Insolite no 08 - Janvier 1979

Magazine Overview

This issue of "BULLETIN DE LIAISON DES AMATEURS D'INSOLITE" (Bulletin of Liaison for Amateurs of the Unusual), issue number 8 from the first semester of 1979, with a cover price of 8 Francs, focuses on the historical and textual analysis of biblical authorship. The cover features an illustration of Jeanne d'Arc, though the main content of the magazine, as indicated by the internal articles, is a deep dive into the origins of the Pentateuch.

The Pentateuch: Is it by Moses?

The central theme of this issue is the questioning of the traditional Mosaic authorship of the Pentateuch. The articles present a case against Moses being the sole author, arguing that certain passages contain anachronisms and geographical references that would not have been known during his time. For instance, the mention of the city of Dan in the Book of Genesis is highlighted as problematic, as the city was named after Dan much later. The text suggests that the Pentateuch, as it exists today, is a compilation of texts, with the original writings of Moses being more concise and later enriched with subsequent developments, possibly by the Church.

The publication posits that the "Tables of the Law" were likely engraved by priests, not by Moses himself, and that the "Book of the Law" was a separate entity. It cites various biblical verses to support the idea that Moses was commanded to write down the divine precepts as they were given, and that these writings were preserved in a "Book of the Law."

Esdras: The True Writer?

The articles strongly advocate for Esdras, a Jewish doctor and reformer from the 5th century BCE, as the true author of the Pentateuch. The reasoning behind this assertion includes Esdras's presumed comprehensive knowledge of ancient Hebrew history, his familiarity with sacred texts, and the presence of phrases like "until this day" in passages attributed to him, which suggest a contemporary perspective. The publication argues that Esdras was the one who compiled and redacted the biblical books, including the Pentateuch.

Joshua's Book: Not by Joshua?

Further challenging traditional attributions, the issue also questions whether Joshua authored the book bearing his name. The text points to descriptions of Joshua's death and funeral within the book as evidence that it was written by someone else, likely a successor who could record these events. The article suggests that Joshua, following the tradition of Moses, may have inscribed some new laws and ordinances into the "Book of the Law of Moses," but did not write the entire book himself.

The Error of Names

A significant portion of the analysis focuses on the "error of names," particularly the use of place names like Dan and Jerusalem in texts that predate their known establishment or naming. The presence of these names in early biblical narratives is presented as strong evidence that the texts were written much later than traditionally believed, by authors who had access to historical records and geographical knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine's stance is clearly critical of traditional biblical authorship, favoring a scholarly, critical approach that analyzes texts for internal consistency and historical accuracy. The recurring theme is the deconstruction of long-held beliefs about the origins of biblical texts, proposing alternative authors and timelines based on textual evidence. The editorial tone is assertive, aiming to prove its points with conviction. The magazine is published by "LES AMATEURS D'INSOLITE," indicating a focus on unusual or unconventional topics, and this issue certainly fits that description by challenging fundamental tenets of biblical scholarship.

This issue of L'Insolite, identified as issue number 7, focuses on two primary themes: historical methods of ice storage and the controversial theory surrounding the survival of Jeanne d'Arc.

Les Glacières (Ice Houses)

The article begins by addressing reader inquiries about ice storage, a topic previously covered. It explains that while preserving ice is possible, obtaining sufficient quantities was often difficult. Historically, ice houses were built near natural ice sources like ponds and lakes, especially in colder climates. In warmer regions, or where natural ice was scarce, alternative methods were employed. One such method, described as simple and economical, involves exposing thin layers of water in terracotta dishes to the clear, cool night air. These dishes were insulated from the ground with dry straw to prevent heat transfer from the soil. The water would gradually freeze, and the ice could be collected in the morning.

The magazine details a significant project by a Mr. LENOIR near Paris, which involved constructing a large ice house filled with artificially produced ice. This process involved pumping water to the top of tiered wooden structures, where it would cascade down, cooling and freezing progressively. This cooled water was then collected in large wooden basins, forming layers of ice.

