Seklet - 1968 Vol 15 No 5

Magazine Overview

This issue of SEKLET, dated 1968, delves into the nature of knowledge concerning the 'other world' and the human condition. The cover story, "Våra kunskapskällor beträffande den andra världen" (Our Sources of Knowledge Regarding the Other World), sets the tone for an exploration that bridges spirituality, philosophy, and emerging scientific inquiries into parapsychology.

The Other World and Human Existence

The articles challenge materialistic views of life, emphasizing the spiritual nature of humanity and the existence of an afterlife. The text critiques the traditional Christian understanding of resurrection, particularly the emphasis on physical resurrection, and advocates for a more spiritual interpretation. It highlights the struggle to free humanity from materialistic and legalistic bondage, a theme linked to the teachings of Jesus and the interpretations of Paul.

The magazine posits that the human being is fundamentally spiritual, a concept that contrasts with the idea of being merely a 'dust' or a fabricated being. It explores the idea that the 'spiritual self' is what truly resurrects, not the physical body. The text also touches upon the historical and theological debates surrounding the understanding of human nature and its continuation after death.

Sources of Knowledge

Beyond religious texts like the Old and New Testaments, the magazine points to a vast body of literature on the subject, estimated to be in the tens of thousands of volumes. It mentions specific authors and their works, such as Astrid Gilmark's "Jag vet" (I Know), which reportedly contains numerous accounts of messages from deceased individuals. The importance of personal experiences and spontaneous communications is emphasized as a source of conviction.

Parapsychology and Scientific Inquiry

The issue features an extensive review of Olle Holmberg's book, "Den osannolika verkligheten" (The Unlikely Reality), which details his decades of research into parapsychological phenomena. Holmberg, an outsider in the field, approaches his subject with skepticism and a desire for personal conviction. The review covers experiments in telepathy, clairvoyance, psychometry, E.S.P., and levitation, highlighting the statistical methods used to differentiate genuine phenomena from chance or fraud. The article discusses the work of prominent researchers like J. B. Rhine and Charles Richet, contrasting their materialistic and spiritual approaches.

It is suggested that scientific discoveries are beginning to validate phenomena previously dismissed as superstition, such as dowsing (using a divining rod) and the effects of psychic energy. The magazine notes that even materialistic scientists like Charles Richet have acknowledged the existence of non-physical forces influencing reality.

The Power of Books

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the influence and importance of books. The article "Boken" (The Book) quotes Goethe's saying that one can judge a person by the company they keep, extending this to books. It emphasizes that books can be powerful guides, shaping individuals and even entire societies, for better or worse. Examples are given of books that have inspired revolutions and those that have led to destruction, as well as books that have brought solace and guidance.

The article references literary critics like Seneca and Ernest Dimnet, who advocate for reading only the most valuable works. It also presents classifications of books by Heinrich Lhotzky and Houston Stewart Chamberlain, distinguishing between books for work, education, and entertainment, and highlighting works of profound spiritual or philosophical significance, such as the Bible, Upanishads, and the works of Shakespeare and Plato.

Humor and Spirituality

The magazine includes an article on humor, referencing Harald Höffding's "Den stora humorn" (The Great Humor). It explores the nature of humor, its relationship to mockery, and its potential as a life philosophy. The article suggests that humor, when understood deeply, can offer insights into life's complexities.

Other Articles and Themes

Other sections include "Heligt och profant" (Sacred and Profane), which discusses the shift from sacred to profane in modern society and the role of religion. It references Mircea Eliade's work on the manifestations of the sacred in various cultures. "Meditation" offers a brief reflection on finding peace in the present moment. "Andeskrift" (Spirit Writing) presents accounts of phenomena where messages are written by unseen hands, including examples from Germany and historical instances like the writing on Belshazzar's wall.

There is also a piece on "Födelsemärken" (Birthmarks), which challenges the scientific explanation of their origin and presents anecdotal evidence suggesting a connection to the mother's experiences during pregnancy. The magazine also includes a tribute to Otto Rudebeck, the owner of Askersunds Tekniska Fabrik, a homeopathic medicine manufacturer, highlighting his dedication and the history of homeopathy in Sweden.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the spiritual dimension of life, the critique of materialism, the validation of parapsychological phenomena through scientific investigation, and the profound influence of literature and knowledge. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages open-mindedness towards spiritual and psychic realities, challenging conventional scientific and religious dogma, and advocating for a deeper understanding of human existence beyond the physical realm. There is a strong emphasis on personal conviction derived from study and experience, and a belief in the transformative power of knowledge and spiritual insight.

