Sokaren - 1965 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: 2
Volume: 2
Date: 1965

This issue of SÖKAREN, a Swedish magazine focused on esoteric and paranormal topics, presents a diverse range of articles exploring Hatha Yoga, mysterious phenomena, parapsychology, and spiritual concepts.

Hatha-Yoga

The main feature, "Hatha-Yoga" by Anne Lise Dresler, delves into the history and practice of this ancient discipline. It explains that Hatha Yoga is one branch of yoga science, developed in the East as a method for self-improvement and spiritual development. The article traces its introduction to the West, noting its influence on various physical culture systems. It highlights the teachings of S. Muzumdar, an expert on Hatha Yoga, and emphasizes the system's ability to improve the entire human organism, including muscles, internal organs, and the mind. The practice is described as a way to achieve control over the body and mind, leading to a more harmonious existence. Specific poses like sarvangasana are mentioned for their therapeutic benefits, particularly for the endocrine system. The article also stresses the importance of relaxation and the practice of shavasana. It cautions against improper practice and highlights the need for qualified instruction.

George de la Warr – Pioneer

This section introduces the groundbreaking research of George de la Warr and his team at the Delawarr Laboratories in Oxford. Their work suggests that thought can influence matter, and that the universal energy source materializes as particles in living cells, meaning thought can become matter. The research indicates that human consciousness can affect the number of atoms in plants and animals, and even stop the growth of cancerous cells. The concept of a non-physical "counterpart body" is discussed, which mirrors the physical body and receives energy from a universal source. Experiments with a special camera are described, which allegedly capture photographs of this non-physical body, referred to as "thought photographs." The article also touches upon "radionic therapy," a method of healing through remote influence, which can be applied to plants and humans using photographs.

Nautilus and Parapsychology

Authored by Alarik Degerman, this article recounts the mysterious events surrounding the submarine Nautilus in 1959. A secret passenger reportedly conducted telepathic experiments during the submarine's journey. The experiment involved a student from Duke University attempting to guess cards transmitted mentally over a distance of 2,000 km. The success rate of seven out of ten in these experiments is presented as strong evidence for telepathy. The article links this research to military needs, particularly in the context of the Cold War and the Soviet Union's Sputnik launch, which spurred increased interest in parapsychological research in the US. Several parapsychological research centers in America are mentioned, along with international collaborations.

The Fatal Bermuda Triangle

Vincent Gaddis details several mysterious disappearances within the Bermuda Triangle. The article recounts the vanishing of the tanker Marine Sulphur Queen in 1963 and the disappearance of two KC-135 jet planes in the same year. It also mentions the loss of a KB50 tanker plane in 1962 and the infamous disappearance of five TBM Avenger torpedo bombers in 1945 during a routine flight. The article highlights the lack of wreckage or survivors in these incidents, despite extensive search efforts. It explores theories such as atmospheric abnormalities or "holes in the air" as potential explanations for these events, noting that the region is known for unusual magnetic phenomena.

Meditation according to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

This section discusses the meditation technique introduced by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. It notes divided opinions on the method and its proponents in Norway, where a meditation movement is seeking to purchase property. The article touches upon the fees charged for instruction, which are described as substantial by some critics. The movement's brochure presents Maharishi Mahesh Yogi as a master of a simple and rapid deep meditation technique, rediscovered after centuries. The practice is described as non-sectarian and aimed at providing harmony and peace of mind. Positive testimonials from practitioners are included, highlighting benefits such as quitting smoking, improved sleep, and a renewed sense of purpose. However, some critics express skepticism, with one professor noting disappointment with the results of patients sent for treatment. Concerns are also raised about the potential for misuse of the "mantra" and the financial aspects of the movement.

Scientist Investigates Reincarnation

Professor H. N. Banerjee, head of the parapsychology department at Rajasthan University in India, is featured for his research into reincarnation. He has collected and is studying approximately 200 cases worldwide where individuals claim to recall details from previous lives. The article describes a case of a ten-year-old girl, Swarna Lata, who accurately described a house and family from a past life. Another case from Delhi in 1936 involving a girl named Shanti Devi is also presented, where a committee investigated her claims of being a reincarnated woman. The research aims to provide empirical evidence for reincarnation, distinct from spiritual or occult interpretations.

Encounter with Reality

This article recounts a powerful sermon by Abbé Pierre in a Paris church, addressing the issue of poverty and social inequality. Abbé Pierre passionately criticizes the wealthy for their indifference to the suffering of the poor, urging them to confront the reality of destitution. He emphasizes that true Christian faith must be demonstrated through love and action towards one's less fortunate brethren, questioning the value of religious rituals without genuine compassion.

Unknown Jesus Words

Joachim Jeremias analyzes a passage from the Gospel of the Hebrews, which presents a different account of the rich young ruler's encounter with Jesus. This version includes Jesus' direct admonishment of the rich man for his failure to share his wealth with the poor, highlighting the contradiction between his claim to follow the law and his lack of charity. The article suggests this version may be an independent tradition that offers a more ethically stringent interpretation of Jesus' teachings.

New Books

• This section reviews several new books:
• "Livet efter detta" (Life After This) by Eric Sjöquist, an interview series exploring beliefs about the afterlife.
• "Pause, Walter, Helen Keller" by Walter Pause, a biography of Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan.
• "Jesu uppståndelse" (The Resurrection of Jesus) by Karl Heinrich Rengstorf, a theological analysis of the Easter message.
• "Vänner i universum" (Friends in the Universe) by Rolf Telano, presenting messages from a Venusian entity, which the reviewer finds questionable and contradictory.

UFO in the Ether

A brief note mentions a local UFO program broadcast on Norwegian radio.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, spiritual development, and unexplained phenomena. There is a clear interest in presenting alternative perspectives to mainstream science and societal norms, particularly concerning yoga, parapsychology, and UFOlogy. The editorial stance appears to be open to investigating and reporting on these subjects, even when they challenge conventional understanding. The magazine also engages with social issues, as seen in Abbé Pierre's sermon, and theological interpretations, as in the analysis of Jesus' words. The publication seems to encourage critical thinking and personal exploration of these complex topics.