Seklet - 1958 No 1

Magazine Overview

SEKLET, Issue 1, 1958, is a Swedish magazine focusing on a diverse range of topics including global predictions, parapsychology, health, and spiritualism. The issue is priced at 50 öre and aims to provide readers with insights into the world and human potential beyond conventional understanding.

Världen 1958: Astrological Analyses

The magazine begins with "Världen 1958" (The World 1958), presenting astrological analyses for the upcoming year. It notes that while statesmen offer predictions, the actual course of events often differs due to wishful thinking. The issue highlights the predictions from influential astrological publications like the English "Raphaels Almanac" and the Swiss "Dein Erfolg."

Global Outlook: The general outlook for 1958 is described as not particularly cheerful. "Dein Erfolg" paints a grim picture of the impact of atomic weapons, but crucially, no new world war is predicted for 1958, a consensus echoed in all horoscopes. However, significant unrest is anticipated in the Middle East, Arab countries, and Palestine, as well as in the Far East. The entire Eastern world is expected to be a source of worry, encompassing military, social, and economic challenges. Communism is identified as a catalyst for internal revolutions in Eastern countries, which will increasingly affect Western nations. A new power bloc may emerge, independent of communist influence, potentially complementing the existing powers of the United States and the Soviet Union.

United States: The US is predicted to face troubles, with racial issues causing concern in the southern and southwestern parts of the country. Powerful trade unions are expected to play a significant role, leading to strikes and unemployment. International affairs will present considerable challenges for Washington, and President Eisenhower's personal situation will be a cause for concern. Despite these issues, the US horoscope for 1958 is considered the most favorable. Several significant figures are expected to depart, making way for new leaders to implement successful policies.

Soviet Union: While the Soviet Union achieved scientific successes in 1957, these are seen as insufficient to overcome the serious situation in 1958. Rearmament is deemed too costly for the country. To avert a global catastrophe, some form of agreement will be necessary.

United Kingdom: "Raphaels Almanac" offers a particularly bleak forecast for the UK. Rising living costs, demands for higher wages, and significant unemployment are anticipated. The trade union movement, heavily influenced by communism, will face difficulties, as will the shipbuilding and textile industries. Export challenges, declining stock values, and escalating expenses are expected, along with reduced coal mining and an increase in emigration. The country is also predicted to have a new government and an increase in gangster activity.

Western Germany: In contrast, Western Germany is expected to continue its economic success. Efforts to reunify the two German states are predicted to move closer to a solution in 1958. West Germany will establish real trade relations with China and Arab countries, expanding its trade contacts in other areas as well.

France: France's political unrest will be primarily driven by its colonies. However, intensified struggles in the labor market and a deteriorating economy will also contribute.

Eastern Bloc: No major political changes are anticipated in the Russian satellite states of Poland, Czechoslovakia, and Romania. The focus will be on improving the economic situation and fostering closer economic ties with other countries.

Scandinavia and Beyond: Sweden, Norway, and Denmark will all experience export difficulties. However, Sweden, in particular, is expected to play a significant international role by hosting important conferences. A summit of foreign ministers from major powers is signaled for Stockholm in March or April, aimed at easing tensions in Europe.

Other Regions: Africa and South America will continue to experience unrest. Countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are expected to make significant progress, attracting a strong wave of emigration from England.

The year 1958 is characterized as a highly eventful year, but the issue offers comfort by stating that the feared World War III is still being postponed.

Hypnotism: Exploring Parapsychological Phenomena

This section delves into hypnotism as part of a series on parapsychology. It defines hypnotism as a form of thought transference where one person influences another's psyche through systematic suggestion. Mesmer is credited with developing and popularizing hypnotism in modern times. The article notes that hypnotism can be used for both good and ill, including alleviating illnesses, acting as an anesthetic during surgery (especially for those with heart conditions), uncovering secrets, and entertaining audiences. It also mentions Poul Thorsen's books, "Hypnosen i mänsklighetens tjänst" and "Människans okända krafter."