Page 2 illustrates a cross-section of an 'American-style' ice house in the Maconnais region. This type of structure featured a large pit (33m diameter, 10m deep) insulated by a double brick enclosure. Water was trickled down tiered platforms to freeze, and the resulting ice was stored in underground basins. The article notes this was a common type in France.

A reader from Canada shares observations about Quebec, where simple wooden cabins served as ice houses due to the long, cold winters. The ruins of enormous ice houses near the lake of Silans in the Ain region are also mentioned, capable of storing 200,000 tons of ice and supplying cities like Geneva, Marseille, Paris, and Algiers. The process of harvesting ice from the lake involved teams of men using plows and levers to break and transport large blocks of ice into the ice houses. The last ice harvest at Silans was in 1921.

Les Fausses Jeanne d'Arc (The False Jeannes d'Arc)

This section delves into historical accounts suggesting that Jeanne d'Arc might not have been burned at the stake as commonly believed. The article begins with the discovery of a 15th-century manuscript by Père VIGNIER in Metz. This chronicle reported that in May 1436, five years after her supposed execution in Rouen, Jeanne appeared in Metz, surprising her brothers and identifying herself as 'Claude'.

The text presents various pieces of evidence and testimonies related to Jeanne's life after 1431. It mentions a contract from the 15th century detailing the marriage of Robert des Armoises to Jeanne d'Arc, also known as 'La Pucelle d'Orléans'. Another document refers to a letter of donation granted to one of Jeanne's brothers in 1443, indicating her continued existence.

Further investigation by POLLUCHE uncovered city records from Orléans detailing expenses in July 1439 for receiving 'Jehanne d'Armoises', who was honored by the city. The article suggests that this woman, received in Orléans, was not the same 'Dame des Armoises' who had been welcomed the previous year. This woman was identified as the widow of a knight, with whom she had two children, and had returned from Italy.

The narrative recounts an incident in 1441 where a 'new pucelle' closely resembling Jeanne d'Arc presented herself to King Charles VII. She confessed to treason and was reportedly executed.

Another account from 1473 mentions a 'last Jeanne d'Arc' who appeared in Treves and was judged by the Inquisition of Cologne, but managed to escape.

By 1456, the Chancellor of the University of Paris was able to deliver an apology for the 'illustrious martyr' without fear of contradiction, suggesting that the time of false Jeannes d'Arc had passed.

A 'Memory Aid on Jeanne d'Arc' provides key dates and events of her life, including her birth around 1412, her 'voices' at thirteen, her efforts to reach the king from 1428, the liberation of Orléans in 1429, her coronation at Reims in 1429, her capture by the Burgundians in 1430, and her execution by burning on May 29, 1431.

Other Content

Page 3 includes a poetic passage attributed to B. VALETTE, and a section titled "LES PROPHETIES DU PAPE JEAN XXIII" by PIER CARPI.

Page 4 is a list of received publications, mostly related to UFOs and the paranormal, with their addresses.

Page 5 features an article on 'NUMISMATIQUE' (Numismatics) titled 'Moyen de nettoyer les médailles sans les altérer' (Method for cleaning medals without altering them). It also includes a Tibetan legend titled 'LE TRESOR DE LA ROUE (1)' (The Treasure of the Wheel).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores subjects that are outside the mainstream, including historical curiosities, unexplained phenomena, and alternative historical interpretations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories for the reader to consider, particularly evident in the detailed exploration of the Jeanne d'Arc controversy. The inclusion of reader contributions and a wide range of specialized publications on the 'Nous Avons Reçu' page further emphasizes this broad and inclusive approach to unusual topics.

This issue of OVNI Magazine, identified as number 27 and dated 1977, is published by G.R.I.P.H.O.M. and focuses on UFO phenomena, historical anecdotes, and religious history. The cover prominently features the word "OVNI" and a drawing of a luminous object, indicating a primary focus on unidentified flying objects.

Content Analysis

Page 1: Historical Engraving and Oriental Poem

The first page presents a historical woodcut from 1538, identified as the oldest known representation of Jeanne d'Arc. This image is from Charles de Grassailes' treatise "Regalium Franciae libri duo," published in Lyon. Following this is a translation of an oriental poem titled "LE DIABLE TROMPE" (The Devil Tricked). The poem narrates a story where Arabs outsmart the devil by agreeing to give him the part of the harvest that grows above ground, leading to him receiving only leaves while they keep the crops.

