Sokaren - 1968 No 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1968, volume 5, issue 2, features a striking cover headline about an 'EXPERIMENT MED AVSKUREN TUNGA' (Experiment with a Severed Tongue) by John Dunning. The magazine also includes articles on Hinduism, a reader survey, and UFO phenomena in North America.

Experiment with a Severed Tongue

The lead article by John Dunning recounts an extraordinary event that allegedly took place in 1966 at a student dormitory in Wickrath, West Germany. Approximately 30 students gathered to witness Shankar Bannerjee, an engineering student from India, attempt to cut off a person's tongue and then reattach it without causing any damage. The witnesses, including reporters from various publications, were initially skeptical, with some expecting a trick or mass hypnosis. The subject, Ashis Sen, Bannerjee's friend and compatriot, was described as extremely nervous, as was Bannerjee himself. Bannerjee explained he would induce a deep hypnotic state in Sen, then cut off the tip of his tongue, emphasizing that no blood should appear. The experiment was to last no more than six minutes. During the procedure, Sen's pulse reportedly became erratic before disappearing, and Bannerjee proceeded with the act. Witnesses described seeing the severed tongue, which appeared to be alive, and noted the absence of blood. Sen was then reattached the tongue tip, and he awoke without apparent ill effects, even reporting a stronger pulse. The article highlights the incredulity of the witnesses and the subsequent verification through photographs, concluding that the event was inexplicable.

Hinduism

An extensive article explores Hinduism, defining it not as a single religion but as a collective term for thousands of diverse faiths. Key principles highlighted include simple living, noble thinking, non-violence (Ahimsa), the law of karma (cause and effect), and reincarnation. The concept of Brahman as the universal spirit, identical to the individual soul (Atman), is central. The article notes the influence of figures like Swami Vivekananda and Swami Avyaktananda, emphasizing the Hindu belief in the inherent divinity of all beings and the importance of compassion and service. It contrasts Hinduism with Western religions, noting its openness, tolerance, and lack of rigid dogma. The article also touches upon the practice of vegetarianism as a natural consequence of the Ahimsa principle.

UFOs in North America 1966 (Continued)

Written by John A. Keel, this section continues the investigation into UFO phenomena in North America during 1966. It focuses on the 'bird-man' sightings in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, describing a tall, gray, human-like creature with glowing red eyes and large wings, capable of high-speed flight and pursuit of vehicles. The article notes the widespread nature of these sightings, involving credible witnesses like businessmen, teachers, and priests. It also mentions other UFO-related incidents in the Ohio Valley, including reports of cigar-shaped craft, telepathic encounters, and possible landings. Keel suggests that UFO activity in 1966 followed specific geographical and technological patterns, often occurring near military installations and power grids. He also touches upon the controversial claims of UFO contactees, expressing skepticism about figures like George Adamski and suggesting that 'contact' experiences might be induced through hypnosis or psychological manipulation, possibly by non-human intelligences with ulterior motives.

Reader Survey

A reader survey conducted by the magazine reveals the diverse interests and affiliations of its readership. Participants reported on their experiences with various methods such as left-hand training, Lapis Lingua stone, graphotherapy, vegetarianism, Hatha Yoga, meditation, biorythms, healing, and MWO apparatus. The survey also asked about readers' religious or ideological affiliations, with a significant number identifying as vegetarians, spiritualists, Christians, and UFOlogists. The feedback on the magazine itself is also presented, with readers offering opinions on its critical approach, the balance of topics, and the need for more scientific analysis.

Eldgång (Firewalking)

Authored by Sverre Holmsen, this narrative recounts a personal experience with a Tahitian firewalking ritual. The author, feeling lost and alone after personal tragedy, encounters a Polynesian man named Tuarae who offers him solace and an invitation to witness a sacred firewalking ceremony. The ritual involves walking barefoot across a pit of intensely hot volcanic stones. Holmsen describes the preparation, the intense heat, and the spiritual significance of the ceremony for the Tahitian people, who believe it purifies the soul. He participates in the ritual, experiencing no harm, which he attributes to the spiritual power and the protective 'ti' leaves used by the participants. The experience leaves him with a sense of peace and a deeper understanding of the local culture.

On the Truth Value of Claims

This editorial piece discusses the critical evaluation of claims encountered in metaphysical, religious, and parapsychological literature. It emphasizes the importance of well-reasoned arguments, verifiable sources, and objective analysis over mere assertions. The author advises readers to scrutinize evidence, question assumptions, and avoid biased interpretations, warning against the dangers of accepting information uncritically or forming opinions based on limited data.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes reviews of several books, including 'How to Win at Life' by Florence Scovel Shinn, which is praised for its practical advice on achieving success through positive thinking and self-belief. Other reviewed books cover topics such as spiritual therapy, the art of thinking, and vegetarianism.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, the spiritual, and the alternative. Sökaren appears to maintain a critical yet open-minded stance towards paranormal phenomena, UFOs, and Eastern philosophies, encouraging readers to engage in critical thinking and personal investigation. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader understanding of reality beyond conventional scientific and religious paradigms, while also grounding its discussions in reader experiences and documented reports.