Dr. Björkhem is highlighted as a prominent researcher in Sweden, particularly for his work on hypnotic regression to the past, detailed in his dissertation "Hypnotiska hallucinationer." A personal account describes a woman under hypnosis being regressed to various ages, including 25, 14, 5, and even to a past life in ancient Egypt, demonstrating the power of suggestion and memory recall.

"Tornbyggnaden i Babel" (The Tower of Babel Construction): Questions on Current Issues

This article, referencing Max Kibler's book "Der Turmbau zu Babel. Sieben Aufsätze zur Krise in der Medizin," argues that modern medicine has built a "Tower of Babel," leading to confusion. The author points to the exorbitant costs of healthcare and scientific research as a major factor in this impending collapse. The critique extends beyond medicine to other societal structures, questioning the efficiency and cost of the education system, municipal administration, and various organizations. The author laments that the pursuit of simpler living may already be too late to prevent the collapse of these "towers."

Graphological Orientation: Handwriting Analysis

This is the sixth installment on graphology, discussing how handwriting reflects character. It revisits the concept of strong, bold handwriting indicating strength and decisiveness, using Bismarck's handwriting as an example. The article emphasizes that handwriting is influenced by the writer's mental state. It recounts historical anecdotes, such as Alexander von Humboldt identifying a person's negative character from their handwriting, leading to the annulment of a marriage. Another case involves graphologist Michon identifying a swindler based on a sample of handwriting.

The article also touches upon the influence of the writer's emotional state on their script, contrasting consistent character traits with temporary mood influences. It mentions Napoleon and Hitler as examples of individuals whose handwriting evolved with their circumstances.

An Amazing Rescue

This personal account describes two remarkable experiences of the author's father, a church warden. The first involves a premonitory vision of his 3-year-old nephew playing with a viper, which prompted him to rush to the scene and save the child just in time. The second experience recounts a vision of a dying pastor appearing healthy and well, confirming the pastor's death at the exact moment of the vision.

What Did We See?

This narrative recounts an encounter with a spectral apparition of a deceased farmer, described as a stingy and godless man, walking with his cane. The sighting occurred early one morning and was witnessed by four people.

The Cosmic Radiation and the Universe

This article explores the possibility of interstellar travel and the nature of the universe. It discusses the concept of "flying saucers" and whether living beings can travel between celestial bodies. The author contrasts the views of spiritualists, who believe such travel is impossible for physical beings, with those who see flying saucers as practical realities. The article posits that intelligent beings, understanding cosmic radiation and possessing advanced technology, could potentially travel through interstellar space. It also touches upon the idea that all matter is vibration and energy, and that the "spiritual world" might be a realm of higher vibrations.

Revelations about World Wars

This section refers to a previous article in "Glöd" magazine and presents further prophetic visions concerning world wars. A Chinese missionary, W. W. Simpson, describes a vision of European nations at war, the eventual rise of an "anti-Christ" figure who promises world peace but becomes a tyrannical persecutor, and the potential for a global federation led by this figure. The author connects this to biblical prophecies and contemporary movements, suggesting that the "man of sin" will exploit the world's weariness of war to seize power.

Elemental Radiation and the Solution to Cancer Problems

This extensive article details the research of Dr. Emil Rasmussen on elemental radiation. Rasmussen, who collaborated with scientists like Lakhovsky and Cremonese, theorizes that all elements emit radiation and that these radiations can be influenced by "antagonists." He suggests that imbalances in these radiations can lead to illness, including cancer. The article explains his methods using pendulums to analyze elemental radiation and discusses his findings on how certain elements and their interactions affect health. It also touches upon the role of cosmic radiation and "polar radiation" (Earth's magnetic field) in human well-being, and the potential of copper spirals to harness these energies for healing.

The New Age

This article discusses the possibility of life on other planets, referencing spiritual insights from figures like Emanuel Swedenborg and C. Flammarion, as well as modern revelations through I. Lorber. It notes the recent increase in sightings of "flying saucers" and connects them to ancient texts describing "vimanas" or "ventlas," interpreted as interplanetary spacecraft. The author suggests that these beings are observing humanity and may intervene to prevent self-destruction, respecting free will but acting to save those with "good will" and a desire for peace. It mentions Georg Adamski's accounts of encounters with "space friends" and their advanced technology.

