Sokaren - 1969 No 09

Magazine Overview

This issue of SÖKAREN, Volume 6, Number 9, dated September 1969, is a Swedish publication focusing on spiritual, philosophical, and paranormal topics. The cover prominently features the headline "ALLTSÅ FINNS GUD. V.S.B." (Thus God Exists. V.S.B.), indicating a central theme exploring arguments for the existence of God.

Articles and Content

"ALLTSÅ FINNS GUD. V.S.B." (Thus God Exists. V.S.B.)

The main article delves into various philosophical proofs for God's existence. It begins by referencing the ontological argument, first proposed by Anselm of Canterbury, which posits that God's existence is inherent in the concept of a perfect being. The article also touches upon the cosmological argument, which suggests a first cause for the universe, and the teleological argument, which infers a creator from the apparent design and purpose in nature. It notes that while modern attempts to definitively prove God's existence are rare, thinkers like Einstein find evidence of a higher power in the universe's order. The article cites Gunnar Brenning and Professor Gustaf Lundberg for their work on teleological reasoning. It also briefly mentions the anthropological and moral arguments for God's existence.

Birgit Lange: En stillsam reformator (A Quiet Reformer)

This feature profiles Birgit Lange, an author and parapsychologist whose work aims to foster peace and understanding. Her extensive correspondence and writings, including books like "Jordskred?" (Landslide?), focus on spiritual and parapsychological questions. Lange sees herself as entrusted with an important mission to help people connect and find hope in a troubled world. The article highlights her background, her intellectual journey influenced by philosopher Axel Hägerström, and her eventual interest in parapsychology, leading to her membership in the Society for Psychical Research.

Tidning prövar medier (Magazine Tests Mediums)

This section reports on an investigation by the English newspaper 'News of the World' that tested several spiritualist mediums. The newspaper claims to have exposed incompetence and self-deception by presenting mediums with fabricated information about deceased individuals, to which the mediums allegedly provided contact. 'Psychic News' criticizes the methodology of the 'News of the World' test, arguing it was unscientific and biased. The article suggests that the results raise questions about the reliability of mediumistic communications and the role of the subconscious mind.

Dolly Lindén: Konstnärinna inspireras från "andra sidan" (Artist Inspired from "the Other Side")

This piece introduces Rosa Eklund, an artist known for her batik creations. Eklund states that her inspiration comes from her deceased mother, who communicates with her, often through dreams. Her artwork, including pieces like "Livets väg" (The Way of Life) and "Livsträd" (Tree of Life), carries spiritual and symbolic meanings. Eklund shares a personal experience of a premonition related to the death of Martin Luther King Jr., which she believes was connected to a dream about a 'three-dimensional' batik artwork.

Nils Gösta Ekman: Om en ovanlig artikelserie (About an Unusual Article Series)

Nils Gösta Ekman discusses a series published in 'Svenska Dagbladet' titled "Den outforskade människan" (The Unexplored Human), which aimed to explore current research in parapsychology. Ekman, the initiator and editor of the series, reflects on the motivation behind it: questioning why less resources are dedicated to exploring the human psyche compared to scientific and technological advancements. He notes the positive reception of the series, attributing it partly to the involvement of respected figures like Professor Harald Schjelderup, and suggests it has provided a sense of validation for readers with paranormal experiences.

Gunnar Rugland: Ett rop i ödemarken (A Cry in the Wilderness)

Gunnar Rugland calls for a movement towards peace, health, and societal transformation based on the concept of "Universal Love." He advocates for the formation of vegetarian peace and health collectives, emphasizing a lifestyle that abstains from intentionally harming any living being. Rugland's ideas are further elaborated in his booklet "Vägen till Världsfred" (The Way to World Peace).

Kontakt med UFOs (Contact with UFOs)

This section discusses reports of UFOs signaling to humans, citing an article by Major Donald Keyhoe in 'UFO Investigator.' Keyhoe notes an increase in UFOs responding to light signals from vehicles and people, as well as instances of strong beams directed from UFOs towards objects on the ground. The article suggests that UFO operations may be entering a new phase, potentially leading to direct contact. It advises caution, recommending simple light signaling systems for communication and warning against exiting vehicles.

Ewert Mårtensson: Gideon Johansson trovärdig (Gideon Johansson Credible)

Psychologist Ewert Mårtensson provides an assessment of Gideon Johansson's credibility regarding a UFO sighting. Mårtensson interviewed Johansson, finding him to be honest and convinced he witnessed a craft from another planet. Mårtensson found no evidence of fabrication and noted that other witnesses corroborated parts of the story. The article details Johansson's account of a UFO sighting in 1957, describing a craft with two domes that descended and then rapidly departed.

Bokrecensioner (Book Reviews)

• EN NY RELIGION (A New Religion): A review of Sverre Holmsen's book on the Baha'i faith. The review highlights the key figures, Bab and Baha'u'llah, and the religion's principles, including the unity of humanity and religion, the harmony of religion and science, gender equality, and universal peace. The reviewer notes Baha'u'llah's positive stance on vegetarianism.
• BHAGAVAD-GITA SOМ РОСКЕТВОК (Bhagavad Gita as a Pocketbook): This review criticizes the Swedish pocketbook edition of the Bhagavad Gita, translated by Nino Runeberg, deeming it poorly translated and lacking literary merit compared to other versions.

SM: Den religiösa etiken (The Religious Ethic)

This article explores the common ethical principles found across major religions, including Islam (Muhammad), Buddhism (Buddha), Jainism (Mahavir), Sikhism (Nanak), Taoism (Lao-tse), Hinduism, and Confucianism. It highlights the 'Golden Rule' as a universal ethical tenet. The author, Sven Magnusson, suggests that while the core ethical teachings are similar, differences arise in theological interpretations and narratives.

HON FÖRFÖLJDES AV SVÄVANDE "BLOMKRUKA" (She Was Pursued by a Hovering "Flower Pot")

This report details an encounter by Gärd Gisslén, who claims to have been followed by a hovering, luminous object resembling an upside-down flower pot. The object reportedly displayed strong light and followed her vehicle. The incident occurred near Stugun, Sweden.

Brev (Letter)

• INTE SÄKERT JESUS AT PASKALAMMET (Not Sure Jesus Ate the Passover Lamb): Ulf Allenbäck questions the traditional translation of biblical passages related to the Passover meal, suggesting that the Greek word 'pascha' might refer to the Passover meal itself rather than specifically a lamb, and that Jesus may not have eaten lamb during the Last Supper.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of spirituality, philosophy, and unexplained phenomena. There is a clear interest in providing evidence and arguments for the existence of God and the survival of consciousness after death. UFO sightings and parapsychological research are presented as legitimate areas of inquiry, often with detailed accounts and analyses. The publication seems to favor a critical yet open-minded approach to these subjects, encouraging readers to question and seek deeper understanding. The ethical teachings of various religions are also highlighted, suggesting a belief in universal moral principles that transcend specific doctrines. The overall stance appears to be one of seeking truth and promoting spiritual awareness and personal reform.