Sokaren - 1964 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: No. 1, Volume 1
Date: September 1964
Publisher: Sven Magnusson
Country: Sweden
Price: 1:75

SÖKAREN, a new Swedish magazine, launched with its debut issue in September 1964, aiming to fill a perceived gap in the Swedish press for a publication dedicated to seekers of knowledge in various esoteric and paranormal fields. The magazine promises to cover topics such as parapsychological phenomena, spiritualism, UFOs, reincarnation, healing, hypnosis, yoga, the power of thought, and ethical and spiritual questions.

Featured Articles

Bhakti-Yoga by Swami Narayanananda

This article introduces Bhakti-Yoga as a path to spiritual realization through pure, selfless love. Swami Narayanananda defines Bhakti-Yoga as the union of the individual soul (Jivatman) with the supreme soul (Paramatman) through love. He distinguishes true Bhakti-Yoga from worldly affections, emphasizing that it is a love for love's sake, free from fear, hate, or transactional motives. The author explains that this pure love is not about personal gain but about devotion to the divine, akin to a mother's unconditional love for her child. Bhakti-Yoga involves concentrating the mind on God with intense love, leading to a state of blissful contemplation. The article also touches upon the progression of Bhakti into higher states like Bhava, Maha Bhava, and Prem, culminating in divine realization.

Left-Hand Training Develops Intelligence by Alarik Degerman

Alarik Degerman explores the concept of left-hand training as a method to enhance human intelligence and brain development. Drawing on ancient yogic traditions and the theories of researchers like Dr. Orton, Degerman suggests that using the non-dominant hand can lead to improved memory and cognitive abilities. He cites Plato's belief that such training could create a race of superhumans and presents anecdotal evidence of improved memory in individuals who practiced left-hand training. The article posits that this practice stimulates the right hemisphere of the brain, leading to a more balanced and harmonious development of the individual. Degerman also notes that this training can affect the entire body, leading to a more harmonious appearance and temperament.

When the Inkwell Broke by J. Wainright Evans

This article recounts a purported paranormal event involving a glass inkwell that shattered spontaneously. The author, J. Wainright Evans, shares the story of Dr. S. Ralph Harlow, a professor who experienced this phenomenon while contemplating his deceased sister, Anna. The inkwell broke at the exact moment Dr. Harlow spoke his sister's name. The article discusses the possibility of a disembodied intelligence influencing physical objects through psychokinesis or vibrations. It explores the scientific explanations offered by glass manufacturers regarding spontaneous breakage due to internal stresses and microscopic flaws, but ultimately leaves the paranormal explanation open, suggesting it as a potential 'clear and distinct testimony' from the other side.

Is There Proof of God? by Antonio Ribera

Antonio Ribera examines the concept of 'proof' in theological debates, contrasting it with scientific proof. He questions whether there is definitive proof for God's existence but suggests that there might be strong indications. The author uses the anomalous property of water (highest density at +4°C) as an example of a natural phenomenon that seems to serve a purpose, implying intelligent design. He also touches upon the Fátima events of 1917, suggesting that they could be interpreted through the lens of UFO phenomena, with the 'apparitions' being advanced beings rather than divine figures.

A New Human Being in the Making? (Article excerpt)

This section discusses the increasing levels of radioactivity and its potential impact on human genetics. It references the book 'Le Matin des Magiciens' by Louis Pauwels and Jacques Bergier, which highlights observations of a growing intelligence among children. The article mentions studies indicating a rise in children with exceptionally high IQs, potentially linked to strontium-90. It also notes the concept of a 'new age' where humanity might become more receptive to spiritual influences due to cosmic radiation.

Has Mars an Artificial Satellite? (Article excerpt)

This piece explores the theory, popularized by the National Enquirer, that Mars' moon Phobos might be an artificial satellite or a space platform built by Martian beings. It cites the research of scientists like Raymond E. Wilson and I. S. Shklovsky, who suggest that Phobos' orbital characteristics are inconsistent with a natural moon. The article also briefly touches upon the discovery of Deimos and the historical context of its observation by Jonathan Swift.

Alexis Carrel and Lourdes by Maxim Mauritsson

Maxim Mauritsson recounts the story of Nobel laureate Alexis Carrel's investigation into the alleged miracles at Lourdes. Carrel, initially a skeptic, was compelled to investigate after witnessing the inexplicable healing of a young patient with tuberculous peritonitis. Despite facing skepticism from his colleagues, Carrel documented his findings, contributing to the scientific study of unexplained healings. The article highlights the resistance Carrel faced from the materialistic scientific community of his time and contrasts it with the growing number of medical professionals who have since acknowledged such phenomena.

The Singing Stone by Alarik Degerman

Alarik Degerman discusses the ancient belief in amulets and talismans, distinguishing them from charms. He introduces the concept of 'mana,' a vital life force believed to permeate all things in nature, prevalent in various indigenous cultures. Degerman explains that 'mana' can be imbued into objects, influencing their properties. He then focuses on the 'singing stone' (Lapis Lingua), described as a gem that emits sounds and possesses remarkable healing and psychic-enhancing properties, including telepathy and clairvoyance. The article notes that while known in antiquity, this stone's properties were largely forgotten until rediscovered by American mystic Edgar Cayce, who located its sources in Mexico and Arizona.

New Books

• This section provides brief reviews of several books:
• Ateistens handbok (The Atheist's Handbook): An anthology of critical essays on Christianity by various atheists, including Ingemar Hedenius and Herbert Tingsten.
• Profetior om världsligt sett övertygar inte T:s sammanställning (Prophecies about worldly matters do not convince T's compilation): A review of C. G. Hjelm's book, which presents theories about ancient human cultures and lost continents like Mu and Lemuria, challenging conventional scientific views.
• 140 läkares hemställan till Konungen om åtgärder för förstärkt ungdomsfostran m. m. (Petition from 140 doctors to the King for strengthened youth education): A review of a petition advocating for measures against increasing sexual promiscuity and venereal diseases among youth.
• Yoga for kvinder (Yoga for Women) by S. Muzumdar: A Danish book on yoga.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine SÖKAREN positions itself as a platform for exploring unconventional ideas and phenomena that lie beyond mainstream scientific and societal acceptance. Recurring themes include spiritual paths (Bhakti-Yoga), the potential of the human mind and consciousness (left-hand training, parapsychology), unexplained phenomena (UFOs, miracles, spontaneous events), and ancient wisdom (Nostradamus, amulets, mana). The editorial stance, as articulated by Sven Magnusson, is one of open inquiry, advocating for free debate while combating ignorance and one-sidedness. The magazine aims to be objective and respectful in its approach, encouraging readers to engage with these topics critically and thoughtfully. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between spiritual, psychological, and scientific exploration, particularly concerning topics that challenge established paradigms.