PSI Bladet - 1979 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: PSI-BLADET
Issue: Nr. 1
Volume: 6. årgang
Date: Mai 1979
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, focuses heavily on UFO phenomena and spiritualist activities. The cover features a striking illustration and the headline "1979 ET UFO-ÅR?" (1979 A UFO YEAR?). The magazine includes reports on UFO sightings from around the world, discussions on the nature of these phenomena, and information about spiritualist events and organizations.

Editorial and Societal Reflections

The editorial, written by Ingar Sletten Kolloen, reflects on the chaotic nature of the world and the individual's responsibility to seek inner truth. It touches upon the tendency for human groups to form and then split due to disagreements over practical matters or differing beliefs. The editor laments that if people spent as much time building together as they do tearing down, the world would be a better place. This is noted as the editor's final contribution to PSI-BLADET, wishing their successor and the association well.

UFO Sightings and Reports

International UFO Activity

The magazine details several significant UFO events from late 1978 and early 1979:

• New Zealand (December 1978): UFOs were filmed over New Zealand on December 30th and 31st, 1978. The 7-minute film captured objects exhibiting intelligent control, including rapid accelerations and maneuvers. Explanations like ball lightning, plasma, false radar echoes, and Venus were dismissed as inadequate. The New Zealand Air Force's report in January 1979 stated there was no 'air activity of any kind' posing a threat to national security, a phrasing noted as similar to past US Air Force reports.
• Australia (October 1978): The disappearance of pilot Fredrick Valentin while flying a Cessna is mentioned. He reported being followed by a "shining aircraft with a green light." Despite extensive searches, no wreckage was found.
• Israel (January 1979): Luminous objects were reported over Israel. In Haifa, a red ball "10 times larger than a basketball" was seen moving faster than a jet fighter. Police officers in Jerusalem reported seeing three mysterious objects described as glittering diamonds that moved up and down.
• South Africa (January 1979): A woman and her 12-year-old son reported a close encounter with six dark-skinned beings on a deserted road near Johannesburg. The beings were described as having beards and appearing friendly. The encounter ended when the mother became agitated and told her son to fetch their father.
• England (January 1979): The House of Lords debated UFOs, with the Earl of Clancarty proposing that the government take UFOs seriously and establish a committee to study the phenomenon. He argued that the public was unprepared for potential mass landings. Despite support from UFO researcher Brinsley Le Poer Trench and Lord Kimberley, the proposal was narrowly defeated after a five-hour debate.

Norwegian UFO Activity

The issue highlights UFO activity in Norway during January 1979:

• Romerike (January 3-4, 1979): At least 10 people witnessed an oblong, slow-moving object with shifting colors (red, green, white) in the sky.
• Dal, Eidsvoll (January 3, 1979): A man observed a wide, white luminous band moving horizontally, accompanied by a tingling sensation.
• Follebu, Gudbrandsdalen (January 3, 1979): Two men in a car saw a round object with a blue light.
• Ski (January 4, 1979): Students at Ski youth school observed a cigar-shaped luminous object that changed position and disappeared.
• Eidsvoll (January 8, 1979): The author, Knut Aasheim, observed a cigar-shaped object with a blinking red light moving slowly southwest.
• Holter, Nannestad (January 8, 1979): A school pupil reportedly saw a similar cigar-shaped object.
• Eidsvoll (January 11, 1979): A woman was awakened by a loud bang and strange humming sounds, suggesting an object was approaching and receding.
• Dokken, Eidsvoll (January 18, 1979): Two girls observed a luminous phenomenon for about 15 minutes, which changed through four phases before becoming smaller and disappearing.
• Hadelandsåsene/Hurdalssjøen (January 20, 1979): A skier observed a cigar-shaped object moving slowly north, low over the horizon, with a pinkish hue.
• Redalen (January 26, 1979): Two men saw an object with flashing lights of various colors for 10-15 minutes.
• Magnor (February 6, 1979): Three students observed an unusual phenomenon starting with an orange ring, followed by a disc-shaped object with a ball, and then a wavy stripe that made zig-zag movements.
• Eidsvoll (February 6, 1979): A long cigar-shaped object was observed very low on the eastern horizon, moving slowly southwest.

