Approach - Vol 1 No 03 - 1958 06

Magazine Overview

Title: APPROACH
Issue: Vol. 1, No. 3
Date: June, 1958
Publisher: Sagittarius Publishers
Country: South Africa
Editor: Edgar Sievers

This issue of APPROACH, a monthly review focusing on 'Man in Life and Space,' delves into themes of peace, spirituality, and the nature of consciousness, with a particular emphasis on the controversial claims of Dr. Lobsang Rampa.

Peace: The Absence of Disturbance

The lead editorial, "PEACE THE ABSENCE OF DISTURBANCE," posits that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict but an inner state of being. It argues that outward progress and individual unfoldment are hindered by external strife and the dominance of lower nature. The piece suggests that achieving global peace requires a shift in inner consciousness, where the 'inner man' is acknowledged and allowed to express his qualities. It emphasizes that universal nature operates on a cosmic timetable, and humanity must cooperate to reach its destined stages. The editorial advocates for cultivating inner smoothness, avoiding disturbance, and helping others express their better selves as the foundation for planetary peace.

The Lama's Story (II): Tibetan Master Confirms Saucer Theory

This lengthy article defends the authenticity of Dr. Lobsang Rampa's book, "The Third Eye." The author addresses criticisms that questioned Rampa's Tibetan origin and the book's veracity, particularly given that Rampa was reportedly the son of an English plumber. The article argues that the book's depth of knowledge, especially concerning Tibetan and occult sciences, could only come from an expert. It dismisses the idea of Rampa being a mere 'plumber's son' or a fraud, suggesting that critics fail to grasp the concept of consciousness transfer. The piece explains that Rampa, a Tibetan master, took over the body of a Western man named Kuon'Suo after the latter's soul had departed for a resting period. This process, sanctioned by Rampa's superiors, involved the gradual rearrangement of the body's atoms over three years to match Rampa's original form. The article asserts that this is not an example of spirit contact or hypnosis but a legitimate 'taking-over' of a body. It highlights that Rampa's work is aimed at spiritual unfoldment and contrasts it with the materialistic pursuits of those who reject supernatural phenomena.

The article also touches upon the idea that our bodies are merely 'shells' or 'garments' that inner man discards. It draws parallels with the practice of donating corneas or bodies for scientific study, framing Rampa's act as a spiritual equivalent. The author defends Rampa against accusations of wrongdoing, stating that the course of action was carefully weighed and required the consent of the Western man.

Space Ship Field News

A brief report notes that 'Flying Saucer Observation Day' yielded no reports from the magazine's country. However, an earlier sighting in Johannesburg, South Africa, made front-page news. A large, silvery, cigar-shaped object was observed for five minutes near Maccauvlei, Vereeniging. It emitted smoke and a strange noise and was identified as neither a balloon nor an aeroplane.

Further Discussion on Rampa and UFOs

The article continues to elaborate on the Rampa case, emphasizing that it is a unique instance of exclusive body-taking-over, not spirit contact. It explains that the higher laws permit the incoming personality to reconstruct the body molecule by molecule according to their original design or astral body. The author contrasts Rampa's spiritual mission with the materialistic values of those who are dismissive of supernatural matters. The piece also mentions that Rampa's claims are supported by his Tibetan and Chinese documents and the testimony of high-ranking individuals.

The Universe and Human Origins

The magazine presents a perspective that aligns with George Adamski's claims, stating that flying saucers are indeed space ships piloted by human beings. It asserts that humanity's home is the universe, not solely Earth, and that many humans originally stem from other planets. The article dismisses much of Western understanding of human origin and history as "UNINFORMED BUNKUM!" It suggests that ancient folklore and mythological traditions about "gods," "immortals," and "divine kings" are not mere fantasies but distorted accounts of factual history involving beings from other planets who have interacted with humanity, sometimes sending figures like Christ to guide them.

Psychology in the Wilderness

This section explores the contribution of psychology to the UFO question. It outlines three potential aims for psychology: (1) establishing prerequisites for correct observation and identifying errors in perception; (2) aiding in the critical assessment of contact reports, particularly those of a spiritistic nature; and (3) helping to condition the mind to new perspectives arising from UFO findings.

The author criticizes Western psychology, including the work of C.G. Jung, for its inability to address occult or psychic phenomena adequately. It argues that without understanding these aspects, Western psychology is "hopelessly lost" and cannot provide the necessary orientation or explanations for UFO investigations. The article points out that while some psychologists analyze dreams and symbols related to UFOs, they fail to address the factual, physical side of the phenomenon, deeming it beyond their "scientific competency."

The author strongly warns against what is termed "psychological clap-trap" that dismisses UFOs as mere "visionary rumour" or projections from the unconscious. This approach is seen as being out of step with life and the universe.

Africa Region Liaison Group

This section reports on a lively meeting of the Africa Region Liaison Group in Johannesburg, which discussed Donald E. Keyhoe's book "Flying Saucer Conspiracy." It also mentions meetings in Pretoria and reports from Pietermaritzburg and Uganda, including a sighting that the author suggests might have been a meteor.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes a spiritual and esoteric worldview, emphasizing the importance of inner development and consciousness over materialistic concerns. It champions unconventional ideas, particularly those related to Dr. Lobsang Rampa's claims of consciousness transfer and the extraterrestrial origins of flying saucers. The magazine criticizes the limitations of conventional Western science and psychology in understanding phenomena beyond the physical realm. The editorial stance is one of openness to spiritual and potentially extraterrestrial influences, advocating for a broader understanding of humanity's place in the cosmos and its connection to higher intelligences.