Earth - No 13 - 1989

Magazine Overview

Title: EARTH
Issue: 13
Date: February, 1989
Price: 75p (Seventy Five Pence)

This issue of "EARTH" magazine, a publication focused on Paganism, Fortean phenomena, and Earth Mysteries, features a diverse range of articles and interviews. The editor, Paul Bennett, notes a change of address and expresses optimism for the magazine's future, mentioning upcoming book publications on psychoactive herbs, sociological reports, and Yorkshire monoliths.

Meditations: Stephen Hart

This article initiates a series on meditation, outlining its methods, techniques, and attributes. The author, Stephen Hart, aims to guide readers in adopting meditative practices for self-awareness, emotional regulation, and spiritual connection. He defines meditation as a process of stilling the mind to access truth and reality, leading to a state of peace and heightened sensitivity. The article details the prerequisites for meditation, including physiological and psychological readiness, patience, and willpower. It suggests optimal times for practice (morning and evening) and emphasizes the importance of a consistent routine. The Corpse Posture is recommended for initial relaxation. The author introduces the concept of a mantra—a word or syllable repeated in harmony with breathing—as a common meditative technique to achieve one-pointedness and quiet the mind. The article also touches upon the spiritual traditions surrounding mantras in the East, their purported qualities, and provides examples of potential mantras.

Yorkshire PaganLink Library Scheme

This section details a new initiative aimed at creating a discount card scheme for members of the Yorkshire PaganLink community. The scheme will offer cheaper products from various shops and provide access to the Yorkshire PaganLink Library, which houses approximately 1200 books on esoteric subjects. The library is actively seeking donations of books and magazines to expand its collection. Details on how the library system will operate are forthcoming.

Pagan Conversations with a Vicar - Iain Johnston

This is a written interview between Iain Johnston and a West Yorkshire vicar who holds unconventional views that bridge Christian theology and Paganism. The vicar, who wishes to remain anonymous, expresses admiration and respect for old Earth religions, believing that many Christians misunderstand Paganism due to a black-and-white view of good and evil. He suggests that Pagans, by communing with nature and valuing the environment, are living God's way. The vicar posits that God was one of a race of beings called the Elohim, who were once like humans but achieved a higher spiritual plane. He views Earth as a classroom for embryonic gods and suggests that UFOs might be spacecraft from other planets created by the Elohim. He also believes the Bible and the Koran are versions of the same thing and encourages his clerical peers to read their Bibles. The vicar is a proponent of non-materialism, advocating for the equal sharing of the world's resources.

Letters

Ray Sherwin from Leeds writes to the editor, expressing concern about the negative reputation the Bradford Moot is acquiring due to claims of cursing and general disorganization. He emphasizes the need for integrity and effective leadership to ensure the moot's survival and function.

Fable from a Scottish Past

This short piece recounts a legend from near Comrie, Loch Earn, about a vicar who encountered a figure that vanished into thin air, leaving footprints. It also mentions a local legend about an exorcism at the Deil's Caldron where the people involved were never seen again.

Black Annis of Leicestershire - by Herself

This article is presented as a first-person account from Black Annis, a figure from Leicestershire folklore. She describes her dwelling at Black Annis's Bower Close and her association with the Dane Hills. Black Annis addresses common misconceptions about her, refuting the idea that she scratches people to death or eats them. She recounts a prophecy she made to King Richard III and discusses the annual Hare Hunt tradition. She also touches upon her connection to ancient goddesses like Anu, Danu, and Brigid, and criticizes folklorists for misinterpreting her origins. She mentions the legend of Agnes Scott and the possible connection to her name, and discusses the folklore surrounding the 'Three Queens' inn and barrow cemetery.

Mosses and Their Uses

This section explores various types of moss and their historical and medicinal uses. It details Lycopodium Clavatum (Club Moss) and its extensive applications in herbalism, citing Maria Treben. Iceland Moss (Cetraria Islandica) is discussed as a wild food and for its expectorant properties. Sphagnum moss is highlighted for its absorbent qualities, particularly its use in wound dressing during World War I. The article also mentions other moss species and their traditional uses, referencing various historical texts and herbalists.

