Anomalija - No 10

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Аномалия" (Anomaliya), scientific-informational bulletin of TASS and the Association "Ecology of the Unidentified," is issue number 9, dated September 1991. The cover prominently features the title "Аномалия" and poses the question, "WHO 'DRAWS' ON THE WHEAT FIELDS?" alongside the sub-headline "IN FOCUS - A REAL UFO." The issue includes sections on "Ecology" and "Unidentified."

Letters to the Editor

The issue begins with a letter from the editor expressing gratitude to readers for their letters, which are described as benevolent, informative, and thought-provoking. Many letters are being published, while others are being analyzed by experts from the Association for future commentary. The editor also addresses a misunderstanding regarding printing errors, specifically a "typographical defect" where some pages were half-blank. A reader named V.A. Kaidalov from the Kirov region complained about this, threatening to send the issue to "Krokodil." The editor clarifies that such issues are beyond the editorial control and provides the address for complaints to the TASS Information Dissemination Department. The editor also discusses subscription prices for 1992, noting an increase to 18 rubles for private individuals and lamenting the inflated prices charged by resellers, urging readers to subscribe directly through the Association "Ecology of the Unidentified" at a Moscow P.O. Box.

Contents of the Issue

The "TODAY IN THIS ISSUE" section lists several articles:

• UFO Portrait: A REAL OBJECT, AN UNINTENTIONAL IMITATION
• Analysis of a photograph of a UFO.
• Discussion Tribune: UNITY IN THE LIKENESS OF THE TRINITY
• Exploration of the nature of knowledge and human personality.
• Searches and Finds: THE RIDDLE OF THE 'TIBETAN GOSPEL'
• Investigating the legend of Jesus Christ's life in India.
• Club "Crazy Idea": WHY DOES SATURN HAVE RINGS?
• Exorcism and Psychiatry: WHO HEALED THE POSSESSED?
• Comments from a biologist, doctor, and theologian.
• Nepalese Report: ONE DAY IN THE LIFE OF A SORCERER
• "Permskaya Zone": OPINIONS AND DOUBTS
• "And the Permians 'swallowed the bait.'"
• "I disagree with A. Veinik"
• "So that the decree is not harmful..."
• "Good deeds - not in the satanic style"
• Investigators Lead: WHO 'DRAWS' ON THE WHEAT FIELDS?
• Investigating the creators of crop circles.
• Incidents: UFO DEBRIS OR PRANKSTERS' DOINGS?
• "Did jinns start the fire?"
• "What is at the bottom of the lake?"

The issue is identified as N 9, September 1991.

UFO Portrait: A REAL OBJECT

This section presents a photograph (Photo 1) submitted by IL-62 navigator Nikolai Potapov. The photo, taken in the summer of 1979 by his fellow cadet Andrey Snegirev, shows a large object and a smaller "speck" above a plane. The image was studied by a special cinema-photo laboratory. Experts from the Association "Ecology of the Unidentified" believe the large object is not an aerodrome technical device, possibly a probe. The smaller object, described as a "speck," is not an image defect and may be related to the larger one. Gennady Lifentsev, a professional photo engineer with 30 years of experience, stated that the object above the plane is real and cannot be identified from the photograph, ruling out photomontage.

UNINTENTIONAL IMITATION

Galina Vasilyeva, a ufologist from the regional radio and television committee in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, submitted three photographs and two negatives to the Association "Ecology of the Unidentified." She reported that the objects captured were photographed during an ichthyological expedition. Vasilyeva requested a serious expert examination. The Association's expert group, led by G. Lifentsev, concluded that the most interesting image (snapshot 2) was an "unintentional imitation of a UFO caused by the detachment of the emulsion layer in several areas of the negative. The 'UFO' and other images are of the same nature, due to a violation of the temperature regime during film processing."