Power Outages and UFOs: The issue raises the question of a possible connection between UFO phenomena and power outages in the Eastern region of Norway, noting that unknown objects have been observed in areas experiencing unexplained blackouts. An incident involving a faulty relay in Fåberg is mentioned, with an expert reportedly stating such a failure should not have occurred.

UFO-NORGE: A New Organization

In January 1979, a new UFO organization named UFO-NORGE was launched in Norway, becoming the third active UFO group alongside Norsk UFO Center (NUFOC) and Fremmedvitenskaplig Informasjon (FI). The formation of UFO-NORGE is described as a natural result of a longer process driven by a desire for a different approach to studying and working with UFO information. Its goals include collecting and studying UFO information in Norway, disseminating information to members and the public to foster understanding, and facilitating contact between interested individuals and groups domestically and internationally. The organization plans to establish local groups across Norway and aims to cooperate with other UFO groups. It will also have a junior section for young people aged 12-18 and will keep members informed through an internal newsletter. UFO-NORGE has also initiated cooperation with the Danish organization Fritt UFO STUDIUM (FUFOS).

An excursion to the Oslo University solar observatory at Harestua was organized for members, offering an introduction to researchers' work and opportunities for telescope viewing and UFO discussions.

Spiritualism and Conferences

Nordic Spiritualist Union Congress 1979

The Nordic Spiritualist Union Congress was scheduled to be held in Norway from August 3rd to 8th, 1979, at the Høsbjør Turisthotell near Hamar. The theme was "Spiritualism - Light - Joy - The Message of Peace." The congress offered various accommodation options and participation fees, with a deadline for registration on July 1st. The program included lectures on topics such as "The Message of Joy," "The Message of Peace," "Aura Radiation," and "Aura Drawing."

International Spiritualist Federation Congress 1978

The issue also references the 11th triennial congress of the International Spiritualist Federation, held in London from August 26th to September 2nd, 1978. The congress featured 94 participants from various countries and focused on the theme "Towards a World Society which will reflect the spiritual ideals and moral values taught from Spirit and demonstrated by our valient pioneers!" Notable lectures included "The Universal Search for Peace," "World Spiritualism - an all-embracing Reality," "Reincarnation," and "A Theory for a Scientific Explanation of Spiritual Healing." Memorable demonstrations included those by mediums Gordon Higgins and Coral Polge, involving clairaudience, clairvoyance, and transfiguration.

Other Articles

Prediction about UFOs

A section discusses predictions made by a psychic woman, who reportedly foresaw President Kennedy's death, concerning Norway. One prediction mentioned a "strange submarine episode" in Norwegian territorial waters coinciding with a UFO sighting over the country. The article notes the known connection between submarine incidents and UFOs in Norwegian fjords, citing the Sognefjorden incident in November 1972 as a potential example of a UFO or USO (Unidentified Submarine Object).

Operation Rädda Tellus

This is a brief mention of "Operation Rädda Tellus," described as a channel for those who have realized the need for action and cooperation to save the world, guided by a higher divine power. It aims to unite people across political and religious divides for the preservation of life and urges support for the cause.

"Om Poteter" (About Potatoes)

A peculiar article by dosent Birger Svensson from Uppsala claims that even potatoes can experience stress and agitation in modern society, leading them to turn green and develop a bad taste. Svensson, an expert on potatoes, attributes this to modern cultivation and storage methods, including the use of artificial fertilizers and chemicals, and exposure to light. He advises treating potatoes kindly to avoid them becoming "green and grumpy."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the paranormal, particularly UFO phenomena, with spiritual and philosophical inquiries. There's a clear interest in documenting sightings and investigating potential explanations, while also promoting spiritualist beliefs and activities. The formation of UFO-NORGE signifies a growing interest and organized effort within Norway to study these subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained phenomena, coupled with a belief in the importance of inner development and societal harmony, as expressed in the editor's final message and the article on potatoes.

This issue, identified as number 11 from 1979, is primarily in Norwegian and features a collection of poetry and articles focused on spiritual and astrological themes. The magazine appears to be published by "Rådet" (The Council) and is based in Norway.

