Mysteria - Issue 37 - 1982 02

Magazine Overview

MYSTERIA, issue 2/82 (Heft 37), is the 4th year of publication for this German journal dedicated to UFO research and pre-astronautics. Priced at DM 3.50, it features a cover headline posing the question: "The magical staves - Weapons of the 'Gods'?" The cover also teases articles on "MIBs: 'Kyborgs' of an international conspiracy?" and "Mosquitoes are changing the world - The mysterious migration of the Maya and its cause."

Table of Contents and Editorial Information

Page 1 of the issue contains a summary of the cover images, linking them to articles within. Page 2 provides a detailed table of contents, listing articles such as "The magical staves" (Page 21), "MIBs" (Page 12), and "Mosquitoes are changing the world" (Page 4). It also includes editorial information, with Axel Ertelt listed as Editor-in-Chief and Hans-Werner Sachmann as the editor for the Dortmund section. The publisher is MYSTERIA-Verlag, and the magazine is released monthly. The issue details copyright, reprint policies, and submission guidelines for unsolicited manuscripts, stating "No liability" and that submissions will not be returned unless sufficient return postage is included and publication is not intended. It also notes that honorariums are not paid on a self-cost basis, but a book prize of approximately DM 40 is awarded annually for the best reader contribution. Subscription details and ordering information are provided, along with the printer, Druckerei Sperl in Forchheim.

MYSTERIA Privat (Personal Column)

Page 3 features a section titled "MYSTERIA Privat," where Hans-Werner Sachmann addresses reader feedback regarding the desire for more illustrations. He explains that while the editorial team strives to include suitable images, it's not always possible to obtain high-quality visuals. He emphasizes that MYSTERIA is a specialized journal focused on presenting new information and facts, rather than a glossy magazine. He invites readers to share their opinions on this matter. Sachmann also clarifies that MYSTERIA is not an investigation group itself, although the "priv. Forschungsgruppe für UFOlogie und Astro-Archäologie Halver," founded by Mr. Ertelt, no longer exists. He assures readers that all submitted UFO sightings are taken seriously and that the magazine works with reputable UFO research groups, offering advice on which groups to trust.

Article: Mosquitoes are changing the world - The mysterious migration of the Maya and its cause

This multi-page article (Pages 4-9) by Wilhelm Lechler explores the enigmatic decline and migration of the Maya civilization. The Maya, a highly advanced culture in Mesoamerica, built impressive cities in the Yucatan Peninsula. Despite their sophisticated astronomy, mathematics (including the concept of zero), and calendar systems, their civilization mysteriously abandoned their densely populated lowland cities around 300-900 AD to relocate to the northern part of the peninsula. The article dismisses common theories like earthquakes, climate change, famine, or war as insufficient explanations for this mass exodus.

Lechler highlights that entomologists and medical researchers eventually uncovered the cause: mosquitoes and the diseases they transmit. The article details the life cycle of mosquitoes, particularly the Stegomyia fasciata (now Aedes aegypti), which transmits Yellow Fever. It explains how the Maya's own sophisticated canal systems, designed for agriculture and transportation, inadvertently created ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes in the humid tropical lowlands. The article recounts the devastating impact of Yellow Fever on various populations, including the Maya, Spanish colonizers, and French workers during the Panama Canal construction. It mentions Dr. Carlos Finlay's groundbreaking, initially ridiculed, research in Cuba that identified mosquitoes as vectors for Yellow Fever. The article also touches upon the discovery of ancient Maya artifacts, such as wheeled toys and gears, suggesting they were not as technologically backward as sometimes assumed. The Maya's lack of biological studies, focusing instead on astronomy, is presented as a critical oversight that contributed to their downfall.

Article: The emotional plague

Peter Nasselstein's article on Page 10, "Die emotionale Pest" (The emotional plague), discusses Wilhelm Reich's work and its connection to UFOlogy. Nasselstein references Jerome Eden's analysis of irrational reactions against orgonomic UFOlogy, which he attributes to an "emotional plague" or a tendency to avoid essential truths. The article criticizes researchers who dismiss Reich's work as unscientific, questioning their engagement with the concepts of cosmic orgone energy and orgonomy. It posits that orgonomy is based on two pillars: healthy sexuality (genitality) and the understanding of God as life energy (Orgon). Those who challenge these ideas, particularly regarding the nature of life energy and sexuality, are seen as falling victim to this "emotional plague."