Discussion Tribune: UNITY IN THE LIKENESS OF THE TRINITY

This article explores the problem of anomalous phenomena (Ufology, poltergeist activity, earthquake prediction, hydro-atmospheric, and ionospheric anomalies) and argues for a holistic approach. It links the problem of holistic knowledge to the problem of holistic personality, which is currently neglected, with the individual's self alienated. The author posits that human actions are guided by three initial forces: knowing, willing, and feeling. The modern personality is characterized by a lack of harmony, with these forces in conflict. The article discusses different modes of cognition: rationalism (logic and reason), empiricism (practical observation), and intuitive knowledge (through the heart). It critiques the limitations of pure rationalism (e.g., Kant's antinomies, Gödel's incompleteness theorem) and pure empiricism (e.g., Heisenberg's uncertainty principle). The author suggests that true understanding of anomalous phenomena requires a synthesis of all three modes of cognition, which is currently absent in modern science. The article then delves into Christian theology, explaining the concept of the Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) as reflected in the tripartite nature of the human soul (knowing, willing, feeling). It argues that the original holistic personality, created in the image of God, has been fragmented by sin, leading to a loss of this unity. The article suggests that only through the heart, as an organ of spiritual perception, can the individual reconnect with the Divine and achieve a unified consciousness, aligning the three forces of the soul. This holistic understanding, it is argued, is necessary to comprehend anomalous phenomena, which integrate earthly, biological, spiritual, and psychic aspects.

The article further categorizes research paradigms for anomalous phenomena: one relying on artificial sensors and rationalism, another on empirical study of natural object interactions, and a third using individuals with specific psychic properties as sensors. It concludes that no single paradigm is sufficient and that a synthesis of all cognitive methods, including faith, is required. The Christian apologetics tradition is presented as a framework that has long addressed these issues.

Searches and Finds: THE RIDDLE OF THE 'TIBETAN GOSPEL'

This section investigates the controversial book "The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ" by Nikolai Notovich. Notovich, a Russian traveler, claimed to have discovered a Tibetan manuscript in the Hemis monastery near Leh, India, detailing Jesus's life between the ages of 13 and 29. According to the manuscript, Jesus traveled to India, studied Buddhist teachings, and preached a message of monotheism and compassion, which led to his persecution by local priests. The article notes that Notovich's claims were met with skepticism and accusations of forgery, partly due to an interview with the Hemis monastery's abbot by an Englishman, Professor J. Douglas, who reported the abbot denied any knowledge of Notovich or his book. The article mentions that the book was eventually published in French in 1894 and in Russian in 1910, generating significant interest. It also touches upon the work of Swami Abhedananda and Nikolai Roerich, who also explored the legend of Jesus in India. The author draws parallels between the teachings attributed to Jesus in the "Tibetan Gospel" and those of Buddha, citing examples of Christ's teachings on loving enemies and comparing them to Buddhist principles of forgiveness and compassion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of anomalous phenomena with spirituality, philosophy, and esoteric beliefs. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained events, while also engaging with theological and philosophical interpretations. There is a clear interest in presenting controversial theories, such as Notovich's account of Jesus's life in India, and in analyzing the nature of human perception and knowledge. The magazine also addresses practical matters, such as subscription details and the handling of reader feedback, indicating a commitment to engaging with its readership.

This issue of "Аномалия" (Anomaliya) magazine, dated September 1991 (Issue 09.91, Volume 10), focuses on the intersection of paranormal phenomena, spirituality, and psychology, with a particular emphasis on "Exorcism and Psychiatry" and "Searches and Findings."

Article: The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ

The first article discusses the similarities between the teachings of Jesus Christ and Buddha, particularly regarding ethical principles like avoiding anger, malice, and revenge. It references Nicholas Notovich's controversial book "The Unknown Life of Jesus Christ," which suggests Jesus may have traveled to India and been influenced by Buddhist and Hindu philosophies. The author, Nina Rukavishnikova, an Indologist, proposes that the figure described in Notovich's work might not be the historical Jesus of the 1st century but rather another Christian preacher named Issa who lived in India between the 6th and 16th centuries. She suggests that the manuscript might be a combination of an account of Issa's life and a retelling of one of the Gospels, possibly an attempt to reconcile Christian and Buddhist beliefs.

Article: Why Does Saturn Have Rings?

