Seklet - 1959 No 1-2

Magazine Overview

Title: Seklet
Issue: 1-2
Volume: 1959
Date: 1959
Publisher: Litteraturförlaget
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Price: 50 öre

This issue of Seklet, published in 1959, presents a multifaceted exploration of contemporary issues, blending astrological predictions, religious and philosophical discussions, critical social commentary, and health advice.

Ödesåret 1959: Astrological Predictions

The lead article, "Ödesåret 1959" (The Fateful Year 1959), draws upon astrological forecasts, primarily from E. H. Troinski's book and an English astrological calendar, to predict significant global challenges. Troinski's forecasts suggest a looming general crisis, with specific concerns for France, England, Germany, Spain, Holland, Egypt, Turkey, China, Japan, South Africa, the USA, and the Soviet Union. The article details potential political and economic difficulties for each nation, often referencing the astrological charts of their leaders or the countries themselves. For France, it mentions potential conflicts in its interest areas and a threat of fascist dictatorship if De Gaulle leaves power. England faces political turmoil, economic hardship, and strikes. Germany is seen as being strongly affected by a coming world crisis. The USA is predicted to face severe political difficulties, potentially leading to a dictatorship. The Soviet Union is also expected to face serious challenges, though the predictions differ on the likelihood of war. The article notes that Scandinavian states are not mentioned in serious contexts, but Denmark might face a minor accident for King Fredrik or the Queen, and Norway could experience unease over robot bases. A peculiar prediction involves an increase in UFO activity over New Zealand, leading to undeniable evidence of their origin.

En ny kristen reformation? (A New Christian Reformation?)

This section delves into the concept of a "New Christian Reformation," inspired by Nostradamus's prophecies as interpreted by G. Gustafsson. The author clarifies that it refers to a renewal or reformation of Christianity, not a new religion. Nostradamus is said to place this renewal in the next century, coinciding with the advance of Muslims in North Africa and Europe, and the potential downfall of the Papacy. The article discusses the possibility of rediscovering ancient Christian texts that could offer new insights into the faith's origins. It also touches upon the historical struggle of Christianity to promote human dignity and mercy, while acknowledging instances of cruelty and persecution carried out in its name. The author posits that the Old Testament presents a dualistic religious system: a priestly religion and a prophetic religion, with Christ representing the fulfillment of the latter, while Antichrist embodies the former. The article suggests that a true Christian renewal would involve embracing the spirit of love and charity associated with the Apostle John, moving beyond the legalistic and vengeful aspects sometimes found in the Old Testament.

Den nya vaccinationslagen (The New Vaccination Law)

The article critically examines the new vaccination law, arguing that it is a "cumbersome law" based on falsehoods. It questions the scientific claims of vaccination providing protection and preventing death or long-term harm. The author credits citizen efforts, particularly those of Richard Jobson and Hälsofrämjandet, along with government and parliamentary corrections, for achieving some leniency in the law, rather than the Medicinalstyrelsen (National Board of Health). The law's provision for exemption based on parental objections and a doctor's 'explanation' is scrutinized. The article highlights that certain professions and individuals, including those in the military, healthcare, customs, and civil aviation, are exempt from the law, while others, like conscripts, have a more complex exemption process. The author expresses skepticism about the effectiveness and necessity of mandatory vaccination, suggesting that many doctors would privately advise against it if they could.

Grafologisk orientering (Graphological Orientation)

This section explores graphology, the study of handwriting, as a means to understand personality. Using examples like Napoleon and Cromwell, the author explains how handwriting characteristics such as style, slant, and letter formation can reveal traits like self-awareness, assertiveness, and even a dictatorial nature. Cromwell's signature is analyzed as reflecting his strong will, organizational skills, and religious fanaticism.

Leksaksskåpet (The Toy Cabinet)

A story from the English magazine 'Prediction' recounts a young German officer's uncanny experience in a French village during the war. He finds himself inexplicably familiar with the village and even a specific house where he claims to have lived as a child. The house's owner confirms the existence of a toy cabinet filled with items he perfectly describes, including a rocking horse. The officer discovers that the toys belonged to her son, who died at the age of nine, on the very day the officer was born.

Emanuel Swedenborg

This article discusses Emanuel Swedenborg, a Swedish scientist, theologian, and mystic, focusing on the early Swedish literary historian and poet Atterbom's sympathetic portrayal of him. Atterbom's work "Svenska Siare och Skalder" (Swedish Seers and Poets) is highlighted for its in-depth analysis of Swedenborg. The article notes that while modern biographers often fail to grasp Swedenborg's dualistic worldview (connecting the material and spiritual realms), Atterbom's appreciation transcended mere aesthetic appreciation, bordering on inspiration. The text also provides a biographical summary of Swedenborg's life, including his birth, education, and various appointments and travels.

Goethe om läkekonsten och homeopatien (Goethe on Healing and Homeopathy)

This piece examines Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's views on healing and homeopathy. It contrasts Goethe's appreciation for new ideas in medicine with the prevailing, often dogmatic, approaches of his time. The article mentions Goethe's admiration for figures like Lavater and Gall, and his acceptance of homeopathy, while criticizing contemporary medical practices. It quotes Goethe's critique of the medical profession in 'Faust,' where he likens their treatments to poison. The author connects this to the historical persecution faced by medical innovators like Hahnemann, Mesmer, and Semmelweis, whose ideas were initially rejected but later gained acceptance.