A notable quote attributed to NABI-EFFENDI, a Turkish poet, is included: "Nature, which has given us only one organ for speech, has given us two for hearing, to teach us that we must listen more than we speak."

Page 2-3: UFO Vigil Report

Pages 2 and 3 detail a UFO vigil conducted by the group on January 11, 1975, at an altitude of 579 meters. The report describes the challenging conditions: clear, dry, and very cold weather with strong winds. The team was equipped with various devices, including a car with a homemade receiver, walkie-talkies, and photographic equipment. Despite the cold and the need for frequent rotation of observers, the vigil continued until midnight. The report then describes a sighting: a light, comparable to a car headlight in color and intensity, appeared about 500 meters to 1.5 km away. The event lasted about 8 seconds, and the observers were too occupied with their maneuvers to get a clear observation. The author, P. Melleret, recounts the incident as a somewhat disappointing experience after four years of waiting for a significant phenomenon, suggesting that perhaps their organization of vigils needs rethinking.

Page 4-5-6: Animal Magnetism

Pages 4, 5, and 6 are dedicated to "LE MAGNETISME ANIMAL" (Animal Magnetism), presenting methods derived from a letter by Monsieur REGNIARD, a physics professor at the College of AMIENS, published in the "JOURNAL DE PARIS" in 1784. The article provides detailed instructions on how to prepare a sachet filled with sulphur and iron filings, and how to use it to magnetize individuals. It describes the expected physical sensations, such as tingling, heat, and sometimes more intense reactions like convulsions or fainting. The text also offers advice for practitioners, such as maintaining good hygiene and avoiding tobacco. The latter part of this section discusses the "MANIERE DE MAGNETISER" (Method of Magnetizing) from the same journal, outlining specific hand movements and the concept of drawing a "fluid" from the subject and returning it to the earth. It notes that these operations can be performed through clothing and that nerve plexuses are particularly sensitive.

Page 6: Book Reviews and Communications

Page 6 includes communications and reviews. "LA BRETAGNE REELLE" is mentioned with its address and two publications: "LE PARANORMAL ET MES PROPRES EXPERIENCES DE TOUS LES JOURS" (The Paranormal and My Own Experiences of Every Day), a 17-page text with anecdotes, and "DES MENHIRS AUX SOUCOUPES VOLANTES (OU LES 3 CRIS DE LA LUMIERE)" (From Menhirs to Flying Saucers (Or The 3 Cries of Light)), a 23-page work discussing ancient civilizations, universal energy, and Vimanasa. The magazine also notes the new address for "PSYDELGRAPH PSYCHO DELTA GRAPHOLOGIE," offering graphology, morpho-psychology, and characterology services.

Page 7: UFO Encounter in Marseille

This page details an investigation by G.R.I.P.H.O.M. into a UFO sighting by witness Mr. ROBIN Pierre in Marseille. The incident occurred around 9:35 PM on an unspecified date, when a violent red glow attracted his attention. The object transformed into a yellow and pink luminous entity that descended rapidly, ricocheted, and disappeared. The witness noted that the object was fringed, silent, and left no smoke or trail. Notably, the temperature in his apartment rose from 21°C to 26°C during the event and then returned to 21°C shortly after, which he found anomalous given the building's central heating.

Page 8: Historical Anecdote and Papal Tiare Interpretation

Page 8 features a historical anecdote about Roman customs where a person returning from absence, presumed dead, would enter their home through the roof, symbolizing a celestial return. It also presents a curious observation from a reader, Mr. DANIEL FAYET, regarding the inscription on the Papal Tiare (tiara): "VIC AR IVS FILII DEI" (Prêtre du fils de Dieu - Priest of the Son of God). By assigning Roman numeral values to these letters (V=5, I=1, C=100, L=50, D=500), the sum is 666, the number of the Beast mentioned in the Apocalypse. The reader poses questions about the origin and interpretation of this inscription.