This section delves into theories about the origin of life and human evolution. It questions Darwin's theory and explores the hypothesis of panspermia, suggesting that life on Earth may have originated from extraterrestrial sources. The article discusses how science fiction writers have imagined alien life forms and considers the possibility of intelligent beings from other planets. It touches upon the idea that human-like forms are not necessarily a prerequisite for intelligent life. The author, Guram Tsushbaya, a ufologist, proposes a hypothesis that multiple civilizations may have been involved in seeding life on Earth, explaining the diversity of human races. He also speculates on the origin of Saturn's rings, suggesting they might be artificial structures created by an advanced civilization on a planet named Valefim (possibly Saturn) to capture galactic energy, possibly influenced by Jupiter when it was a star.

Article: Who Healed the Possessed Girl?

This article reports on a televised exorcism ritual in the USA, filmed by ABC for the program "20/20." It details the case of Gina, a 16-year-old girl suffering from psychosis, who underwent an exorcism performed by Catholic priests. The report highlights the controversy surrounding the event, with some religious figures viewing it as a legitimate spiritual practice and others, like Reverend James Gardiner, questioning the suitability of television for such sensitive matters. The article notes that a significant portion of Americans believe in evil spirits and their influence. It quotes Louis Marcos, vice-president of a medical corporation, who permits exorcism as a treatment for certain psychological disorders. The article also mentions the differing views of doctors and priests regarding Gina's recovery, with doctors attributing it to medication and priests to the exorcism. The piece concludes by emphasizing the need for further study of this phenomenon.

Article: Hypnotic Influence?

This section discusses the power of suggestion and collective psychological influence, drawing parallels between mass hysteria and the televised exorcism. It suggests that the ritual, amplified by media attention and the book "The Exorcist," exerts a powerful psychological pressure on the patient, comparable to electroshock therapy. The article references the work of Dr. Grigory Kuraev, who posits that the effectiveness of exorcism lies in its method of hypnotic suggestion. It also touches upon the concept of 'gdon' therapy from ancient Indo-Tibetan medicine, which deals with the treatment of 'nature spirits' that can possess humans.

Article: "Gdon" and Unkind Nature Spirits

This piece, inspired by a New York report, explores the concept of 'gdon' therapy from ancient Indo-Tibetan medicine. It describes 'gdon' as a treatment for pathological conditions caused by 'unkind nature spirits' that can possess individuals. The therapy involves understanding the body's energetic framework and diagnosing the types of spirits influencing the person. The article suggests that this ancient practice, along with other methods like shamanic rituals and prayers, has often been observed to yield positive results, even if explained by modern science through concepts like hypnosis or psychological dependence.

Article: The Invisible Horizons of Prayer

This article examines exorcism from a religious and psychological perspective, asserting that it does not contradict the New Testament or religious doctrine. It traces the history of exorcism, noting its inclusion in the liturgical texts of the Eastern Orthodox Church. The author, Father Evgeny, a priest, argues that psychiatry and exorcism are complementary, with prayer being a high-level component that is difficult for humans to fully comprehend. He suggests that prayer engages both logical and subconscious aspects of the brain, facilitating a dialogue with the divine and potentially aiding in healing.

Report: One Day in the Life of a Jungkhri

This report from Nepal describes a day in the life of a jungkhri (shaman/healer) named Govinda. It details his journey to a sick patient, his elaborate ritual involving drumming, chanting, and the use of various amulets and herbs, and his diagnosis of the illness as being caused by evil spirits. The article highlights the deep respect and trust Nepalese villagers place in jungkhri, often preferring them over formally trained doctors. It explains that jungkhri believe illnesses are caused by malevolent spirits and that their role is to expel these spirits. The report also touches upon the identification of witches in Nepalese folklore and the jungkhri's role in treating animals. The article concludes by noting the continued relevance of jungkhri in Nepal due to the scarcity of doctors in rural areas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the paranormal, the unexplained, and alternative healing practices. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting various theories and accounts from ufology, spirituality, and ancient traditions while also acknowledging the role of psychology and modern science. The editorial stance encourages readers to consider these phenomena with an open mind, supported by scientific data, and to engage in thoughtful consideration of these complex subjects. The magazine seems to bridge the gap between the spiritual and the scientific, suggesting that phenomena often dismissed as superstition may hold deeper truths worthy of investigation.

