Seklet - 1968 Vol 15 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of SEKLET, dated 1968, features a prominent cover story titled "Politik till döds - eller en livsvänlig politik" (Politics to Death - or Life-Friendly Politics). The magazine critiques the current state of civilization, advocating for a bio-political approach that prioritizes natural laws and human well-being over technical and mercantile systems.

The Decline of Civilization and the Need for Bio-Politics

The lead article argues that humanity's current societal forms are inherently life-threatening, stemming from political dogmas based on flawed economic, technical, and social theories. These systems, whether capitalist or socialist, are seen as leading to the degradation of nature, depletion of resources, and a decline in human health and relationships. The author cites increasing pollution, starvation, degenerative diseases, and the proliferation of pathogens as evidence of this decay. The article contrasts the current "machine civilization" with a true "cultural society" and a "bio-political society," emphasizing that progress is currently measured backward, not forward, from the perspective of life's laws.

It criticizes the promotion of industrialization and urban living as the sole path to welfare, noting how this ideology has led to the loss of traditional knowledge and the displacement of rural populations. The author quotes Baudelaire on the superficiality of technological advancement and laments the Western tendency to equate technological progress with inner development, leading to human degeneration.

The article references the physicist Noël-Martin's question about whether scientists will face a "Nuremberg trial" for their complicity in global development, highlighting their potential responsibility for the dangers of unchecked technological advancement. It suggests that current revolts are a precursor to a reckoning with those in power, but that the revolutionaries themselves are often trapped in outdated dogmas.

The Wisdom of Alexis Carrel

The magazine extensively quotes Alexis Carrel from his 1935 book "Den okända människan" (The Unknown Man). Carrel foresaw the dangers of modern civilization, criticizing the intellectual and moral inadequacy of political leaders, the flawed design of cities, and the manipulative nature of advertising. He argued that human development had not kept pace with technological advancement, leading to a society ill-suited to human needs. Carrel also pointed out the detrimental effects of mass production on food quality and the disconnect between scientific progress and human well-being, warning that even industrialized nations were deteriorating.

Paths to Self-Realization: Bhakti and Jnana

An article titled "Hängivenhet och Kunskap, två vägar till Självförverkligande" (Devotion and Knowledge, Two Paths to Self-Realization) explores spiritual paths in India. It describes two main routes to reuniting the individual self with the universal Self: Bhakti (devotion) and Jnana (knowledge). Both paths require Viveka (discernment) to distinguish the real from the unreal. Bhakti involves forgetting oneself in devotion to a deity, while Jnana focuses on understanding the illusory nature of the material world (maya) and realizing the true, unified Self. The article notes that both paths ultimately lead to liberation from the cycle of rebirth and suffering, emphasizing the importance of Yoga as a means to achieve this union.

The Tibetan Book of the Dead

Another section details "Den tibetanska dödsboken" (The Tibetan Book of the Dead). This text is presented as a guide for lamas or other individuals to help the dying and deceased navigate the "Bardo" or intermediate state between death and rebirth. It describes the process of consciousness leaving the body, encountering luminous and dark visions, and the importance of recognizing the clear light of reality for liberation. The article notes that the book, while rooted in Buddhist beliefs, contains universal observations about the soul's journey and the cycle of karma and reincarnation. It also mentions the practice of a priest or lama applying pressure to the carotid arteries to maintain the dying person's consciousness.

Atlantis Research by Jürgen Spanuth

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the research of Austrian Atlantis scholar Jürgen Spanuth. The article reviews Spanuth's work, which connects the legend of Atlantis with historical events, particularly the great migration around 1200 BC. Spanuth's research is based on ancient texts, including Plato's dialogues (Timaeus and Critias) and Homer's Odyssey, as well as archaeological findings. He posits that Atlantis was located in the North Sea, possibly near Helgoland, and that its destruction by natural catastrophe led to a mass exodus of its people southward.

The article details Spanuth's interpretation of Plato and Solon's accounts, suggesting that the "sea peoples" who attacked Egypt during the reign of Ramses III were the Atlanteans. It also discusses Spanuth's underwater explorations near Basileia (identified as Atlantis' capital) and his comparison of Homer's descriptions of the Phaeacians' land with Plato's account of Atlantis. The research suggests a strong correlation between Homeric descriptions and geographical locations in the North Sea, including Helgoland.

