Seklet - 1956 No 6

Magazine Overview

SEKLET, Issue 6, 1956, is a Swedish publication focusing on science, medicine, and spiritual topics. The cover headline poses the question: "Science and Medicine: Does Man Survive Bodily Death?", setting the tone for several articles within.

Science and Medicine: Radiesthesia and Healing

The issue features an article on "Radiesthesia," described as an ancient force rediscovered for treating diseases. It posits that illness is a disruption in an individual's "radiomagnetic pattern" at the atomic level, which can be photographed and corrected by introducing vibrations that match the normal pattern. The article cites the work of Dr. Abrams, who reportedly demonstrated over 30 years prior that disease could be detected through atomic radiation from cells. It criticizes vivisection and the pharmaceutical industry, suggesting they are driven by financial interests and ignore natural healing forces. The article also mentions parallel discoveries by French priests in Brazil using pendulums to detect disease frequencies, highlighting that these methods are independent of vivisection and avoid animal suffering.

Survival After Death: Spiritualism and Mediumship

Another significant piece, "Does Man Survive Bodily Death?", reviews the book "Att söka det hinsides" (Seeking the Beyond) by R. M. Lester. Lester, an English journalist, claims to have communicated with his deceased wife and others through various mediums over two and a half years, presenting his findings as "hundred percent proven." The article notes the vast literature on the subject, estimating 60,000 writings, and argues that the evidence for survival is not just belief but proven fact. It attributes the denial of these phenomena by some scientists to "ghostly fear." The author, V. Vallberg, references historical figures like Du Prel, Flammarion, and Wallace, and discusses Swedenborg's visions of the afterlife. He emphasizes that the transition after death is not necessarily to immediate heaven or hell, but a gradual process. Vallberg also critiques the current medical system in Sweden, which he believes is solely based on materialistic principles and vivisection, and calls for a re-evaluation by the government.

Nostradamus and Future Prophecies

An extensive article, "Europe's Future According to Nostradamus," analyzes G. Gustafsson's book on the 16th-century seer. It highlights that while Nostradamus has been known for centuries, systematic study began in the mid-19th century. The article notes that interpretations of Nostradamus' prophecies vary, but many focus on the period from the French Revolution to the early 21st century. Specific predictions are discussed, including events of the French Revolution, and potential future conflicts. The author points to the early 1960s as a significant time, possibly involving the liberation of Soviet satellite states, and a major conflict around Israel. The article also touches upon interpretations of world wars and the roles of figures like Hitler, Churchill, and Stalin, suggesting a grand struggle between "Mohammedans" and "red sects" versus the West, with Germany and Nordic countries playing a role. The text also speculates on a future confrontation in "Hesperia" (possibly America) and the defeat of these opposing forces.

Nature, Agriculture, and Education

The magazine also includes articles on practical and philosophical matters. One piece, "Daggmaskar säljas" (Earthworms for Sale), discusses the importance of earthworms for soil improvement in agriculture, contrasting it with the use of artificial fertilizers, which it warns could deplete soil fertility within a decade. It criticizes current Swedish agricultural practices and the burning of natural materials that could benefit the soil. Another article, "Åskådningundervisning" (Visual Instruction), critiques modern educational methods. It argues that while visual aids are prevalent, the focus on abstract subjects like mathematics may be detrimental to children's overall cognitive development, potentially creating an "artificial" generation lacking reflection and judgment. The author contrasts this with older educational methods that instilled moral and religious values.

Book Reviews and Editorials

Several books are reviewed, including works on Nostradamus, spiritualism, and health. The "Utvalda Böcker" (Selected Books) section offers various titles at reduced prices. The editorial notes for "SEKLET 1957" indicate a continuation of the magazine's focus, with a promise of continued high-quality content despite potential limitations in the number of issues published. The magazine also features a poem titled "Evighetsträdet" (The Tree of Eternity) by Axel Fredenholm.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

SEKLET consistently promotes alternative perspectives on science, medicine, and spirituality, often challenging established norms and institutions. There is a strong emphasis on natural healing methods (radiesthesia, organic farming) over conventional, materialistic approaches (vivisection, chemical fertilizers). The magazine appears to embrace spiritualism and the belief in an afterlife, presenting evidence and interpretations from various sources. A critical stance towards established scientific and medical communities is evident, suggesting they are influenced by financial interests or are resistant to new ideas. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting a holistic, perhaps spiritual, understanding of life, health, and the universe, often drawing on historical and esoteric knowledge.