PSI Bladet - 1978 No 2

Magazine Overview

Title: PSI-BLADET
Issue: No. 2, 1978
Volume: 5. årgang
Date: October 1978
Publisher: NORSK FORENING FOR PSYKISK STUDIUM OG INFORMASJON (Norwegian Society for Psychic Study and Information)
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of PSI-BLADET, the organ for the Norwegian Society for Psychic Study and Information, presents a collection of articles exploring esoteric, philosophical, and spiritual themes. The cover features a striking image of a gear and a flower-like symbol, with the headline "Kosmos er livs-hjul på livs-hjul..." (Cosmos is a wheel of life upon a wheel of life...). The magazine delves into the power of thought, the cyclical nature of existence, and the relationship between religion, mysticism, and esoteric knowledge.

Articles and Content

"Tankens Kraft" (The Power of Thought)

This section, edited by Ingar Sletten Kolloen, discusses the power of thought and encourages readers to use this power to create a different world. It mentions that several esoteric organizations encourage their members to dedicate a specific time for this, from Saturday 9 PM to Sunday 9 PM. The article reflects on vibrations, the microcosm and macrocosm, and concludes that the wheel of life is complete thanks to the power of thought.

"Høsten i og utenfor" (Autumn In and Out)

This poetic piece, signed ISK, draws a parallel between the autumn season and personal transformation. It suggests that just as trees shed their leaves, humans must also let go of what they possess and embrace a moment of unity between earth and sky, signifying a personal fall and renewal.

"Livshjulet" (The Wheel of Life)

Authored by U.E. Hoyle, this article uses astrological signs to describe a personal journey of development and self-discovery. It traces the author's life through the zodiacal signs, from birth (Aries) through Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and finally Pisces. Each sign represents a stage of learning, growth, and contribution. The author concludes that the cosmos is a wheel of life upon a wheel of life, where everything is renewed and elevated towards a greater consciousness, all part of a creator's plan.

"Kirke-Troen og Motforestillingene!" (Church Faith and Counter-Arguments!)

Written by Kjell Berggren, this article examines the controversies and reactions surrounding the Church's stance on various issues, such as exorcisms, the 'Christian purpose clause', and abortion laws. It questions why these disputes arise, both within and outside the Church. The author quotes an esoteric saying: "The wise man is silent with his knowledge. The wise speak from their knowledge. Fools chatter, discuss facts, ask superfluous questions, and make irrelevant comments," suggesting that true understanding requires more than superficial engagement.

"Religion"

This section explores the concept of "religion" and its connection to Christianity and the Bible. It posits that pantheons and religious concepts are simplified expressions of a deeper, archetypal symbolism originating from highly developed esoteric societies, known as Mystery Schools, since ancient times. These teachings were then simplified and passed on through founders and prophets. The article notes that philosophers, while different in their societal role, share the same underlying principles as religious figures, adapting their communication to their audience. It mentions historical figures like Thutmose III, Moses, Jesus, Plato, and Isaac Newton as examples of esotericists.

"For: Nedarvet vanetro, Utilstrekkelig viten, Angst..."

This piece discusses how the five-sensory human experience can be a trap, filled with illusions and justifications. It references the "cloud" that the Creator placed over humanity's eyes, preventing clear sight, as mentioned in various ancient texts like the Popul Vuh and the Old Testament. It also quotes from the Gospel of Mark (4:10-12) regarding those who see but do not perceive, and hear but do not understand.

"Bibelen" (The Bible)

This section analyzes the Bible as a religious text authored by high-level esotericists. It explains the three-layered nature of esoteric writing: literal, symbolic, and hidden meaning. This method, used in Mystery Schools, can be allegorical or cryptogrammic, rooted in the unconscious. The text suggests that the Bible, like other religious scriptures, contains this multi-layered knowledge, veiled by "the 3 times spun veil of Mysteries," accessible only to the initiated.

"Motstander - Tilhenger?" (Opponent - Supporter?)

This article, attributed to K.G. and referencing Vilhelm Grønbech, discusses the lack of deep knowledge among both supporters and opponents of Church doctrine. It highlights research indicating over 80,000 changes and omissions in the Biblical texts between 325 and 1100 AD, influenced by church councils and Roman emperors. The author argues that the current Protestant Church doctrine has strayed significantly from original Christian teachings, calling it one of history's greatest falsifications. It also addresses the common perception of mystics as vague or delusional, contrasting this with the reality of mystics as clear-minded individuals capable of logical thought.

