PSI Bladet - 1984 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: PSI-BLADET
Issue: Nr 3
Date: Oktober 1984
Publisher: NORSK FORENING FOR PSYKISK STUDIUM OG INFORMASJON (Norwegian Society for Psychic Study and Information)
Language: Norwegian

Content Summary

This issue of *Psi-Bladet* focuses on spiritual science, Anthroposophy, and the evolution of human consciousness, with a particular emphasis on the development of clear thinking and spiritual perception.

Andsvitenskapens oppgave (The Task of Spiritual Science)

The lead article, beginning on page 3, explores the mission of spiritual science. It quotes Hegel stating that the deepest thought is connected to Christ's figure, and that Christianity is accessible to all levels of understanding. The article posits that the task of Anthroposophy, and spiritual science in general, is to help humanity penetrate its deepest wisdom. Anthroposophy is defined as a tool for understanding religions, not a religion itself. It is compared to mathematics, where understanding the underlying laws allows for a deeper appreciation of ancient texts.

The article explains that the sources of Anthroposophy are not ancient documents or tradition, but the 'real spiritual world.' Just as the physical senses (eyes, ears) developed through external forces like light and sound, spiritual organs require similar external spiritual forces to develop. The author notes that modern humans are bombarded by external forces that hinder the development of their spiritual organs, which were more active in earlier, more primitive states of consciousness.

Previously, humans could directly receive astral impressions, perceiving the world as living images and colors. As the physical body became denser, these direct perceptions faded, and the astral body became less receptive. The development of the 'I' (ego) consciousness, particularly during the day, has led to a weakening of these astral organs. However, during the night, when the human being is in the spiritual world, these organs can be strengthened. The tension between these impressions and the dying off of astral organs has awakened the current state of consciousness. The article suggests that new forces are needed to reanimate these dormant spiritual organs.

The Serpent Symbol and Initiation

Pages 5 and 6 discuss the concept of the serpent as a symbol of eternity, biting its own tail. The article suggests that humanity is moving towards a goal guided by 'teachers and leaders' (the great initiates), whose symbol is the serpent. This path is described as an 'upbringing to freedom,' which is slow and difficult. The initiates could have accelerated this development by directly influencing the astral body during sleep, but this would have interfered with human free will. Therefore, human development is gradual.

Historically, there were different initiations into wisdom, feeling, and will. True Christianity is seen as a synthesis of these. Ancient initiation practices were a preparation for this. In the past, initiation occurred in a state of complete trance, where the astral and etheric bodies were detached from the physical body. The soul experienced events outside the body, which were imprinted on its memory. This process was conducted in deep secrecy.

The New Time (Den nye tid)

Page 8 features a poem titled "Den nye tid" (The New Time) by Aasmund O. Vinje, which uses natural imagery to evoke a sense of renewal and progression.

General Requirements (Almene krav)

Beginning on page 9, this section outlines the prerequisites for anyone seeking to undergo occult development. It emphasizes that all meditation and concentration exercises are worthless, and potentially harmful, if life is not ordered according to these fundamental conditions. The article states that one cannot bestow powers upon a person but can only help to grow the powers that already exist within them. These powers do not develop automatically and face numerous internal and external obstacles.

Developing Clear Thinking

The first requirement for occult development is the cultivation of clear thinking. This involves dedicating a short period each day (initially five minutes) to consciously freeing the mind from its usual random wandering and becoming master of one's own thoughts. This mastery is achieved by detaching oneself from external influences such as work, traditions, social connections, and even one's nationality.

The exercise involves voluntarily emptying the mind of all ordinary thoughts and then, on one's own initiative, placing a specific thought at the center of the soul. It is suggested that choosing an insignificant thought, like a needle, is more effective for developing independent thinking and mental control than focusing on a grander topic like Napoleon. The goal is to derive everything about the object of thought, from its origin to its finished state, purely through one's own initiative. The thought should remain vivid and clear at the end of the exercise. This practice should be done daily for at least a month, and the resulting sense of inner firmness and certainty should be consciously acknowledged.

The Christ Event and Initiation

Pages 7 and 8 discuss the 'I-am' sacrifice and its significance. The blood shed is seen as the physical expression of the 'I-am' (Jeg), given out of love for humanity. This event spurred thousands to spiritual initiation and sacrifice. The article stresses the importance of these impulses that matured humanity for the 'initiation of the will.'