Page 9-10: History of Papal Elections

Pages 9 and 10 provide a detailed historical account of the election of Popes. It explains that the title "PAPE" was initially reserved for successors of Saint Peter and became standard from Pope Gregory VII's time. The process of election evolved from being chosen by the faithful and clergy to being influenced by emperors, and eventually to the establishment of the conclave. The text mentions key figures and councils, such as the Council of Rome (1703), the Council of Antioch, the election of Damasus and Ursicinus in 369, and the role of Emperor Valentinian. It highlights the Council of Lateran under Pope Nicholas II, which decreed that Cardinals would elect the Pope, with approval from the clergy and people. Pope Gregory X's decree on the conclave, requiring cardinals to be secluded, is also discussed, along with subsequent modifications and the confirmation of the cardinals' red hat by Innocent IV and Gregory XV.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained (UFOs), historical curiosities, and religious history. The editorial stance appears to be one of investigation and historical documentation, presenting witness accounts and historical facts without overt sensationalism. The inclusion of diverse topics, from UFO sightings to papal elections and ancient practices like animal magnetism, suggests a broad interest in phenomena that lie outside mainstream scientific or historical narratives. The publication seems to aim at informing its readership about these subjects, encouraging critical thinking and further research, as evidenced by the reader's question about the Papal Tiare inscription.

This issue of "MONNAIES" (Coins) delves into a variety of subjects, including historical currencies, the evolution of religious concepts and divine names, and contemporary discussions on unidentified flying objects (UFOs) at the United Nations. The content appears to be a collection of articles and reports, with a strong emphasis on historical and theological analysis, alongside a report on a UFO encounter.

Articles

Ancient Currencies

The issue begins by exploring lesser-known forms of currency. One article details the use of leather fragments, marked by the government, as a form of currency in the small town of Valdivia, Chile, in 1833. These leather pieces served as a replacement for paper money but were not accepted in other Chilean cities. Another section discusses currency used before 1694 in Portuguese possessions in Angola, consisting of small woven straw mats known as "LIBONGO." The transition from these straw coins to copper currency nearly led to a revolution and resulted in several deaths.

Divine Names in the Bible

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the study of divine names mentioned in the Old Testament. It begins by referencing the biblical account of God revealing His name to Moses as "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:13-16), translated as "JE SUIS" (I AM). The article questions why the Old Testament contains multiple names for God, exploring the transition from polytheism to henotheism and eventually monotheism among the Hebrews. It suggests that the Hebrew concept of God evolved, incorporating elements from earlier deities and possibly influenced by Phoenician culture. The text examines names such as El, Elohim, Elyon, Shaddai, Adonai, Ehieh, and the Tetragrammaton (YHWH). It posits that many of these names were originally associated with different deities before being synthesized into the concept of the singular God of Israel. The article also touches upon the potential Phoenician origins of Christianity, suggesting it may draw more from ancient Phoenician beliefs than Hebrew ones. Specific Phoenician deities like Baal, Baalat, Adonis, Aleyin, Melkarth, Astarté, and Anat are mentioned in relation to fertility and vegetation cults. The text highlights that El was considered the supreme and ancient god of the Semites, also known as Beelsamen, Hel (Saturn), and Il. Elohim is presented as the plural of Eloah, an amplification of El. The article notes that Shaddai, meaning "Mountain," was an Arab deity associated with Abram before Abram's encounter with Melchiseddek. The discussion on YHWH explains its pronunciation challenges and its substitution with Adonai in Jewish tradition. The origin of the name is linked to the revelation to Moses as "Ehyeh asher Ehyeh" (I am who I am), with "Ehyeh" signifying "I AM" and thus "eternity."

United Nations Discussion on UFOs

The magazine reports on the 47th session of the United Nations Special Political Committee held on December 8, 1978. The primary agenda item was the creation of a UN body to research unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The Prime Minister of Grenada, Sir Eric Gairy, had presented a draft resolution (A/SPC/33/L.20) proposing such an agency. While consensus was not fully reached on the resolution itself, a working paper (Document N°1) was drafted, recommending that the General Assembly acknowledge the declarations made by Grenada and invite member states to coordinate national research on extraterrestrial life and report findings. The document also proposed transmitting Grenada's documentation to the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space for examination in 1979. The committee adopted this decision by consensus. The article notes that Grenada views UFO research as crucial for humanity's efforts to solve global problems.