SEKLET, issue from 1968, published by Strängnäs Tryckeri AB in Sweden. The cover headline poses a profound question: "Is it mankind's inevitable fate to destroy and be destroyed?" The magazine explores a wide range of topics, from homeopathy and herbal remedies to ecological concerns, the causes of diseases, and spiritual and philosophical inquiries.

Homeopathy

Pulsatilla

The article "Homeopati: Pulsatilla" details the homeopathic remedy derived from the Pulsatilla plant (Ängssippa, fam. Ranunculaceae). It describes Pulsatilla as a remedy for individuals with slow and delayed bodily functions, characterized by mood swings, shifting pains, and a general feeling of weakness and fatigue. It is particularly noted as beneficial for mild, tearful, and pale individuals, and is considered a significant remedy for women. The text provides extensive characteristic symptoms related to the mind, head, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, respiratory system, stomach, abdomen, excretions, female organs, male organs, heart, back, limbs, skin, and fever. It emphasizes that Pulsatilla works best for subacute and chronic conditions and suggests potencies like D12-D200, with D30 being a good general choice for self-treatment.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

"Örtagubbens spalt: Pepparmynta" discusses the historical and medicinal uses of peppermint. Originating from the Far East, it was known in antiquity and used in Europe through monasteries. Peppermint is highlighted for its digestive benefits, acting as a stomach strengthener, relieving gas, and calming stomach nerves, making it useful for colic and stomach cramps. Its essential oils are said to positively affect metabolism, kidneys, and respiratory mucous membranes. Historically, it has been used for poor sleep, headaches, heart palpitations, and general malaise. The article cites German sources that praise peppermint for its disinfecting properties and its use in cases of stomach cramps, vomiting, and for purifying the body.

Health and Ecology

The Depleted Earth and the Poisoned Earth

The article "Den utsugna jorden och den förgiftade jorden" (The Depleted Earth and the Poisoned Earth) explores how modern agricultural practices, such as monoculture, continuous harvesting without replenishment, excessive use of artificial fertilizers, and the burning of straw and weeds, lead to soil depletion and infertility. It cites the example of American agriculture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where intensive farming left vast areas barren. The article contrasts two historical viewpoints on plant nutrition: one emphasizing soil nutrients, the other focusing on mineral salts (potassium, phosphorus, calcium, nitrogen). It criticizes the modern scientific view that treats soil as a chemical reservoir, referencing Annie Francé-Harrar's book "Die letzte Chance für eine Zukunft ohne Not." The piece links the consumption of food grown in depleted or chemically contaminated soil to "abnormal metabolism," which can cause numerous disruptions in the human organism, particularly affecting the spleen, liver, blood formation, and intestinal functions, potentially leading to cell malformations and cancer. It lists several causes for cancer, including disharmonious mineral intake, poor nutrition leading to constipation, vitamin deficiencies, plants poisoned by fertilizers, and radiation from unhealthy soil. It also points to vaccinations, injections, and X-ray treatments as factors that can promote cancer, noting a significant increase in cancer rates since the early 19th century.

Is it Mankind's Inevitable Fate to Destroy and Be Destroyed?

This section critically examines the history of humanity, describing it as a path of folly, crime, and destruction. It argues that even excluding war, human actions have led to widespread ruin and an inability to control circumstances or base impulses. The article attributes many misfortunes, poverty, and diseases to humanity's own transgressions and failures. It cites statements from Swedish medical journals and books, such as "Des Teufels Küche" by Günther Schwab and "Människan utan jag" by Joachim Bodamer, which highlight the dangers of modern civilization. These sources warn that advancements in medicine, chemical industries, and food production create conditions for poisoning and hypersensitivity. They also express concern that modern medical practices, including X-rays, radium, and radioactive isotopes, are mutagenic and can cause deformities. The article questions whether the progress of medicine over the past fifty to seventy-five years poses a danger to future generations' health, with one expert calling it potentially "deadly." It also raises concerns about vaccinations and atomic explosions contributing to mutations.

