Seklet - 1959 No 3

Magazine Overview

SEKLET, Issue No. 3, 1959, is a Swedish magazine that delves into a variety of topics, primarily focusing on societal and human development crises, spiritual and occult phenomena, and alternative health and natural living. The issue features a prominent cover headline, "UTVECKLINGENS KRISER" (Crises of Development), and a sub-headline, "Från mörker genom ockultism till ljus" (From Darkness Through Occultism to Light), by G. W. Surya.

Development Crises

The lead article, "UTVECKLINGENS KRISER," by an unnamed author, questions the nature of progress. It contrasts material advancements (from huts to skyscrapers, stone axes to chainsaws) with the cultural and spiritual lines of development (language, art, mathematics, and spirituality). The author expresses concern about the lack of corresponding development in human nature, particularly in physical constitution, brain development, and morality. It suggests that while external conditions have improved, internal human development has stagnated or even regressed, citing issues like dental decay and nervous symptoms as evidence of organic degeneration. The article posits that for humanity's survival, external interventions might be necessary, and it highlights the role of great personalities like educators, philosophers, and religious founders in shaping moral and spiritual norms.

From Darkness Through Occultism to Light

This section by G. W. Surya (pseudonym for Demeter Weitzer) chronicles his personal journey from a materialistic worldview, influenced by his Catholic upbringing and studies in Vienna, towards an exploration of occultism and spiritualism. He recounts an early experience with a Ouija board that led to unsettling phenomena, prompting him to seek out parapsychologists like Professor Zoellner. Surya describes witnessing phenomena such as materialized flowers and discusses the profound impact these experiences had on his understanding of reality, leading him to question the nature of matter and spirit. He also mentions his later career as an engineer captain and hints at further significant events that shaped his development.

The Righteousness of Wars

This article, "Krigens rättfärdighet" (The Righteousness of Wars), critically examines the concept of 'just wars' from the perspective of those who initiate them. It uses historical examples, including the Persian king's campaigns against the Greeks and the actions of Israelite leaders, to illustrate how conquest and destruction were often framed as divinely ordained and righteous. The author quotes extensively from the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 20:10-14) to show how 'God's chosen people' were commanded to slaughter entire populations, including women and children, and take their possessions. The piece argues that such actions were considered righteous by the perpetrators, highlighting a perceived disconnect between divine commands and human morality. It extends this critique to more modern conflicts, questioning the justifications for actions like the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and the bombing of German civilians.

Kabbalah

This section, "KABBALA," discusses the historical significance and practices of Kabbalah, particularly its connection to magic and numerology within Jewish tradition. It notes the emergence of Kabbalistic texts like the 'Sixth and Seventh Books of Moses' in Sweden and their association with astrology. The article provides examples of Kabbalistic rituals, including the consecration of swords using specific names and incantations, and the use of bat blood in magical rites. It suggests that these practices, while often associated with negative magic, also invoked divine and angelic names, reflecting a complex relationship with the spiritual realm.

Discussion Groups

This piece announces the magazine's initiative to foster discussion groups across Sweden. It addresses inquiries received following a previous call for participants and outlines a method for connecting like-minded individuals. The goal is to facilitate open discussions on various topics, particularly those considered unconventional or 'unsettling.' The magazine offers to help organize these groups by connecting individuals and suggesting meeting formats, including the possibility of using recorded discussions.

Pluto, Our Time's Planet

Authored by Olof Alexandersson, this article explores the astrological significance of the recently discovered planet Pluto. It describes Pluto as a symbol of transformation, upheaval, and transition, aligning its discovery in 1930 with the cusp of new eras. The article details Pluto's influence on material aspects (destruction, violence, sensuality) and spiritual aspects (regeneration, transformation, magic). It also links Pluto's influence to social phenomena like power struggles and mass movements. The author connects Pluto's astrological period with significant archaeological discoveries and technological advancements, including rocketry and atomic technology, and predicts major natural catastrophes and world political shifts around 1963 due to Pluto's conjunction with Uranus.

Flying Saucers

This section recounts an experience shared by a reader in Africa who attended a lecture by a Mrs. Klarer from Johannesburg. Mrs. Klarer reportedly described her encounter with a flying saucer and its occupants from Venus. The account details the saucer's appearance, the beings' physical characteristics, and the advanced technology observed, including a 'color television' for viewing the landscape and a system for growing food. Mrs. Klarer's mission, according to the beings, was to promote universal peace and inform humanity about extraterrestrial life.

Agriculture and Water

This article, "JORD OCH VATTEN" (Earth and Water), by O. Alexandersson, critiques modern agricultural practices and emphasizes the importance of natural methods, drawing on the theories of Viktor Schauberger. It argues that current methods, including the use of artificial fertilizers and the destruction of natural habitats, have led to soil degradation and water pollution. Schauberger's theories on water's natural spiral motion and its role as 'the blood of the earth' are presented as a basis for a more harmonious relationship with nature. The article advocates for preserving natural water flows and protecting riparian vegetation to maintain water's life-giving properties and prevent soil erosion and flooding. It also touches upon the benefits of copper tools for farming and the potential for increased crop yields.