Poetry by Unni Eva Hoyle

The issue opens with a poem by Unni Eva Hoyle, presented as a divine instruction to create and explore. The poem describes a journey through the cosmos, encountering beauty, and then venturing into darkness. It speaks of the eventual blossoming of love, wisdom, and strength from this experience, culminating in the discovery of a precious pearl. The poem then delves into definitions of "Love" (Kjærlighet) and "Wisdom" (Visdom). Love is defined not just as devotion to a higher power, but as genuine joy in others' success, peace when neighbors are well, giving without expectation of return, and extending compassion even to those who have wronged the speaker. Wisdom is presented as the shedding of ego and pride, the humble acquisition of knowledge through learning and experience, understanding the grand plan that encompasses all, and letting go of the external to allow inner wisdom to emerge. The poem concludes with a section on "Strength" (Styrke), stating that it will be the ultimate outcome of learned wisdom, making the speaker fearless and capable of bearing burdens for better times.

"A New Era for Astrology"

An article titled "EN NY TID FOR ASTROLOGI" (A New Era for Astrology) discusses the transition into the "Age of Aquarius," which is expected to last for approximately 2000 years. The author posits that this new era requires a fundamental understanding of a living, evolving universe operating in cycles. The current transitional period is described as difficult, with old ways needing to yield to new ideas, leading to global conflicts but also triumphs in areas like medicine, science, and technology. The article questions whether astrology can remain static during this time, arguing that traditional astrology holds a deeper meaning and wisdom that needs to be renewed. This renewal involves not just the practice of astrology but also the astrologer themselves, with interpretations of horoscopes needing to be viewed in light of individual spiritual development and consciousness. The author criticizes interpretations that are too realistic or too critical of inner values, advocating instead for an understanding of symbolism and deeper meaning. Dane Rudhyar is highlighted as a pioneer in this field, with his extensive studies in Eastern mysticism, religion, yoga, healing, and depth psychology. The article suggests that a handful of American astrologers are following Rudhyar's path, embracing idealism and a strong spiritual awareness, and rejecting outdated, potentially false, orthodoxies. They recognize the "BIG picture" and accept that spiritual consciousness is key to interpreting horoscopes. The article emphasizes that this new approach does not claim to know everything but acknowledges that everything is created towards new and greater things, and that the understanding of astrology is relative to time. It warns that any atom or system that does not evolve with time and evolution will become static and eventually explode, a phenomenon seen in the current global situation. Astrology, once called "The Mother of all Science," is presented as a universal understanding that helps individuals grasp their place in a larger whole and contribute to the evolution of time. The article concludes by stating that our horoscopes are the "FORM" we use, built over many lives, and that while they indicate our past, they also offer opportunities for future growth. It encourages realizing this potential for a better life.

"Humanistic Astrology"

Further elaborating on the evolving understanding of astrology, the article introduces "Humanistic Astrology" and "Galactic Astrology." Humanistic Astrology, as defined by Dane Rudhyar, focuses on finding one's place within the social and cultural context of Earth's developmental phase and the current era. "Galactic Astrology" suggests a state where humanity is in sync with itself, its time, and cultural development, becoming part of Earth's evolutionary phase. This understanding allows individuals to tap into a "greater mind" for energy and impulses, becoming "seed-persons" who bring new insights to their time. The author stresses the importance of moving beyond a self-contained system, like the "Tropical zodiac," towards the "Sidereal zodiac" to be in tune with oneself, the creator, and the plan. The article urges conscious participation in the Age of Aquarius, acknowledging the inevitable pressures for change. It advises against becoming a static atom, but rather allowing new forces to take root, letting the old make way for the new, and fostering progress in time with the overarching plan. The authors express awe and humility, urging readers to bow their self-centered minds to the greater mind and fulfill their purpose.

Dr. Jonas's Natural Birth Control

An article by Kirsten Tingstad discusses Dr. Eugen Jonas's natural birth control method, which is based on "cosmobiological" principles and astrological calculations. The author suggests that individuals can regulate population growth by becoming aware of cosmic rhythms, as everything is subject to natural and cosmic laws. The method is presented as a way to contribute to greater security in love life and avoid the potential harms of synthetic birth control pills. The article notes that Dr. Jonas's method has been discussed in an article by Jon Karvold in the magazine "DYADE" (summer issue, no. 3, 1978). It is mentioned that the calculations are based on astrology and that the method can also assist those having difficulty conceiving, and even determine the sex of a child if desired. A single two-hour session is sufficient for instruction. Dr. Jonas reportedly guarantees 97.6% accuracy, with a disclaimer for the remaining 2.4%.