Can the Wolf Be Saved?

This piece discusses the endangered status of the Swedish-Norwegian wolf population. It mentions that a new law in 1967/68, which also protected bears, wolverines, and lynx, left only a few wolves. The article questions how wolves were nearly eradicated in a few decades, noting that while wolves were a threat to Sami reindeer herds for centuries, their extinction was rapid. It suggests that wolf hunting might have been conducted unfairly, possibly including illegal practices like hunting from airplanes, as described in Halvdan Renling's novel "Bergakväll." The new hunting law prohibits hunting from aircraft, motor vehicles, or boats with motors, and also restricts tracking and pursuing game with such means.

Homeopathic Medicine and Dowsing

Homeopathic Medicine Instructions

The article "Homeopatiska läkemedel" provides guidance on the dosage and administration of homeopathic medicines. It distinguishes between lower potencies (D6-D12) for acute conditions, which can be taken frequently, and higher potencies (D30-D200) for chronic cases, taken less often. It advises caution with very high potencies (M and CM) and recommends consulting a homeopath. Instructions are given on how to take the pills (not touching them with fingers, letting them dissolve on the tongue) and how to prepare them in water for faster action. It suggests not taking the same remedy for more than a week consecutively and recommends a 3-4 day break before continuing or switching remedies. The article also warns against using "apothecary medicine" concurrently with homeopathic treatment, as it can hinder healing, though medicinal teas and herbal extracts are considered acceptable. It advises avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and coffee, as they can diminish the effect of homeopathic remedies, and recommends storing medicines in a dark, dry place.

Dowsing and Pendulums

"Hur jag kom att undersöka slagruta och pendel" by V. Vallberg recounts the author's personal journey into investigating dowsing rods (slagruta) and pendulums. He describes an encounter with a farmer who used a string with a stone to locate water veins. This led him to explore the practice, which he found to be a secret knowledge passed down through generations. He recounts an incident where a man, possibly suffering from mental illness, used a pendulum to claim his wife intended to poison him, later succumbing to his illness. The author experimented with pendulums using various substances, including gold and homeopathic remedies, finding that they all produced "radiation effects." He concluded that while the principles of dowsing and pendulums are ancient, his systematic approach was his own. He criticizes modern science for dismissing these practices as "superstition" or "hysteria" due to its materialistic basis, suggesting that this scientific establishment holds significant power over information dissemination.

Literature and Spirituality

Erik Johan Stagnelius: Mystic and Poet

This article profiles the Swedish poet Erik Johan Stagnelius, describing him as a "martyr of fantasy" whose life and work were deeply immersed in a world of imagination, moods, visions, and tones. It notes his exceptional command of language, his knowledge of classical literature and philosophy (particularly Platonism), and his encounter with Gnosticism in his clerical home. The author discusses the term "Gnosticism" in relation to Stagnelius's religious worldview, explaining that Gnosticism emphasizes inner knowledge and spiritual revelation, contrasting it with the Christian emphasis on divine revelation through Christ and faith expressed in deeds. The article suggests that applying the label "Gnosticism" to Stagnelius might be an oversimplification, though it acknowledges his work contained elements of astrology, which had connections to Gnosticism and ancient pagan religions. It also mentions the difficulty scholars have had interpreting his "Amanda" songs and references engineer Georg Ljungström's unpublished reflections on Stagnelius's poetry.

Eviga Sanningar (Eternal Truths)

This section introduces "Eviga Sanningar" by William Naylon, a collection of messages from "Silver Birch" that have been regularly published in English journals. Six compilation volumes have been released, spreading Silver Birch's philosophy worldwide.

Natterman's Teas

This advertisement promotes a range of herbal teas from Natterman, claiming they harness nature's healing powers, supported by scientific research. Teas are offered for coughs and colds, liver and gall support, mild constipation, and as a mild sedative for sleep. Other teas are for water and urinary tract support, and for aiding digestion and regulating appetite.

"Född med Siargava" (Born with Siargava)

This is an offer for a book about Jeane Dixon, the American psychic and crystal gazer, titled "Sanningen om Jeane Dixon" (The Truth about Jeane Dixon) by Ruth Montgomery. It highlights Dixon's predictions published annually since 1952 and her appearances on US radio and TV. The offer provides a discounted price for SEKLET readers.

