Seklet - 1962 Vol 09 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: SEKLET
Issue: N:r 3 Arg. 9
Date: 1962
Publisher: Fru Lisbeth Bondesson

This issue of SEKLET presents a diverse range of articles, touching upon philosophical, historical, ecological, medical, and psychological themes. The magazine appears to advocate for a holistic, nature-centered, and spiritually grounded perspective, often critiquing modern materialistic and technological trends.

Articles

Fariséerspegeln – Humus – livets fundament

The issue opens with an exploration of the concept of 'Pharisees,' not just in ancient Judaism but as a modern archetype. The author categorizes contemporary 'Pharisees' into three types: naturalistic (who see humanity as the highest being and a product of nature), religious (who use religion for selfish purposes), and political (who demand rights but reject obligations). The article suggests that the 'Pharisee's Mirror' for self-reflection is needed more than ever but seems broken.

The second major section, 'Humusförstörelse för till kulturundergång' (Humus Destruction Leads to Cultural Downfall), delves into historical patterns of civilization collapse. It argues that the destruction of fertile soil (humus), often through deforestation, has been a recurring cause of decline. The article traces this pattern from the land between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers, where ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Babylonians flourished due to advanced irrigation but eventually fell, to the Mediterranean cultures and the Roman Empire. It highlights how the Fenicians and Punics, driven by trade, depleted forests and soil, leading to desertification and the eventual downfall of their own empires and those they influenced. The Roman Empire's collapse is also linked to the exhaustion of its fertile land, necessitating vast aqueduct systems and ultimately leading to its ruin.

Ett stycke vibrerande liv (A Piece of Vibrating Life)

This section reviews Gunnar Dalnäs's book "Epok." The reviewer notes that Dalnäs, a journalist who isolated himself on a farm, uses a modified hexameter in his writing. The book is described as a critique of modern science's tendency to analyze itself to death, advocating for a holistic view of existence and the universe. A significant part of the book is a doctor's diary, presented as a sharp critique of contemporary medical practices, questioning the focus on symptoms and the commodification of medicine. Dalnäs also criticizes modern artists for seeking social benefits while lowering artistic standards.

Medicin på avvägar (Medicine Gone Astray)

This article discusses the book "Teknikens inbrott i medicinen" (Technology's Intrusion into Medicine) by Thomas Regau. The book is praised for its critical examination of how physics and chemistry, the foundations of modern technology, have become the basis for modern medicine. It criticizes the pharmaceutical industry's focus on developing marketable drugs rather than addressing individual patient needs, and the use of injections as a symbol of this rapid, impersonal approach. The article lists chapter titles that suggest a critique of specialization, standardization, and the overpopulation strategies of modern science.

Frenologiens försummelse – ett brott (The Neglect of Phrenology – A Crime)

This piece defends phrenology, arguing that despite its scientific basis, it has been neglected and even persecuted for 160 years since Gall's discoveries. The author contends that a lack of understanding of phrenology has led to misdiagnosis and mistreatment in schools and mental health institutions. The article provides an anecdote to illustrate how phrenological localization can be demonstrated, even under hypnosis, emphasizing the importance of understanding the brain's specific functions.

De fyra evangelierna och andra evangelier (The Four Gospels and Other Gospels)

This article examines the historical context and authenticity of the four canonical Gospels. It discusses the traditional order of their composition (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) and the evidence for their early dating, citing Irenaeus and Eusebius. The author also addresses the existence of apocryphal Gospels, such as the Gospel of Thomas, and argues that their later composition and Gnostic influences distinguish them from the canonical texts. The article critiques attempts by some scholars to discredit the Gospels by linking them to mystery cults or materialistic interpretations.

Ur själslivets hemligheter från 1800-talet (From the Secrets of the Soul from the 1800s)

This section recounts a historical case study from the 19th century about a young girl who experienced severe health issues, possibly epilepsy, after consuming certain foods. Despite various treatments, her condition worsened until a spiritual experience led to her recovery. The narrative then shifts to a cautionary tale about religious extremism, describing a woman who, after receiving visions, became fanatical and ultimately led herself and others to a violent death, suggesting a link between religious fervor and psychological instability.

Förnekaren blir häpen (The Denier is Astonished)

This section presents anecdotal evidence of precognition and psychic phenomena. It recounts a woman's detailed dream about a visit to Zurich, which later proved to be remarkably accurate, including specific details about people and events. Another anecdote describes a magistrate who received a warning in a dream about his house collapsing, which he heeded, saving his life while others who dismissed the dream perished. A third story involves a young man who, guided by a dream from his deceased father, found a hidden box containing money and accounts, resolving a financial crisis.

Håna icke varningen! (Do Not Mock the Warning!)

This section continues with examples of precognitive dreams and warnings. It details a dream experienced by a magistrate in Southern France who was warned in a dream by a small man speaking a foreign language (later identified as Arabic) to leave his house, as it would collapse. Heeded, this warning saved his life, while others who ignored the dream perished when the house did indeed collapse. Another story recounts a dream of a young man whose deceased father showed him the location of a hidden box containing money and accounts, which helped him resolve a financial crisis.