The Dandelion: A Medicinal Herb

"Örtagubbens spalt" (The Herb Man's Column) features an article on the dandelion (Taraxacum officinale). It highlights the plant's medicinal properties, including its diuretic, liver-stimulating, and blood-purifying effects. The article notes its historical use in treating eye ailments and its rich content of vitamins and minerals, suggesting it as a valuable component of spring "cleansing cures." It also mentions its use in salads and as a beauty treatment.

The Farmer's Role in a Bio-Political Society

An article titled "Böndernas uppgift i ett bio-politiskt samhälle" (The Farmer's Task in a Bio-Political Society) argues that in a bio-political society, farmers are central figures. They are tasked with producing healthy, life-sustaining food, acting as stewards of the living landscape, and preserving and creating culture. The article criticizes modern industrial agriculture for its focus on quantity over quality and its reliance on chemicals, which it claims degrade soil, water, and food. It advocates for a return to organic farming methods, citing successful projects in Switzerland as examples. The piece also touches upon the importance of landscape preservation and the need to combat the decline of rural areas.

Other Articles

Other sections include a discussion on "Olika vägar till kunskap" (Different Paths to Knowledge), contrasting Western empirical methods with Eastern intuitive approaches, and an exploration of "Somnambulismen" (Somnambulism), discussing altered states of consciousness and their potential connection to dualistic views of the self.

There is also a piece titled "Venusmänniskorna vandra på våra gator" (Venusians Walk Our Streets), which discusses alleged encounters with extraterrestrial beings, and a personal anecdote titled "Har någon död givit sig tillkänna" (Has Someone Dead Made Themselves Known), sharing an experience of apparent communication from a deceased friend.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are a strong critique of modern, industrialized civilization and its detrimental impact on nature and human health. The magazine advocates for a return to natural laws, bio-political principles, and a holistic approach to life, encompassing spirituality, traditional knowledge, and environmental stewardship. There is a clear editorial stance favoring a bio-political society where farmers play a crucial role, and a deep interest in ancient civilizations like Atlantis and spiritual traditions. The magazine also shows an openness to paranormal phenomena and extraterrestrial life.

Title: SEKLET
Issue: 15
Volume: 1968
Date: 1968
Publisher: LITTERATURFÖRLAGET
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: 15 år med Seklet

This issue of SEKLET, a Swedish magazine focused on esoteric, spiritual, and alternative topics, celebrates its 15th anniversary with a retrospective look at its content. The magazine covers a wide range of subjects, including homeopathy, astrology, historical analyses of religious texts, and alternative approaches to health and agriculture.

Homeopathy and 'Unweighable Chemistry'

The issue opens with an article titled "Det ovägbaras kemi" ("The Chemistry of the Unweighable"), referencing scientist Richet. It discusses how phenomena once considered immeasurable, like light or sound, became measurable with technological advancements. The author shares a personal experience of determining the 'unweighable' radiation of metals using a pendulum, a practice known since ancient times but often dismissed by mainstream science. The article posits that homeopathy, particularly in high potencies, also deals with these 'unweighable' forces, suggesting a shift from chemistry to physics in understanding these substances. It draws parallels between the mysterious nature of electricity before its understanding and the current skepticism towards astrology.

Another section focuses on the homeopathic remedy Nux vomica (Rävkaka), describing it as a valuable nerve remedy for modern, stressed times. It details its effects on the spinal cord, brain, digestive system, and sensory organs, recommending it for irritability, anxiety, and various physical ailments like headaches, indigestion, constipation, and rheumatism. The article suggests different potencies (D30 and higher for psychological issues, D6 for mucosal issues and constipation) and advises taking breaks after a week of use.

Astrology and the New Age

An article titled "Astrologin och den nya tidsåldern" ("Astrology and the New Era") explains the zodiac not as star constellations but as a division of the ecliptic. It highlights the astrological shift from the Age of Pisces to the Age of Aquarius, which is characterized by intellect, knowledge, and abstract thinking, moving away from faith and emotion. This new era is seen as a move towards a global religion that transcends national and cultural boundaries, emphasizing salvation through knowledge rather than faith. The article references Helena Blavatsky and A. A. Bailey, founders of Theosophy and the Arcane School, who predicted this shift. The Age of Aquarius is associated with Uranus, the awakener and liberator, whose influence can be drastic, breaking down old thought patterns, as seen in the atomic age and the breakdown of old societal structures.

