the role of protector is passed down. He recounts an experience where his grandmother was possessed by three different spirits, one of whom spoke perfect Portuguese, suggesting it was a Portuguese sea captain who had died years prior. Another spirit was possibly a relative, and the third was unidentified. The grandmother, under possession, gained knowledge of medicinal plants and healed people. The article also touches upon the role of mediums in Mozambique, who can be healers, seers, or those who drive out demons. The practice of demon expulsion is described as a powerful and sometimes violent process. While formal demon expulsion ceremonies are now rare and often conducted in secret due to legal restrictions, the underlying beliefs persist. The influence of Christianity is seen as a threat to traditional African religions, with revival churches and figures like Billy Graham actively promoting their faith.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Jupiter magazine consistently explores themes of the occult, the mystical, and the spiritual, often with a focus on the darker aspects of human nature and existence. The magazine seems to embrace a counter-cultural perspective, questioning conventional morality and societal norms, and presenting alternative belief systems and practices. The interviews and articles suggest an interest in exploring the forbidden, the subconscious, and the hidden aspects of reality, whether through music, magic, astrology, or cultural traditions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting them as valid areas of exploration and personal growth.

This issue of MHLANGA, identified as issue number 21 and part of Volume 3, is primarily focused on themes of magic, spirituality, and esoteric knowledge. The cover prominently features the headline "Magi för alla" (Magic for All), indicating a central theme of accessible magical practices. The issue contains articles on various aspects of occultism, including practical magic, astrology, reincarnation, and the history of key figures in the field.

Articles and Content

"Magi för alla" (Magic for All) by Lars B Lindholms (Part 3)

This multi-part series continues its exploration of magical practices. The author begins by correcting a previous error regarding a pentagram diagram, clarifying that the diagram shown in the previous issue was for the element Fire, not Earth. The article then delves into the principles of pentagram rituals, explaining how each point of the pentagram represents an element (Spirit, Earth, Air, Water, Fire) and how these are used for invoking and banishing. The author introduces the concept of "invoking" (calling forth) and "banishing" (dismissing) forces and explains how the pentagrams for Spirit differ slightly. The article details the "Little Pentagram Ritual" as a simplified form of the "Great Pentagram Ritual," focusing on the element of Earth and banishing rituals. It also touches upon the use of the pentagram for invoking the element of Spirit, noting its unique representation.

The author emphasizes that while the basic principles of magic remain the same, the individual practitioner ultimately determines the meaning of symbols within their own universe. The article provides diagrams and explanations for invoking and banishing rituals for the four elements (Earth, Fire, Air, Water) and Spirit. It highlights the widespread use of these simple rituals, from daily meditation to significant events.

Practical Magic and Astrology

Lars B Lindholms further discusses the practical application of magic, particularly in the context of preparing for challenges like exams. He quotes, "A magician does not distinguish between the means he uses; for him, all means are magical. The means that most quickly and easily achieve what he desires are the means he will employ." However, he cautions against attempting to magically prevent an exam, as it would require significant astral manipulation and a high level of magical skill developed over years of practice.

Instead, the author suggests using astrology to identify opportune times for magical work. He explains that understanding one's birth chart and progressions can help in timing rituals effectively. The article stresses the importance of knowing when it is most beneficial to act, and recommends that serious practitioners of magic study astrology alongside their magical studies. The author uses Mercury as an example, noting its association with the elements Air and Earth, and suggests using Air for creative projects. The ritual process involves opening channels to the element, performing the core ritual, and then closing the channels by performing banishing rituals.

The article also includes a detailed table, "PLANETTIMMETABELL" (Planet Time Table), which lists the ruling planets for each hour of the day across the week. This table is intended to help practitioners identify specific "hours" of planets, such as Mercury's hour on a Wednesday, for performing rituals. The author acknowledges the complexity of magic and promises to cover more advanced topics, including magical weapons, in future installments.

Dénis Lindbohms's "Astrala Äventyr" (Astral Adventures)

This section features a personal reflection on reincarnation and past lives by Dénis Lindbohms. The author expresses a sense of cosmic emptiness and rootlessness that can arise from remembering multiple past lives, contrasting with the common perception of past lives as solely joyful. He highlights the vast differences in personalities and experiences across different incarnations, citing examples of lives lived as a cruel despot and a self-sacrificing individual.

Lindbohms posits that the meaning of life, and by extension reincarnation, is to gain diverse experiences and increase understanding of existence. He suggests that the universe is so vast and varied that it may take billions of incarnations to fully comprehend it. Alternatively, he proposes that souls are schooled through these lives to delve deeper into various realms of existence. He expresses doubt about the possibility of fully understanding the non-physical realm, stating that disembodied beings have far greater knowledge than humans.