"Dematerialisation" of the Zodiac

Kirsten Tingstad also contributes a letter regarding the "dematerialisation" of the zodiac. She addresses differing versions of a situation she has heard about. As chairman of "Zodiak," Rigmor Wig decided the organization would take a sabbatical year. However, the committee's work was hindered by geographical distances among its members. Rigmor Wig herself could no longer serve as chairman. Tingstad, who was a teacher of astrology and had gained experience as a study leader, decided to leave "Zodiak" to form her own study group in the fall of 1979. She explains that to do useful work, one must limit oneself. Tingstad had agreed to lead a study group until the summer of 1979, but the committee's decision for an immediate "dematerialisation" led to her being released from her duties "with immediate effect." She views this as an unfortunate aspect of democracy, as the study group had been functioning well and members seemed interested in continuing. Tingstad clarifies that she was not an ardent advocate for removing "Zodiak" from "P.S.I." (presumably a larger organization). Instead, she believed it was beneficial for astrology students to be exposed to various spiritual directions to find their own path, which is crucial for practicing astrology.

Desiderata by Max Ehrmann

The issue concludes with "Desiderata," a poem by American poet and dramatist Max Ehrmann (1872-1945). The poem offers philosophical advice for living. It encourages maintaining calm amidst life's noise and haste, finding peace in silence, and being on good terms with all people without subservience. It advises speaking one's convictions clearly and calmly, listening to others, even those who seem dull or ignorant, as everyone has a story. It warns against the loud and aggressive, as they can be irritating. Comparing oneself to others can lead to vanity and bitterness, as there will always be greater and lesser people. The poem urges readers to take joy in their achievements and plans, maintain interest in their work, and recognize its value. It cautions against hasty business dealings due to the prevalence of deceit, but also advises not to let this blind one to the many who strive for high ideals and heroism. It warns against feigning devotion and suggests that cynicism towards love is misplaced, as love endures like grass through winter. Readers are encouraged to accept life's experiences, release youthful pleasures without complaint, and gather spiritual strength to face adversity without succumbing to imagination-fueled anxieties, which often stem from fatigue and loneliness. The poem advocates for healthy self-discipline and self-compassion. It affirms that each individual is a child of the universe, with a right to exist, and that the universe unfolds as it should. It encourages living in peace with one's concept of God and finding peace within oneself amidst life's turmoil. Despite life's hardships, the poem concludes that the world remains beautiful, and one should strive for a good life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spirituality, personal growth, and the evolving understanding of the universe and one's place within it. There is a strong emphasis on inner wisdom, love, and spiritual development as pathways to strength and fulfillment. Astrology is presented not just as a predictive tool but as a framework for understanding cosmic cycles and individual consciousness. The concept of reincarnation and the soul's journey for learning and experience is also a prominent theme. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging introspection, open-mindedness to new spiritual and philosophical ideas, and a conscious participation in personal and collective evolution. The publication seems to cater to an audience interested in New Age philosophies, esoteric knowledge, and personal transformation.

Title: P.S.I.-bladet
Issue: nr. 2
Volume: 78
Date: February 1979
Publisher: P.S.I.
Country: Norway
Language: Norwegian

This issue of P.S.I.-bladet delves into spiritual, philosophical, and religious themes, with a particular focus on the concepts of the devil, Satan, hell, and freedom. It also includes a personal note from an editor regarding a publication error and a reflection on academic naming conventions.

Articles and Content

Spiritual Journey and Divine Encounter

The issue opens with a quote from Martinus, who describes humanity's journey through the animal kingdom to learn about 'gravity energy' and the 'destructive principle'. This process, he states, is necessary to develop true human-ness, where the balance between intelligence and emotional energies, coupled with growing intuition, prepares individuals for a divine encounter. The author emphasizes that everyone is on this path, whether they realize it or not, and that our future home is with God, our Father/Mother. The guiding principle provided is to love God above all things and one's neighbor as oneself.