ANDE OCH MATERIA (Spirit and Matter)

This article summarizes a radio discussion between Professors Hannes Alfvén and Ingemar Hedenius on the nature of spirit and matter. The discussion touches on the atomic structure of matter, the concept of consciousness, and the potential for machines to develop consciousness or will. The professors acknowledge the limitations of current materialistic explanations for phenomena like self-awareness, choice, and judgment. The article argues that materialism fails to explain the creative achievements of geniuses and suggests that these phenomena can only be understood through the lens of a spiritual world. It posits that just as a radio is not self-created but designed by a manufacturer, the human being, with its capacity for ideas, visions, and even communication with the spiritual realm, must also have a creator.

En kuslig erinran (A Chilling Recollection)

A psychiatrist, Dr. Alexander Cannen, recounts a story of a young bride who, during her honeymoon cruise up the Danube, exhibits an uncanny familiarity with the places they visit, even predicting future events with precision. At a castle, she leads her husband and the caretaker to a locked room where they find two skeletons. She then claims she was murdered in that room and faints.

De tre frestelserna (The Three Temptations)

Drawing on Dostoevsky's interpretation of the three temptations of Christ, this article analyzes them as representing Mamon (materialism), magic (false spirituality), and Satanic religion (world domination). The author argues that these temptations continue to challenge humanity. Jesus's response, "Serve only the Lord your God," is presented as the ultimate answer to these temptations.

DEN NYA VACCINATIONSLAGEN (The New Vaccination Law) - Continued

This continuation of the article on vaccination laws reiterates the criticism of the law, emphasizing its lack of scientific basis and the potential for harm. It details the exemption process and the penalties for non-compliance, expressing concern about the arbitrary nature of fines and the short duration of claimed vaccine protection.

Örtagubben (The Herb Man)

This section features advertisements for various herbal remedies and health products sold by "Örtagubben." Products include dragées for digestion, heart health, nerves, weight loss, and circulation, as well as lecithin, garlic drops, Revigör (a general tonic), Yerba-Mate tea, and Dr. Ritter's Vetediet.

Nya Böcker (New Books)

• This section reviews several new books:
• Bushido: Japaner nas System för att behärska sina medmänniskor (Bushido: The Japanese System for Mastering Your Fellow Humans) - Presented as a guide for self-improvement, sales, relationships, and health.
• Den Nya Syntesen (The New Synthesis) by Sten Granlund - Described as a synthesis that extends beyond culture to fundamental principles, offering potential solutions to previously unsolvable problems.
• Genom det Osynligas Port (Through the Gate of the Unseen) by Dr. Frederich H. Wood - A book based on séances with medium Rosemary, discussing life after death and spiritual laws.
• En Ljusare Livstro (A Brighter Faith in Life) by G. Gustavsson - A collection of lectures on the laws of rebirth, retribution, and development.
• Europas Framtid Enligt Nostradamus (Europe's Future According to Nostradamus) by G. Gustavsson - An analysis of Nostradamus's prophecies concerning Europe's future.
• Lärobok i Ögondiagnostik (Textbook of Eye Diagnostics) by E. B. Noréus - A textbook on eye diagnostics and homeopathic therapy.
• Pendlar (Pendulums) - A product for divination.
• Mystik och realism (Mysticism and Realism) by Viktor Vallberg - A character study based on radiation types.
• Den Eteriska Strålningen (The Etheric Radiation) by Viktor Vallberg - Explores the mysteries of etheric radiation.
• Intelligensmätningar och Tidspejlingar (Intelligence Measurements and Time Reflections) by Viktor Vallberg - Discusses using pendulums for intelligence and intuition assessment.
• Den Tidlige Kraeft-Diagnose (Early Cancer Diagnosis) by Emil Rasmussen - Focuses on early detection of cancer.
• Min Atomlärare (My Atom Teacher) - A richly illustrated book.

Hur kommer det att gå med Sveriges jordbruk? (What Will Happen to Sweden's Agriculture?)

This article expresses concern about the future of Swedish agriculture, particularly in light of dwindling oil supplies. It argues that the reliance on tractors has made agriculture vulnerable, and a return to horse-drawn farming may be necessary. The author criticizes the government's policies, including the closure of small farms, and predicts a decline in living standards. The article also touches upon Sweden's war preparedness and self-sufficiency, suggesting past failures in these areas and a lack of learning from history.

Konsten att flyga (The Art of Flying)

This piece explores the concept of flying, not just in a physical sense but also in terms of astral projection and spiritual travel. It discusses how ancient myths and legends of flying humans might stem from experiences of astral projection, where a person's spiritual body can leave their physical form. The article references cases from India and Lapland where individuals possessed this ability. It also touches upon 'varsel' (omens) as a form of premonition or spiritual communication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Seklet include a deep interest in the future, often viewed through astrological and prophetic lenses, a critical examination of societal structures and laws (particularly vaccination), and a strong emphasis on spirituality, health, and alternative medicine. The magazine appears to hold a skeptical stance towards mainstream scientific and medical establishments, favoring esoteric knowledge, historical interpretations, and personal well-being through natural means. There's a clear editorial leaning towards exploring the spiritual and unseen aspects of life, often contrasting them with materialistic viewpoints. The publication also seems to advocate for individual critical thinking and a questioning of established norms.