Sokaren - 1967 No 07

Magazine Overview

This issue of SÖKAREN, dated 1967 and identified as Volume 4, Issue 7, features a prominent cover story titled "UFO I NORDAMERIKA 1966" by John A. Keel. The magazine explores various topics including UFO phenomena, medical practices, and spiritualism.

UFO in North America 1966 by John A. Keel

John A. Keel reports on his extensive travels across the USA in 1966, interviewing numerous individuals who claimed to have witnessed UFO landings and strange beings. He notes that while many people are reluctant to speak about their experiences, a significant number of credible reports, particularly from police officers and sheriffs, have emerged. Keel highlights a trend of UFOs appearing at low altitudes and on the ground, with many witnesses experiencing eye strain. He recounts instances of farmers reporting luminous objects landing on their fields and stealing livestock, and individuals who experienced memory loss after sightings. Keel also discusses his conversations with Pentagon spokesman Colonel George P. Freeman regarding Project Bluebook, who stated that no official investigation was conducted unless directly reported by affected individuals.

The article suggests that the "breakthrough" in American UFO skepticism is largely attributed to John G. Fullers and the work of researchers like Ivan Sanderson and J. Allen Hynek. Keel criticizes the tendency of some UFO investigators to focus solely on object descriptions rather than the geographical context of sightings, arguing that understanding the location's characteristics (e.g., proximity to power stations, industrial sites, or military installations) is crucial for identifying patterns.

Keel points out the concentration of UFO activity near national parks and remote areas, suggesting these could serve as landing sites. He also touches upon reports of strange beings encountered in various locations, often described as large and hairy.

Other Articles and Sections

UR INNEHÅLLET (Table of Contents): Lists articles on UFOs in North America, doctors, spiritual healing, and new books.

Varia: Discusses a case of alleged fraud involving a "weeping crucifix" attributed to Alfred Bolton.

Läkarna (Doctors): This section critically examines the medical profession, citing a book by Martin L. Gross that highlights risks associated with medical treatments, diagnostic errors, and unethical experiments on patients. It mentions studies and reports from various institutions and researchers, including Dr. David M. Spain, Dr. Arthur James Mannix, Barkev S. Sanders, and Dr. Henry K. Beecher. The article also references Dr. Maurice Pappworth's book "Human Guinea Pigs" and Senator Seymour R. Thaler's revelations about scientific experiments conducted on unwitting patients in New York hospitals.

Sherman om psykisk kirurgi (Sherman on Psychic Surgery): This article delves into the phenomenon of psychic surgery, referencing the work of Harold Sherman and his book "Wonder Healers Of The Philippines." It discusses claims of miraculous operations performed by mediums, the skepticism surrounding these claims, and the ongoing debate about their authenticity. The article mentions various psychic surgeons and the challenges in scientifically verifying their abilities.

Ett besök på FOA (A Visit to FOA): The author recounts a visit to the Swedish National Defence Research Establishment (FOA), where he met with laboratory technician Tage Eriksson. The author notes that FOA does not conduct UFO research due to a lack of funding and dismissive attitudes within the institution. Eriksson suggests that UFOs would likely make contact through radio signals if they were extraterrestrial.

FN OCH UFO (UN and UFO): Reports that UN Secretary-General U Thant views the UFO phenomenon as a significant global issue and is considering plans for a global scientific investigation, potentially with the support of Professor James McDonald.

TONYS OFFER (Tony's Victims): Discusses accusations of fraud against healer Tony Agpaoa, with TV commentator Joe Pyne alleging that Agpaoa and his associate Joseph Ruffner are deceivers. However, Ruffner later appears on a program to provide evidence of his illness and recovery after treatment by Agpaoa.

PSYKISK KIRURGI I ENGLAND (Psychic Surgery in England): A brief mention of a British medium, Isa Northage, performing psychic surgery.

KLÄRVOAJANS PÅ SJUKHUS (Clairvoyance in Hospitals): Clairvoyant Ursula Roberts shares her experiences of seeing spiritual beings assisting patients in hospitals.

EN ÖNSKAN AV RHINE (A Wish from Rhine): Professor J. B. Rhine expresses concern about the proliferation of unverified claims in parapsychology and urges editors and program committees to be more discerning in their reporting.

PROJECT BLUE BOOK: This section provides statistics on UFO reports handled by the US Air Force's Project Blue Book, noting that in 1966, 1060 reports were received, with 676 remaining unexplained from previous years. It highlights that only 30 reports from 1966 were unexplained, and 242 were deemed to have insufficient information.

NYA BÖCKER (New Books): Reviews "Vem är jag" by Ebba Richert, a spiritual autobiography, and "Mänsklighetens religioner" by Huston Smith.