Title: «Пермская зона»: мнения и сомнения (The 'Perm Zone': Opinions and Doubts)
Issue: 19
Volume/Date: 09.91 (September 1991)
Publisher: Аномалия (Anomaly)
Country: Russia

This issue of 'Anomaly' magazine delves into the controversial 'Perm Zone,' a region in Russia known for alleged UFO sightings and other unexplained phenomena. It presents a multifaceted investigation, exploring geological, geophysical, psychological, and historical perspectives to understand the nature of the anomalies reported there.

Geophysical and Geological Hypotheses

The article begins by examining the initial conclusion that there were no grounds for purely ufological work in the Molebka area. Instead, it shifts focus to the hypothesis of a geophysical anomaly influencing the human organism and potentially causing uncontrolled brain activity. Expert geological opinions are presented, highlighting unusual features in the geological structure of the area, specifically mentioning high densities of 'lineaments of mega-faulting' in regions including Molebka, south of Osa, between Dobryanka and Gubakha, and west of Kudymkar. These areas are characterized by intense erosion processes.

Further scientific investigation by the geophysics department of Perm State University (PGU) in the Molebka region led to conclusions about the presence of a limestone reef at a relatively shallow depth (around 700 meters). This reef is described as not monolithic but fractured by numerous fissures through which diffusion processes from the depths bring substances like methane and radon to the surface. These gases, rising through layers of sedimentary rock, are suggested to potentially influence the human organism. The article notes that the intensity of these diffusion processes depends on weather and season, possibly explaining variations in reported 'miracles' between summer and winter.

Another hypothesis from L.V. Bankovsky, a researcher at the Institute of Economics of the Ural Branch of the USSR Academy of Sciences, suggests the emanation of 'electronic and low-temperature plasma flows' in the anomaly zone. These particles, accumulating along fault lines, could form spherical, elliptical, or cylindrical shapes, consistent with numerous photographic and video records from Molebka.

Historical data also supports the idea of geophysical anomalies in the region. Investigations revealed the presence of iron and magnetic ores, as well as cinnabar (mercury ore). The article references historical records of a successful cast-iron foundry in Molebka operating for over 100 years, which utilized local iron ores, including magnetic iron from the 'Buraya glinistykh zheleznyakov' and magnetic iron from the High Mountain mine (Nizhny Tagil). Historical statistics indicate substantial ore extraction, with over 200,000 poods annually in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The foundry was eventually closed in 1905. The article also mentions the historical population of the area, noting around 3968 residents in Molebka in 1908, with about 70 khutors (small settlements) downstream along the Sylva River.

Skepticism and Alternative Explanations

The article critically examines the evidence for extraterrestrial involvement, stating that there is no single, irrefutable fact to support the presence of non-terrestrial civilizations in the 'Perm Zone' or elsewhere. Instead, it proposes several alternative explanations for the numerous testimonies from visitors.

One explanation is that these accounts are a form of 'collective unconsciousness,' 'group delusion,' or the 'mob phenomenon,' where individual identity is subsumed by a shared belief. Another possibility is that many witnesses are experiencing hallucinations, possibly exacerbated by psychological or nervous disorders. A third, related explanation suggests that sensitive individuals, or 'sensitives,' might be connecting to the Earth's astral or informational field, or telepathically communicating with non-terrestrial intelligences. However, the author argues that such abilities do not require traveling to remote locations like Molebka and can be achieved through learned psychoregulation techniques.

The information obtained from individuals claiming 'contact' is deemed to lack real content, meaning, or practical applicability, rendering it unverifiable. The author concludes that this information is a product of the human brain, quoting Goya: "The sleep of reason breeds monsters." This is further supported by the observation that many visitors to the zone report no anomalous experiences or contacts.

