Seklet - 1968 Vol 15 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Mystiker i Vällingby
Issue: 2
Volume: 15
Date: 1968
Publisher: SEKLIT TEKLET

This issue of "Mystiker i Vällingby" delves into a variety of spiritual, mystical, and parapsychological topics, reflecting a concern for the spiritual state of modern society and an interest in phenomena beyond conventional scientific understanding.

The Mystical Experience of 'Beata'

The central article details the profound mystical experience of a woman referred to as 'Beata'. The account begins with her ordinary life before a transformative event in January 1946. While on a ski trip, she observes a snowflake on a fir needle which dissolves into intense, yet not blinding, light. This light exhibits a spiral movement, and she perceives it as a magnification of matter into energy. The forest around her becomes an 'eldstod' (fire altar) of this living light. She hears a clear, non-human voice instructing her not to be afraid and to observe. Her perception expands to see the entire forest as a sea of light, and she experiences herself as a 'light figure' with hands of light. She describes the universe functioning as a five-dimensional geometry, with the fifth dimension being 'love'. This experience leads her to question if this is 'being ONE WITH EVERYTHING'.

Her consciousness shifts, and she witnesses her own body transform into light, vibrating on the same wavelength as the 'fifth dimension'. She is then transported through time and space, witnessing the creation of the cosmos and the history of humanity. She describes this as a 'cosmic television band' revealing not only historical events but also human motives and thoughts, providing answers to all her questions. She feels she becomes 'all-knowing'. Eventually, she perceives herself in 'Eternity, Paradise', a state of harmony and beauty. However, this is contrasted by the appearance of a dark point, which she initially resists but is drawn towards. She understands this to be a dark planet, casting shadows on the bright worlds. She feels a connection to this dark planet, recognizing it as her former home, Earth, and senses that her life there was incomplete.

She returns to her earthly self, changed. The experience recurs faintly for several days. She reflects on the 'creation vision', seeing God as an unseen conductor of a light ballet, with the directing center beyond perception. She notes the distortion of space and time awareness, where millennia and moments become indistinguishable. The experience is described as 'knowing' rather than 'believing' or 'feeling'. These phenomena are identified as recurring traits in religious ecstasy.

'Beata's' subsequent visions include the relationship between Christianity and non-Christian peoples. She feels a calling to share her experiences, which she is documenting in a book. However, her experiences have also brought doubt and resistance from religious circles. Initially hesitant to share, after six years she confided in theologians and academics, finding some understanding, particularly from natural scientists. She struggles to articulate her experiences, feeling a lack of formal education, yet questions if 'learned men' might be 'illiterate' regarding such mystical accounts.

She is described as an ordinary yet unusual woman who had this vision at 40, after 16 years of marriage and raising children. She has lived diverse lives, from city to isolated villages, and has worked in various roles, including as a housekeeper even at 60 to support her writing. She emphasizes her connection to earthly things, refuting the idea that a mystic must be detached from the practical world.

Her visions have also included Christ and the Christian West's relationship with non-European peoples. She feels called to share her experiences, which have also caused her internal struggle and faced skepticism from religious communities. She has been writing a book about her experiences for years.

Critiques and Interpretations of Mysticism

'Beata's' experiences are discussed in relation to theological concepts, particularly the distinction between personality-affirming (Jewish-Christian) and personality-denying (Indian) mysticism, as proposed by Söderblom. The German theologian Fr. Heiler is mentioned for his work on prophetic religion versus mysticism, which he characterizes as dissolving the human personality into divine unity, implying pantheism. However, Söderblom's later definition allows for 'mystical union' within Lutheranism, emphasizing God's closeness rather than an infinite absorption.

The article acknowledges the intensity and cosmic scale of 'Beata's' experience, which goes beyond William James's 'cosmic consciousness'. It notes that mystics have historically been accused of heresy for blurring the lines between God and humanity. The text argues that the limitations of language and the law of contradiction do not apply to mystical experience, where personal and impersonal can coexist.

