Seklet - 1971 Vol 18 No 3

Magazine Overview

This issue of *Seklet* magazine, dated 1971, is dedicated to the centenary of the birth of Viktor Vallberg, a Swedish clergyman, author, and researcher. The cover features a portrait of Vallberg and the headline "Den vise lever än" (The wise live on).

Viktor Vallberg: A Life of Unconventional Wisdom

The issue extensively covers the life and work of Viktor Vallberg, highlighting his multifaceted interests that extended far beyond traditional theology. He is presented as a man who lived with an "open door" to various forms of knowledge, including those often dismissed by mainstream science.

Opposition to Vaccination and Advocacy for Natural Health

A significant portion of the articles focuses on Vallberg's lifelong campaign against mandatory vaccination, which he believed caused long-term harm. He meticulously researched the topic, amassing tens of thousands of pages of literature. He also championed natural health methods, including a predominantly vegetarian diet and the use of natural remedies.

Eye Diagnosis and Homeopathy

Vallberg was a proponent of eye diagnosis (iridology) and homeopathy. Initially skeptical, he became convinced of their efficacy through his own extensive investigations and practical experience. He recounts how homeopathy proved successful during the Spanish flu epidemic in his own parish, where no patients treated with it died.

The Pendulum and Other Tools of Inquiry

Beyond conventional methods, Vallberg utilized a pendulum as a tool for investigation, believing it could respond to subtle energies and vibrations from objects. He also explored phrenology, the study of skull shape to determine character and abilities, and was a knowledgeable practitioner.

Critique of Materialism and Defense of Spirituality

A central theme in Vallberg's work was his strong critique of materialism and the prevailing scientific worldview, which he felt ignored or dismissed crucial aspects of human existence, such as spirituality and parapsychological phenomena. He argued that true understanding required acknowledging the existence of an immaterial, spiritual reality.

"Människokunskap" (Human Knowledge)

The magazine highlights Vallberg's major work, "Människokunskap," published in two volumes, which explored a wide range of topics including phrenology, eye diagnosis, and the nature of human consciousness. This work is described as a comprehensive university-level study.

Personal Recollections and Testimonies

Several contributors share personal anecdotes and reflections on Vallberg. Eskil Svensson recounts his first meeting with Vallberg, describing it as a profound encounter that changed his life perspective. Dagmar Vallberg-Jonsson, his daughter, shares excerpts from his letters, revealing his continued intellectual vitality and his deep engagement with spiritual and philosophical questions even in his final years.

"Mitt testamente" (My Testament)

An excerpt from Vallberg's own testament is included, where he reflects on his lifelong pursuit of knowledge and his desire to share truths he discovered, particularly in areas like phrenology, the use of pendulums, and vaccination. He expresses a critical stance towards conventional science and politics, identifying himself as an "anti-politician."

Health and Diet

Dr. A. Vogel's book "Levern som hälsans regulator" (The Liver as a Health Regulator) is discussed, with excerpts focusing on the liver's importance, causes of liver disease, and natural remedies. The importance of diet, particularly the role of fats and natural foods, is emphasized.

Spiritual and Philosophical Views

Vallberg's views on the afterlife, reincarnation, and the nature of the human spirit are explored. He challenged traditional theological interpretations, particularly regarding the resurrection and the concept of the dead sleeping until judgment day, which he saw as influenced by materialistic ideas.

The Human Condition and the Search for Truth

The articles portray Vallberg as a dedicated seeker of truth, unafraid to explore subjects outside the mainstream. His work is presented as a call to a more holistic understanding of life, integrating the spiritual, mental, and physical aspects of human existence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are Viktor Vallberg's lifelong dedication to uncovering hidden truths, his critique of established scientific and religious dogma, and his advocacy for natural health and spiritual awareness. The editorial stance is clearly one of admiration and respect for Vallberg's pioneering spirit and his contributions to alternative thought. The magazine positions itself as a platform for exploring subjects often overlooked by conventional discourse, aligning with Vallberg's own mission.

This issue of "Seklet" from 1971 features a diverse range of articles, including literary analysis, agricultural science, social commentary, and poetry. The magazine's editorial stance appears to favor idealism, personal responsibility, and a critical view of large, impersonal systems like the state and large-scale capitalism.

Literary Error: "Bokslut" by Bertil Rolfsgård

The issue addresses a significant literary misstep concerning the posthumous poetry collection "Bokslut" by Bertil Rolfsgård. Published in late 1970, the collection contained a poem, "Gick jag allena...", which was later discovered to be identical to a poem by the well-known poet Nils Ferlin, appearing in his 1955 collection "Kejsarens papegoja". The error was brought to light by Sara-Maria Wallgren in a review for the publication "handikappsamverkan".