Other Mentions

The issue also briefly mentions "Mag Mor - Im Streit der Forscher" (Mag Mor - In the Dispute of Researchers) on Page 14, and includes a report on a lecture/MYSTERIA event in Holzhausen in 1981 about "The Magical Staves" (Page 21). There's also a piece on "Life in Stardust" (Page 24) and a MYSTERIA caricature by Reinhard H. Abeck (Page 28).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of MYSTERIA are the intersection of ancient civilizations and unexplained phenomena, the impact of natural factors (like disease-carrying insects) on historical events, and the exploration of controversial scientific and pseudoscientific theories. The editorial stance, particularly from Hans-Werner Sachmann, emphasizes a commitment to presenting factual information and serious research, while cautioning against sensationalism and encouraging critical engagement with submitted material. The magazine positions itself as a platform for in-depth analysis rather than a superficial publication, valuing substantive content over mere visual appeal.

This issue of 'Orgonotische Fologie' (Orgonotic Phology), Volume 40, Issue 11, published by MYSTERIA in Germany, delves into controversial theories at the intersection of ufology, psychology, and ancient history. The magazine explores the concept of an 'emotional plague' linked to orgone energy, the mysterious 'Men in Black' (MIB) phenomenon, and a contentious book titled 'Mag Mor' that reinterprets human history.

The Emotional Plague and Orgone Energy

The lead article, drawing heavily on the work of Wilhelm Reich, posits that individuals raised in emotionally sterile environments develop a deep-seated life-anxiety. This anxiety, it is argued, leads to two types of neurotic reactions: a passive, appeasing 'liberal' behavior, and a more aggressive, destructive 'emotional plague reaction.' This plague is seen as a function of 'Deadly Orgone' (DOR), a stagnant, life-hostile form of orgone energy. The article suggests that UFOs contribute to the 'DORification' of the planet, exacerbating this emotional plague and creating a fertile ground for neurosis and societal decay. It implies that humanity's inability to discharge organismic energy, leading to a 'frozen' state (Reich's 'armoring'), fuels this destructive cycle. The text quotes Jerome Eden, who emphasizes the need to combat the 'emotional plague' within oneself and others to survive environmental destruction.

The 'Men in Black' (MIB) Phenomenon

Another section investigates the 'Men in Black' (MIB) phenomenon, a topic that has generated much speculation, ranging from UFO occupants to time travelers. The article, by Michael Appel, leans towards the theory that MIBs might be 'Kyborgs'—mechanical or cybernetic beings. This is based on their monotone speech, lack of emotional expression, and seemingly robotic movements, reminiscent of a 'human-machine' like the legendary Prague Golem. The article recounts an encounter where an MIB appeared to run out of energy and depart, suggesting a power source, possibly a battery, is their 'heart.' It further speculates that MIBs could be agents of an international conspiracy, possibly involving a group referred to as 'Freemasons' or an 'upper societal stratum,' whose goal is to silence inconvenient scientists, politicians, and researchers, particularly those investigating UFOs or holding genuine UFO photographs.

'Mag Mor' - A Dispute Among Researchers

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a debate surrounding the book 'Mag Mor' by Frank Bruns and Herbert Mohren. The book, which translates the Celtic name 'Mag Mor' as 'Land of the Dead' (though this translation is disputed), proposes a radical reinterpretation of human history. It claims that ancient Duisburg was the world's center, Odysseus founded the city (then called Asciburgium), and the Externsteine (a rock formation) was a spacecraft launch site. The 'Ark of Noah' is also reinterpreted as a space capsule.

This theory has sparked a strong reaction, particularly from MYSTERIA staff member Johannes Fiebag. Fiebag's letter to the editor criticizes the 'Mag Mor' authors for what he perceives as historical inaccuracies, flawed linguistic interpretations, and unsubstantiated claims. He disputes the identification of Asciburgium with Duisburg, questions the timeline connecting Odysseus to the city's founding, and challenges the interpretation of 'Mag Mor' as 'Land of the Dead,' suggesting 'the great plain' or 'pleasant plain' as more accurate translations. Fiebag also refutes the claims about the Externsteine being a launch site and the 'Chronicle of the Germans' as a source, stating that the rock formation is a natural geological feature.

