Seklet - 1959 No 6

Magazine Overview

SEKLET, Issue No. 6, published in 1959, is a Swedish magazine that explores a diverse range of topics, from social commentary and cultural analyses to health, philosophy, and the history of science. The cover prominently features the headline 'Förnya hemmet! Förnya umgängesvanorna!' (Renew the home! Renew social habits!), signaling a focus on personal and societal improvement.

Social Commentary and Modern Life

The issue opens with a critique of contemporary social interactions, lamenting a decline in intellectual and artistic engagement. The author argues that people have become overly reliant on passive entertainment like radio and television, leading to a loss of critical thinking and genuine conversation. The article contrasts this with an idealized past and suggests that a return to more profound discussions and intellectual pursuits is necessary for personal and societal development. The piece uses poetic language to illustrate the feeling of isolation and superficiality in modern social life.

Johannes Brahms: A Character Interpretation

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a character study of the renowned composer Johannes Brahms. The article, drawing from a German publication, describes Brahms's birth and early life, highlighting his bold and fearless approach to his art. His Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77, is presented as a powerful expression of his character. The text notes the influence of the Nordic spirit on his music, possibly due to his time as a court composer in Detmold, a region rich in German cultural heritage. The article also touches upon his prolific period in Detmold, listing several key works composed there, including serenades, string sextets, and piano concertos. Brahms is characterized as a genius with a harmonious nature, possessing noble intellect, exceptional understanding, creative intuition, high ethics, and strong independence, as interpreted by psychologist Carl Huter. His close friendship with Clara Schumann is also mentioned as a significant influence, and her death in 1896 was followed by his own the next year.

"En dröm – ett drama" (A Dream – A Drama)

This section presents a metaphorical narrative about truth and its struggle against societal forces. The author recounts a dream where meteorologists are killed for predicting bad weather, only to be revived, symbolizing the resilience of truth. The piece critiques modern society's embrace of destructive 'science,' such as food poisoning, environmental degradation, and nuclear proliferation, viewing these as ingredients in a grand, unfolding drama that could lead to global catastrophe. The author expresses a premonition about the destructive potential of atomic energy, recalling the fear of the atomic bomb and its subsequent use.

"Siffror att tänka på" (Numbers to Think About)

This section provides a stark statistical overview of various aspects of life, aiming to provoke reflection. It presents data on average life expectancy, global population and malnutrition, annual deaths, and crime statistics in Sweden for 1954, including murders, thefts, and drunk driving offenses. The article also touches upon economic trends, noting a decrease in the number of millionaires in Stockholm and a decline in the value of money. It includes statistics on deaths from vaccination and smallpox, questioning the effectiveness and necessity of certain medical interventions. Finally, it offers figures on coal and petroleum reserves, highlighting concerns about future resource availability.

"Profetiornas tidsålder" (The Age of Prophecies)

The article discusses the history of prophecy, noting that while many prophecies have been false, 'misfortune prophets' have often been accurate. It observes a surge in prophecies, particularly from politicians, over the last 200 years. The author critiques the optimistic predictions of politicians, contrasting them with harsh realities. The piece references President Roosevelt's alleged prediction about the purpose of World War II being to liberate underdeveloped nations from British rule, suggesting this is now coming to fruition. It also touches upon economic realities, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency within Sweden due to changing global economic conditions.

"Antinomier och paradoxer" (Antinomies and Paradoxes)

This philosophical piece explores the concept of antinomy, or self-contradiction, as an inherent aspect of the world and human existence. It posits that the world's construction and humanity's moral state are characterized by inherent contradictions. The author contrasts different worldviews, including Christianity, Buddhism, and the limitations of 'exact science,' in their attempts to grapple with these paradoxes. The article suggests that true salvation or resolution lies not in intellect but in a return to divine principles, a concept central to Christian belief.

"Vad rör sig i tiden" (What is Happening in the Times)

This section offers observations on contemporary spiritual and intellectual currents, particularly in Germany. It notes a resurgence of interest in mysticism and spiritual exploration, as reflected in German literature and periodicals. The author highlights a trend towards understanding the spiritual or psychological 'dimness' that affects individuals, often linked to habits like smoking and alcohol consumption. The piece suggests that these habits can lead to a 'luciferian possession' or influence from 'dark entities,' and that such influences are pervasive in public spaces like restaurants. It also touches upon the role of sexual energies in marital crises.

Health and Natural Remedies

Several articles focus on health and natural remedies. One section discusses the importance of unsaturated fatty acids in preventing arteriosclerosis, citing research on the benefits of vegetable oils like corn oil and sunflower oil. Another article promotes the use of 'Heilerde' (healing clay) as a natural remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues, skin problems, and injuries, referencing the work of 'Lerpastor' Felke and the Jungborn institution. The benefits of yogurt, particularly Bulgarian yogurt, are highlighted for its ability to combat viruses and bacteria in the blood, referencing the research of Åke Grönvall.

Astrology and Cosmobiology

A detailed historical account traces the development of astrology from ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece to its modern form as cosmobiology. The article distinguishes between astrology (stjärnlära - star lore) and astronomy, explaining how astrological interpretations of celestial bodies have evolved. It discusses the influence of Babylonian astrology on Persian, Indian, and Chinese cultures, and its eventual spread to the West. The piece notes the connection between astronomical tables and astrological charts, and the cyclical nature of astrological ages, such as the transition from the Age of Pisces to the Age of Aquarius.

"Upplysningar om vaccinationen" (Information about Vaccination)

This article raises concerns about mandatory vaccinations, particularly for children. It questions the effectiveness and safety of vaccines, citing alleged statistics and historical examples to argue that vaccination does not provide reliable protection against diseases like smallpox. The author suggests that the state's insistence on vaccination is a form of 'dictatorship' and that parents have legitimate reasons to object.

Book Reviews and Product Advertisements

The magazine includes reviews of several books, including "Den nya syntesen" by Sten Granlund, "Parapsykologi" by Birger Qvarnström, "Orsak och vekan" by Hjalmar Löfgren, "Europas framtid enligt Nostradamus" by G. Gustavsson, and "Lärobok i ögondiagnostik" by E. B. Noréus. It also features advertisements for various health products, such as lecithin, vitlök (garlic) preparations, plant oils, vitamin supplements, and natural remedies, often with detailed descriptions of their purported benefits.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SEKLET include a critical perspective on modern society, a strong emphasis on natural health and traditional remedies, and an exploration of spiritual, philosophical, and esoteric subjects. The magazine appears to advocate for a more holistic and self-sufficient approach to life, questioning established scientific and medical norms and promoting alternative viewpoints. The editorial stance is one of skepticism towards mainstream societal trends and a championing of individual well-being through natural means and deeper intellectual and spiritual engagement. The publication seems to position itself as a voice for alternative thinking and a source of information not readily available in the mainstream press.