Orion 1965 No 5

Magazine Overview

Title: ORION
Issue: Nr 5
Date: Sept-Okt 1965
Volume: Årgång 1

ORION is a Swedish magazine published by Malmö Interplanetariska Sällskap, dedicated to research in new eras. It aims to provide information on astronomy, space research, humanity and life in the universe, parapsychology, philosophy of life, archaeology, and ancient cultures. The magazine emphasizes the importance of both established scientific facts and emerging scientific fields, fostering a "debate forum" for reader contributions. It is published on an entirely voluntary basis.

Contents

The issue features a prominent article by Nils-Olof Jacobson titled "En rationell världsbild?" (A Rational Worldview?). Jacobson, a medical student interested in the borderlands of parapsychology and spiritualism, explores the definition of science and the process of acquiring knowledge, outlining four stages: observation, fantasy, thinking, and observation-control. He questions whether a purely scientific worldview is sufficient and introduces the concept of intuition. Jacobson highlights the Danish author Martinus and his extensive work, "Livets Bok," which presents a comprehensive cosmology and philosophy of life. He posits that a valid worldview must be logical, practical, and moral.

Jacobson elaborates on Martinus's cosmology, which is divided into a worldview (how the world is structured) and a life philosophy (how to live in harmony with it). He explains that life is characterized by a continuous cycle of reincarnation, alternating between physical and spiritual existence. This cycle is depicted through six stages, representing different levels of existence from the plant kingdom to the divine realm, and is further illustrated by spiral movements representing evolution and expansion.

The article also touches upon the concept of "ground energies" (instinct, gravity, emotion, intellect, intuition, memory) and their role in shaping our reality. It suggests that the entire universe, including planets and stars, can be viewed as living organisms, and that we are part of a larger cosmic consciousness, ultimately identifying the totality of the universe with God.

Another article, "När Jorden skälver – ett gissel för många länder" (When the Earth Trembles – A Scourge for Many Countries), discusses earthquakes. "Före oss syndafloden" (Before the Great Flood) by Ivan Troëng delves into pre-diluvian civilizations. The issue also includes a "Letters to the Editor" section titled "Med spetsad penna!" (With a Sharpened Pen!) and a section for thoughtful quotes, "Tänkvärda ord" (Thought-provoking Words).

Per Ragnar contributes an article titled "Från en död om liv" (From a Death About Life), which likely explores themes of mortality and existence.

Cover Image

The cover features a striking photograph of the Orion Nebula (M 42), credited to the Mount Wilson and Palomar Observatories, copyrighted in 1959 by the California Institute of Technology. The image is a vibrant depiction of cosmic dust and gas illuminated by young stars.

Publication Details

The magazine is published bi-monthly, with six issues per year. Advertising prices are listed, along with subscription and single-issue prices. Contact information for the responsible publisher, Yngve Freij, and the editorial committee is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

ORION magazine appears to adopt a broad, interdisciplinary approach, embracing both scientific inquiry and more speculative or philosophical topics such as parapsychology and cosmology. The editorial stance encourages open discussion and the exploration of diverse perspectives on humanity's place in the universe. The emphasis on Martinus's teachings suggests an interest in spiritual and metaphysical interpretations of existence, alongside scientific understanding. The magazine aims to provide readers with a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex world.

This issue of "Kosmos" magazine, dated March 1967, delves into two primary themes: the spiritual and philosophical teachings of Martinus, and the scientific and historical aspects of earthquakes.

Martinus's Philosophy: Tolerance and the Life-Giving Principle

The magazine explores Martinus's perspective on tolerance, presenting it not just as a moral ideal but as a rational and intelligent way of life. It posits that understanding the "life-giving principle" and its contrast with "killing energies" is fundamental to spiritual development. The text draws parallels with Jesus's teachings, particularly the concept of turning the other cheek, and explains Martinus's contribution as providing an intellectual framework for these principles.

Martinus's cosmology is described as a defense of the core of Christianity, offering a worldview that can be understood through intelligence rather than blind faith. The article highlights that while Jesus presented a moral standard far ahead of his time, modern humanity's accumulated experience allows for a more comprehensive explanation of the relationship between God and humanity.

The issue addresses the question of how one can achieve tolerance, with Martinus suggesting it's not solely based on will but also on innate talent developed through continuous training, possibly over multiple lives. He outlines practical steps for cultivating this ability, including eliminating the concept of "enemies," refraining from retaliating against negativity, speaking no evil, being truthful and honest, remaining unaffected by flattery or criticism, and avoiding harm to others. The ultimate goal is to serve fellow human beings, which Martinus equates to the highest form of yoga and a path to becoming a "god-human."