'Beata' asserts that she has not lost her 'self' in the divine but rather rediscovered her innermost self, a higher individuality. Her thoughts align with modern theological ideas, including those of Teilhard de Chardin and Bishop Robinson. Her experience serves as a counterpoint to rigid conceptual distinctions.

Parapsychological Phenomena and Research

The magazine explores parapsychological phenomena, including ESP (extrasensory perception) and telepathy. It references the work of organizations like The English Society for Psychical Research and The American Society for Psychical Research, highlighting prominent researchers such as Sir Oliver Lodge, Lord Balfour, and Carl Jung. The article suggests that these phenomena, once dismissed as superstition, are now being studied scientifically.

An anecdote is shared about Harold Sherman, president of the ESP Research Associates Foundation, who experienced a premonition about a power line being down, preventing him from turning on a light and thus avoiding an electrical hazard. The magazine posits that unseen forces and energies govern our lives, and that what is considered 'matter' is ultimately energy.

The 'Ghost' Encounter

A personal account describes an encounter with a spectral figure in 1950. While alone in a house, the narrator is confronted by a tall man in a hat and cloak. The figure appears to threaten him, but vanishes inexplicably. Later, he learns that a previous resident of the house had also reported seeing a similar apparition and that the man had died by suicide.

Homeopathy and the Need for Nature

The issue includes a section on homeopathy, referencing a lecture by an American homeopathic doctor. It discusses experiments by Dr. W. E. Boyd that reportedly demonstrate biochemical and biological reactions to homeopathic potencies. The article also touches upon the work of engineer Ludvig Straniak and the concept of a vital force in nature.

The Decline of Nature and the Call for Revolution

Walter Schauberger's article, "Nedmontaget av naturen" (The Dismantling of Nature), critiques modern society's materialistic worldview and its destructive impact on the environment. He argues that humanity has become detached from nature, prioritizing material gain over ethical and spiritual values. He contrasts the wisdom of traditional farming communities, who lived in harmony with natural cycles, with the destructive practices of industrialization and urbanization. Schauberger warns that this path leads to ecological collapse and that an 'andligt-biologisk revolution' (spiritual-biological revolution) is necessary for survival.

He highlights the importance of the 'bondemänniskan' (farmer-person) and their connection to the land, seeing their way of life as a model for a sustainable future. The article suggests that a return to rural living and a re-establishment of the connection with nature are crucial for humanity's well-being and survival.

The Art of Dying

An article titled "Dödsböckerna" (The Death Books) discusses ancient traditions and teachings on how to die consciously. It references Egyptian and Tibetan death rituals and texts, such as 'The Tibetan Book of the Dead', which provide guidance for the soul's journey after death. The article suggests that modern society has lost this understanding, leading to unnatural deaths often occurring in sterile, impersonal environments. It emphasizes the importance of a conscious transition from life to death, drawing parallels between different cultural traditions.

John Björkhem: A Neglected Genius

The issue features a profile of John Björkhem, a theologian, philosopher, and doctor who conducted extensive research into hypnotism and reincarnation. Despite his significant contributions, his work remained largely unrecognized. The article laments the lack of funding for his research compared to animal experimentation and highlights his dedication to understanding the human psyche.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

The magazine consistently promotes a spiritual and holistic worldview, critical of modern materialism, scientism, and the perceived spiritual emptiness of contemporary society. It champions the study of mystical experiences, parapsychology, and alternative healing methods like homeopathy. There is a strong emphasis on the interconnectedness of all things, the importance of nature, and the need for a spiritual awakening to address societal and ecological crises. The articles often draw on historical and esoteric knowledge to offer alternative perspectives on life, death, and consciousness. The overall tone is one of concern for humanity's spiritual direction and a call for a deeper, more meaningful existence.

This issue of SEKLET, dated 1968, is a Swedish publication focusing on a blend of paranormal phenomena, alternative health, and UFO reports. The magazine features a diverse range of articles, from personal accounts of psychic abilities to practical advice on herbal remedies and intriguing UFO encounters.