Historical Critiques of the New Testament

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to "Några försök att tillintetgöra det Nya Testamentets historiska tillförlitlighet" ("Some Attempts to Destroy the Historical Reliability of the New Testament"). This section details various efforts, primarily by Jewish scholars, to discredit the New Testament. It outlines six main attempts:

1. Riegers' attempt: To explain New Testament narratives as derived from mystery plays, with a fabricated book called the "Mattei Gospel."
2. Kautsky's attempt: To interpret Christianity's origin as a derivation from the conditions of slaves in Rome.
3. Andrzej Niemojewski's attempt: To explain the New Testament as a collection of astrological myths.
4. Religious-historical popular books: Publications from Germany and Sweden that expressed extreme biblical criticism.
5. Georg Brandes' attempt: To construct evidence that Jesus never existed.
6. Kurt Berna et al.'s attempt: In their book, they argue Jesus did not die on the cross, based on an examination of the Turin Shroud, claiming the New Testament was formulated 300 years after Jesus' time.

The article critiques these attempts, noting that the Turin Shroud analysis, while acknowledging the New Testament's description as accurate, paradoxically suggests the New Testament was formulated much later. It also mentions the writings of Apostolic Fathers like Irenaeus as evidence predating the 300-year claim. The author suggests that Jewish scholars are motivated by their denial of Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling a perceived ancestral curse.

Agriculture, Nature, and Health

An article titled "I odlingslandskapet var bonden" ("In the Cultivated Landscape, the Farmer Was") discusses the need to integrate environmental measures into agricultural policy, suggesting support for environmental stewardship by farmers. It contrasts this with post-war policies that favored industrialization and large-scale farming, leading to the neglect of traditional farming practices and rural communities.

Another piece, "Vad menas med bioelement?" ("What is meant by bioelements?"), explains that a healthy field requires around 80 chemical elements, many of which act as magnetic forces for plant growth. Modern agriculture, through chemical fertilizers, depletes these 'trace elements.' Bioelements, described as organic magnetic force fields, are said to restore the chemical balance of soil and aid in the decomposition process in compost.

An article on "Kryddor" ("Spices") cites research from the Max Planck Institute suggesting spices are not harmful but beneficial, particularly in Indian vegetarian diets. It notes that spices may only harm stomachs degenerated by animal products and other 'civilization poisons.'

Other Articles and Features

"Tal till en gammal Dalklocka" ("A Word to an Old Dalklocka Bell") is a reflective piece comparing the past with the present, lamenting the loss of seriousness, faith, and connection to nature in modern society. The author contrasts the perceived 'calm greatness' and 'bold spirit' of past generations with the present-day focus on technology and superficiality.

"Ett pendeldrama från den romerska kejsartiden" ("A Pendulum Drama from the Roman Imperial Era") recounts a historical event where a pendulum was used to divine the successor to Emperor Valens. The divination pointed to 'Theo-s,' leading to the execution of Theodoros, who was mistakenly identified. The actual successor was Theodosius the Great, suggesting the pendulum's accuracy but human misinterpretation.

"POLLEN MED REGISAN" and "REGISAN" are advertisements for pollen-based health products, highlighting their benefits for skin and general well-being, and for general health and vitamin deficiency.

"VETEGRODDOLJA" (Wheat Germ Oil) is promoted for its high Vitamin E content, along with lecithin and pectin.

"ÖRTEXTRAKTER" (Herbal Extracts) and "VITLÖKSKAPSLAR" (Garlic Capsules) are advertised by Örtagubben, offering a range of herbal remedies and garlic supplements for various health concerns.

"HAMAMELIS-SALVA" (Witch Hazel Salve) is recommended for treating wounds, burns, and skin irritations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of SEKLET include the exploration of alternative medicine (homeopathy, herbal remedies), esotericism (astrology, pendulum divination, parapsychology), historical and religious critique (New Testament reliability), and a critical view of modern society and its impact on nature and traditional values. The magazine appears to champion a holistic, spiritual, and historically informed perspective, often questioning mainstream scientific and societal norms. The editorial stance is one of advocating for a deeper understanding of natural forces, spiritual truths, and historical contexts, often presenting information that challenges conventional wisdom. The magazine also serves as a platform for promoting health products and services aligned with these alternative viewpoints.