Seklet - 1963 Vol 10 No 1

Magazine Overview

SEKLET, Volume 10, Issue 1, published in 1963, is a Swedish magazine that covers a diverse range of topics including philosophy, science, religion, history, and the paranormal. This issue features a prominent article on the influential Christian thinker Teilhard de Chardin, alongside discussions on the fall of the Roman Empire, psychic phenomena, and book reviews.

Teilhard de Chardin: A Revolutionary Christian Thinker

The lead article introduces Teilhard de Chardin, born in France in 1881, as a significant figure of the 20th century. It highlights his Jesuit background, his extensive scientific studies in geology and paleontology, and his archaeological discoveries, including Sinanthropus remains in China. Despite his scientific pursuits, Chardin was also a theologian, whose writings sometimes faced scrutiny from church censors. His major work, "Man in the Cosmos," published posthumously, discusses the evolutionary path of the universe. The article quotes theologian N. Wildiers on the need for a unified summary of scientific discoveries, especially concerning humanity, and Chardin's own view that humanity is not the center of the universe but part of its evolving spiral.

Chardin's philosophy posits the universe as a living organism with distinct evolutionary periods. He presents two hypotheses for Earth's current stage: one where evil diminishes towards a minimum, leading to peace and overcoming of suffering through science; and another where evil grows alongside good, potentially leading to a split in humanity's consciousness. He also suggests that human evolution may not be gradual but a sudden appearance when the Earth was ready to receive it, an incarnation of divine thought.

The article notes that understanding Chardin is challenging, as he attempts to reconcile Christianity with the modern worldview and all belief systems with science, meeting at the point of God. His concept of the 'noosphere' – a sphere of thought and consciousness surrounding Earth – is also mentioned.

The Fall of the Roman Empire

Another significant section explores the causes of the Roman Empire's decline. It references historical works by Gibbon and Th. Momsen, emphasizing the importance of the land question. The article argues that the concentration of land into large estates ('latifundia') worked by slaves, and the subsequent disappearance of small farmers, led to social stratification and the rise of a large, unemployed populace in Rome. This, combined with factors like soil erosion, deforestation, and malaria, contributed to the empire's downfall. The author suggests that the neglect of agriculture and land management was the fundamental cause, without which Rome might have overcome other challenges.

A Talk to Sweden's Youth

This section presents a hypothetical address from a future prophet to Sweden's youth. The prophet aims to dismantle prejudices, impart forgotten knowledge, and inspire spiritual renewal. He emphasizes the importance of independent judgment and critical thinking, urging young people to understand humanity not just biologically but in terms of all its potential. The prophet criticizes the view of humans as mere links in a material creation.

Psychic Phenomena and Unexplained Forces

Several articles touch upon paranormal and psychic phenomena. One piece recounts experiences with lamas in India and China who reportedly used trance-inducing methods and rituals for spiritual communication and materialization. Another article discusses the concept of 'angelic protection' (änglavakt), sharing anecdotes of individuals being saved from accidents by unseen forces. The role of pendulums in enhancing mediumistic abilities is explored, with an example of a pendulum being used to diagnose a child's health issues, linking it to earth radiation and kleptomania.

"Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson is reviewed, highlighting its critique of chemical pesticides and their devastating impact on nature and human health. The article also touches upon the work of Friedrich Jürgensen, who reportedly recorded voices of deceased individuals using a tape recorder.

Book Reviews and Reflections

The magazine includes several book reviews. "Måste man tro på Kristus?" (Must one believe in Christ?) by Anna-Lisa Helle is presented as a comparative religion study that seeks common ground among religions, questioning traditional Christian doctrines. The review praises the book's thoroughness but notes its critical stance on certain aspects of Christian theology. "Sierskan från Axmarbruk" (The Seer from Axmarbruk), Anna Frid's memoirs, is reviewed positively, highlighting her psychic abilities and life philosophy.

Other reviews cover "Den okända människan" (The Unknown Human) by Viktor Vallberg, "Bushido" (the Japanese system), and "Epok" by Gunnar Dalnäs. The magazine also features a section on "Malachias prophecies," discussing predictions about popes and the papacy, and a piece on the astronomical discoveries of Copernicus and Galileo.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SEKLET revolve around the search for truth, the reconciliation of science and religion, the critique of modern materialism, and an interest in the unexplained and spiritual dimensions of life. The magazine appears to advocate for a holistic understanding of humanity and the universe, questioning established scientific and religious paradigms. There is a clear emphasis on critical thinking, personal responsibility, and the importance of spiritual and psychological well-being in the face of societal challenges and technological advancements. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints and encouraging readers to engage with complex philosophical and existential questions.