Semmelweis – vetenskapens martyr (Semmelweis – Martyr of Science)

This article recounts the tragic story of Ignaz Semmelweis, a 19th-century physician who discovered that handwashing by doctors and students could drastically reduce deaths from childbed fever. Despite his discovery, he faced fierce opposition and ridicule from the medical establishment, leading to his dismissal, persecution, and eventual descent into madness and death. The article portrays him as a martyr for science, whose life-saving work was initially rejected.

Småprat med läsekretsen (Small Talk with the Readership)

This is a regular column where the editor, Harry Blom, shares news and observations. He mentions the prolific writing of Kyrkoherde emer. V. Vallberg, who has published another book titled "Den okända människan." He also notes a radio talk by fil. dr. Tage Lindbom on democracy and mentions Halvdan Renling's work on Neurosedyn and vivisection. The column also briefly touches upon the "balanced diet" of Prof. Ohsawa and Prof. Borgström's talk on water. It concludes with a note about the editor's intention to continue publishing articles on important topics despite potential reader complaints about length.

Författaren Viktor Vallberg

A brief biographical note on Viktor Vallberg, highlighting his extensive literary output, with a list of some of his available books on topics such as human knowledge, Christianity, and phrenology.

NYA BÖCKER (New Books)

This section provides brief descriptions and prices of recently published books, including Viktor Vallberg's "Den okända människan," "Konsten att läsa bibeln," "Människan," and "Rapsodi över Aniara." It also features "Det eviga nuet" by Alfred Svanqvist, "Sällsamma psykiska fenomen" by an unnamed author, and "Skilsmässo-problemet" (The Divorce Problem). The section also promotes "Djävulsdansen" by Günther Schwab, describing it as a novel that discusses contemporary issues through dialogues with the devil.

BUSHIDO

This short piece describes Bushido as a Japanese system applicable to various aspects of life, including sales, relationships, health, and leadership, comparing it to Western "New Thought" movements.

EPOK

This is a description of Gunnar Dalnäs's book "Epok," highlighting its four chapters: "Med kurs på – En läkares bekännelse," "Eremiten vid havet," and "Den vises världs-bild." It specifically mentions "En läkares bekännelse" as a point of interest.

Naturens egna hälsomedel (Nature's Own Health Remedies)

• This section is an advertisement for various natural health products. It features:
• Vetegroddolja (Wheat Germ Oil): Praised for its high Vitamin E content.
• Vitamin E-kapslar "Extracta": Recommended for heart and circulatory issues.
• Priser A POLLEN: Advertises pollen products (Cernelle and Dr. Groos) and related items like Cernident benmjölstablett.
• VITAMIN F-kapslar "Extracta": For hair loss, skin problems, and liver/gall issues.
• CEFORTE (Vitamin C tablets): To boost immunity.
• BIOLOGISKA MEDEL (Biological Agents): Products from Pommler, including Rättikdragéer (Radish), Bönskalsdragéer (Bean Husk), Brännässeldragéer (Nettle), Hagtornsdragéer (Hawthorn), Akerfräkendragéer (Field Horsetail), and Jästdragéer med lecithin (Yeast with Lecithin).
• Linella: A natural remedy for digestive issues.
• SCHWARZWALD MISTEL-DOPPAR (Black Forest Mistletoe Drops): Recommended for blood pressure and circulation issues.
• BIOGLUTEX: A nutritional supplement for nerves and organ function.
• F-K, FRISK - KUR KAPSEL: A capsule for maintaining energy and health.
• T-C KOMBI: A combination product with mistletoe, garlic, and hawthorn for blood circulation and heart health.
• MELLISATIN: A natural stimulant for fatigue.
• YERBA-TE MATE: A health tea from China.
• ÖRTAGUBBEN (Herb Man): Advertises various herbal products, including Vitlökskapslar (Garlic Capsules) and Örtagubbens Linement (Herb Man's Liniment).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic, nature-based approach to health and life, often contrasting it with the perceived excesses and artificiality of modern technological and materialistic society. There is a strong emphasis on spiritual well-being, historical wisdom, and the dangers of unchecked scientific advancement and industrialization. The editorial stance appears to be critical of mainstream scientific and medical practices, advocating for alternative perspectives rooted in nature, tradition, and spiritual understanding. The articles often draw parallels between historical declines and contemporary issues, warning against repeating past mistakes. The inclusion of personal testimonies, dream accounts, and critiques of established norms suggests a platform for unconventional ideas and experiences.

Themes: Humanism, Ecology, History, Religion, Medicine, Psychology, Spirituality, Alternative Health.

Tags: Pharisees, Humus, Ecology, Civilization, History, Ancient Civilizations, Mediterranean, Rome, Journalism, Literature, Medicine, Psychology, Frenology, UFOs, Dreams, Natural Health, Spirituality.