1976 09 00 SAGA - John Keel - Ancient Astronauts Modern Mysteries

Magazine Overview

This issue of SAGA, volume 16, features an article titled "ANCIENT ASTRONAUTS. MODERN MYSTERIES" by John A. Keel, with a prominent cover headline "SKY-GODS AND OUR 'SEEDED' PLANET". The magazine explores theories surrounding human origins, ancient civilizations, and modern phenomena like UFO sightings and supernatural experiences.

Sky-Gods and Our "Seeded" Planet

The article begins by introducing Swiss author Erich von Daniken and his theory that humanity was "seeded" on Earth by beings from another world, who were perceived as the gods of ancient cultures. Von Daniken suggests that religious miracles and apparitions are projections and manipulations by this advanced civilization. The author notes that the "seeded planet" concept is not new, having been explored by European authors for years, but Von Daniken has succeeded in generating significant public discussion.

The article delves into the age-old question of origins, suggesting that the story of Adam and Eve might be a description of humanity's arrival on an alien world already inhabited by "serpent people." These "serpent people" are interpreted as a demonic force that opposed the early humans, while an invisible "super-intelligence" oversaw the situation. The text explains that humanity's attempts to reestablish contact with this super-intelligence through magic and religion have often stirred up these "serpent people."

As the global population has grown to over four billion, the article claims that the number of individuals capable of direct communication with the super-intelligence, receiving prophecies, or experiencing altered reality has also increased. This leads to a rise in "haunted people, UFO contactees, and bewildered psychics." The author presents a law: occult events do not necessarily increase at specific times, but rather the number of people capable of experiencing them grows with the population.

Darwin Versus Von Daniken

This section contrasts the "ancient astronaut" theory with evolutionary biology. The article argues that if humans had evolved naturally, they would likely be more uniform in size and color. Instead, it highlights the rapid and widespread appearance of Homo sapiens between 70,000 and five million years ago, suggesting a sudden emergence rather than slow evolution. The author questions why, if humans were seeded or even sent to Earth as a penal colony, they didn't develop advanced civilizations much earlier, like building "shining cities 100,000 years ago."

Ancient Astros

History and folklore are cited, indicating that around 5,000 years ago, humans were in a primitive state before being visited by "strangers" who taught agriculture and laws. These visitors were said to have come from the oceans or skies, becoming the "first gods." Those who learned from them became kings, prophets, and priests, inheriting psychic abilities. The article notes that as the population grew and crossbreeding occurred, these supernatural talents became more common, mirroring the modern "cultural explosion" and the increase in supernatural experiences.

The article posits that the human body is a "biochemical robot" that can be programmed by an outside force. This force, it suggests, guided early humans, molded social systems, and led to the development of religions and "divine right" rulers. The author interprets the conflict between "gods" (sky people) and "demons" (serpent people) as a central theme in human history.

Coming of Age

Erich von Daniken's assertion that the "gods of the ancients are returning" is discussed. The article suggests that these beings have always been present, and through UFO contactee studies, we are beginning to understand their influence. Millions have reported sightings, while others have been "abducted" and subjected to a process that alters their intelligence, personality, and even cures chronic ailments. These experiences are described as more sophisticated than in ancient times.

Some ufologists believe that these influenced humans have infiltrated high positions in government and industry, controlling world affairs. However, the article suggests the phenomenon is not primarily interested in mundane human affairs unless they serve a mysterious long-range plan.

The article revisits the "ancient astronaut" theory, questioning the motive of these visitors. It proposes that if humans are "biochemical robots," they were created to serve a purpose, requiring millions of models and extensive conditioning over millennia. The nature of this conditioning is slowly being revealed, possibly as a prelude to a master plan.

Humans were initially controlled by their "manufacturers," whom they called gods. Before departing, these beings established a system of "god-kings" with hereditary powers. This system eventually collapsed due to human greed, politics, and religion. The conflict between the "serpent people" and the "rulers of the biochemical robots" continues, with both sides now seemingly willing to reveal their methods through UFO phenomena.

The article concludes that the "serpent people" imitate the UFO phenomenon to confuse humans, while the "gods" attempt to reveal themselves. As human awareness grows, there's a risk of becoming subservient to these forces, reverting to an enslaved condition. The UFO phenomenon is described as becoming a new religion, promising a better socio-religious system, but the article warns that the ancient gods and modern ufologists may be using similar manipulative tactics.

If humans are indeed "biochemical robots" controlled by external forces, they are caught in a "poker game being played with marked cards." The article ends with the sentiment that even when informed of the crooked game, people continue to play because it's the only one available.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ancient astronaut hypothesis, the nature of human origins, the interpretation of ancient myths and religions as evidence of extraterrestrial contact, and the modern UFO phenomenon as a continuation of these interactions. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, exploring these theories while also questioning the motives and methods of the alleged extraterrestrial intelligences and their human intermediaries. There's a sense of mystery and potential manipulation, suggesting that humanity might be pawns in a larger, cosmic game.