Seklet - 1957 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of SEKLET, dated 1957, N:r 2, is a Swedish-language publication that covers a diverse range of topics, from cosmology and graphology to historical mysteries, parapsychology, and health advice. The magazine features articles that blend scientific inquiry with more esoteric and historical perspectives.

The Radiant Universe (Det strålande världsaltet)

This section, based on a text by Alexander Müller, explores the astrological concept of cosmic influences. It posits that celestial bodies, particularly the sun, emit radiations that affect Earth and life on it. The article links solar activity, such as sunspots, to terrestrial events like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and shifts in water levels. It references historical catastrophes like the destruction of Lisbon in 1755, the 1906 Formosa earthquake, and the 1883 Krakatau eruption as evidence of these powerful cosmic forces. The text also touches upon the biblical story of Noah and the flood, interpreting it within this framework of cosmic and geological upheaval.

Graphological Orientation (Grafologisk orientering)

This is the second part of a course on graphology, the study of handwriting for character analysis. It traces the history of graphology from early attempts in the 17th century to the work of figures like Johann Kaspar Lavater in the late 18th century, who also explored physiognomy. The article highlights the systematic development of graphology by scholars like Gall and later by Adolf Henze and French graphologist Michon. It addresses skepticism towards graphology, particularly from figures like Martin Gardner, and defends its validity by suggesting that certain fields, like mathematics and music, also require innate talent, implying the same for graphology. The section then delves into the interpretation of the 't' bar in handwriting, encouraging readers to analyze different forms and promising a detailed explanation in the next issue.

Anastasia: A Historical Tragedy (ANASTASIA: En historisk tragedi)

This article recounts the story of the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia. It begins by describing the radical Bolshevik revolution and the subsequent purge of perceived enemies, leading to the deaths of millions. The narrative then focuses on the fate of the Romanov family, their execution, and the persistent rumors that one of the daughters, Anastasia, survived. The article details the appearance of a young woman in Berlin in 1920 who claimed to be Anastasia, her subsequent life, and the legal proceedings in 1957 that declared her to be a Polish farm girl. It also mentions two films made about her story, one starring Ingrid Bergman and the other Lilli Palmer, noting the latter's more authentic portrayal.

The Mystery of the Flying Saucers (De flygande tefatens gåta)

This section discusses sightings of 'flying saucers' or 'flying teacups,' which became prominent during the final years of World War II. Pilots reported seeing large, luminous, color-changing spheres that would disappear mysteriously. Initially suspected as secret Nazi weapons, they were later deemed harmless. The article suggests these phenomena might involve 'materialization' or other psychic properties not understood by humans. It references H. T. Wilkins' book 'Flying Saucers from the Moon,' which explores the possibility of extraterrestrial visitors with advanced control over electromagnetic rays, enabling them to become invisible. The author speculates that these beings might exist in a different cosmic frequency.

A True Dream (EN SANNDRÖM)

This is a personal account of a dream that seemed to foreshadow a minor accident. The author dreamt of pinching her finger, and the next day, her husband accidentally caught his finger in a window, causing a similar injury.

The Radiant Universe (Continued) (DET STRÅLANDE...)

This continuation of the 'Radiant Universe' article discusses geological and cosmic events. It mentions the disappearance of islands and the emergence of new ones, referencing Krakatau and the legendary continent of Atlantis. The author draws from Plato's description of Atlantis and suggests that volcanic activity and cosmic shifts could cause landmasses to sink or rise. The article links these events to astrological cycles, particularly the precession of the equinoxes, suggesting that major natural upheavals occur every 2,000 years.

Dogs That Talk (HUNDAR SOM TALA)

This article presents the case of a dog named Rolf, an Airedale Terrier, who allegedly possessed remarkable intelligence and the ability to communicate. Through a system of paw taps, Rolf could reportedly solve simple arithmetic problems, spell words, and even understand complex questions. The article cites examples of Rolf's supposed abilities, including calculating square roots and understanding concepts like 'Christmas trees' for other animals. It also touches upon the dog's relationship with a cat named Daisy and his aversion to other cats.

Hypnotic Hallucinations (Hypnotiska hallucinationer)

This section explores the use of hypnotism, particularly for accessing 'previous lives.' It references John Björkhem's work on 'hypnotic hallucinations' and experiments by other researchers who claim to have regressed individuals to past existences. The article discusses a case where a woman recounted a life in Ireland from 1798 to 1864. It questions whether these are true memories or elaborate fantasies, noting that some details have been corroborated. The author also mentions the concept of a 'universal consciousness' or 'Akashic records' as a potential explanation and references the 'Bridey Murphy' case.

The Psychology of War (KRIGETS PSYKOLOGI)

This is a dialogue between 'Fredsvän' (Peace Friend) and 'Krigsfiende' (War Enemy) discussing the nature and justification of war. 'Krigsfiende' argues that war has been a constant throughout human history, driven by ideas of conquest, revenge, or defense of religion and homeland. 'Fredsvän' counters that the romance of war has faded, and its reality is now grim, with the threat of the atomic bomb acting as a deterrent. They debate whether war can ever be justified, even to overthrow tyrants or save cultures. The discussion touches upon the role of Christianity in promoting peace, acknowledging its limitations in preventing wars throughout history. The dialogue concludes with a sense of despair regarding humanity's ability to overcome the will to war without an external, transformative force.

