SEKLET

Magazine Overview

SEKLET, Issue No. 3, 1955, is a Swedish magazine focusing on spiritualism, the paranormal, alternative health, and folklore. The issue features a prominent article on life after death, a discussion of folk healing practices, and commentary on modern societal issues.

Uppvaknande efter dödsstunden (Awakening After the Moment of Death)

This article presents a channeled message from a deceased 15-year-old boy, G.S., communicated through a medium. G.S. addresses his grieving mother, explaining that while his earthly life was cut short by illness, his death prevented a worse fate: blindness. He recounts his transition, describing an overwhelming sense of God's goodness and the presence of his deceased father. He expresses gratitude for his death, which spared him from becoming deaf and blind, thus allowing him to experience a richer spiritual existence. He mentions his joy in receiving a piano from his mother and hearing a symphony he couldn't play in life. G.S. reassures his mother that they are not truly separated and that he can see her. He describes his awakening on the 'other side' with a new, albeit initially weak, body, and the comfort provided by his father. The message emphasizes thankfulness for divine mercy and the greater reality beyond earthly life.

Tor-Olle: Folk Healer and 'Wise Man'

This section, an excerpt from 'Oviks- och Myssjögubbar' by A. Backman, details the practices of a man named Tor-Olle, who lived in Borgen and was known for his abilities as an animal healer and a 'wise man' capable of uncovering hidden matters and identifying thieves. He could also perform feats like 'tråkt' (binding animals to an area) and 'städja' (calming unruly animals). The article recounts a specific case where a farmer sought Tor-Olle's help after being cursed by a traveler who was thrown off a bridge. The curse caused the farmer severe distress, loss of appetite, and sleeplessness. Tor-Olle, after hearing the farmer's plight, provided him with a sealed letter to be buried in a specific spot. Following these instructions, the farmer was completely healed. Tor-Olle also received a yearly stipend from the county administration to assist the Sami people with sick reindeer. The article notes that Tor-Olle's methods, though seemingly simple, were effective, and he attributed their success to 'disbelief' (vantro) in the negative forces.

Dangers of Food Poisoning and Modern Agriculture

An excerpt from a German brochure highlights the dangers associated with modern agricultural practices. It states that a quarter hectare of cultivated land harbors about 100 kg of bacteria and other microorganisms. The use of fresh manure and artificial fertilizers, however, is said to damage this beneficial bacterial mass. More critically, these fertilizers cause fermentation and decay not only in the soil but also within the plants themselves. This process is then transferred to animals and humans who consume these plants, making them 'living fertilizer heaps' – unhealthy and susceptible to disease. The article claims that fruits and vegetables grown with such methods develop an unpleasant odor and taste, indicating they carry poisons that can lead to severe diseases like cancer. It specifically mentions that apple trees develop 'cancerous tumors' and that sugar beets and potatoes, when treated this way, grow larger but are misshapen and contribute to disease predisposition. The high incidence of cancer among civilized populations is linked to the consumption of sugar and potatoes.

Hämnd (Revenge)

This short piece discusses revenge as an emotion closely related to hatred, characterized by a lack of mercy and forgiveness. It questions what punishment the reader would desire if they were the accused and urges readers to cultivate feelings of mercy and forgiveness, as these lead to a happier life and better health. The author suggests that harboring vengeful feelings harms oneself.

Spådomar och underverk (Divinations and Miracles)

Signature V. V. continues his account of the use of pendulums and dowsing rods in ancient times. The article explores phenomena perceived as supernatural, including suggestion, glossolalia (speaking in tongues), trance, clairvoyance, and healing. It notes that the Bible contains many such phenomena, despite efforts to remove 'miracles' in favor of 'rational' elements. The author links these phenomena to the 'in-between world' between the material and spiritual realms. The article references the biblical story of Joseph, who used a 'divining cup' ('spåbägare') to test his brothers. It discusses ancient methods of 'god's judgment,' such as the ordeal by fire among the Norse and the use of 'urim and tummin' among the Israelites, which are compared to pendulums. The text also touches upon the prohibition of sorcery ('trollkvinna') and the dual nature of practices, which could be seen as divine or as witchcraft. It mentions the use of 'magic rings' and 'divining rods' throughout history, noting that while some practitioners were revered as saints, others were condemned as witches. The article promises further discussion on how these objects were used by various peoples.

Homeopati prövas i Sovjet (Homeopathy is Tested in the Soviet Union)

This report, based on an article in 'Dagens Nyheter', discusses the growing interest in homeopathy in the Soviet Union. Despite initial findings being deemed superficial and inconclusive by the Ministry of Health in 1954, new investigations have been mandated. Fifty places have been allocated at the Botkin Hospital in Moscow for homeopathic treatment and research. A group of highly qualified doctors will also be involved in studying the effects of homeopathic remedies. The article suggests that the Soviet authorities are taking significant steps to address issues related to homeopathy, indicating its rising importance.

Varje kvinna är steril (Every Woman is Sterile)

This brief section highlights the discovery by scientists Dr. Ogino and Professor Knaus that women have a period of sterility between menstrual cycles. It suggests that women can calculate these periods using tables found in a book, which also reportedly covers other preventive methods.

"Serierna" i större sammanhang ("Comics" in a Larger Context)

This article by V.V. discusses the pervasive influence of visual imagery, particularly 'comic strips' ('seriebilderna'), in modern society. The author argues that the constant barrage of images shapes the modern person, leading to a more 'nervous' disposition and a faster pace of life. While this can foster alertness, it also risks superficiality and a lack of critical thinking. The article suggests that this visual saturation contributes to a decline in philosophical and theological depth, and a superficiality in the justice system. It concludes by stating that the concentration of power and money is the primary focus of modern society.

Book Reviews and Health Products

The magazine includes a section listing various books on topics such as theosophy, astrology, health, and psychology, with prices indicated. It also advertises health products from Elkaverkens, Germany, including dragées for heart health, nerve support, weight loss, and relaxation, as well as yogurt concentrate. A book titled 'Naturlig Barnreglering' (Natural Child Regulation) by K.A. Fejerstam is also promoted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SEKLET revolve around the spiritual and the unexplained, with a strong emphasis on alternative healing methods and a critical view of conventional science and societal norms. The magazine appears to advocate for a more holistic and spiritual approach to life, health, and understanding the universe. The editorial stance seems to be one of questioning established authorities and exploring less conventional paths to knowledge and well-being, often drawing from historical, mystical, and anecdotal evidence. There is a clear interest in phenomena that challenge materialistic worldviews, such as mediumship, UFOs, and the efficacy of natural and homeopathic remedies. The magazine also expresses concern about the negative impacts of modern industrialization and technology on health and society.