Syner och varsel (Visions and Omens)

This brief section presents anecdotal evidence of premonitions and unusual occurrences, drawing from a collection by a Danish researcher. Examples include a dog's distressed behavior before its owner's farm burned down and a horse's reaction to the sight of German soldiers in distinctive helmets, foreshadowing their arrival two years later.

Sophistry and Logic

This article contrasts sophistry (making false arguments) with logic (drawing true conclusions from true premises). It uses examples from the magazine "Se" to illustrate how misleading arguments can be constructed. One example critiques the claim that because some UFO photos are faked, all UFO photos are faked. Another example questions the assertion that vaccination alone eradicated smallpox, suggesting that public health regulations and isolation measures were more significant factors.

Health Products and Remedies

The magazine includes several advertisements and descriptions of health products:

• Ortaqubbens läkeörter (Ortaqubbens Medicinal Herbs): Offers various dragées (pills) for different ailments, including Löwenzahn (dandelion) for liver and gallbladder function, Haqvimiist for heart and blood pressure, Lecithin for nerve health, Valerian for calming nerves, and Slankhetsdragéer for rejuvenation.
• Hansa Lechitin: A concentrated lecithin powder for building strength in the heart, nerves, lungs, and brain.
• Akta Vitlöksdroppar (Real Garlic Drops): Natural, odorless garlic drops for purification and health.
• Re-Vigor: Described as a highly effective, all-around amino acid and multivitamin preparation for combating aging, fatigue, and promoting vitality.
• Dr. Ritter's Vetediet: A 7-day diet program for weight loss without hunger, based on whole wheat and yogurt.
• Gelée Royale: Promoted as a health-preserving substance, particularly for longevity and vitality, based on the diet of queen bees.
• Pollen: Highlighted for its rich concentration of vitamins and energy-giving substances.
• Dr. Ritter's Vetegroddolja (Wheat Germ Oil): Recommended for heart conditions and circulatory issues due to its vitamin E content.
• Stark USA Hälsonvyhet (Strong USA Health News): Advertises concentrated soybean oil and Lecithin capsules for sleep and general well-being.
• Vitaminer i mängd! (Vitamins in quantity!): Promotes Manan dragées containing 12 vitamins and 12 minerals for increased resistance, energy, and mood.
• "Mota Olle i grind" (Stop Olle at the Gate): Advertises a "Hälso-Bastun" (Health Sauna) for combating colds, rheumatism, and other infections.
• Hudborstar (Skin Brushes): Promotes hand-made copper skin brushes for exfoliation and improved circulation.
• Sjukt blod blir friskt av Youghurt (Sick Blood Becomes Healthy from Yogurt): Discusses the findings of Swedish researcher Åke Grönvall on yogurt's ability to combat viruses and bacteria in the blood, promoting Bulgurt tablets and yogurt powder.
• Vitlökskapslar (Garlic Capsules): Advertised for their purifying and disinfecting properties.
• Dr Ritters SPECIAL-BARNGRYN: A nutrient-rich, easily digestible food for children and the elderly.

New Books

The magazine also reviews several new books:

• "DEN NYA SYNTESEN" (The New Synthesis) by Sten Granlund, which explores a broad synthesis of culture and beyond, offering potential solutions to complex problems.
• "PARAPSYKOLOGI" (Parapsychology) by Birger Qvarnström, a comprehensive overview of parapsychological research.
• "NYCKLAR" (Keys), a book that aims to explain obscure and misinterpreted points in the Bible and Christianity.
• "EUROPAS FRAMTID ENLIGT NOSTRADAMUS" (Europe's Future According to Nostradamus) by G. Gustavsson, which analyzes prophecies concerning Europe's future.
• "LÄROBOK I ÖGONDIAGNOSTIK" (Textbook of Eye Diagnostics) by E. B. Noréus, a book on iridology and homeopathic remedies.
• "Mystik och realism" (Mysticism and Realism) and "DEN ETERISKA STRÅLNINGEN" (The Etheric Radiation) by Viktor Vallberg, exploring mysticism, realism, and etheric radiation.
• "DEN TIDLIGE KRAEFT-DIAGNOSE" (Early Cancer Diagnosis) by Emil Rasmussen.
• "MIN ATOMLAERE" (My Atomic Teacher).
• "BUSHIDO: JAPANERNAS SYSTEM" (Bushido: The Japanese System), presented as a guide for personal development and success.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic and natural approach to health and life, contrasting it with the perceived excesses and dangers of modern materialism and technology. There is a strong undercurrent of spiritual and esoteric interest, with a focus on occultism, parapsychology, and alternative belief systems. The editorial stance appears critical of mainstream scientific and societal trends, advocating for a return to more traditional, natural, and spiritually grounded values. The magazine also expresses a concern for the future of humanity, often framing current events within a context of impending crises and transformations, influenced by both astrological and spiritual interpretations.