"Enighet om Astrologi og Undervisning?" (Agreement on Astrology and Teaching?)

Authored by Rigmor Elizabeth Asterwig, this article reports on the French-speaking astrological congress in Paris. The congress's main focus was the pedagogical aspect of astrology, examining what should be taught, how, by whom, and for whom, including at university levels. The author shared her insights on the history and development of astrology in Norway and her personal views on whether astrology is for everyone. She suggested a separate education for future astrologers and a general metaphysical education for the public, bridging the gap between rationalism and the emerging spiritual era. The article notes anticipation for the development of astrology in Scandinavia.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of PSI-BLADET revolve around esotericism, mysticism, and the exploration of deeper spiritual and philosophical truths beyond conventional understanding. The magazine promotes the idea that ancient wisdom, often hidden within religious texts and symbols, holds profound insights into the nature of reality, consciousness, and human development. There is a critical perspective on established religious institutions, suggesting they have often diluted or misinterpreted original spiritual teachings. The publication advocates for a deeper, more analytical approach to understanding life, the cosmos, and the self, often referencing astrological and esoteric frameworks. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical inquiry, personal spiritual growth, and the pursuit of hidden knowledge.

This issue of 'Historisk' (Historical) magazine, identified as issue number 11 and dated September 1978, focuses on a confluence of topics including astrology, UFO phenomena, and parapsychology. The cover prominently features the title 'Historisk' and the issue number.

International Congress on Astrological Pedagogy

The magazine reports on an international congress with a specific aim: to work towards an international consensus on astrological pedagogy. A working committee was formed to develop formulations based on five pedagogical approaches. The author notes the passionate, sometimes chaotic, Latin temperament of some participants, which was eventually moderated by more pragmatic Northern Europeans. The congress included representatives from France, Belgium, the Netherlands, England, German Switzerland, Spain, India, and the USA. The article highlights perceived differences in the mission of Asia, Europe, and America regarding astrology. Asia is described as having a deep spiritual and metaphysical background, with Sanskrit being crucial for understanding original astrology, which is integrated into astronomy studies. However, the practice of astrology in India faces a mundane and fatalistic public. Europe is characterized by a focus on research, while the USA engages the public through personal and commercial guidance, sometimes at a superficial level. A sharp reaction from Europeans, particularly the French, was noted against the American approach, creating a perceived divide. There was also a reaction against the Indian tradition, considered by some to be outdated for the new era.

On the final day, reports were presented from each represented continent. A key consensus was that astrological education should include a cosmology, placing astrology within a larger cosmic context. Educators should have a background in related sciences like astronomy and psychology. A strong emphasis was placed on ethical requirements for educators, advocating for a positive, ethical worldview or religion, as both religion and ethics stem from the cosmic order of which astrology is a part. The requirement for a diploma in astrology for future astrological educators was also mentioned. The reports were to be presented a week later at a corresponding world congress for English-speaking countries in Cambridge, where decisions would be made regarding which schools/universities would be internationally recognized as a basis for astrology teachers.

UFO Sightings and Reports

The "UFO-SIDENE" (UFO Pages) section, authored by Knut Aasheim, presents a compilation of recent UFO reports from Norway and abroad. Despite a lack of major sensational events, the coverage in newspapers is noted as generally sparse, though some local papers have provided good coverage.

• Several Norwegian sightings are detailed:
• March 13, 1978 (Ringerike Blad): A woman from Åsbygda reported taking a photo of a luminous sphere with a meteor-like tail that moved back and forth, seen on Christmas Day the previous year. She had seen similar phenomena before.
• October 1977 (Ringerike): An unknown flying object landed in a field near Hønefoss and was observed by three people.
• March 29, 1978 (Arbeiderbladet): An Oslo man observed a circular, colorful, and luminous object larger than a star from a cabin in Ådalen.
• April 15, 1978 (Dagbladet): A reader from Romsås reported seeing a luminous object over Groruddalen, which moved towards Nittedal.
• April 22, 1978 (Glåmdalen): The newspaper interviewed ufologist Kjell Christensen from Nannestad, a collaborator at Norsk UFO Center, which investigates and maps UFO observations.
• July 9, 1978 (Glåmdalen): A man observed an oval object with a strong green light moving low over Glomma near Ullern.
• July 22, 1978 (Glåmdalen): The Askvik couple from Nes reported seeing UFOs 12 times in 3.5 months, with Yngvar Askvik taking 10 photos of a luminous object on July 19.
• August 2, 1978 (Glåmdalen): A luminous sphere landed in a field near Mjøndalen, emitting a bright light.
• September 3, 1978 (Aftenposten): People in Lødingen were startled by a green light covering the area, followed by a luminous sphere that disappeared over the horizon.