UFO Sighting Report

A detailed account of a UFO encounter is presented, based on an investigation by Monsieur BEDET and Monsieur SERINI conducted on February 22, 1978, concerning a testimony from July 24, 1977. The witnesses, Monsieur and Madame GAIRAUD Auguste, reported seeing a large, intensely luminous object on the side of a rural road near Cruis and Mallefougasse, France, between 10:30 PM and 10:45 PM. The object was described as emitting a bright white and blue light, similar to electric welding. Two human-like figures, approximately 1.60 to 1.65 meters tall, were observed standing near the object. The witnesses stated that their faces were obscured by the light, but they were clearly illuminated. They described the experience as "formidable" and "an illumination from beyond."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine seems to adopt a stance that explores the intersection of history, religion, and unexplained phenomena. It presents historical accounts of unusual monetary systems, delves into theological interpretations of divine names with a critical eye towards established religious narratives, and reports on contemporary efforts to address the UFO phenomenon. The inclusion of a personal UFO sighting report suggests an interest in empirical evidence of the unexplained. The overall tone is analytical and investigative, aiming to inform readers about diverse and often unconventional topics.

Notable Quote

"La vie est l'ensemble des fonctions qui résistent à la mort " - BICHAT

FAQ

• What were some unusual forms of currency mentioned? The magazine mentions leather fragments used in Valdivia, Chile in 1833, and straw mats called 'Libongo' in Angola before 1694.
• What is the origin of the divine name 'YHWH'? According to the text, the name YHWH was revealed to Moses by God from a burning bush, and it signifies 'I AM WHO I AM' or 'I AM THE ETERNAL'.
• What was discussed at the UN Special Political Committee meeting? The committee discussed the creation of a UN body to research unidentified flying objects and related phenomena, and to disseminate the results.
• What was the UFO sighting reported in France? A couple reported seeing a large, luminous object on the side of a road near Cruis and Mallefougasse on July 24, 1977, accompanied by two human-like figures.

This issue of "L'INSOLITE" magazine, dated March 1979, focuses on ufology and unusual phenomena. It features a detailed account of a UFO sighting and encounter, alongside information about the publication itself and related ufological activities.

The Gairaud Incident: A Detailed Testimony

The central part of the magazine is dedicated to an interview with Monsieur and Madame Gairaud, who recount a significant encounter. The interview, conducted by Monsieur Bedet, probes the details of their experience.

The Encounter

Monsieur Gairaud describes the object as being approximately 40 to 45 meters away. He estimates its height to be around 2 to 2.50 meters, comparing it to the height of a truck. The object was luminous, casting light on the surrounding trees and road. The witnesses initially perceived it as a bright light, not red, but akin to electrical welding. The shape was likened to a bowl or an inverted umbrella.

The Humanoids

During the night, the Gairauds observed what they described as humanoids. They reported that these beings were wearing what looked like a mechanic's combination. Their silhouettes were compared to airplane pilots with large helmets.

Witness Reactions and Observations

Madame Gairaud experienced significant fear, described as a "terrible fright," causing her to tremble and feel anxious. Monsieur Gairaud, while also feeling uneasy, maintained a degree of curiosity. He initially slowed down his car and stopped near the object, rather than immediately fleeing. The couple stayed for an estimated 30 seconds to 1 minute. They did not notice any specific features like buttons or antennas on the object or the humanoids' attire.

Post-Encounter and Investigation

After the encounter, the Gairauds drove for about 10 kilometers without seeing any other cars. They did not sleep well that night and experienced eye discomfort. They did not consult a doctor. Monsieur Gairaud wears tinted glasses for driving. They had not previously believed in UFOs but now stated, "now that we have seen this, if this is what UFOs are, then yes, I believe they exist."

