Seklet - 1966 Vol 13 No 2

Magazine Overview

SEKLET, Issue 2, Volume 13, dated 1966, is a Swedish magazine published by Litteraturförlaget. This issue focuses on a critical examination of civilization and culture, with a strong emphasis on the perceived negative impacts of urbanization and a promotion of rural living and natural lifestyles.

Civilisation eller Kultur

The lead article, "Civilisation eller Kultur," argues against the prevailing trend of urbanization, which it claims is driven by materialistic values and leads to the degradation of human health and spirit. The author contends that the modern city dweller suffers from stress, neuroses, and a disconnect from nature, leading to physical and psychological breakdown. The article criticizes "radical" political parties for promoting urban growth and highlights a WHO proclamation suggesting that cities should not exceed 300,000 inhabitants due to their negative mental impact.

The author asserts that the urban lifestyle is fundamentally alien to human nature, which is adapted for environments with fresh air, clean water, natural rhythms, and connection to the natural world. The article contrasts this with the supposed happiness and harmony found in nature. It criticizes the "civilization man" for his reliance on artificial means to cope with the stresses of urban life, such as smoking, drinking, and medication.

The piece argues that a truly radical societal policy must be based on biological and spiritual facts, not speculative dogmas. It warns that nations which destroy their agrarian culture and promote urban development are doomed to decline, citing historical examples. A healthy society, it posits, must be rooted in a living countryside, where people work in community with the land and animals. The author distinguishes between "culture" (cultivation, nurturing) and "civilization" (technical advancement), suggesting that modern technical civilization is poor in culture.

Sund Radikalism (Sound Radicalism)

To counter this perceived societal decay, the magazine calls for "sound radicalism," advocating for a halt to urbanization, the creation of conditions for rural living, and a rejection of the urban lifestyle. It promotes a new way of life based on natural, simple habits, and the abandonment of luxury, especially in a world facing hunger. The author urges a voluntary shift in course before a potential catastrophe.

Emigrationen - Längtan efter ett eget hem

This section delves into the history of Swedish emigration, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It criticizes literary portrayals that focus on the "drag" of emigrants, arguing that they fail to capture the deeper, tragic causes rooted in Swedish national character and misguided politics. The author highlights the desire for land ownership and a home as primary motivators for emigration. The article laments the lack of a comprehensive history of Swedish emigration that truly captures the emigrants' inner lives and struggles. It contrasts the perceived indifference from Swedish landowners and forestry companies with the proactive efforts of American promoters who offered land and opportunity.

Angbåten (The Steamboat)

A brief historical note on the introduction of steamboats in Sweden, starting in 1818. It mentions that steamships were not immediately common for passenger transport, with sailing ships (skutor) still prevalent on Lake Mälaren into the late 19th century. An anecdote from 1864 illustrates a week-long journey by sailing ship.

Guds uppenbarelse i naturen (God's Revelation in Nature)

This article explores the concept of divine revelation, drawing on the works of poet J.O. Wallin. It suggests that while nature offers glimpses of God's greatness, it is insufficient for true spiritual understanding. The author emphasizes the need for a clearer revelation, referencing Jesus' teachings, particularly the concept of God as a spirit to be worshipped "in spirit and truth." The article discusses the importance of prayer as a conversation with God and highlights Jesus' teachings on seeking the Kingdom of God first.

Historiska händelser och varnande exempel (Historical Events and Warning Examples)

This section presents historical accounts to illustrate the consequences of neglecting agriculture and the dangers of societal decline. It recounts a severe famine in Sweden in 1771, leading to the establishment of grain storage facilities. It also mentions the fall of the Roman Empire, attributing it partly to the destruction of peasant farming and the growth of large estates. The article criticizes Sweden's handling of its colony in Norrland, claiming it has been exploited and neglected, despite its agricultural potential. It quotes Karlfeldt on the value of the land and warns against letting it fall into the wrong hands.

Vitlökskapslar (Garlic Capsules)

This is an advertisement for garlic capsules, touting their extensive health benefits, including cleansing, disinfecting, and combating parasites, as well as their effects on circulation and blood pressure.

Friskus Hårelixir

An advertisement for a hair elixir that claims to be effective against itching, dandruff, and hair loss, promoting healthy hair and scalp.

