Sokaren - 1967 No 06

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: Nr 6, 1967, Årgång 4
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 2:50 (incl. cover)

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1967, offers a diverse range of articles spanning UFO phenomena, spiritual teachings, scientific inquiry into antigravity, and discussions on animal rights and parapsychology. The publication aims to explore "experiment with truth" and presents a variety of perspectives on unexplained phenomena and deeper existential questions.

Interview with Frank Halstead

The cover story features an interview with Dr. Frank Halstead, a respected astronomer and former director of the Darling Observatory. Dr. Halstead shares his personal experience of witnessing a UFO on November 1, 1955, while traveling by train with his wife, Ann. He describes two objects, one estimated at 250 meters long and another around 30 meters in diameter, which flew parallel to their train at a low altitude over the Mojave Desert. He asserts that UFOs are real and intelligent, speculating that they might originate from our solar system, possibly Mars, due to its potential for life. Dr. Halstead also discusses the possibility of these beings being controlled by higher intelligences and their methods of observation. He expresses skepticism about the US Air Force's handling of UFO information, suggesting it's to prevent panic, and is critical of the Condon Committee's investigation. He believes that scientific research is too cautious regarding UFOs and that the truth will eventually emerge, leading to humanity becoming part of a "Federation of Planets."

UFOs in Russia and Varia

The magazine reports on UFO sightings in Russia, citing astronomer Felix Zigel who believes they could be craft from outer space, possibly Mars. Zigel notes an increase in sightings when Mars and Earth are closer. The article mentions a 1965 symposium in Moscow on UFOs and reports that Soviet radar stations have also detected unidentified objects. It also references a statement attributed to cosmonaut Gagarin, who allegedly called UFOs real flying objects moving at light speed and considered the UFO problem important.

Under the "Varia" section, the article "Tefat i Pressen" (Flying Saucers in the Press) reviews recent coverage of UFOs in Swedish media. It mentions articles in FIB-Aktuellt, Svenska Journalen, Idun-Veckojournalen, Allers, and Arbetaren, including commentary from psychologist Leo Sprinkler and editor Sven Svenson. Several sightings are detailed, including a triangular light phenomenon over Jönköping-Huskvarna, a round object seen by farmer Anders Markusson in Kinna, and observations in Sala. The article also touches upon the Danish UFO-Nyt report of children seeing small, humanoid "beings" associated with UFOs.

Antigravity: Building on the Moon?

This section delves into the scientific pursuit of antigravity. It discusses the work of physicist Burkhard Heim, who claims to have discovered a principle for antigravity through experiments, suggesting it could lead to direct levitation and immunity from acceleration effects. The article notes that Heim's theories are not in conflict with known natural laws and might challenge Einstein's theory of relativity. It highlights the potential of antigravity for revolutionizing space travel, enabling rapid journeys to celestial bodies. The challenges in achieving antigravity are mentioned, including the need for more researchers and the skepticism within the scientific community. The article also speculates about the possibility of "building structures on the Moon," referencing mysterious shadows photographed by Lunar Orbiter 2, which some interpret as artificial constructions.

Our Brothers the Animals

Written by Sten von Krusenstierna, this article focuses on the importance of animal welfare and the concept of the unity of all life, inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi. It explains that October 4th is celebrated as Animal Day, honoring Francis of Assisi, a renowned animal lover who saw all creatures as his brothers and sisters. The article emphasizes that all life is interconnected and part of God's creation. It criticizes humanity's exploitation and mistreatment of animals, particularly through factory farming, hunting, and vivisection, arguing that these practices are not only cruel but also unnecessary and harmful to humans. The author advocates for a vegetarian diet, citing physiological evidence that humans are naturally suited for it, and highlights the economic and ethical advantages of plant-based eating. The article concludes by urging readers to embrace compassion, love, and unity with all living beings, aligning with the teachings of great spiritual figures like Buddha, Pythagoras, and Mahatma Gandhi.

Hazrat Inayat Khan and Sufism

Authored by Olle Wedholm, this piece introduces the teachings of Hazrat Inayat Khan, a Sufi mystic and musician born in India in 1882. It describes Sufism as a universal movement that seeks to realize the divine within and emphasizes the unity of all religions. The article details the universal services held by the Sufi movement, where scriptures from various religions are honored. It explains the core tenets of Sufism, including the belief in one God, the guiding spiritual master, the sacredness of nature, and the path of self-annihilation to achieve unity with the divine. The article also touches upon the Sufi Order's activities, such as brotherhood meetings and esoteric teachings, and mentions its presence in Sweden.

Other Articles and Sections

• Thorlin on Spirit Voices: Claude Thorlin responds to a previous article about 'spirit voices' on tape, defending his research with his wife Ellen. They claim their recordings are clear and not due to suggestion or radio waves, emphasizing their objective research into parapsychology. They cite positive media coverage of their work.
• Psychic Research in the Nordic Countries: An announcement regarding the formation of the Nordic Society for Psychic Research, aiming to systematically inform and guide those interested in psychic phenomena.
• Sökaren's Bookstore: An advertisement for a new mail-order bookstore offering selected titles related to the magazine's themes.
• Vis Vitae: Information about a South African mineral product available for various ailments.
• Letters from Readers: Includes a letter from Nils-Olof Jacobson discussing reincarnation and a letter from Kerstin Wernrud praising the effects of Vis Vitae.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an open-minded exploration of paranormal phenomena, spiritual truths, and alternative scientific theories. There is a strong emphasis on the interconnectedness of all life, advocating for compassion towards animals and a spiritual understanding that transcends traditional religious boundaries. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints, and challenging conventional scientific and societal norms, particularly concerning UFOs, antigravity, and spiritual experiences. The publication seems to align with movements seeking deeper meaning and understanding beyond the material world.