Psychic Phenomena: Telepathy and Psychometry

The issue prominently features the work of Harold Sherman, a psychic researcher. One article details his telepathic communication with polar explorer Sir Hubert Wilkins, spanning vast distances. Sherman's ability to transmit and receive thoughts, and even experience physical sensations from Wilkins, is illustrated through documented diary entries. Examples include Sherman sensing Wilkins's severe toothache and a head injury, with precise timing matching Wilkins's experiences.

Another section delves into psychometry, showcasing Sherman's ability to glean information from objects. A case study describes how Sherman used a pair of socks to gain insights into the disappearance of a young boy, deducing his emotional state and the reasons for his flight. He was able to provide details about the boy's infatuation with a classmate and his subsequent distress, though he could not pinpoint the boy's exact location.

UFO Encounters and Extraterrestrial Contact

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to UFO sightings and alleged contact with extraterrestrial beings. The article "Venusmänniskorna vandra på våra gator" (Venusians Walk Our Streets), originally published in Mystic Magazine in 1954, recounts the experiences of psychic researcher Paul M. Vest. Vest describes encounters with individuals claiming to be from Venus, who appeared human-like, spoke Swedish fluently, and possessed unusual physical characteristics, such as unnaturally pale skin and unique ear structures.

One key narrative involves a mysterious contactee known only as "Bill," who approached the author. Bill claimed to be an emissary from Venus, sent to help Orfeo Angelucci, who had allegedly traveled in a flying saucer. Bill's telepathic abilities and unusual demeanor led the author to believe he was not of this Earth. Bill arranged a meeting between the author and Angelucci.

Further details emerge from an interview with reporter Max Morton of the Los Angeles World. Morton recounts two Venusians visiting his newspaper office. They demonstrated an extraordinary ability to scratch a steel desk with their fingernails, leaving a deep indentation that baffled Morton and laboratory analysis. The analysis also revealed elements in the scratch that were not present in the rest of the steel plate. These Venusians claimed to have arrived in a flying saucer and were seeking employment. They eventually disappeared without a trace.

Alternative Health and Herbalism

The "Örtagubbens spalt" (Herbalist's Column) by Frithjof Hallman focuses on the medicinal properties of plants. The nettle (Brännässlan) is highlighted as a highly beneficial plant, described as a "blessed plant" with a wide range of uses. It is noted for its blood-purifying qualities, effectiveness against skin conditions like eczema, and its rich content of vitamins and minerals. Recipes for nettle soup, porridge, and stewed nettles are provided, along with instructions for drying nettles for winter use. The column also mentions the dandelion (Maskros) as another beneficial plant.

Other health-related products advertised include ORTAGUBBEN's tonics for fatigue, BANTAMIN for weight control, and RADIOLIT dental solution. VETEGRODDOLJA (wheat germ oil) is promoted for its high E-vitamin content.

Other Articles and Features

An article titled "Från utsiktstorn" (From the Observation Tower) touches upon various topics, including the US plan to send a satellite to the moon, theories about virus immunity, and concerns about the potential health and weather impacts of space satellites. It also briefly discusses societal issues like land ownership and the need for agricultural colonies for at-risk youth.

Another section, "Vetegroddolja," discusses the benefits of wheat germ oil, emphasizing its rich E-vitamin content and its value as a natural supplement. The article "Evighet – Oändlighet" (Eternity – Infinity) by Elisabeth Ståhlgren is presented as a book that explores the concept of 10 dimensions, moving beyond the commonly understood three dimensions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes alternative perspectives on health, spirituality, and unexplained phenomena. There is a clear interest in the paranormal, with a focus on psychic abilities, UFOs, and extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring these subjects, presenting anecdotal evidence and personal accounts as valid information. The inclusion of practical advice on herbal remedies suggests a holistic approach to well-being. The magazine also seems to engage with contemporary scientific and societal issues, albeit from a less conventional viewpoint.