The authors, Frank Bruns and Herbert Mohren, respond to Fiebag's criticisms in a detailed reply. They defend their research, suggesting Fiebag misunderstands their article and that his criticisms stem from a similar adherence to conventional academic views. They reiterate their belief in the ancient significance of Asciburgium and the 'Mag Mor' concept, inviting readers to consult their book for further evidence. They also address Fiebag's points on Odysseus, Zeus, and Wotan, framing their connections as theories rather than definitive proofs, and suggest that Fiebag's reaction becomes 'agitated' when discussing certain points, implying a personal bias.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of hidden histories, ancient civilizations, and potential conspiracies, often linking them to extraterrestrial or advanced technological influences. The magazine appears to favor speculative and unconventional interpretations of history and phenomena, encouraging readers to question established narratives. The editorial stance, as indicated by the 'Chefredaktion Halver' and 'Axel Ertelt' sign-off, is to present these controversial topics and facilitate discussion, even if it means provoking established scientific and historical viewpoints. The publication encourages readers to form their own judgments based on the presented information and debates.

This issue of "Prä-Astronautik" (Pre-Astronautics), identified as page 21 of a larger publication, features articles exploring ancient mysteries, extraterrestrial influences, and speculative theories about history and science. The issue date is inferred to be November 1981 based on references within the text, such as the "new astrological calendar for the solar year 1982" and dated articles.

Article: "mag-mor" and the "Chronik der Germanen"

The first section addresses a previous article and a discussion by Herr Fiebag, who apparently sought information on the Externsteinen and the "Chronik der Germanen." The author, Herbert Mohren, clarifies that Fiebag's work might not be directly based on a specific MYSTERIA article but rather on the subject matter or other authors. Mohren criticizes "unsachlichkeit" (lack of objectivity) in reporting. He notes that "mag-mor," described as the first culture of Earth, was discussed on WDR Köln and Sender Freies Berlin on August 16, 1981. A mention is made of an archaeologist confirming excerpts from Tacitus that suggest Odysseus founded a city. Mohren concludes by quoting Fiebag from a MYSTERIA 6/81 article, emphasizing that scientific understanding is not static and can be revised.

For Interested Readers: Book Recommendation

Readers interested in the "MAG MOR" book, "Die erste Kultur der Erde" (The First Culture of Earth), published by Astronomischer Verlag Detlef Fritze, Bamberg, are informed that it can be obtained through the authors, Frank Bruns and Herbert Mohren, whose addresses are provided.

Article: "Die magischen Stäbe" (The Magical Staffs)

Authored by Hans-Werner Sachmann, this article revisits the theme of "Götter-Waffen" (Gods' Weapons) previously discussed in MYSTERIA Nr. 12/79. Sachmann notes the reader interest in identifying ancient artifacts as symbolic or disguised representations of weapons. He focuses on "Stäbe" (staffs) found in various cultures:

Egyptian Gods

Egyptian deities are depicted carrying staffs, referred to as "Zeichen ihrer Macht" (signs of their power).

Greek Mythology

Sachmann examines the staff used by the hero Theseus against the Minotaur, questioning its effectiveness against such a creature. He also discusses the Thyrosstab of Dionysos, described as being made of gold-colored metal, adorned with white ribbons or blinking snakes, and potentially representing "cooling snakes," hoses, or similar technological components. This staff is said to have paralyzed the giant Eurytos. The article draws a parallel to the modern symbol of medicine, the Asclepius staff, and the staff of Hermes, which could induce sleep, awaken, or turn people to stone, calling it a "multi-purpose weapon without equal."

Example from the Bible

The staff of Moses is presented as a mysterious object used during a desert battle against a hostile army. When Moses raised his staff, the Israelites gained the advantage; when he lowered it, they faltered. The author suggests this implies the use of a modern-looking handheld weapon.

Arab Traditions

Legends speak of Al Yafa Yafis, the first king of Ma'in, who could split mountains and hills with his staff, suggesting the possibility of handheld laser-beam weapons.