The editorial team at Litteraturförlaget, who published "Bokslut", expressed deep regret and bewilderment over the mistake. In a letter dated March 7, 1971, Birgit Rolfsgård (Bertil Rolfsgård's widow) and Gösta Rosén, who had assisted with the selection and compilation of the poems, explained their perspective. They stated they were unaware that the poem was not originally by Bertil Rolfsgård. They theorized that a copy of the poem might have been included in correspondence or among Bertil's papers during his long illness and hospital stays, and was mistakenly included in his manuscript. They noted that other poems by Nils Ferlin were found with his name clearly marked, but the manuscript for "Gick jag allena..." did not deviate from the others in any way. The publisher has temporarily halted sales of "Bokslut" until a corrected version with an addendum explaining the error can be produced.

"La Culture Organo-Biologique" by Hans Müller

This section summarizes a lecture by Hans Müller, founder of the Organic Farmers Co-operative in Switzerland. Müller argues that modern agriculture, reliant on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, has led to widespread diseases in plants, animals, and humans. He posits that the soil is the fundamental source of health and that organic cultivation, which focuses on restoring the soil's natural biological balance, is the solution.

Müller explains that healthy soil teems with microscopic life – bacteria, fungi, and algae – that break down organic matter and make nutrients available to plants. He criticizes the prevailing agricultural axiom, attributed to Justus von Liebig, that soil needs to be replenished with artificial nutrients, arguing that Liebig himself later recanted this view. Müller highlights research from Professor Schanderl that supports the importance of natural soil processes.

He details the layers of a healthy forest soil, emphasizing the role of different microorganisms in each layer. He advocates for practices like green manuring, minimal tilling, and the use of compost and manure that has undergone aerobic fermentation. Müller asserts that organic farming leads to greater yields, lower costs (by reducing reliance on chemical industries), and superior quality produce, contributing to better public health.

Viktor Vallberg's Vision: "Om jag vore miljonär" (If I were a millionaire)

This extended piece presents a dialogue between the author and an unnamed interlocutor, exploring ideas about wealth, work, and societal organization. Viktor Vallberg, the imagined millionaire, outlines a plan to address unemployment and societal issues.

Vallberg's primary proposal is to establish an agricultural colony and factory. He envisions a system where individuals can earn their livelihood through work, with the goal of creating a more humane and less impersonal economic structure than state socialism or capitalism. He criticizes the state for its bureaucratic and impersonal nature, believing it fails to recognize the multifaceted capabilities of individuals. He proposes a system of "voluntary cooperation" where workers become co-owners of the enterprise, with ownership contingent on their contribution and commitment.

He suggests that such a colony could be located in regions like Jämtland or Södra Lappland, emphasizing that these areas, with proper cultivation methods, can produce high-quality crops, including potatoes, that can compete with those from southern Sweden. He also touches on the importance of natural foods, like whole grain flour and milk from healthy cows, for children's development, contrasting this with the perceived deficiencies of processed foods.

Vallberg argues against the idea of simply abolishing capital, suggesting instead that it should be managed responsibly. He expresses a strong belief in the individual's capacity for self-reliance and criticizes the tendency for people to become dependent on the state. He also touches upon the role of the church and Christianity, suggesting that a true spiritual power lies in its ideals, and criticizes the historical alienation of workers from Christianity.

He engages in a debate about syndicalism and state socialism, expressing reservations about both. He believes that while syndicalism may have some valid ideas, its embrace of violence and materialism is problematic. He views the state's role in managing the economy as potentially oppressive, leading to a loss of individual freedom and initiative. He foresees a future where societal structures will evolve, leading to a more just and free society, but acknowledges that this may involve periods of hardship and upheaval.

Other Sections

• Letters to the Editor: The issue includes a letter from C.O. Holmquist of Läckeby, addressed to the editor.
• Poem by Bertil Rolfsgård: A poem titled "Din bara din..." by Bertil Rolfsgård, from his collection "Bokslut", is included.
• Editorial Note: An editorial note explains that the article "Max Tau" has been postponed to the next issue due to space constraints.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Seklet" revolve around the critique of modern industrial society, the importance of natural living and organic principles, and a philosophical exploration of economic and social systems. The editorial stance is clearly critical of state control, large-scale capitalism, and the perceived dehumanizing effects of industrialization. There is a strong emphasis on individual responsibility, idealism, and a belief in the potential for a more just and harmonious society, often rooted in a spiritual or ethical framework. The magazine seems to advocate for a return to more natural methods in agriculture and a more personal, cooperative approach to work and community life. The critique of societal ills is often framed within a historical and philosophical context, suggesting a long-term perspective on human progress and societal evolution.