The author shares his memories of both primitive and technologically advanced civilizations, emphasizing the broad spectrum of understanding gained from such experiences. He describes himself as a constant traveler, a cosmic tourist, rather than someone with a fixed identity. He criticizes those who claim to have knowledge from other worlds but only offer simplistic advice like "love each other," suggesting that he possesses knowledge that could truly elevate humanity, citing his books "Skuggor över Elysion" and "Vägen som mörkret belyste" as examples of his work that offers solutions for a world without conflict, military, police, or money, but notes the difficulty of achieving such a state.

Portrait: Madam Blavatsky

This section provides a biographical sketch of Helena Petrovna Blavatsky, often referred to as the "uncrowned empress of occultism." The article details her early life, her marriage at seventeen to Nikifor Blavatsky, and the subsequent dissolution of the marriage. It highlights her early fascination with the paranormal and her adventurous life, including experiences as a circus performer and a soldier.

Blavatsky's most significant contribution was co-founding the Theosophical Society in 1875 with H.S. Olcott. The article explains the basic concept of theosophy, derived from Greek words for "god" and "wisdom," as a synthesis of religious and philosophical teachings. It notes the influence of Hinduism and Buddhism on Theosophy and its core belief in the cyclical nature of existence and the evolution of humanity through multiple lives.

The article mentions Blavatsky's claim to have accessed ancient knowledge from a global brotherhood, particularly during her travels in Tibet. She is said to have studied in subterranean museums containing manuscripts and artifacts from various epochs, including detailed sculptures of different human types and models of geographical changes caused by natural disasters. This research culminated in her monumental work, "The Secret Doctrine," a ten-volume epic.

The text also touches upon the Theosophical Society's teachings about the origin of humanity, including the idea of seven races evolving on the sunken continent of Lemuria, with the seventh race giving rise to the statues on Easter Island. It notes that several other movements have emerged from the original Theosophical Society.

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

This article, by Carl Johan Rehnbinder, introduces Tarot as a tool for intuitive self-discovery. The accompanying image is of "The Hierophant" card from Aleister Crowley's Thoth tarot deck, suggesting a focus on this particular deck or tradition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of esoteric knowledge, personal transformation, and the search for deeper meaning. The articles on magic and theosophy suggest an editorial stance that is open to and supportive of alternative spiritual and occult practices. There is a clear emphasis on the idea that knowledge and power can be accessed through study, ritual, and personal experience. The personal reflections on reincarnation and the biographical pieces on figures like Madam Blavatsky indicate an interest in the historical and personal dimensions of these subjects. The magazine appears to aim at providing readers with practical tools and philosophical insights for navigating life's challenges and exploring the spiritual dimensions of existence.

This issue of "Pentagram" magazine, identified by its cover title "TAROT," delves into the world of divination, the occult, and UFO phenomena. The cover features a dramatic depiction of a fortune teller, setting a mystical tone for the content within.

Tarot: History, Decks, and Practice

The magazine explores the history of Tarot cards, noting the mystery surrounding their origins. Theories suggest they may have originated with the Roma people from India or were invented by the Cathars. The article highlights the Rider-Waite Tarot deck, published in 1909, as a significant development due to its fully illustrated cards, which made interpretation more accessible. It also mentions Aleister Crowley's "Thoth" deck. The practical aspects of working with Tarot are discussed, emphasizing the importance of intuition over theoretical knowledge. It suggests that Tarot cards can be valuable tools for self-reflection, discussion, and even therapeutic work, regardless of belief in their magical properties. The article also touches upon the structure of Tarot decks, differentiating between the Major Arcana (22 cards) and the Minor Arcana (56 cards divided into four suits).

UFO Phenomena and Human Development

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO phenomena and their perceived impact on human development. Jan Fjellander, a speaker for the peace organization Peace Quest, argues that encounters with UFOs and the idea of extraterrestrial life can accelerate psychological growth and transformation. He shares his own dramatic UFO experience from 1974, which led him to believe in extraterrestrial existence. The article discusses how UFO phenomena can challenge existing beliefs and encourage new perspectives, even if they initially cause confusion.

Research on Youth Beliefs in the Paranormal

An article by Peter Holst summarizes a study by sociologist Ulf Sjödin from Uppsala University. The study found that a significant number of Swedish youth believe in paranormal phenomena such as reincarnation, astrology, and precognition. Interestingly, educational background and social class did not appear to be determining factors, but rather lifestyle and self-development. While girls generally showed a higher belief in supernatural phenomena, boys were more convinced of the existence of aliens. The study suggests that the decline in the authority of traditional institutions like the church and science has opened up a market for diverse belief systems.