Other Cultures

In South America, the Muisca culture's bringer of culture, Boccia, is said to possess a golden staff that could split mountains, similar to Al Yafa Yafis's weapon. This is compared to the magical sword Kashyab, which could also split mountains, likened to a "super-dimensional lightning bolt," a metaphor often used for laser-like phenomena.

Sachmann agrees with the readers' opinion that these "Gods' staffs" were weapons and anticipates that further pre-astronautic studies will confirm this.

Differentiating Staff Weapons

He considers that these staff-weapons might have been different types, or that ancient observers might not have recognized subtle differences. It's also possible they were switchable, multi-purpose, or all-round weapons, analogous to modern firearms that can fire gas, or act as flares or blank cartridges.

Article: "Leben im Sternstaub" (Life in Stardust)

Authored by Hans-Werner Sachmann, this article explores the fundamental questions of the origin of life and intelligence on Earth and in the universe. Sachmann notes that despite generations of research, no definitive answer has been found, with numerous theories and hypotheses but no universally accepted truth.

The "Meteorite Hypothesis"

A theory published years ago suggested that life on our planet did not originate here but was "injected" from space. Friedrich Ludwig Boschke's book "Erde von Anderen Sternen" (Earth from Other Stars) brought this idea into discussion. This hypothesis was supported by findings of life's building blocks in meteorites. However, research is ongoing, and interpretations vary.

Panspermia and Extraterrestrial Intervention

More recent hypotheses, notably discussed by Nobel laureate Dr. Francis Crick and astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle (in his book "Die Lebenswolke"), propose that life or advanced civilizations may have originated elsewhere and sent microorganisms to Earth as "seeds." Crick discusses the technology required for such an endeavor and the gaps in our understanding of evolution. He notes the difficulty in creating even primitive life in laboratory tests. Hoyle famously stated that the arrangement of amino acids necessary for human life is statistically improbable through random evolution, suggesting an external influence.

Hoyle's Catastrophe Theory

Fred Hoyle further posits that a catastrophe billions of years ago threatened advanced life on another planet, leading its inhabitants to send microorganisms to Earth via comets or meteors. These primitive life forms evolved over time, eventually leading to human-like beings. Hoyle suggests, "We were the beginning of a rebirth of those extraterrestrials!"

Sources and Literature References

The article cites sources such as F. L. Boschke's "Das Unerforschte," Hoyle and Wickramasinghe's "Die Lebenswolke," and articles by Francis Crick in "Welt am Sonntag" and "Bild."

Continuation from Page 9: Maya Civilization

This section, continuing from page 9, discusses the history of the Maya people after the Spanish conquest. It mentions epidemics of yellow fever and smallpox, frequent famines, and the suppression of uprisings, which significantly reduced the Maya population. Currently, there are about 5 million Maya, with the largest populations in Guatemala and Mexico. Despite not being on the brink of extinction, they are described as being far from their former cultural heights due to oppression and exploitation. Only a small tribe, the Lacadonen, remains in a remote area, with no purely Maya left otherwise.

Literature References

A comprehensive list of books and articles is provided, covering topics such as ancient cultures, pre-astronautics, mythology, and specific historical events like the Maya civilization and the Tula statues. Authors include Kurt Benesch, Erich von Däniken, Ulrich Dopatka, Rafael Girard, Jonathan N. Leonard, Peter Tomkins, and Wilfried Westphal, among others. It also lists relevant magazine articles and newspaper references.

MYSTERIA-Bibliothek: Books for Sale

This section lists various books available for purchase through the MYSTERIA-Bibliothek, with titles ranging from chirology and club management to Atlantis, parapsychology, esotericism, and science fiction. Prices are listed in German Marks (DM).

Cartoon

A cartoon by "HABECK" depicts an alien-like creature with antennae and a mug, asking a woman, "I am your new neighbor - may I borrow a cup of something?"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reinterpretation of ancient artifacts and myths as evidence of advanced technology or extraterrestrial influence, and the exploration of alternative theories regarding the origin of life and intelligence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into speculative and fringe scientific and historical topics, encouraging reader participation and presenting information from a "pre-astronautic" perspective. The magazine actively promotes books and resources related to these subjects.