Phantom Vibes - David Medina

David Medina discusses his research into ghost sightings and the re-enactment of violent scenes. He explores the theory that the body's electricity is released at the moment of death, potentially leaving an impression on its surroundings. Medina references experiments involving electronic impulses from marine organisms and Kirlian photography, which he suggests can record energy discharges from inanimate objects, including stones from haunted locations and even pyramid structures. He also touches upon the concept of 'phantom limb' effects and the potential for magnetic fields to influence cell regeneration, mentioning Lakhovsky's Multiple Wave Oscillator.

Operation Mindfuck - Kalkinath

This article introduces the concept of 'Operation Mindfuck,' described as a societal control program designed by power-holders to engineer subservience and obedience. The author argues that constant exposure to this program blunts awareness and that 'leaders' often lie poorly. The article identifies self-righteousness and the desire for revenge as powerful motivators that can lead to destruction. It suggests that contemporary magick, through techniques like humor, paradox, and self-analysis, offers an 'escape route' from the Mindfuck program by encouraging direct experience and questioning beliefs.

Yorkshire Holy Wells & Sacred Springs

This article, by Ian Taylor, discusses the research conducted for a forthcoming book on Yorkshire's Holy Wells and Sacred Springs. The author highlights the fragmented nature of historical references and the decline in the importance of these sites. He notes that some wells are in neglected condition, while others are being restored or investigated for water reintroduction. The article emphasizes the association of Holy Wells with inner transformation, mystical experience, and healing, urging a reconnection with the sacred landscape.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of alternative spirituality, folklore, and unexplained phenomena. There is a clear editorial stance that encourages critical thinking, challenges mainstream narratives, and promotes the exploration of esoteric traditions and ancient wisdom. The publication appears to advocate for a reconnection with nature and a questioning of societal control mechanisms. The inclusion of diverse perspectives, from interviews with unconventional religious figures to first-person accounts of folklore, underscores its commitment to a broad spectrum of 'Earth Mysteries.'

This issue of Earth magazine, identified as issue number 13, delves into a variety of esoteric and counter-cultural topics, with a strong emphasis on magick, ufology, and historical occultism. The content suggests a critical stance towards mainstream societal structures and a fascination with alternative paradigms.

The Subversive Nature of Magick and Societal Control

The opening articles explore the concept of 'Operation Mindfuck' as a subversive attitude that challenges programmed routines and societal control. It is presented as an alternative to increased state control and the 'guard dog mentality' fueled by nuclear weapons. The text posits that increased civil unrest leads to increased state control, and that attempts to subvert the system using its own tools are ultimately futile, as the program itself is the problem.

The Titans and the Nuclear Gnosis

This section connects the 'Will to Power' with the potential for genocide, driven by nuclear weapons. It introduces the concept of 'Titans' as primal energies of creation and destruction, often depicted as Creator Gods and Giants in myths. The article suggests that nuclear power stations are zones where 'Spheres' meet and that psychics have reported malaise or anti-life phenomena around them, possibly generating mutant elementals. It encourages 'reclaim the land' rituals and suggests that the threat of extinction might be a catalyst for individuals to 'awaken' and make a leap beyond Operation Mindfuck, questioning whether numerous 'Chernobyls' are necessary for humanity's advancement or annihilation.

The issue notes a growing consensus about 'weird scenes' in the 1980s, attributing it to astrological influences or the 'death-throes of the Old Aeon.' This phase of fluctuation is seen as potentially leading to an evolutionary 'leap' or 'crash,' characterized by either ascending holistic awareness and transpersonal development or descending egocentricity and subordination of human values. The article emphasizes that both arcs complement each other and that increased control by power-holders can produce the entropy needed for transcendence, suggesting Operation Mindfuck might be a convoluted Zen koan aiming for illumination through unwitting agencies.

The Individual as Centre of Power

This section discusses the core of magickal philosophy as the need for self-determination, moving away from oppressive ideologies. It questions the impact of magick as a personal revolution on society in general. Quoting Timothy Leary, who stated 'They've gone to seed' when asked about 'Flower People,' the text introduces 'Autarchy' as government by the Self. It highlights how direct experience of illumination and enhanced transpersonal awareness alter perceptions of power, viewing 'power' as attainable by anyone determined enough, prioritizing quality of life over material accumulation. Mahatma Gandhi's principle of 'Satyagraha' is mentioned as an example of determined autonomy and awareness that attitudes, not people, are the problems to overcome.