The Better Knowledge

A German physician, Dr. Linden, shares observations from his practice during the war, noting that rural populations had a better understanding of natural health practices (e.g., feeding cows natural feed, using natural fertilizers) compared to city dwellers. This highlights a perceived "common sense" in rural areas regarding health and sustenance.

"Ortagubbens" Wonderful Medicinal Herbs

This section features advertisements for various natural health products. "Ortagubben" offers "läkeörter" (medicinal herbs) and promotes products like:

• Revigor: An amino acid and multivitamin supplement for rejuvenation, energy, and general well-being.
• Hansa Lechitin: A concentrated source of lecithin for nerve health and vitality.
• Akta Vitlöksdroppar (Pure Garlic Drops): A natural, odorless garlic extract for various health benefits.
• Vitlökskapslar (Garlic Capsules): Garlic capsules for their known health properties.
• Dr. Ritter's Vetediet (Wheat Diet): A slimming cure based on whole wheat and yogurt.
• Yerba-Mate: A health tea known for its invigorating and purifying properties.
• Fo-Ti-Tieng: A Chinese herb claimed to promote longevity.
• Gelée Royale: A product for throat health, derived from royal jelly.
• Pollen: Advertised as a rich source of vitamins and energy.
• Dr. Ritter's Kallpressade Naturbevarande Vetegroddolja (Cold-Pressed Wheat Germ Oil): Recommended for heart conditions and circulatory issues.

New Books

This section reviews several new books:

• Mitt Liv Som Yogi (My Life as a Yogi) by P. Yogananda: An autobiography detailing his spiritual journey and experiences with yoga and psychic phenomena in India.
• Flygande Tefat Har Landat! (Flying Saucers Have Landed!) by Desmond Leslie and George Adamski: A book exploring UFOs, extraterrestrial life, and their connection to atomic experiments.
• Reinkarnation - Tillvarons Nyckel (Reincarnation - The Key to Existence) by Shaw Desmond: Argues for reincarnation as a factual basis for human development and divine guidance.
• Otroligt - Men Sant! (Incredible - But True!) by Alfred Svanquist: A collection of documented psychic events and séances.
• Pendlar (Pendulums): A book on the use of pendulums.
• Morey Bernstein: A book detailing hypnotic regression experiments, specifically the case of Ruth Simmons recalling the life of B. Murphy.
• Bushido: A book on the Japanese art of self-mastery, presented as a system for personal development, health, and success.
• Den Eteriska Strålningen (The Etheric Radiation) by Viktor Vallberg: Discusses research into etheric radiation and its mysteries.
• Mystik och Realism (Mysticism and Realism) by Viktor Vallberg: Explores character analysis through radiation types.
• Intelligensmätningar och Tidspejlingar (Intelligence Measurements and Time Reflections) by Viktor Vallberg: Investigates the use of pendulums for intelligence assessment and intuition.

Forfattaren och rövarna (The Author and the Robbers)

This article by Halvdan Renling discusses the role of authors in portraying morality and societal values, particularly in the context of Northern Swedish literature. It contrasts the traditional role of folklore and legends in teaching morality with modern literature, which is sometimes criticized for potentially encouraging negative behavior. The author uses the example of the "Finnfors robbers" legend to illustrate how traditional narratives conveyed moral lessons and discusses the changing moral landscape, suggesting a decline in virtuous role models in contemporary youth literature.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes alternative perspectives on health, spirituality, and the unexplained. There is a strong emphasis on natural remedies, esoteric phenomena (hypnotism, psychic abilities, UFOs), and critiques of established scientific and medical paradigms. The editorial stance appears to favor a holistic and spiritual worldview, encouraging readers to question conventional wisdom and explore less-understood aspects of existence. The publication also seems to have a strong interest in future predictions and the potential for human advancement beyond current limitations.