Other Content

Viktor Vallberg's Publications

A list of Viktor Vallberg's publications is provided, with titles and prices. These include works on "Människokunskap" (Human Knowledge), "Den okända människan" (The Unknown Human), "Kristendomens forntid, nutid, framtid" (The Antiquity, Present, and Future of Christianity), "Tandrotan" (Tooth Root), "Syner, uppenbarelser, förutsägelser, profetior" (Visions, Revelations, Predictions, Prophecies), "Aftonrodnad och morgon-brand" (Evening Redness and Morning Fire), "Lappmarkens själ" (The Soul of Lappland), "Hedenii Evangelium" (The Gospel of Hedenii), "Den kära okunnigheten" (The Dear Ignorance), "Det nya testamentets sanning" (The Truth of the New Testament), "Vaccinationens väsen" (The Essence of Vaccination), "Jordbrukets förnyelse" (The Renewal of Agriculture), and "Den eteriska strålningen" (The Etheric Radiation). The last two works are specifically mentioned as dealing with pendulums and dowsing rods. A separate listing for "Pendlar av mässing" (Brass Pendulums) and "Astrologisk karaktärstolkning" (Astrological Character Interpretation) is also present.

New Orientation for Mankind's Future

This article discusses two influential books from the 1960s: Rachel Carson's "Silent Spring" and Günther Schwab's "Djävulsdansen" (The Devil's Dance). It argues that these books highlight critical scientific and other mistakes made by humanity, leading to the destruction of the conditions for existence on Earth. The author questions why, despite these warnings, research and productive work are not focused on restoring ecological balance. The article criticizes the neglect of agriculture in favor of industrialization and robots, referencing Professor Georg Borgström's book "Mat för miljarder" (Food for Billions), which discusses global food supply issues and the paradox of increasing starvation alongside technological advancement. Borgström's work is described as a compilation of radio talks and articles offering insights into global supply problems and new analyses of regions like Latin America and Australia.

Mysticism in Vällingby

This section refers to a radio talk from January 1968 titled "Mystiker i Vällingby" (Mystics in Vällingby) that received significant interest. It mentions that the talk, along with other related programs by Professor Carl-Martin Edsman, has been compiled into a book. The book reportedly features mystics from different eras and covers topics such as the history of mysticism, Christian mystics (like Simone Weil), the human relationship with the cosmos, soul transmigration, dreams, chemical mysticism (mescaline, LSD), and religious experiences in literature.

Bushido

"Bushido: Behärska dina medmänniskor med tankens makt" (Bushido: Master your fellow humans with the power of thought) discusses the Japanese national system, Bushido, which is credited with Japan's unexpected victories in the 1904-1905 war. The article suggests that beyond military might, Bushido, founded on human rights and duties, was a key factor. It describes Bushido as a book for anyone who wants to achieve something in life, offering something essential to everyone.

Indridi Indridasson

This short piece mentions Indridi Indridasson as a fascinating medium whose phenomena have been documented by Professor Haraldur Nielsson of the University of Iceland in his book "Kyrkan och den psykiska forskningen" (The Church and Psychic Research).

Sojabits

"Nyhet! - SOJABIT" introduces Soyabit as a new, refined soybean product. It is described as a fully vegetarian food with high-quality protein, low fat content, and a meat-like consistency. Soyabit is presented as a cost-effective source of protein, offering versatility and serving as a good meat substitute, particularly for children, dieters, and those seeking lighter meals. It is also noted for its potential benefits in dietetic food due to its vegetable origin and fat content. It is sold in 500g packages, available in unsalted or salted and onion flavors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine SEKLET consistently promotes alternative health practices, including homeopathy and herbalism, often contrasting them with conventional medicine and scientific approaches. There is a strong emphasis on natural remedies and a critical stance towards modern industrial society, its impact on the environment, and its potential health consequences. The publication also explores spiritual, mystical, and philosophical themes, suggesting a search for deeper truths beyond the material world. The editorial stance appears to be one of questioning established norms, advocating for natural and holistic approaches to health and life, and raising awareness about societal and environmental issues.