Homepatin (Homeopathy)

This section provides homeopathic remedies for various ailments, including headaches (migraine, tension headaches), high blood pressure, and dizziness. It suggests specific remedies like Belladonna, Glonoinum, Rhus toxicodendron, Nux vomica, Phosphorus, Silicea, Ignatia, Sanguinaria, Causticum, Sulfur, and Calcarea carbonica, often with specific potencies and treatment durations.

Örtagubbens spalt (The Herb Man's Column) - Hälsotid (Health News)

This column focuses on the health benefits of the nettle plant (Brännässlan). It describes nettles as a powerful medicinal herb known for their blood-purifying properties, effectiveness against skin issues, and ability to support kidney and bladder health. The article highlights nettles' rich content of vitamins and minerals, comparable to spinach, and suggests various ways to consume them, including in soups, porridges, and as a hair rinse for dandruff and hair loss.

Pigg på Pollen (Pollen Alert)

This is an advertisement for "Örtagubbens Pollen med Regisan," a product containing pollen and medicinal yeast, promoted for its benefits in regulating digestion, boosting energy, and providing Vitamin C and calcium.

Jon Won har hjälpt många

An advertisement for "Jon Won," a skincare product for tired, aching, and swollen feet, also effective for minor burns and as a shaving lotion.

SEKLET - Nr 2, Årgång 13, 1966

This section contains various smaller articles and advertisements:

• Sierskan från Axmarbruk Om Anna Frids i Färnäs memoarer: A brief mention of Anna Frid, known for her psychic abilities and predictions.
• Syner - Uppenbarelser - Förutsägelser - Profetior: An advertisement for a book by V. Vallberg that examines prophecies from figures like Nostradamus and Anton Johansson.
• Två nya skrifter av den snart 95-årige Kyrkoherden V. Vallberg: An advertisement for two new writings by V. Vallberg, one critiquing superstition and the other titled "Den kära Okunnigheten" (The Dear Ignorance).
• DET NYA TESTAMENTETS SANNING: An advertisement for a book that claims to confirm the historical authenticity of the New Testament's authorship in the apostolic age.
• VAD ALLA SÖKER - ANDLIG TERAPI AV DOKTOR REBECCA BEARD: An advertisement for a book by Dr. Rebecca Beard on spiritual therapy and healing.
• pendel och slagruta: Advertisements for three writings by Viktor Vallberg: "DEN ETERISKA STRÅLNINGEN," "Underverkens värld," and "INTELLIGENSMAT-NINGAR OCH TIDSPEJLINGAR," which discuss pendulums, dowsing, and intelligence testing.
• Homeopatiskt husapotek: An advertisement for a homeopathic home first-aid kit.
• Vår tids drama - DJÄVULSDANSEN av Günther Schwab: A review of the book "Djälvsdansen" by Günther Schwab, described as a strong contemporary novel offering guidance for youth in a confusing era.
• Vill Ni köpa ett UNIVERSITET?: An advertisement for Viktor Vallberg's "Människokunskap" (Human Knowledge), a two-volume work.
• Vitlökskapslar: Another advertisement for garlic capsules.
• Friskus Hårelixir: Another advertisement for the hair elixir.
• Homeopatiskt husapotek för endast kr 52:- i homeopatiens tjänst: Another advertisement for a homeopathic home kit.
• ÖRTAGUBBEN: An advertisement for a health food store offering various products, including homeopathic medicines.
• En julaftonsupplevelse i Erzgebirge: A narrative about a teacher's eerie encounter with the ghost of his deceased former colleague.
• FRÅN MARTYRKYRKANS TID: A poem titled "Jag kristen är" (I am a Christian) about martyrdom.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a worldview that values nature, rural living, spiritual health, and traditional values over modern civilization, urbanization, and materialism. There is a strong undercurrent of criticism towards contemporary societal trends, political ideologies, and scientific rationalism that are perceived as leading to human and societal decline. The editorial stance appears to favor a return to simpler, more natural ways of life, grounded in spiritual faith and a connection to the land. The publication also seems to have an interest in alternative health practices like homeopathy and herbalism, as well as esoteric or spiritual topics.