Editorial Note: Name Mix-up and Academic Practices

A section titled "LITT OM REDAKTORER OG DATORER" (A Little About Editors and Computers) addresses a mix-up in a previous P.S.I.-bladet issue (nr. 2-78). The editor, Kjell Gulbrandsen, explains that his name was mistakenly published as Kjell Berggren in an advertisement titled "Some Reflections on Church Faith and Counter-Arguments." He speculates this might have been an attempt to boost his profile before the February 1979 annual meeting and elections, noting that 'B' in Berggren comes earlier in the alphabet than 'G' in Gulbrandsen.

The article then discusses academic publishing, citing Stephan Rössner in Läkartidningen 34/78, who notes that individuals named Anderson have an easier time becoming professors than those named Ustlund. This is attributed to the common practice of listing authors alphabetically in publications, and then referring to them as "Anderson et al." when citing their work. The author suggests that those whose names appear later in the alphabet are often overlooked. To counter this, the advice is given humorously: if one wants to become a professor, they should change their name to something like "Aaabel" to appear first alphabetically.

Kjell Gulbrandsen then signs off, stating he is now using his new name for the reasons mentioned but also acknowledging his original names out of respect for the regular readers of P.S.I.-bladet and in compliance with official registries.

Thoughts on the Devil, Satan, and Hell

Lars Dannevig contributes an article titled "NOEN TANKER OM DJEVELEN, SATAN OG HELVETE" (Some Thoughts on the Devil, Satan, and Hell). He begins by exploring the etymology of the word 'devil', tracing it to the Italian 'djaboli' and German 'Teufel', both suggesting 'two wills'. He then examines 'Satan', linking it to the Hebrew 'sat' (fortification) and the German 'satt' (full), implying a connection to being 'fortified' or 'full', which he equates with materialism.

Dannevig also discusses 'hell', referencing its old Norwegian meaning as a place where 'Hel' (a mythological figure) resided in deep caves below the earth's surface. He connects this to the German word 'Hölle', also implying a cavernous existence. Metaphorically, he suggests that the human skull can be perceived as a 'hell' – a hollow space where materialism reigns. He describes many souls as being trapped in this 'hell', where two wills battle for power, creating an eternal fire of confusion and torment.

To escape this state, Dannevig references Jesus's advice to the rich young ruler: to give away all possessions that bind one to materialism and to follow him. This means shedding attachments to materialism, focusing the mind on a single will, and aiming to find the path to God. By dedicating one's mind to seeking God, one will eventually love God above all else and, as a bonus, love one's neighbor as oneself.

Thoughts on Freedom

Another piece by Lars Dannevig, "TANKER OM FRIHET" (Thoughts on Freedom), questions the common understanding of freedom. He asks: freedom for what? For whom? He proposes that freedom for oneself might be linked to bondage for others. He ponders if freedom is the ultimate goal and what its purpose is. He questions if freedom can be achieved now and if our current perception of freedom is too narrow, neglecting factors that might precede or follow it.

Dannevig suggests that perhaps bondage itself is the path to freedom. He posits that if we are bound in the right, expansive way, we can transcend our current reality and enter a new, vibrating world, experiencing a sense of freedom that gradually leads to a new form of bondage. This cycle, he concludes, repeats until the world becomes unlimited freedom, and we become one with everything.

Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi

The issue concludes with "Frans av Assissis BØNN (fra begynnelsen av 1200-tallet)" (The Prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, from the beginning of the 13th century). This prayer is a plea for the individual to be an instrument of peace, to bring love where there is hate, forgiveness where there is wrongdoing, unity where there is discord, truth where there is error, faith where there is doubt, light where there is darkness, and joy where there is sorrow.

The prayer further expresses a desire not to seek comfort but to comfort, not to be understood but to understand, and not to be loved but to love. It concludes with the profound realization that it is through giving that one receives, through forgetting oneself that one finds oneself, through forgiving others that one is forgiven, and through dying that one is resurrected to eternal life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spiritual growth, the nature of reality, and the human condition. There is a clear leaning towards a New Age or esoteric spiritual perspective, emphasizing inner transformation, the overcoming of materialism, and the pursuit of divine connection. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, exploring complex philosophical and religious concepts with a blend of intellectual analysis and personal reflection. The inclusion of the prayer by St. Francis of Assisi suggests an appreciation for timeless spiritual wisdom that transcends specific doctrines.