Possible Explanations and Context

Monsieur Gairaud considered the possibility of military experiments or activities from the Saint-Michel Observatory. He mentioned that a client, identified as Madame FER (the Director of the Saint-Michel Observatory's wife), confirmed that there were no ground experiments outside the observatory and that he had likely seen a UFO.

The Investigation's Conclusion

The investigators, including Monsieur Bedet, visited the site. They estimated the area where the object might have landed to be about 40 to 45 meters long and 7 to 8 meters wide, with a height of 2 to 2.50 meters. They identified three possible locations along the road that matched these approximate measurements. The geological study noted sedimentary terrain and a visible abnormal fault. The investigators concluded that the witnesses had certainly seen something out of the ordinary, likely a UFO, and that they appeared to be mentally balanced and healthy.

GRIPHOM and Ufological Publications

The magazine also informs readers about the group GRIPHOM and their research bulletins on UFO detection techniques. These bulletins, authored by Jean BEDET, are described as a series of four, detailing the history of ufology, troubleshooting, and the step-by-step construction of detection equipment. The bulletins are printed by hand and are unique. GRIPHOM reinvests the proceeds to support their existing station, which reportedly discusses a system for communication with UFOs for 1979.

Readers are invited to order these bulletins, with options to purchase individual issues or the complete set. Contact information for Mr. Bedet in Marseille and for GRIPHOM is provided.

New Releases and Subscriptions

Several new publications are announced:

• "L'ITINERAIRE ESOTERIQUE DE SAINT-JACQUES DE COMPOSTELLE" by Alain AJASSE, with a preface by Hervé LARONDE D'HESSE. This is a 48-page illustrated booklet.
• A book titled "EXTRA-TERRESTRES, OU...EXTRA-TEMPORELS?" by Hervé LARONDE D'HESSE, to be published on March 15, 1979, by Alain LEFEUVRE editions in Nice.

Subscription Information

The magazine provides details for ordering back issues of "L'INSOLITE" and for renewing subscriptions. A form is included for ordering specific numbered issues, with prices listed in French Francs (Frs). Discounts are offered for multiple issue orders. Payment can be made via bank check, postal order, international reply coupons, or French postage stamps. Information is also provided for becoming a supporting member of "LES AMATEURS D'INSOLITE."

Summary of First 8 Issues

A detailed summary of the contents of the first eight issues of "L'INSOLITE" is presented, covering a wide range of topics including:

• N°1: Statutes of the association, the phenomenon of GLOZEL, new horizons in ufology, UFO investigations, and a detector's address book.
• N°2: A continuation of the GLOZEL series, personality in signs of the zodiac, phosphénism, apparitions of the zodiac, a description of a radiology monitor, and a seminar in MALAUCENE.
• N°3: A mysterious inscription in VAISON LA ROMAINE, the Geller effect, the commandery of St. Antoine of MACON, UFO investigations, a healer named Alain CLERICO, and the false prophet of the Apocalypse.
• N°4: The Order of Antonins, a journey of a soul, UFO investigations, the methods of Marcel VIOLET, blood mortar, a UFO at GLOZEL, and toponymy.
• N°5: Saracen chimneys of Bresse, preliminaries to the quest for the GRAAL, tectites, the KERVAN effect, PSI effect, and manipulation.
• N°6: Spiritual healers, ecology, Jean PAIN's method, the adventure of the Bible, FALICON's observation, graphology, and glaciers.
• N°7: The anti-demon of Mascon, the adventure of the Bible, the crystal's work, an unusual tomb, the origins of life and civilization, pyramids, and mummification.
• N°8: The Pentateuch and Moses, glaciers, false Jeanne d'Arc, two UFO investigations by GRIPHOM, animal magnetism, and the election of Popes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, unexplained events, and esoteric subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious investigation and reporting of witness accounts, while also promoting ufological research and publications. The detailed questioning of witnesses suggests a desire to gather precise information and potentially debunk hoaxes. The inclusion of geological studies and the emphasis on witness credibility indicate a methodical approach to the subject matter. The magazine actively engages its readership by offering publications and encouraging subscriptions, fostering a community of interest in the unusual.