Evolution is presented as an ongoing process where individuals can create a ripple effect, leading to groups resonating with change. Each individual is seen as a 'star,' a center for transformation. The role of a magickian is to facilitate 'shifts in awareness' in others. Experiences that offer glimpses of other possibilities should diminish egocentricity, and competition between magickal groups is reportedly being replaced by communication and consensus, recognizing diversity as key to keeping 'the current' from stagnating. These transformations are seen as ushering in the New Aeon, advocating for 'Obediance to awareness' as a demonstration of possibilities.

Academy 23

Academy 23 is described as a loose collection of individuals and groups working to subvert the Mindfuck program. It is noted that magicians remain a minority who prefer to work 'behind the scenes' to avoid being perceived as a threat. The organization is characterized by having no teachers, only 'fellow students,' and offering no prescriptions for action, only consequences.

The White Hammer (or, "How to Spot Baby-Eaters")

This article examines the Malleus Maleficarum, one of the most infamous works ever written, and its baneful influence over three centuries. It was written by Heinrich Kramer and James Sprenger, based on a Papal Bull issued by Pope Innocent VIII in 1484. The bulls were intended to instill zeal in inquisitors to combat witchcraft. The article criticizes the Malleus as 'bosh,' weak in style, with ridiculous ideas and brutal advice, filled with misconceptions and superstition. It details the process of trials, the emphasis on confession, and the rarity of acquittals, with culprits often handed over to secular authorities for capital punishment.

The text notes that victims of the Inquisition were without assistance, as witchcraft was considered a heinous crime beyond usual legal procedures. It draws a parallel to modern times, suggesting that similar ludicrous misconceptions exist today.

Adolf Hitler is Alive and Well & Living in Ufology

This section explores the theory, seriously postulated by American conspiracy researcher Mae Brussell, that Adolf Hitler may still be alive and actively involved in US government policy. The article cites the secret flight of many of Hitler's top advisors to the States after WWII, where they were given new identities and worked on government projects. Brussell dismisses the argument of Hitler's advanced age, drawing a parallel to Mikhailovich Molotov, who remained active and lucid in his old age. The theory suggests Hitler could be directing activities from locations like Antarctica, Argentina, Brazil, or Switzerland, with the help of top people in the US defense department. The article also mentions Gunther Rosenberg's belief that Hitler, Martin Bormann, and others were spirited out of Germany, possibly to South America or a Nazi base under the Antarctic ice-cap.

The Hollow Earth Theory and the Nazi Hypothesis

The Hollow Earth theory, a blend of ancient and modern myths, posits that our planet is a hollow sphere with access points at the poles. The article mentions alleged photographic evidence of these access points and connects them to UFOs emanating from a region called Agharti. A variation of this theory, known to ufologists as the Nazi hypothesis, proposes that UFOs are secret weapons developed by Hitler, now headquartered in a tropical base beneath the Antarctic. It suggests that international Arctic expeditions in 1946-47 were searches for Hitler, and that contemporary UFO flaps are explained as reconnaissance trips by Nazi aeronauts. Proponents include the Toronto-based group 'Samisdat.'

Dr. Frank E. Stranges, a self-styled UFO evangelist, is also presented as a believer in the Nazi hypothesis, claiming Hitler threatened scientists with death to develop disc-shaped craft. Stranges alleges that Germany's top scientists developed weapons like the KM-2 electromagnetic rocket and the V-7 flying disc. He claims Hitler and his cronies escaped to bases in Johannesburg, Milan, Northern Siberia, Taormina, and Reno, Nevada. Stranges recounts an alleged encounter with a grounded V-7 and its pilot near Reno airfield on June 8, 1966, where he saw a swastika behind the pilot.

The article questions the absurdity of these claims, suggesting they might be hoaxes or products of imagination, particularly in relation to Dr. Stranges' book 'Stranger at the Pentagon.' It notes that while there is some precedent for Nazi connections in ufology (e.g., George Adamski's alleged pre-war connections with American fascist leader William Dudley Pelley), no real evidence links Hitler's Reich with UFO development.

Official accounts suggest Nazi aero-technology development was delayed by Hitler's planning. The article mentions Werner von Braun and others from Peenemunde being taken to the USA after the war, contributing to America's space program. However, their alleged UFO-building activities are viewed with doubt.