Social and Psychological Phenomena

The article posits that the 'Perm Zone' phenomenon is less about anomalous or ufological events and more about socio-psychological phenomena. It draws parallels with the rise of 'tele-shamanism' (e.g., Chumak and Kashpirovsky), the emergence of false prophets, and pseudopsychics, attributing this to widespread illiteracy in spiritual and psychological matters and an 'information hypervitaminosis' leading to a form of 'information AIDS.' This inability to adequately process information, the author suggests, fuels the development of events around the Perm Zone.

Visitors are described as misinterpreting natural phenomena, such as Venus as a spacecraft, bird calls as alien voices, or food poisoning as an anomalous cosmic illness. This is attributed to a lack of preparedness and a pre-existing inclination towards ufological sensationalism fueled by popular press.

The article characterizes the emergence of 'NLO-cultism' as a complex and peculiar phenomenon that hinders the development of new scientific directions in ufology by substituting scientific results with its own claims and discrediting genuine research. The author suggests that combating this 'hidden evil' requires professionalism, competence in scientific work, broad dissemination of results, and a persistent pursuit of truth.

Debates on Biolocation and UFOs

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a debate concerning Albert Veynik's article "Don't participate in the fruitless deeds of darkness." Rem Varlamov, a Doctor of Technical Sciences, defends the scientific study of UFOs and biolocation, disagreeing with Veynik's assertion that these phenomena are solely of earthly evil origin.

Varlamov recounts two personal UFO sightings: one in Kyrgyzstan involving an oval yellow object, and another near Sochi in September 1957, where a spherical object with flashing lights was observed. These experiences fueled his interest in UFOs, leading him to use biolocation to investigate alleged UFO landing sites. His research involved analyzing soil samples from these sites, revealing significant differences in chemical composition between the central 'impact' areas and surrounding areas, suggesting a lasting energetic impact from the object.

He discusses the material nature of UFOs, citing the discovery of a unique, multi-element construction material in samples that cannot be replicated in terrestrial laboratories. Varlamov also addresses the issue of biolocation itself, noting its ancient origins and its historical use in finding water and mineral deposits. He highlights its development in the USSR, with numerous specialists and commissions dedicated to its study. He provides evidence of successful applications, including the discovery of mineral deposits and the identification of geo-pathogenic zones, which are linked to health problems like asthma and cancer.

Critiques of Veynik's Stance

Nikolai Sochevanov, a Candidate of Geological-Mineralogical Sciences, criticizes Albert Veynik's shift in perspective. Sochevanov notes that while Veynik, in 1980, studied potential UFO landing sites with a developed instrument, he now attributes UFOs to satanic phenomena. Sochevanov argues that the work of the Interdepartmental Commission on Biolocation is beneficial and not satanic, and that Veynik's proposal to disband such organizations is unfounded.

The Mystery of Crop Circles

The magazine also touches upon the phenomenon of crop circles, which have appeared in Britain and other parts of the world since the 1970s. The article questions how these intricate patterns are formed, noting that the stalks are not broken and the formations appear overnight. It dismisses simple explanations like pranks or wind effects. The author speculates whether these might be messages from extraterrestrial beings testing human intelligence and readiness for communication.

The article references the ancient Nazca Lines in Peru, suggesting that the crop circles could be a modern form of similar 'messages' from beings who visited Earth in the past. It recounts the discovery of the Nazca Lines by Dr. Paul Kosok, who observed them from the air, and the subsequent systematic study by mathematician and geographer Dr. Maria Reiche. The Nazca figures, including a spider, monkey, and human-like figures, are described as massive geoglyphs etched into the desert floor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained phenomena associated with the 'Perm Zone,' including UFO sightings, geophysical anomalies, and the psychological responses of witnesses. There is a clear tension between scientific skepticism, which seeks rational explanations rooted in geology and psychology, and a more open-minded approach that considers the possibility of extraterrestrial intelligence or unknown natural forces. The magazine appears to present various viewpoints, from those who dismiss the phenomena as psychological or earthly in origin to those who believe in the potential for non-terrestrial involvement. The editorial stance seems to favor rigorous scientific investigation while acknowledging the public's fascination with the unknown, and it critiques what it perceives as unscientific or cult-like approaches to these subjects.