The magazine also touches upon the concept of "cosmic consciousness," relating it to the yogic path. It suggests that while some achieve this state through traditional methods, others reach it through their own spiritual journeys. The article emphasizes that humanity, regardless of the path, is progressing towards a higher state of consciousness.

Literature and Resources

Information is provided about Martinus's work, noting that his writings are freely available. The Martinus Institute in Copenhagen is mentioned as a source for information, and Swedish translations are available through Hälsans Förlag in Linköping.

Earthquakes: A Geological and Historical Perspective

The magazine dedicates a significant portion to the phenomenon of earthquakes. It begins by recounting recent devastating earthquakes in Chile and Greece and poses fundamental questions about their causes and predictability.

Historical earthquakes are detailed, including major events in San Francisco (1906), Messina (1908), Avezzano (1915), Kansu (1920), Tokyo and Yokohama (1923), Shensi (1556), and Calcutta (1737), highlighting the immense loss of life and property associated with these disasters.

Despite the destructive potential of major earthquakes, the article notes that the vast majority of the estimated one million seismic events per year are minor. Only a few hundred are destructive, and even fewer are classified as "powerful."

International aid efforts following major earthquakes are discussed, with examples from Chile and Morocco, illustrating global cooperation in disaster relief.

Scientific Understanding and Preparedness

While scientists do not believe earthquakes can be prevented, they are working towards predicting when and where they might occur by studying their causes and patterns. Two major earthquake belts are identified: one along the west coasts of the Americas and extending through Japan and the Pacific, and another stretching from Southeast Asia through the Himalayas and the Mediterranean to Portugal.

The article delves into the geological theories behind earthquakes, suggesting they stem from the interaction between the Earth's molten core and its cooler outer layers. It also explains the phenomenon of tsunamis (svallvågor) generated by undersea earthquakes, noting their immense speed and height.

The intensity of earthquakes is measured by the Richter scale, with specific examples of powerful quakes in Alaska, Chile, and San Francisco provided.

Seismological stations worldwide, including those in Uppsala and Umeå, play a crucial role in monitoring and analyzing seismic activity. Data is shared internationally to build a comprehensive understanding of global seismic patterns.

Measures for mitigating earthquake damage are also discussed, including robust building construction, fire safety precautions, and emergency preparedness plans. The example of a cinema in Anchorage, Alaska, built with exceptional safety standards, is cited as a successful case of preparedness.

Theories on Earth's Geological History

Ivan Troëng contributes an article exploring theories about geological events preceding the biblical flood, particularly the formation of the Pacific Ocean basin. He discusses the hypothesis that the Moon was formed from the Pacific Ocean and examines evidence related to the Earth's tilt and climate changes, including the formation of ice ages and subsequent global floods.

Troëng critiques existing geological theories, suggesting that the role of thermodynamic processes, specifically gas bubbles in magma, has been overlooked in explaining the formation of mountain ranges. He proposes that the rapid uplift of the Earth's crust due to gravitational forces from a passing celestial body would create a vacuum in the magma, leading to gas expansion and the formation of solidified magma with trapped gases, creating buoyant "pumice cushions" that prevent mountains from subsiding.

The article references ancient Greek, Chinese, and Central American texts that describe cyclical cataclysms, including floods and periods of intense heat ("ekpyrosis"), suggesting these were global events that shaped the Earth's history.

Evidence from sediment cores, such as the "Romanche-proppen," is presented to support theories of significant sea-level changes and past geological conditions, challenging conventional geological timelines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Kosmos" consistently promotes a worldview that integrates spiritual understanding with scientific inquiry. The editorial stance appears to favor a holistic approach, where philosophical and spiritual insights (as presented by Martinus) complement and provide context for scientific observations (such as those related to earthquakes and geology). There is an underlying theme of evolution, both spiritual and geological, and a belief in humanity's progress towards higher consciousness and a deeper understanding of the universe. The magazine encourages readers to engage with these ideas through study and personal experience, offering resources for further exploration.

This issue of Orion, identified as Volume 3, Issue 4, delves into a variety of topics ranging from geological history and paleontology to ancient civilizations and philosophical reflections on life and death. The content is primarily in Swedish.

Geological and Paleontological Investigations

The issue begins with an examination of Hans Pettersson's findings regarding ocean levels during the late Quaternary period, suggesting distinct layers deposited during five distinct epochs, with three interglacial periods (after Günz, Mündel, and Riss) preceding the Würm and postglacial periods. The red clay layer from the postglacial period is noted to represent only 4000 years, or 3000 according to Lamontfors-karna.

