Sokaren - 1966 No 04

Magazine Overview

SÖKAREN, Issue 4, Volume 3, 1966, is a Swedish-language magazine focused on parapsychology, spiritualism, and unexplained phenomena. The cover prominently features the lead story: "MEDI MEGALIS och HAMMARBYMORDET" (Medi Megalis and the Hammarby Murder).

Medi Megalis and the Hammarby Murder

The issue details experiments conducted by Dr. Sidney Alrutz with the medium Medi Megalis, aiming to solve the unsolved Hammarby murder of pharmacist Hallbergsson in 1913. The article recounts Alrutz's final experiments with Megalis, which he believed would shed light on the crime. These experiments involved hypnosis, where Megalis was guided to retrace events leading up to the murder. The narrative describes Megalis entering a deep hypnotic state, her unusual vocalizations, and her descriptions of an otherworldly experience. Alrutz's trust in Megalis was high, despite previous unsuccessful attempts by other mediums and clairvoyants, and even a prior negative result under Professor Tartarugas. The experiment involved detailed preparation, with Alrutz and Dr. Gunnar Bjurman orienting themselves at the crime scene.

During the experiment, Megalis was hypnotized and instructed to travel back in time to the day of the murder. She described her surroundings and experiences, but at a critical moment, she became unresponsive. Alrutz noted a change in her appearance and vital signs, which was unprecedented. Unexpectedly, her voice emanated from a corner of the room, speaking fluent Swedish, despite her limited waking vocabulary. She described a 'silver thread' connecting her to her body and spoke of a beautiful, ethereal realm. Megalis expressed a desire to remain in this state, finding earthly existence burdensome. Alrutz attempted to persuade her to return, emphasizing the importance of her contribution to science and the distress her absence would cause him. She requested him to 'lock' her, implying a desire for permanent protection through suggestion, which Alrutz could not fully promise.

Alrutz's subsequent illness and death from a bleeding ulcer shortly after these experiments are mentioned, with Megalis's words during the session being interpreted as a premonition of his demise. The article notes that despite the inconclusive nature of the experiment regarding the murder itself, Alrutz planned further sessions.

UFOs and Contactees: A Critical Look

The magazine critically examines claims made by UFO contactees, specifically George Adamski and Howard Menger. Adamski's descriptions of a populated moon with cities and vehicles are contrasted with scientific evidence, particularly recent photographs from Soviet space missions that reveal a barren, airless lunar surface. Howard Menger's accounts of lunar cities and advanced beings are also questioned. The article cites Carol Honey, a former associate of Adamski, who points out inconsistencies and alleged manipulations in Adamski's teachings, including the rebranding of 'The Royal Tibetan Brotherhood' as 'Space People' to align with his 'Space of Life' course.

Adamski's use of a post office box in Glendale, California, for 'Space People Need Contacts' is scrutinized. Evidence suggests Adamski was involved with this box, despite his denials and attempts to distance himself from it. The magazine highlights conflicting statements from Adamski regarding symbolic messages received from 'space brothers' via this post box, suggesting they were either a test or a new group of beings.

Clairvoyance and the Case of Gerard Croiset

George Zorab reviews the book "Croiset the Clairvoyant" by Jack Harrison Pollack, expressing skepticism about the presented evidence for Gerard Croiset's ESP abilities. Zorab argues that the descriptions of experimental conditions, particularly in the 'chair test' experiments and the Verona test, are often vague and lack scientific rigor, making it difficult to rule out alternative explanations. He recounts his own experiences and observations, including a failed 'chair test' in Bologna, which he considers a complete failure. Zorab also references police inspector Dr. F. Brink's assertion that no case exists where a sensitive clearly solved a crime for the police, and the skepticism of Commissioner Th. Roosmalen.

Spiritual Teachings and Personal Reflections

Several articles offer spiritual insights and personal reflections. T. L. Vaswani contributes "Our Beloved Dadaji," a tribute to Sri T. L. Vaswani, highlighting his profound compassion, selflessness, and dedication to serving the poor and needy. Dadaji's philosophy emphasizes universal love, service, and the importance of inner spiritual awakening over material pursuits. His teachings advocate for recognizing the divine in all beings and acting with empathy.

Another piece, "Be Like a Thousand-Petaled Flower!" by an unknown author, uses the metaphor of a sunflower turning towards the sun to illustrate the importance of directing one's heart towards God and cultivating a deep longing for spiritual connection.

"The Adventurer of Giving" by T. L. Vaswani encourages readers to embrace generosity, sharing their resources and time to help others, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from selfless giving.

Other Sections

The magazine includes a "VARIA" section with short news items and reader contributions. One item discusses the concept of death and near-death experiences, citing research and anecdotal evidence. Another mentions the MWO cell activator and a mineral supplement.

There is also a "NEW BOOKS" section, reviewing "Spiritual Therapy" by Rebecca Beard and "Yoga for Everyone" by Desmond Dunne. Kai Henmark provides a critical letter to the editor, questioning the methodology and sensationalism in some of Sökaren's articles and advocating for a more rigorous editorial approach.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and psychic abilities, and the critical examination of claims made by individuals in these fields. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of cautious inquiry, presenting evidence and counter-arguments, and encouraging readers to think critically. While open to investigating the 'unknown,' it emphasizes the need for verifiable facts and rigorous methodology, as seen in the critiques of contactee accounts and clairvoyant claims. There is a strong undercurrent of spiritual and philosophical reflection, with a focus on compassion, service, and inner transformation, particularly through the writings on 'Dadaji.' The editorial stance seems to be one of seeking truth through a combination of open-minded investigation and critical discernment.