Other Content

The table of contents on page 2 lists several other articles, including "Almene Krav" (General Requirements), "Ornsymbolet" (The Eagle Symbol), "Ormsymbolet" (The Serpent Symbol), "Gamle urteoppskrifter" (Old Herbal Recipes), "Astrologispalte" (Astrology Column), and "Profetier" (Prophecies).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spiritual evolution, the nature of consciousness, and the path of self-development through spiritual science and Anthroposophy. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting a deeper understanding of spiritual realities and encouraging disciplined mental and spiritual practices for personal growth. There is a strong emphasis on the historical and spiritual significance of Christianity, particularly the Christ event, as a pivotal moment in human evolution.

This issue of "Symboler" (Symbols), identified as issue number 2, delves into the rich and multifaceted symbolism of the eagle and the serpent across various ancient cultures and esoteric traditions. It explores their historical attributions, religious significance, and deeper meanings within mystical and philosophical frameworks. The publication also includes practical advice on herbal remedies for common ailments.

The Eagle Symbol

The eagle is presented as a prominent symbol, particularly associated with St. John the Evangelist and the Book of Revelation. The text distinguishes between the 'holy' John and the evangelist John, suggesting that the latter's depiction with an eagle might be a later addition, possibly stemming from a dispute between Bishop Ireneus of Lyon and Gnostic groups. The eagle is identified as an ancient symbol, referred to as the "AH" or Zeus's bird by the Egyptians and revered by various cultures as a symbol of the highest deity and the sun. The Druids also considered the eagle their highest god. It is further described as the sun's bird, intrinsically linked to solar deities and to seers who can perceive spiritual realities.

The Serpent Symbol

The serpent is explored as a symbol evoking both fear and reverence. It is associated with lies and wisdom, envy and eloquence. The serpent biting its tail is highlighted as a symbol of eternity, representing a cycle without beginning or end. The serpent also symbolizes reincarnation, as it sheds its skin periodically, paralleling the human soul's journey through multiple bodies. The text notes the serpent's connection to wisdom in ancient times, citing its presence in the iconography of deities like Isis. The serpent is also referred to as a 'Drake' in symbolism, and is mentioned in the Book of Revelation (20:2) as the 'dragon, that old serpent.' The scales of the serpent are compared to facets or diamonds, symbolizing the diverse religions and sciences of the world, all reflecting an unchanging truth. The Ophites, a Gnostic brotherhood in ancient Egypt, are mentioned for their reverence of the serpent, believing it taught Adam about knowledge and wisdom.

The symbolism of the serpent is further elaborated through the legend of Sigurd Fafnesbane, who gained rune knowledge by eating the dragon Fafnes' heart. The serpent is linked to the 'Tree of Life' (Ygdrasil) in Norse mythology, with the dragon Nidhogg gnawing at its roots. The seven-headed dragon is interpreted as representing the seven human root races or their sub-races, as well as seven creative and governing hierarchies. The Caduceus, the staff of Mercury, and the bronze serpent raised by Moses are presented as unified symbols. The light and dark serpents entwined around the winged tree of life symbolize the six human principles (three lower and three higher), though this is noted as being degraded in modern times.

The Caduceus and its Symbolism

The Caduceus, the staff of Asclepius, is discussed in relation to its original meaning. The ancient philosophy states that the Ashivattha tree (the Caduceus staff) grows from the 'life-current' and descends, with two serpents whose heads emerge from the same point between wings, intertwining down the trunk to form a single entity on the earth. This is described as a great illusion. The Greeks altered this symbol into a staff with a knob or winged helmet, distorting its true meaning. Mercury (Hermes), the god of wisdom, is linked to this altered symbol, eventually becoming associated with commerce and even thieves. The Merkurstaven and the hexagon within the eternal serpent are seen as symbols of the same underlying reality.

Herbal Remedies

The issue provides practical advice on herbal remedies, emphasizing their efficacy over artificial chemical preparations.

Remedies for Blood and Stomach Ailments:

• For cardiac pain (kardialgi), tea made from St. John's Wort (hypericum perforatum) is recommended.
• For intestinal issues and bloating, a decoction of nettles (brændenesle) is suggested, to be boiled for 15 minutes and drunk for 4 weeks.
• For indigestion and bloating, caraway (carum carvi), anise (pimpinella anisum), and fennel (foeniculum officinalis), mixed in food, are recommended.