Henry Kjellson's article, "Forntidens Teknik" (Ancient Technology), is cited concerning carbon-14 dating of tree trunks uprooted by ice masses in North America. These findings, dating to 12,000 years ago (approximately 10,000 BC), led to a revision of the perceived timing of the North American ice age, correcting previous estimates by about 8,000 years. The article suggests that if the North American and European ice ages were contemporaneous, the European timeline also needs revision.

The magazine then focuses on carbon-14 datings of mammoth finds, referencing The American Journal of Science. Eight datings are presented, with three falling within a 'catastrophe period' and five in an earlier period, separated by a 20,000-year gap. The youngest find is a mammoth skeleton from Ferguson Farm in Ontario, Canada, dated to 6450 ± 250 years ago, suggesting it survived into the Riss interglacial period. The next oldest is from the Lehner Mammoth Site in Arizona, dated to 11500 ± 140 years ago, indicating that the ice age might have extended further south than previously assumed.

A Taimyr, Siberia, mammoth find is discussed, dated to 11800 ± 250 years ago. This find is significant because the mammoth lived in a relatively warm climate about 12,000 years ago, contradicting the geological assumption of a 2000-meter thick ice sheet on the coast at that time.

Older mammoth finds from Siberia, dating back 32,000-40,000 years, are also mentioned, suggesting a gradual cooling period that preceded the last ice age. The article posits that the Gulf Stream's influence in the Tertiary period might explain why mammoths could thrive in warmer, humid conditions in regions like the Taimyr Peninsula, even as other areas experienced freezing.

Further datings of mammoths are listed: Mokovaja (32,500 years), Lena (33,000 years), Gyda (33,500 years), Sanga Jurjak (39,000 years), and Beresovska (39,000 years). These findings are presented as evidence against the geological expert opinion that the Würm ice age lasted from 60,000 to 120,000 years ago and ended around 7,000 years ago.

Ivan Troëng's article, "Kulturer före istiden" (Cultures Before the Ice Age), proposes that about 12,000 years ago, a cosmic event caused Earth to be scarred, leading to the separation of the Pacific Ocean floor and its ejection into space, forming the moon. This event is suggested to have initiated a major catastrophe. Troëng's research aims to expand humanity's historical perspective from 5,000 years to at least 50,000 years, and potentially up to 200,000 years.

Debates on Science and Belief

The section "Med Spetsad Penna!" (With a Sharpened Pen!) features a response from Ivan Troëng to an article titled "Svar till Affectator" (Reply to Affectator) in Orion No. 3. Troëng clarifies his use of the term "slump" (chance) and argues that while he acknowledges factors beyond simple variation and selection in the origin and development of life, he does not blindly accept all scientific claims. He criticizes the idea that human existence can be explained by a single thought and its execution, contrasting it with a more gradual evolutionary process.

Troëng expresses skepticism about the claim that the Quaternary period began only about 11,800 years ago, stating he would only accept this if irrefutable proof, such as C14 dating, were provided for all finds of early human species like Java Man and Neanderthals being younger than 11,800 years.

He also discusses the role of ice ages in erasing evidence of previous high cultures, suggesting that remnants of primitive Stone Age cultures might have survived interglacial periods. He references ancient Indian texts describing three types of flying craft used 8,000 years ago and speculates that a flood, possibly from a rapidly melting ice mass in the Himalayas, might have preserved these writings.

Elis Dahlgren, in "Tänkvärda ord" (Words to Ponder), responds to the idea of ancient flying machines and advanced civilizations. He references myths and legends, including those from the "Thousand and One Nights," about flying horses and palaces, suggesting that ancient narratives might contain kernels of truth about advanced technology. He also mentions figures like Elijah and Icarus as potential examples of individuals with extraordinary abilities or knowledge.

Dahlgren critiques the notion that scientific consensus should be blindly followed, suggesting that scientists might suppress inconvenient truths. He argues that ancient myths and sagas, when interpreted through a certain lens, can be used to 'prove' almost anything, questioning the necessity of extensive research if a guiding 'thought' is already established.

Philosophical and Spiritual Reflections

Another section, "Tekniken - på gott och ont" (Technology - For Better and Worse), features a letter discussing a perceived tendency within esoteric circles to feel superior to the general public. The author criticizes a pessimistic view of humanity as inherently base and unintelligent, arguing that such a view is one-sided and that there are also strong forces working towards positive change and increased consciousness.

The author suggests that while individuals may have limited power to influence global political and technological developments, they can expand their own consciousness and work towards positive change within their sphere of influence. The piece references Bertrand Russell's "Ideas that Have Helped Mankind" and Martinus's "The Book of Life" as sources of inspiration for creating a better future.

