Seklet - 1958 No 5-6

Magazine Overview

Title: SEKLET
Issue: 5-6
Date: 1958
Publisher: Litteraturförlaget
Country: Sweden
Price: 50 öre

Main Cover Story: The Hope of Immortality

The lead article, "ODÖDLIGHETENS HOPP" (The Hope of Immortality), explores the concept of eternal life from diverse philosophical and religious perspectives. It begins by referencing a series of essays in the Danish magazine "Information" that examined this question. The article highlights the Islamic perspective on immortality, drawing from Aga Khan's writings, and contrasts it with Buddhist and Brahmanist beliefs involving reincarnation. It critiques the materialistic idea of a resurrected physical body, stating that Christian belief focuses on a spiritual resurrection and a transformed, glorified body in a spiritual world, not a literal return to earthly life. The author suggests that some unclear notions within Christianity stem from the influence of Pharisaic beliefs about resurrection on the last day, rather than the core Christian message of spiritual rebirth.

Literary Analysis: Aniara and Grottekvarnen

This section continues a discussion from a previous issue on Harry Martinson's poem "Aniara." It compares Martinson's depiction of humanity overwhelmed by external forces toils and a "giant flood" to the themes in Viktor Rydberg's long poem "Grottekvarnen." Rydberg's poem features a chancellor, Mammonprästen, demanding human sacrifices to fuel the "Grottekvarnen" (Grotto Mill), symbolizing the relentless pursuit of wealth and power. The article praises Rydberg's prophetic vision of a Marxist future and connects it to contemporary societal issues. It also briefly mentions "The Flying Dutchman" as a work that, like "Aniara," depicts a journey without a clear destination, but "The Flying Dutchman" retains a sense of hope and spiritual solace.

Earth Rays and Health

An article titled "Jordstrålning från vattenådror" (Earth Rays from Water Veins) discusses the potential health impacts of living or sleeping above water veins, particularly cross-veins. It cites observations that such locations are associated with increased cancer rates, as noted by Lakhovski. Historically, people would check for water veins before building houses. The article notes that certain animals, like magpies and ants, seem to favor areas with water veins. It recounts an anecdote about a woman suffering from severe sleep difficulties for 14 years, which was resolved after her room was identified as being over a water vein. The piece also mentions a German practice of not rebuilding on the same spot after a lightning strike, suggesting a correlation with underground water veins. The author notes that sensitive individuals can suffer from rheumatism, asthma, and other ailments when exposed to these rays.

Literary Interpretations of Barabbas

This extended section, "Tre typer 'Barabbas'" (Three Types of 'Barabbas'), examines different literary portrayals of the biblical figure Barabbas.

• Barabbas 1: This interpretation, likely from a novel by Marie Corelli, presents Barabbas as a romantic and somewhat tragic figure, caught in a complex drama involving love, betrayal, and murder, with figures like Judith Iskariot and the high priest Kaifas playing significant roles. The narrative emphasizes the human capacity for both good and evil, and the influence of external circumstances.
• Barabbas 2: This portrayal, from Pär Lagerkvist's work, depicts a modern, rootless, and ideologically unmoored individual. This Barabbas is seen as a product of his environment, embodying the psychological direction of behaviorism, where external influences shape personality. The article suggests this reflects a contemporary tendency to see oneself in literary characters.
• Barabbas 3: This section focuses on the biblical account of Barabbas from the Gospels. It highlights the choice given to the crowd to release either Jesus or Barabbas, a man known for rebellion and murder. The article posits that this choice represented a fundamental decision between earthly, revolutionary idealism and the kingdom of God, a choice that has relevance for humanity today.

Viktor Schauberger: A Visionary for Nature

An "In Memoriam" section honors Viktor Schauberger, described as a visionary and tireless advocate for the protection of water, forests, and nature. His warnings about the destructive consequences of unchecked exploitation and polluting technologies, particularly those based on explosive forces, were largely ignored. Schauberger proposed revolutionary concepts, such as implosion technology, which he believed could provide energy far exceeding atomic power. Despite facing persecution and ridicule, he continued his work, eventually gaining recognition in his final years. His death occurred on his way home from America, where he had been consulted on a catastrophic environmental issue in Mexico. The article emphasizes that his biotechnical approach is the world's only alternative to atomic destruction and hails him as a benefactor of humanity.

Other Articles and Sections

• Graphology: An article titled "Grafologisk orientering" (Graphological Orientation) explains how handwriting, particularly signatures, can reveal personality traits, vibrations, and nerve radiation. It discusses how conscious effort in forming a signature can complicate analysis, and how family traits might influence it.
• Plant Nutrition: "VÄXTERNAS NÄRINGSBEHOV" (Plants' Nutritional Needs) discusses composting as the optimal method for preparing plant nutrients, advocating for its use over conventional chemical fertilizers. It also touches upon the use of rock meal (stenmjöl) and its slower release of nutrients.
• Eucharist and Essenes: An article titled "Ebréerbrevet, esséerna, mysteriesamfundet m. m." (The Epistle to the Hebrews, the Essenes, Mystery Societies, etc.) examines the authorship of the Epistle to the Hebrews, discussing theories involving Apollos or an Essene convert. It contrasts Essene practices with the teachings in Hebrews and discusses the symbolism of sacrifice in Christianity.
• Book Reviews: Several new books are reviewed, including "Den nya syntesen" by Sten Granlund, "Genom det osynligas port" by Dr. Frederich H. Wood, "Reinkarnation" by Shaw Desmond, and "Otroligt – men sant!" by Alfred Svanquist.
• Health Products: The magazine features advertisements and descriptions of various health products, including lecithin, dragées for heart health, nerve support, and digestion, as well as vitlök (garlic) drops, re-vigor supplements, and health teas like Yerba-Mate.
• UFO Sightings: A section titled "Flygande UFO:s" (Flying UFOs) reports several sightings of mysterious aerial objects, including a pyramid-shaped object seen in Denmark and other unidentified flying objects described as fast-moving and luminous.
• The Nature of a Poet: "Vad är en diktare?" (What is a Poet?) offers a philosophical reflection on the role and nature of a poet, drawing on Kierkegaard and suggesting that poets translate deep human suffering into beautiful expression.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Seklet" positions itself as a publication that addresses topics neglected by the mainstream press, focusing on the human being, their inner essence, natural agriculture, and phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. It champions a critical and independent perspective, aiming to provide readers with deeper insights into life, spirituality, and societal issues. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting critical thinking, spiritual awareness, and a holistic approach to health and life, often through the lens of alternative viewpoints and historical analyses. The recurring themes include the nature of consciousness, the search for meaning, the relationship between humanity and nature, and the critique of materialism and societal conformity.