Remedy for Pinworms (Spolorm):

• Pinworms are described as a common ailment in children, indicated by nose-picking. If left untreated, they can cause paleness, loss of appetite, and weakness. Adults who do not smoke or drink spirits, and do not eat onions, are considered particularly susceptible.
• A remedy involves chopping 2-3 onions and letting them steep overnight in a glass of fresh water. The water is to be drunk in the morning before breakfast for 8 days.
• Other herbs that expel worms include Angelica archangelica, Pimpinella, Artemisia, and various fern varieties (aspidium). Herbal tea should be taken an hour before breakfast without sugar.

Remedy for Skin Discoloration:

• For persistent spots, blemishes, or pale skin, tea made from plantago major (groblad) and juniperus communis (enebær) is suggested.

General Syrup for Blood and Stomach Ailments:

A syrup recipe is provided, using ingredients such as juniperus communis, plantago major, urtica urens, artemisia vulgaris, achillea millefolium, mentha piperita, carum carvi, hypericum perforatum, urtica dioica, and taraxacum officinalis. These are boiled for 3 hours, with nettles added in the last quarter hour. Sugar is added, and the mixture is boiled for another hour. The syrup is to be stored in a cool place and drunk warm, one cup in the morning and evening, or a tablespoon every hour for 4 weeks.

Ekenøt-kaffe (Oak Nut Coffee):

• This is recommended for cleansing and strengthening the stomach and intestines. A preparation of ground oak nuts is boiled for 15 minutes, and a half cup is drunk in the morning and afternoon.

Plantain Juice (Saft av groblade):

• Another remedy involves boiling plantago (groblad) or kjæmpe (plantago) with juniperus communis (enebær) or green juniper twigs for 3 hours. The liquid is strained and boiled with sugar for another hour. This juice is stored in jars in the cellar and can be drunk freely, especially in the morning before breakfast. It is said to be pleasant and should be kept away from children.
• This juice is beneficial for people with low blood, poor blood, weak lungs, weak voice, pale complexion, rashes, and eczema.

Heart Conditions (Hjertelidelser)

• According to Kneipp, a significant percentage of people who believe they have heart conditions actually have healthy hearts. Their pain and anxiety are often caused by severe constipation, attributed to excessive meat consumption.
• Kneipp's cure for constipation (mentioned as being on page 65) is recommended.
• For those experiencing cramps, particularly after constipation, foot baths with ormegræsrot (aspidium) are suggested.
• If neither of the above applies, but a person feels anxious, hurried, or overwhelmed, it may indicate a genuine heart issue. In such cases, the advice is to take things easy, sleep long, avoid jumping or rushing, refrain from excessive thinking or emotional indulgence, avoid spirits, and wash the heart region daily with vinegar and water. For heart attacks, compresses of vinegar and water on the heart region are recommended.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around symbolism, esotericism, and ancient wisdom traditions, particularly focusing on the eagle and serpent. There is a strong emphasis on the spiritual and hidden meanings behind these symbols, connecting them to various religious and philosophical systems. The inclusion of herbal remedies suggests a practical, holistic approach to health, valuing natural methods over conventional medicine. The editorial stance appears to be one that seeks to uncover and disseminate esoteric knowledge, bridging ancient symbolism with contemporary understanding and practical applications.

This document appears to be an issue of a Norwegian magazine titled "ASTROLOGISPALTEN" (Astrology Column), issue number 21. The content is primarily in Norwegian and focuses on astrology and prophecies, particularly concerning the end of the world.

Astrology Column by R.H.

The author, R.H., begins by stating that her motivation for writing the astrology column is not necessarily competence, but a lifelong interest in the subject. She cites her birth chart, specifically a conjunction to her sun, as indicating an affinity for astrological thought. She quotes Ferenc Szølløsi's "Astrologi- rigtigt lært l.del" which describes individuals with strong will, a desire for freedom, and independence, as well as originality and intuition, often finding themselves in opposition to the world and domestic life. The symbol for Uranus, described as the planet of astrology and occultism, is also mentioned.

R.H. recounts her first encounter with astrology at the age of 12, when she found a copy of Anna Munch's "ZODIAC. Dyrekredsen, De tolv himmeltegn." (ZODIAC. The Zodiac, The Twelve Signs of the Heavens) in a bookshelf at home. This book, a rare find during wartime, became so worn that it fell apart. Her father later commented that if he had known its significance to Ragnhild (presumably R.H.), he would have discarded it immediately after purchasing it. She bought the book in a kiosk while waiting for a train, estimating the time to be in the 1920s.