• International UFO reports include:
• Petrozavodsk, Russia: The National Enquirer reported a massive UFO, described as jellyfish-shaped and over 100 meters in diameter, that visited the city multiple times between September 1977 and February 1978, emitting golden light.
• Detroit Area, USA: Over 50 UFO observations were reported in one month, including objects resembling a flying saucer and a Boeing 747.
• Puerto Rico: Over 1000 people witnessed two "glowing" UFOs, described as "large luminous balls," flying low over a beach in September 1977. One appeared to crash into the sea, while the other moved erratically.

UFO Opinion Poll

• A Norsk Opinions Institutt poll conducted for Aftenposten in 1978 compared Norwegian opinions on UFOs and extraterrestrial life with US surveys from 1973 and 1976. Key findings:
• Belief in Extraterrestrial Life: 30% of Norwegians believed in human-like beings on other planets, significantly lower than the 81% in the US. The article attributes this difference to greater media exposure and more conservative religious views in Norway.
• Awareness of UFOs: 95% of both Norwegians and Americans had heard or read about UFOs, indicating no communication barrier.
• Belief in Real UFOs: 41% of Norwegians believed UFOs are real, compared to 51% in the US in 1973 (with a projected 55% in a 1978 US survey).
• Personal Sightings: Only 3% of Norwegians reported personally seeing a UFO, a stark contrast to the US figure (implied to be much higher, possibly around 15% based on other data). The author suggests fear of ridicule and past media attitudes contribute to underreporting. Younger respondents were more likely to report sightings.

Geographically, Trøndelag/Northern Norway showed higher UFO activity and reporting rates.

Science Fiction and Technology

The magazine also touches upon the influence of science fiction films and emerging technologies.

• John Searl's Flying Saucer: John Searl claims to be months away from realizing his 26-year dream of building and flying the world's first flying saucer, capable of speeds over 38,000 km/h. He describes his prototypes, all of which disappeared. He is seeking £100,000 for a 3-seater prototype and suggests his magnetic energy technology could power cars without gasoline. Representatives from Ford and British Leyland are reportedly interested.
• Star Wars and Close Encounters: The films 'Star Wars' and 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' are discussed for their potential to stimulate interest in space travel, UFOs, and the question of extraterrestrial life. 'Star Wars' is noted for its symbolism of good versus evil and the concept of 'The Force'. The article mentions that 'Star Wars II' is planned, with partial filming in Norway. The success of these films is driving investment in science fiction with a "new twist."
• Star Trek: The enduring popularity of the 'Star Trek' TV series from the late 1960s is highlighted, with its episodes broadcast on over 160 US stations and in 47 languages internationally. The article laments the lack of similar series on Norwegian TV, contrasting it with Sweden. A 'Star Trek' feature film is slated for 1979, promising advanced special effects.

Parapsychology Seminar

Norsk Parapsykologisk selskap and Delphi Forlag are organizing a major parapsychology seminar in Oslo from April 23-29. The main speaker will be Czechoslovakian physicist, chemist, and parapsychologist Dr. Milan Ryzl. The seminar's theme is ESP and Spiritual Development, covering topics such as an introduction to parapsychology, its scientific aspects, advancements in ESP research, parapsychology in Eastern Bloc countries, hypnosis and ESP, self-programming, and future perspectives.

Dr. Ryzl's book, "HOW YOU CAN DEVELOP PARAPSYCHOLOGICAL ABILITIES YOURSELF AND OTHERS," has just been published by Delphi Forlag. PSI is offering the book to its members, with proceeds going to the association instead of bookstores. Contact information for interested members is provided.

The magazine also appeals for contributions to the next issue of the PSI magazine, seeking articles, poems, reviews, or tips. It also seeks volunteers to assist with the association's work, including typing, envelope stuffing, and other tasks.

Other Sections

• Jing og Jang: A short poem by Unni Eva Hoyle reflecting on duality and the universe.
• Valg (Election): An announcement regarding upcoming elections for important positions within the association in 1979, including the president and secretary. Members are urged to submit nominations.
• Rettelse (Correction): A correction is made to an article about Ouspensky, with a specific paragraph on page 12 being clarified.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of the unknown, whether through the lens of astrology, the observation of unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), or the study of parapsychological abilities. There's a clear interest in bridging scientific inquiry with more esoteric or unexplained aspects of reality. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting findings from scientific studies, anecdotal reports, and expert opinions without overt skepticism, while also acknowledging the need for ethical considerations and rigorous methodology, particularly in the field of astrology and parapsychology. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in these subjects, providing news, reports, and opinion pieces from both Norwegian and international sources.