OM FOLKHÄLSA (On Public Health): Discusses the role of preventive healthcare and proper diet in combating civilization-related diseases, citing observations from Arthur Collet.

FRIDENS EVANGELIUM (The Gospel of Peace): A spiritual text or message emphasizing love, peace, and a vegetarian lifestyle, attributed to Jesus.

EN PRESENTATION (A Presentation): Gunnar Rugland presents his vision for a magazine called "Nova Mondo" and his philosophy of universal love, peace, and a reformed world, advocating for vegetarianism, esperanto, and communal living.

Smått och gott (Small and Good): A collection of aphorisms and philosophical statements.

brev till Dig (Letter to You): A letter from Lars-Erik Essén discussing life's purpose and the human condition.

SÖKARENS BOKHANDEL (Sökaren's Bookstore): Lists books available for purchase.

GRALSVÄKTARNAS SAMFUND, STOCKHOLM: Announcement for meetings and teachings.

ORD OM SANNING (Words on Truth): A collection of quotes about truth from various figures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical examination of established institutions, particularly in the fields of medicine and official explanations for phenomena like UFOs. There is a strong undercurrent of interest in the paranormal, spiritualism, and alternative explanations for reality. The editorial stance appears to favor open inquiry and a questioning of conventional wisdom, encouraging readers to explore topics beyond mainstream acceptance. The emphasis on personal experience, spiritual growth, and a holistic view of life is evident throughout the issue.

This issue of the magazine, identified by the page number '20' and the title 'VAD ÄR KRISTENDOM?' (What is Christianity?), delves into a critical examination of traditional Christian beliefs and proposes an alternative understanding centered on the 'Christ principle'. The publication appears to be from Sweden, with content in Swedish.

Christianity Re-examined: The Christ Principle

Olof Thorborg's article challenges the core tenets of Christian theology, particularly the concept of vicarious suffering and the incarnation of an omnipotent God. He argues that the Christian narrative of a divine being needing to suffer and die to atone for human sins is self-contradictory and reminiscent of an outdated geocentric worldview. Thorborg posits that the 'Christ principle,' distinct from a literal interpretation of Christ's suffering, has been a guiding force throughout human history. He defines this principle as 'consideration' (hänsyn) in its highest form: consideration for all life forms. This encompasses self-forgetting mercy, the pursuit of spiritual and physical refinement, self-discipline in thought and action, and a sense of responsibility for human development and coexistence. He asserts that only truth can liberate humanity and lead to psychological and physical harmony, a path towards perfection and the realization of a 'dreamed kingdom of God.'

Vegetarianism and Holistic Living

The issue includes information for those interested in establishing a vegetarian collective in Scandinavia. Gunnar Rugland is listed as a contact person for discussions regarding this initiative. Furthermore, the book "Vägen till Världsfred" (The Path to World Peace) is promoted. This book advocates for the formation of vegetarian collectives as a means to establish a natural and holistic way of life. The book is available for purchase via mail order in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.

Ebba Waerland's Perspective

An excerpt from Ebba Waerland, originally published in the Norwegian magazine 'Pionér,' offers a critique of modern, dogmatic Christianity. Waerland suggests that many people are repelled by the dualism and perceived hypocrisy of contemporary religious practices, which often contrast the teachings of Christ with the lives of believers. She notes the widespread fear of societal decay, materialism, and exploitation. Waerland suggests that individuals are drawn to life philosophies that seek to embody Christ's spirit in action, emphasizing a religion of selfless love and sacrifice for life and its divine source. This perspective focuses on awakening to the fundamental laws of existence and finding spiritual harmony without the burden of rigid forms and dogmas.

Are Waerland's Article on Health and Spirituality

Are Waerland's article connects physical health with spiritual development. He argues that a strong, pure body is essential for spiritual striving and development. When the body is poisoned or sick, the soul's energy is consumed by its needs, leaving little for spiritual pursuits. Waerland reiterates the ancient idea of the body as a temple for the spirit, suggesting that the path to a new humanity involves both physical and spiritual rebirth. He presents the transition to a 'waerlandkost' (Waerland diet) as a preliminary step in building this 'temple,' initiating a profound physical and psychological cleansing. He concludes that only by living in accordance with nature's laws can individuals fulfill their destiny and discover the meaning of life.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around a reinterpretation of Christianity, emphasizing its ethical and spiritual dimensions over dogma. There is a strong promotion of vegetarianism and holistic living as pathways to personal and societal betterment. The editorial stance appears to be critical of established religious institutions and societal materialism, advocating for a more authentic, spiritual, and nature-aligned way of life. The concept of the body as a temple and the importance of physical purity for spiritual growth are also prominent.