APEN and the "Spearhead"

In Britain, the Nazi hypothesis gained traction in the seventies with the organization APEN (Aerial Phenomena Enquiry Network). APEN bombarded UFO researchers with letters and articles, implying ties with the American government or secret services, though these were never proven. The article notes that APEN's structure and tactics resembled Hitler's Nazi party, with its magazine titled 'spearhead.' APEN went underground in 1978 and resurfaced with renewed activity six years later. Jenny Randles speculated that APEN might be a spy network for a 'Fourth Reich' readying itself for world leadership.

The article concludes that the answer to APEN's activities is likely more mundane, citing a personal anecdote about a ten-year-old boy engaging in vandalism, suggesting that people behind APEN might be bored or frustrated researchers promoting their own brand of 'dog-shit' through ufology.

Periodicals and Publications

The magazine includes reviews of various periodicals and books related to occultism, paganism, and ufology:

• PaganLink Gatherings & Other Such Fun: Lists upcoming pagan gatherings and events in various UK locations, including talks by BUFORA and psychic fairs.
• "The British Magickal Herbal: A Concise Guide to the Psychoactive Flora of Albion": A forthcoming book detailing Britain's psychoactive plants, their legends, medicinal properties, and magickal uses.
• WANTED: A list of sought-after books and magazines for the PaganLink Library.
• The Deosil Dance, No.14: A pagan magazine with articles on Wicca and visions experienced after using 'Wiccekraefte's Flying Ointment.'
• The Silver Wheel, Yule 88: A journal of the Coranieid, covering Pagan history and the history of witchcraft.
• Pagan News, Feb & Mar 89: A lively newspaper with articles on magickal appliances, mind-control, and interviews.
• The Ley Hunter: A leading magazine on Earth Mysteries.
• Fortean Times: A journal of strange phenomena, covering cryptozoology, lake monsters, and other unusual events.
• The Lamp of Thoth: A quarterly publication of the Sorcerer's Apprentice, covering occultism, magick, and Pagan matters.
• Meyn Mamvro: A magazine on ancient stones and megalithic structures.
• Moonshine: An informative Pagan magazine.
• The Hookah: A publication of the Legalise Cannabis Campaign.
• New Dimensions: A monthly educational magazine of Esoteric Law.
• Vision Seeker & Sharer: A quarterly eco-Pagan, Amerindian & Aboriginal support magazine.
• Sut Anubis: A magazine of the occult and esoteric, covering wicca, ceremonial magick, and Paganism.
• Nox: A magazine of the Abyss, covering Magick, Chaos, and Lovecraft.
• International UFO Reporter: A journal from the J.Allen Hynek Centre for UFO Studies.
• Northern Earth Mysteries: A publication of a group focused on Earth Mysteries.
• The Kabbalist: A quarterly publication of the International Order of Kabbalists.
• Northern UFO News: A magazine from the Northern UFO Network.
• Dalriada: A Pagan Celtic Journal.
• The Scotic Pagan: A publication covering Paganism, wicca, and Earth Mysteries.
• Out from the Core: A magazine about radical healing.
• UFO Brigantia: A magazine of the Independent UFO Network.
• Cosmology Newslink: A bi-monthly UFO, ghost, and parapsi magazine.
• UFO Newsclipping Service: A large monthly UFO/Fortean magazine.
• Magonia: A quarterly publication on UFOs, Society, and the Individual.
• Gnomon: A quarterly publication on Paganism, festivals, EM, and UFOs.
• Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, Ark: Conservation organizations.

Book Reviews

• The Infinite Boundary: Spirit Possession, Madness & Multiple Personality by D. Scott Rogo: Explores the works of James Hyslop and connections between para-phenomena and psycho-socio-religious manifestations, including mental illnesses. The author concludes that 'spirit' possession takes place.
• Leaves of Yggdrasil by Freya Aswynn: Described as a definitive book on the Northern Tradition, it delves into a complex theology of rune-lore, divination, and women's mysteries.
• The Book of Azrael by Leilah Wendell: Presented as a true story of an intimate encounter with the Angel of Death, exploring journeys through time and space with a spirit lover.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around challenging established norms and exploring alternative belief systems, particularly within the realms of magick, ufology, and esoteric traditions. There is a critical perspective on societal control, government policies, and mainstream scientific or religious dogma. The magazine appears to advocate for individual empowerment, self-determination, and a broader understanding of consciousness and reality, often through the lens of the occult and the paranormal. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into controversial or fringe topics, encouraging readers to question conventional narratives and explore hidden knowledge, while also acknowledging the potential for mundane explanations or hoaxes in some cases.