Film and Literature Reviews

The magazine includes a section of reviews for films and books related to science fiction, horror, and the paranormal. Reviewed films include "Alien Nation: Dark Horizon," "Puppet Masters," "Village of the Damned," "Roswell," "Sekten," and "Stargate." Book reviews cover titles like "Johnny Mnemonic," "Three Books of Occult Philosophy" by Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa, "Närkontakt" by Whitley Strieber, and "Universums barn" by Rauni-Leena Luukanen. There are also reviews of UFO-related books such as "UFO - i myt och verklighet" by Håkan Blomqvist and "Mötet i gläntan" by Clas Svahn & Gösta Carlsson.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are Tarot, divination, the occult, UFOs, and paranormal beliefs. The magazine appears to take an open-minded and exploratory stance towards these subjects, presenting research, personal experiences, and critical reviews of related media. The editorial stance seems to encourage personal exploration and the development of intuition, while also critically examining the phenomena discussed.

This issue of Pentagram magazine, dated February 15 to April 15, serves as a comprehensive guide to esoteric and occult topics, featuring a detailed "ESOTERISK ordlista" (Esoteric Dictionary) that defines a wide array of terms relevant to mysticism, New Age spirituality, and various occult practices. The magazine also includes extensive listings of events and courses taking place in Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö, covering subjects such as Reiki healing, tarot, astrology, meditation, and crystal therapy. Additionally, it presents several reader-submitted accounts of paranormal experiences and personal reflections on spiritual journeys.

Esoteric Dictionary

The dictionary provides definitions for terms like Alchemy, Animism, Aura, Chakra, ESP, Gnosticism, Grimoires, Hexagram, Inkarnation (Incarnation), Makrokosmos (Macrocosm), Mikrokosmos (Microcosm), Nekromanti (Necromancy), Panteism (Pantheism), Pentagram, Reinkarnation (Reincarnation), and Transcendent. Each entry offers a concise explanation of the concept's meaning within esoteric contexts. For instance, Alchemy is described as the ancient science of transforming base metals into gold and a philosophical system for soul transformation, relying heavily on symbolic language. ESP is defined as Extra Sensory Perception, encompassing telepathy, psychometry, and clairvoyance. Gnosticism is presented as an early mystical and esoteric Christian movement focused on attaining knowledge of God.

Events Calendar

The calendar section is divided by city: Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Each listing includes the date, a brief description of the event, the speaker or organizer, and contact information or venue details. Events range from lectures on aura reading, communication with animals, and the spiritual significance of crystals, to workshops on tarot, Reiki healing, and meditation techniques. Specific events include a "Fullmånemeditation" (Full Moon Meditation), a lecture on "Andlighet och sexualitet" (Spirituality and Sexuality), and a course on "Transforming Negativity."

Reader Stories

The magazine features several reader-submitted stories under the heading "LÄSARNAS EGNA berättelser" (Readers' Own Stories).

The Unknown Visitor

A reader from Nacka recounts experiencing unexplained footsteps in their apartment and a subsequent encounter with a shadowy, nynnande figure. The experience was terrifying, and the reader seeks an explanation for the entity.

The Man in the Black Cloak

Another reader describes an encounter on December 18, 1992, where they met a man in a black cloak with a pentagram necklace in a forest clearing. The man, who had a mysterious gaze, touched the reader's hand and then vanished. The reader questions the nature of this encounter.

The Vitra Took the Young Man's Life

This story, based on an event from the 1930s in Southern Lappland, Sweden, tells of a farmer whose cows disappeared, believed to have been taken by 'vittror' (supernatural beings). The farmer's son, Erik, vowed to bring the cows home, but tragically drowned on a frozen lake during the search, an event attributed to the vittror.

My Encounter with the Ouija Board

A reader shares an experience with a Ouija board where they allegedly made contact with a spirit. The board indicated someone else was present, and a luminous apparition of a man appeared and passed through the readers, leaving them shaken.

Letters to Pentagram

This section includes letters from readers:

• Information Needed! A reader expresses the need for more information on occult and esoteric topics, sharing their personal interest and offering to share their knowledge.

• Hello Pentagram! A reader praises the magazine for opening people's eyes and discusses their 25 years of research into UFOs, proposing a theory about their propulsion systems.

• Warning for Free-Thinkers! A reader strongly criticizes an interview with someone identifying as a Satanist, arguing that the individual does not represent true Satanism and that the magazine should not give platforms to such views.