This issue of the TASS publication 'Следствие ведут знатоки' (Investigators are leading the investigation), dated September 1991, presents a collection of articles detailing unexplained phenomena from around the world. The magazine, with a cover price of 1 ruble, focuses on mysteries that challenge conventional explanations, drawing from reports by its correspondents.

The Nazca Lines: Extraterrestrial Landing Traces?

The lead article, featuring insights from Erich von Däniken, explores the enigmatic Nazca lines in Peru. Von Däniken posits that these vast geoglyphs, including figures of animals and geometric shapes etched into the desert floor, are not merely ancient art or agricultural markers, but rather the direct result of extraterrestrial spacecraft landing on the plateau approximately 2,500 to 3,000 years ago. He argues that the indigenous peoples, witnessing this 'divine' activity, developed a 'cargo cult' behavior, attempting to imitate the gods by creating their own figures and signs on the ground. Von Däniken extends this theory to other unexplained ground markings globally, including crop circles, suggesting they are direct messages from extraterrestrial beings.

Bucharest Incident: UFO Fragments?

A report from Bucharest, Romania, details an incident on the night of June 23-24, 1991, where the Popa family's apartment was struck by several small objects, described as 'elements' or fragments of a small rocket. While police and military officials could only confirm it was a 'small rocket or projectile,' local ufologists and the Bucharest Observatory suspect they are remnants of an alien probe or a signal rocket fired from a UFO. The family reported a loud noise, a blinding beam of light, and damage to their windows, including a completely shattered outer pane and a large hole in the inner pane with burnt edges. The family firmly dismisses the possibility of a prank involving a signal flare.

Cairo Mystery: The Poltergeist Apartment

In Cairo, Egypt, investigators were baffled by a fire that erupted in an apartment on Usman Makhram street, which locals attributed to the intervention of 'jinns.' Despite the presence of investigators, inspectors, and even generals, no natural cause for the fire could be determined. The homeowner, Muhanna Hala Barsum, stated that the apartment had a history of unusual occurrences, including bricks falling from walls, windows shattering, and glasses toppling over. His brother, Hanna, who had recently returned from Kuwait, had called him to demonstrate these 'miracles.' The phenomena persisted even after the family moved to another apartment in the same building, with objects flying, knives appearing, and fires breaking out spontaneously. Firefighters faced difficulties as hoses detached and taps shut off on their own, and the fire reignited in unexpected places for several days.

Finnish Lake Mystery: Object from the Sky

A search operation was launched in Lake Nummijärvi, near Lohja, Finland, for an unidentified object that fell into the water on July 29, 1991. Two eyewitnesses reported a white object, about a meter in size, falling from the west with a sound resembling a jet aircraft. Specialists from the Finnish radiation safety center found no increase in radioactivity, but sonar equipment detected metallic objects on the lakebed. Divers found the search complicated by a meter-thick layer of silt, and preparations were made to pump out the silt to facilitate the recovery of the objects. Speculation ranged from a crashed UFO to debris from an artificial Earth satellite or a metallic meteorite. Residents in southern Finland also reported strange atmospheric phenomena.

TASS Information Bulletins

The issue also includes information about TASS's weekly illustrated bulletins of foreign scientific and technical information, known as BINTI TASS. These bulletins, available in two series (BINTI-1 for natural sciences and technology, and BINTI-2 for medicine, biology, and agriculture), provide summaries of the latest global scientific and technological advancements, compiled by TASS correspondents worldwide. The bulletins are described as an essential source of operational scientific and technical information, especially given reduced foreign currency allocations for subscriptions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), mysterious physical manifestations (poltergeists, unexplained fires), and ancient mysteries interpreted through the lens of extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these phenomena as credible subjects for investigation, encouraging readers to consider unconventional explanations and highlighting the work of researchers like Erich von Däniken. The magazine positions itself as a source for those curious about anomalies and the unknown, suggesting that these events may be linked to phenomena occurring in our present day, possibly influenced by ancient mysteries.