Sokaren - 1965 No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: No. 4, Volume 2
Date: 1965
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of SÖKAREN, a Swedish magazine focused on spiritualism, occultism, and parapsychology, presents a diverse range of articles exploring psychic phenomena, historical religious practices, and alternative healing methods.

Gerard Croiset: The "Miracle Man from Utrecht"

The lead article introduces Gerard Croiset, a 56-year-old Dutch psychic renowned for his extraordinary abilities. Croiset, who has a deep religious conviction, does not accept payment for his services, stating his gift from God is meant to help society. He became aware of his psychic powers at age six. His abilities were extensively studied by Professor Willem Tenhaeff of the University of Utrecht for 20 years. The article details the famous 'chair test' experiment, where Croiset accurately described individuals who would occupy specific seats in a meeting room, often days in advance. These experiments, conducted under strict scientific control in various European countries, have mystified scientists and provided significant contributions to parapsychological research. Examples include predicting the appearance and occupation of individuals, and even accurately describing a person who would not attend a meeting.

Astrology: Modern Findings Support Ancient Science

An article by Paul Foght discusses the work of Vernon Clark, a psychologist who conducted experiments to scientifically validate astrology. Clark's research with fifty professional astrologers showed statistically significant results when matching horoscopes to professions and identifying individuals with brain damage. The experiments suggested that astrological influences could be correlated with life choices and conditions, with a low probability of occurring by chance. The article also touches upon the concept of the Zodiac and the Ptolemaic versus Copernican astronomical systems.

The Inquisition: Triumph of the Devil?

This section, a continuation from a previous issue, delves into the historical persecution and witch hunts conducted by both Catholic and Protestant authorities. It highlights the extreme cruelty and fanaticism associated with these events, citing examples of torture and execution. The article suggests that the belief in the devil played a significant role in fueling these persecutions, leading to widespread fear and irrationality. It also touches upon the lavish and often corrupt lifestyles of some Popes, questioning the spiritual leadership within the church.

The Jürgenson Case

This article discusses the phenomenon of recorded voices, often referred to as 'electronic voice phenomena' (EVP), as investigated by Friedrich Jürgenson. Several individuals, including spiritualists and researchers, express their belief in the authenticity of these voices, which are claimed to originate from discarnate entities. The article mentions visits by researchers to Jürgenson's home and the establishment of a fund for further research. Some express skepticism, while others, like illusionist Lindell, suggest that the phenomenon warrants investigation by both physicists and parapsychologists.

ESP Under Hypnotic Trance

Stanley V. Mitchell writes about his experiences with ESP and hypnosis. He recounts instances where subjects under hypnosis demonstrated abilities beyond normal sensory perception, including understanding commands in a language they did not consciously comprehend, and accurately identifying individuals touching them even when blindfolded. Mitchell suggests that these phenomena might be explained by the subconscious mind's ability to pick up subtle cues or through telepathy.

Psychic Experiences in a Mine

This piece details the extraordinary experiences of two miners, Dave Fellins and Henry Thorne, who were trapped underground for two weeks. They reported seeing apparitions, including Pope John XXIII, and experiencing unexplained phenomena like lights and a marble staircase. Despite initial skepticism from medical professionals, their accounts were corroborated, suggesting a shared psychic experience.

Blessing as Science

Clarence Winchester explores the scientific basis of blessings and their effects on plants and health. Citing research from institutions like the Delawarrlaboratorierna and the work of individuals like Robert Gaines and Harry Edwards, the article suggests that spoken words and focused intention can positively influence biological growth and healing. It highlights experiments showing improved plant growth when blessed and anecdotal evidence of healing through spiritual methods.

Healing Water

Thomas Campbell-Best discusses the concept of 'healing water,' suggesting that water can be imbued with spiritual and healing energy through prayer. He provides a method for blessing water and encourages readers to use it as a medium for divine intervention, citing examples of its purported effectiveness in alleviating physical ailments.

The True Seeker

A short quote by Peter Kor defines a true seeker as a dedicated wayfarer on a hostile sea.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an open-minded approach to exploring spiritual, psychic, and paranormal phenomena. It encourages investigation and questioning, posing the central theme that knowledge is gained through inquiry. The editorial stance is one of seeking truth without pre-conceived notions, as indicated by the magazine's name, SÖKAREN (The Seeker). Recurring themes include the power of the mind, the existence of non-physical realities, and the potential for spiritual and psychic abilities to influence the material world. The magazine also engages with historical and religious contexts, critically examining established doctrines and practices through a lens of spiritual inquiry.