• Thank you, thank you... thank you... Pentagram! A reader expresses gratitude for the magazine, stating it has given their life meaning and helped them connect with like-minded individuals.

• Fight for what you believe in! A reader defends magic and occultism against common prejudices, arguing that the Church's opposition stems from historical competition and a desire to maintain its position.

• Hello! A reader critiques a story about a Ouija board experience, suggesting it's a Christian propaganda piece designed to convert occultists.

Advertisements and Services

The magazine also features advertisements for various services, including Tarot readings, Reiki Master courses, crystal healing, horoscopes, and books on esoteric subjects. Notable ads include those for "TAROT AND MAGIC," "PYRAMIDENERGI," "Reikihealing-kurser," "DAST MAGAZINE," and a CD-ROM titled "Everything you wanted to know - but nobody would tell you!"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the esoteric, occult, and paranormal. The magazine aims to educate and inform its readers about a wide range of spiritual practices, beliefs, and phenomena, from ancient traditions like Alchemy and Gnosticism to modern New Age concepts and UFOlogy. The editorial stance appears to be one of openness to these subjects, providing a platform for diverse viewpoints and personal experiences, while also cautioning against misinformation and prejudice, as seen in the letters section. The magazine actively encourages reader participation through submissions of stories and letters, fostering a sense of community among those interested in the esoteric.

This document appears to be a single page from a Swedish publication, likely a magazine or a promotional insert, dating from 1995. It features advertisements for a Ouija board and a magazine called 'Tidskriften Sökaren' (The Seeker Magazine), as well as a movie poster for 'Seven'. The overall tone suggests an interest in esoteric subjects, spirituality, and potentially the paranormal, alongside popular culture.

Ouija Board Advertisement

The top section of the page prominently displays a Ouija board with the title 'OUIJA BOARD' in large, stylized lettering. Below this, an advertisement details the product: 'Genuine ouija board with wooden planchette. Very nice! Delivered in a black bag. Drawn by Dzyan, one of H.R. Giger's colleagues. Dimensions: 55 X 39 cm.' The price is listed as '399:-' with the note 'Postage costs not included'. Contact information for 'Work Shop' in Malmö, Sweden, including a phone number (040-30 30 38) and address (Box 3021, 200 22 Malmö), is provided.

Tidskriften Sökaren Advertisement

A significant portion of the page is dedicated to promoting 'Tidskriften Sökaren' (The Seeker Magazine) with the headline 'For serious seekers: TIDSKRIFTEN SÖKAREN'. The advertisement describes the magazine as covering 'most things within New Age and alternative thinking' and providing 'unique information for curious seekers'. It targets individuals with an 'open but also wisely reflective attitude'. The content is said to explore 'new, deep thoughts within spirituality and science, as well as older, still relevant explanations for humanity and the cosmos'. The magazine's areas of interest include 'mysticism, wisdom, philosophy, religion, parapsychology, inner personal development, etc.'. It emphasizes avoiding 'superstition and fluff' while maintaining an 'open eye for credible informants, such as scientific researchers'.

Subscription details are provided: a free trial issue can be obtained by calling 054-51 89 00 or writing to Sökaren, Box 10, 663 21 Skoghall. For those wishing to subscribe, 250 SEK for six issues in 1996 is offered, with an option for the first three issues for 150 SEK, payable via postgiro 70 60 47-8.

Film Advertisement: Seven

The second page features a movie poster for 'Seven', starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, and directed by David Fincher. The poster lists the seven deadly sins in Swedish: FROSSERI (Gluttony), GIRIGHET (Greed), LÄTTJA (Sloth), AVUND (Envy), VREDE (Wrath), HÖGMOD (Pride), and BEGÄR (Lust). It includes critical acclaim quotes: "A masterpiece" and "A nerve-wracking thriller". The tagline reads: "Seven deadly sins. Seven ways to die." The film is presented by New Line Cinema and distributed by Sandrews.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The content presented on these pages points towards a strong interest in the esoteric, spiritual, and psychological realms, alongside popular entertainment. 'Tidskriften Sökaren' positions itself as a serious publication for those seeking deeper understanding of spirituality and science, distinguishing itself from more superficial or superstitious content. The inclusion of the Ouija board advertisement aligns with this theme of exploring the unknown or supernatural. The film 'Seven', with its focus on the darker aspects of human nature (the seven deadly sins), also touches upon themes of morality and psychological depth, albeit within a mainstream thriller context. The overall editorial stance, as inferred from 'Tidskriften Sökaren', is one of critical inquiry into spiritual and scientific matters, appealing to an educated and reflective audience.