Title: NÆRKONTAKT
Issue: 2
Volume: 2
Date: 1970 (estimated based on content and context)

This issue of NÆRKONTAKT, a publication likely associated with the PSI organization, focuses on themes of consciousness, spirituality, art, and personal development. It features an editorial appeal for reader engagement, reflections on the nature of beauty and its connection to higher realms, and quotes from various thinkers.

Editorial Appeal for Reader Engagement

The issue opens with an appeal from a PSI editorial staff member, identified only by the initials K. AA., urging readers to actively participate in making the magazine a true forum. The editor expresses a desire for closer contact between the editorial team and the readers, as well as among the readers themselves, through the magazine. It is suggested that the magazine was not intended solely as a one-way communication channel but as a space for members to share questions, suggestions, ideas, and opinions. Readers are encouraged to send in letters, articles, anecdotes, poems, and book reviews, emphasizing that the success and quality of PSI's work, including the magazine, depend on the active contribution of its members. The editor draws a parallel to newspapers, which rely on reader contributions to be relevant and engaging.

Reflections on Consciousness and Beauty

Sophie Pouulsson contributes an essay titled "Høsten" (Autumn), where she reflects on the beauty of the autumn season and its symbolic connection to the soul. She posits that the vibrant colors of autumn are like a door opening within oneself, hinting at a reality beyond the visible. Pouulsson connects this to the idea that our souls might shine brightly before departing this life. She advocates for opening ourselves to beauty as a means to address our "dark souls." Drawing on Plato's philosophy, she suggests that beauty is the highest of the Good, the True, and the Beautiful, and that experiencing beauty in the world can bring us into contact with a higher, inner reality. Art is highlighted as a powerful medium for accessing this higher realm, with artists acting as conduits between the visible and the invisible. Pouulsson calls for art to create a counterbalance to the prevalent negativity and sickness in the world, acknowledging that beauty can also be found in longing, melancholy, and sorrow, but not in fear or horror. She encourages readers to actively create beauty in their homes and surroundings, emphasizing that beauty also resides in words and thoughts. The essay concludes with a quote from Garborg about striving and believing to build a bridge to a holy, higher future.

Quotes and Wisdom

The issue includes a section titled "Sagt om Bevissthet" (Said about Consciousness), featuring a quote from Bob Toben's "Space, Time and Beyond." Toben suggests that consciousness and energy are unified, and that space-time is a construct of consciousness. He proposes that our everyday perception is a composite of multiple universes we inhabit simultaneously, and what we perceive as our true self is merely a localized projection.

Another section, "Sagt for 80 år siden" (Said 80 years ago), presents quotes attributed to Fritjof Nansen. Nansen's quotes express a concern about the "frenzy" of modern civilization, the "amusement sickness" affecting youth, and the overwhelming pace of material development that leaves little time for reflection and personality development. He questions whether humanity's rapid changes are in the right direction.

Poetry and Visions of the Future

A PSI member's summer poem, "Aftenmeditasjon" (Evening Meditation), is included. It describes a serene evening by a body of water, with the setting sun casting a golden path, and the sounds of nature creating a sense of timelessness. The poem evokes a feeling of peace and connection to the divine.

Page 4 features a powerful, visionary text, possibly an excerpt or a poem, titled "BØNN" (Prayer). It paints a picture of an ideal world: a clean planet with pure air and water, where all life thrives naturally. In this vision, humans live in peace, helping each other, and feeling responsible for all living things, including plants and animals. It also emphasizes the importance of inner development for humanity, suggesting that a profound transformation is possible through intense spiritual effort, in accordance with universal laws. The text concludes with gratitude for this potential future.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of NÆRKONTAKT revolve around the expansion of consciousness, the importance of spirituality and inner development, the appreciation of beauty in nature and art, and a hopeful vision for a harmonious future for humanity and the planet. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging active participation from readers, fostering a sense of community within the PSI organization, and promoting a holistic worldview that integrates spiritual, ethical, and environmental concerns. There is a clear emphasis on personal responsibility and the belief that individual efforts can contribute to collective transformation.