Foresight and Prediction (Förutseende och förutsägelse)

This article examines parapsychology, specifically psychometry (sensing past events) and precognition (foreseeing future events). It discusses the human desire to know the future and the inherent mercy in its obscurity. The text critiques a German book that attempts to debunk prophecies, arguing that such predictions are often hazy glimpses of future events rather than clear-cut historical accounts. It presents examples of alleged prophecies, including a dream of Bismarck's and a detailed prediction by a Roma fortune-teller about Kaiser Wilhelm II's life and reign, noting its remarkable accuracy in many aspects.

DETEKTORN

This section, titled 'An April Fool's Joke with Future Vision,' discusses the concept of a 'detector' that can uncover secrets, such as the authorship of texts. It references an April Fool's joke from 1955 about a detector that could reveal if C. D. af Wirsén had written Strindberg's plays. The article then explores real-world applications of 'detectors,' including a device invented by Dr. Glazewski that claims to diagnose illnesses and determine a baby's sex by registering radiation from the human body. It also mentions other similar electromagnetic apparatuses and the idea that humans themselves are natural detectors. The author reflects on Strindberg's psyche, suggesting he was highly medial and that his criticisms of women stemmed from an internal conflict.

The Dead Sea Scrolls (DÖDAHAVSRULLARNA)

This article reports on the discovery of ancient scrolls in the southern part of Palestine, believed to belong to the Essene sect. It explains that the Essenes were a Jewish monastic order with strict rules, and their community was a 'prophet school.' The findings confirm earlier descriptions of the Essenes by Josephus and Philo. The scrolls include prophetic books from the Old Testament and parts of Moses' books. The article notes that some scholars suggest Jesus may have drawn from Essene teachings, but the author disputes that Jesus was a disciple of the Essenes, arguing his teachings differed significantly. It also discusses the potential connection between Essene beliefs and Gnosticism, citing passages in the New Testament that condemn certain Essene practices like abstaining from marriage.

Health and Slimming Line (För hälsan och slanka linjen)

This section is a collection of advertisements and product endorsements for various health and wellness items.

• Örtagubben: Promotes a book about 25 healing herbs, their collection, drying, preparation, and use for health.
• RE-VIGÖR: Advertised as a highly effective amino acid and multivitamin supplement for strengthening, appetite improvement, and rejuvenation, recommended for various ailments including fatigue and convalescence.
• TORRJAST (Brewer's Yeast): Described as a nutrient-rich food containing vitamins, amino acids, and minerals, beneficial for health.
• AKTA VITLÖKSDROPPAR & VITLÖKSKAPSLAR (Garlic Drops & Capsules): Promoted for their disinfectant properties and numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion, fighting parasites, and improving circulation.
• Dr Ritter's VETEDIET (Wheat Diet): Marketed as a modern slimming cure that provides nourishment without hunger, recommended for a 7-day cleansing course.
• YERBA-TÉ MATE: A health tea from South America, praised for its energizing properties, aid to digestion, and benefits for rheumatism and gout.
• FO-TI-TIENG: Presented as a 'life elixir' derived from a rare herb that contributed to the longevity of Li-Ching-Yun, who reportedly lived for 256 years. It's recommended to be mixed with Kung-Mu tea.
• LINELLA: A product designed to improve metabolism and eliminate waste products from the body, recommended for those with poor digestion and acid-related stomach issues.
• BE-VITAL: A biological tonic containing vegetables, B-vitamins, and herbs, suggested for nervous insomnia, fatigue, and nervousness.

New Books (NYA BÖCKER)

• Europas framtid enligt Nostradamus by G. Gustafsson: A book analyzing Nostradamus' prophecies.
• Behäska dina medmänniskor med tankens makt. Lär av BUSHIDO - Japanernas system by an unnamed author: A book on the Japanese system of Bushido, focusing on mental power and influence.

About the Scale and Pendulum (Om slagruta och pendel)

• DEN ETERISKA STRALNINGEN - Livets Underverken's Värld by Viktor Vallberg: Discusses research into ethereal radiation and its mysteries.
• Mystik och realism by an unnamed author: Explores character analysis through radiation types.
• Intelligensmätningar och Tidspejlingar by an unnamed author: Examines the possibility of measuring intelligence and time perception using pendulums.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics that lie on the fringes of conventional science and mainstream thought, including astrology, parapsychology, historical mysteries, and alternative health. There's a clear interest in phenomena that challenge materialistic explanations, such as telepathy, precognition, and the alleged intelligence of animals. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, presenting various theories and anecdotal evidence, often encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond established scientific paradigms. The publication also seems to have a spiritual or philosophical undercurrent, with references to higher powers and the limitations of human understanding. The health section promotes natural remedies and supplements, reflecting a holistic approach to well-being.