Poetry and Quotes

The issue includes several poems and quotes. Per Ragnar contributes a section titled "Från en död om liv" (From a Death About Life), which appears to be a series of poems or reflections on death, life, and the transition between them. These pieces explore themes of loss, memory, and the possibility of an existence beyond the physical body.

Notable quotes include:

• "Det är ett under / Det är verklighet" (It is a wonder / It is reality) attributed to an unknown speaker.
• "Själen rymmer allt; den, som känner sin själ, känner allting; den, som är ovetande om sin själ, är ovetande om allting." (The soul contains everything; he who knows his soul, knows everything; he who is ignorant of his soul, is ignorant of everything.) - Sokrates.
• "Med osanning kan man komma tvärs igenom världen, men inte tillbaka." (With untruth one can travel across the world, but not back.) - Dostojevskij.
• "Det räcker inte med att vara klok. Man måste vara så klok, att man undviker att vara klok." (It is not enough to be wise. One must be so wise as to avoid being wise.) - André Maurios.
• "Penningen blir en tjänare om man kan bruka den rätt men en härskare om man inte kan." (Money becomes a servant if one can use it correctly, but a ruler if one cannot.) - Horatius.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Orion revolve around challenging established scientific timelines and theories, particularly concerning the ice ages and human history. There is a strong undercurrent of exploring alternative explanations, often drawing from ancient texts, myths, and spiritual philosophies. The magazine seems to foster a platform for debate, encouraging readers to question conventional wisdom and consider broader perspectives on existence, consciousness, and the nature of reality. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, providing space for diverse viewpoints, even those that diverge significantly from mainstream scientific or historical narratives. The inclusion of poetry and philosophical quotes suggests an appreciation for subjective experience and spiritual understanding alongside empirical investigation.

Title: ORION
Issue: 4
Volume: 1
Date: 1965

This issue of the Swedish magazine ORION, published by Malmö Interplanetariska Sällskap, focuses on themes of spirituality, personal development, and health, reflecting the interests of the era.

Featured Content

Book Reviews:

• "Sursum Corda" by Christer Törne: This work is described as a collection of meditations, introspective poems, and reflections on worldview and mysticism presented in lyrical form. It is available in bookstores for Kr. 9:— and is published by Harriers Förlag.

• "Nio artiklar för den sökande nutidsmänniskan" by Anna-Lisa Helle: This publication is presented as a guide for the searching modern individual, with a strong endorsement stating, "Are you doubtful, uncertain, rootless? Then you seek in vain for a more important writing than this. A sure guide on the path darkened by humans!" It can be obtained directly from the author via mail order (postförskott) at Glasmålarvägen 8, Enskede. The booklet costs Kr 7:50 plus postage.

Advertisement:

• Vita Nova Kurhotell: An advertisement promotes Vita Nova Kurhotell, a health resort located in Mölle. It highlights its location by Öresund, offering a "Swedish Riviera" experience. The establishment focuses on healthy living and biological methods and is open all year. The director is Dr. Lars-Erik Essén, and room reservations can be made by contacting Helsingborg 042/47300.

Reader Engagement and Subscription Drive

The magazine addresses its readers with a message of gratitude for the trust and interest shown during its first year of operation. It notes the steadily increasing readership of ORION and expresses a desire to reach more interested individuals who may not yet be familiar with the publication. Existing subscribers are encouraged to recommend ORION to their acquaintances by providing names and addresses, so that a trial issue can be sent. The magazine emphasizes that this is a way to help broaden its readership, making ORION better known and providing resources to enhance the magazine.

A subscription form is included, allowing readers to request a trial issue of ORION without cost or obligation. They can specify the desired starting issue number or request a specific trial number. Readers can also choose to subscribe from a specific issue number, either from the beginning of the year 1965 or for a full year. The subscription fee is indicated as Kr. 2:— per issue, payable to postgiro account 632254.

Instructions are provided for mailing the subscription coupon, which requires a 40-öre stamp. Alternatively, readers can send their requests by letter. The magazine appeals to readers to help make ORION more widely known and accessible.

Publication Details

The magazine is identified as "Tidskriften ORION," associated with "MALMÖ INTERPLANETARISKA SÄLLSKAP" (Malmö Interplanetary Society), with a postal address at Fack 2012, Malmö 2. The printing of the magazine was done by "scania-tryck, Malmö" in 1965.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around personal growth, spiritual exploration, and alternative approaches to health and well-being. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting esoteric and New Age ideas, encouraging readers to seek deeper meaning and self-improvement. The emphasis on reaching new readers and expanding the magazine's influence suggests an active effort to disseminate these concepts within Swedish society during the mid-1960s.