The book covered the twelve zodiac signs. R.H. started with her own sign, Aries (Væren), noting its accuracy for herself and others born under that sign. She then explored other signs, particularly Sagittarius (Skytten), which she felt she harmonized with. She proceeded to categorize all her family members, classmates, and acquaintances into their respective zodiac signs, describing the process as exciting and akin to a botanist classifying plants.

The Twelve Zodiac Signs and Elements

The issue then lists the twelve zodiac signs, their corresponding dates, and their elemental classifications:

• Fire (ILD):
• Aries (Væren): March 27 - April 19
• Leo (Løven): July 28 - August 22
• Sagittarius (Skytten): November 28 - December 21
• Earth (JORD):
• Taurus (Tyren): April 19 - May 20
• Virgo (Jomfruen): August 22 - September 23
• Capricorn (Stenbukken): December 21 - January 20
• Air (LUFT):
• Gemini (Tvillingene): May 20 - June 21
• Libra (Vekten): September 23 - October 23
• Aquarius (Vannbæreren): January 20 - February 19
• Water (VANN):
• Cancer (Krepsen): June 21 - July 22
• Scorpio (Skorpionen): October 23 - November 22
• Pisces (Fiskene): February 19 - March 21

R.H. explains that these signs are grouped into four elements and that the signs within each element are in harmony with each other, referred to in astrological terms as being in "trigon." She advises beginners to focus on the sun signs and their qualities, recommending that they consult reputable astrological literature and avoid poor imitations, favoring classic authors.

Prophecies of Earth's Demise

The second major section of the magazine, titled "PROFETIER OM JORDENS UNDERGANG. Av Sigurd Rønning." (Prophecies of Earth's Demise. By Sigurd Rønning.), examines various predictions about the end of the world.

Sigurd Rønning references an article from "Arbeiderbladet" on December 14, 1981, about Nostradamus, which stated that World War III was imminent. However, the article also suggested that survivors of WWIII would enter a golden age by the year 2000, a period of unprecedented prosperity. Rønning notes that Nostradamus did not predict the end of the world for 1999 or later.

The text then discusses biblical prophecies, mentioning that the last war is said to break out at a place called Shatt-al-Aram, the location where the Iran-Iraq war actually began. This war, according to the Bible, is to end at Harmageddon, a high plain in Israel. Following this, a thousand-year kingdom is prophesied, where people will live without armies or borders.

Rønning quotes a letter from Atle Staurem, former leader of PSI, who states that the Bible does not predict the end of the Earth, but rather a transformation after the battle of Harmageddon.

Jess Stearns' book "Den sovende profet" (The Sleeping Prophet), about Edgar Cayce, is also mentioned. It is stated that Cayce did not predict the world's end in 1998. Instead, he predicted significant geological changes, catastrophes, and disturbances between 1958 and 1998. These included the destruction of most American cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, and natural disasters in Northern Europe. However, Cayce did predict a shift in Earth's axis in the year 2000, which he saw as the beginning of a new era on Earth.

Charles Berlitz's book "Ragnarokk 1999" is also brought up.

Furthermore, a Japanese astronomer is cited as having calculated, using multiple computers, that the planets in our solar system would align in a cross formation in 1999.

The author encourages healthy skepticism and suggests that what is interpreted as the end of the world might actually be the end of our societal systems and ways of thinking, especially as humanity enters the Age of Aquarius, characterized by great changes. The prediction of Earth's axis tilting in the year 2000 is presented as something that has happened before and could happen again, possibly due to the extraction of oil from the Earth's crust causing a shift in weight.

The article concludes by inviting readers to share any counterarguments or knowledge they have regarding prophecies of the world's end.

Advertisements

The latter part of the magazine contains advertisements. One is for Linge Assuranse A/S and Arendal Forsikring, offering loans for housing, cars, and cabins, as well as various types of insurance and guarantees. Another advertisement is for "ASTRO - SPILL" (ASTRO - GAME), described as a game that teaches beginners a lot about astrology, available for 40 Norwegian Kroner, with postage-free delivery upon prepayment. It is offered by ASTRO-INSTITUTTET in Oslo.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are astrology, the zodiac, and prophecies, particularly those related to the end of the world. The magazine presents a balanced approach, featuring personal accounts of astrological interest alongside discussions of various end-of-world predictions from different sources (Nostradamus, Bible, Edgar Cayce, Charles Berlitz). While presenting these prophecies, the magazine also includes elements of skepticism and alternative interpretations, suggesting that societal change might be mistaken for global catastrophe. The editorial stance appears to be one of exploration and critical engagement with these topics, encouraging reader participation and diverse viewpoints.