Sokaren - 1972 No 09

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Sökaren" (The Seeker) from September 1972, number 9, features a cover story titled "SÖKA SIN MITTPUNKT" (Seeking One's Center) by Nils-Olof Jacobson. The magazine explores themes of meditation, mysticism, the changing landscape of religion in Sweden, and UFO phenomena.

Seeking One's Center: A Meditation Course

Nils-Olof Jacobson recounts his experience attending a three-day course on "deep meditation and mysticism" at S:t Davidsgården in Rättvik, Sweden. The course was led by Hans Hof and karmelite monk Wilfrid Stinissen. The meditation technique taught is described as Zen-style meditation, adapted for Westerners to aid in active life. Jacobson contrasts this with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Transcendental Meditation (TM), which uses a mantra to empty the mind, leading to relaxation and inner peace. Zen meditation, on the other hand, focuses on the breath and posture, emphasizing a straight back and sitting without back support, though modifications for comfort are allowed.

The course involved daily lectures, discussions, relaxation exercises, and four meditation sessions per day, each lasting about half an hour. Jacobson notes that while TM uses mantras, Zen meditation typically focuses on the breath. The goal is to achieve a state of calm by concentrating on the rhythm of breathing, leading to a release from other thoughts.

He describes his personal experience with meditation, noting the difficulty of maintaining focus amidst distracting thoughts. However, he also mentions fleeting moments of profound experience. The article highlights the upcoming construction of a dedicated meditation center at S:t Davidsgården, expected to be completed in spring 1973.

"Meditation and Mysticism" - An Anthology

The article also reviews the anthology "Meditation och mystik" (Meditation and Mysticism), compiled by Hof and Stinissen and published by Verbum. The book is divided into three sections: "Meditation and Mysticism," "Zen, Bhakti, and Transcendental Meditation," and "Christian Deep Meditation and Mysticism." The latter section features writings by Christian mystics like Jan van Ruysbroeck, Teresa of Avila, and John of the Cross, with comparisons to Zen mysticism. The reviewer finds the book dense and challenging, particularly for those new to mysticism, but deems it an indispensable guide for meditators.

Karlfried Dürckheim's contributions are highlighted, emphasizing that meditation is not an isolated practice but a continuous exercise in all aspects of life, including posture and body awareness, particularly focusing on the "Hara" (center of gravity in the pelvis). Dürckheim stresses the importance of dedication, determination, and perseverance in meditation practice.

Can Transcendental Meditation Help Drug Addicts?

Eva Bräutigam presents an experiment involving young drug addicts learning Transcendental Meditation (TM). The study found that TM reduced hash consumption, especially in the beginning, but had no significant effect on users of heavier drugs like LSD, central stimulants, and opium. The article discusses physiological studies on meditation, including changes in brain waves (EEG), oxygen consumption, and heart rate, comparing TM and Zen meditation.

Wallace's 1970 study on TM indicated a significant decrease in oxygen consumption, comparable to sleep. Orme-Johnson, Bristol, and More (1971) studied the effect of TM on galvanic skin responses (GSR), finding a significant reduction in GSR during meditation, suggesting long-term effects. Previous research by Winquist (1969) and Benson & Wallace (1971) suggested TM could help addicts quit, but these studies were based on a biased sample of those who continued meditating.

Bräutigam's own experiment involved two groups: an experimental group learning TM and a control group receiving talk therapy. The study measured drug habits, work and leisure activities, self-confidence, anxiety, and other psychological variables. While TM showed an immediate short-term effect on hash consumption, its long-term impact was less clear, though it seemed to be supported by social contacts with other meditators. The effect on heavier drug use was not definitively proven but suggested.

Psychologically, the TM group reported increased life satisfaction, better mood, more energy, and reduced restlessness. The study suggests that meditation might act as a catalyst for self-healing, potentially by reducing stress and dissatisfaction, which are seen as contributing factors to drug addiction.

Interview with Berndt Gustafsson: The Future of Christianity

Docent Berndt Gustafsson discusses his findings on the decline of Christian beliefs in Sweden based on opinion polls from 1955 and 1970. He notes a significant drop in belief in God, heaven, and hell, particularly among younger age groups. Gustafsson projects that if these trends continue, belief in God will be held by a small minority within thirty years, with regular church attendance ceasing in about fifteen years.

He suggests that while dogma-heavy Christianity may decline, a more mystical form of faith might emerge, potentially leading to a rapprochement between different religious communities and world religions. Gustafsson believes that religion's place will be among the marginalized in society, with those who are "outcasts" seeking solace in religion, while the well-adjusted are increasingly distancing themselves from it.

He also touches upon the concept of "privatization of religion," where individuals increasingly choose their own spiritual paths rather than adhering strictly to traditional forms of worship or creeds. The article lists various smaller religious communities in Sweden, indicating a diversification of religious practice.

Gustafsson expresses his commitment to his work in evangelism and congregational work, believing that Christianity has a future not as a statistical phenomenon but as a spiritual one, centered on Christ.

UFOs: Why the Interest?

This section features interviews with individuals involved in UFO research, primarily associated with the organization G.I.C.O.F.F. (Göteborgs Informations Center för Oidentifierade Flygande Föremål).

Sven-Olof Fredrikson, a member of G.I.C.O.F.F., expresses his fascination with UFOs, stemming from reading Gösta Rehn's books. He believes there is significant truth in many witness accounts and considers UFOs a serious problem that warrants full-time investigation by authorities. He acknowledges multiple hypotheses for UFO phenomena, including misinterpretations, psychological factors, and the possibility of time travelers, but leans towards the spacecraft hypothesis.

Anders Liljegren, also from UFO-Sverige, emphasizes the need for systematic data collection and critical analysis. He advocates for better collaboration among UFO researchers and the use of technology like computers for data analysis. He also mentions the idea of "ultraterrestrial beings" as a possible explanation for some UFO sightings.

Johan Martin-Löf, a civil engineer, views UFOs as a complex phenomenon with multiple explanations, ranging from trivial to psychological. He is skeptical of the spacecraft hypothesis due to the vast distances involved in interstellar travel and the lack of strong evidence. He believes that while research is valuable, it should not overshadow more pressing global issues.

Ewert Mårtensson, a psychologist and member of UFO-Sverige, argues for taking witness accounts seriously, suggesting that skepticism should not lead to outright dismissal. He believes that many UFOs are indeed spacecraft and that the phenomenon is significant enough to warrant serious attention.

Björn Högman, chairman of G.I.C.O.F.F., shares his personal UFO experience from 1967, which sparked his interest. He highlights the organization's systematic approach to UFO research, including witness interviews, analysis of reports, and collaboration with experts in various fields like meteorology and astronomy. G.I.C.O.F.F. aims to investigate UFO phenomena objectively without preconceived notions.

Anders Gernandt, a member of Parliament, sees the UFO question as linked to the broader inquiry into intelligent life in the universe. He suggests that authorities should support serious UFO investigations and establish accessible reporting systems, potentially through collaboration with private UFO organizations.

The Riddle of the Self

This section explores the concept of the "self" (jag) from various perspectives.

Amita Nisatta, a Swedish Buddhist nun, explains the Buddhist doctrine of "anatta" (no-self), stating that there is no permanent, unchanging self or soul. What we perceive as the self is a composite of mind and matter, constantly in flux.

Barbro Melander, a member of Teosofi i Norden, describes the development of the self from infancy, starting with body awareness, then emotions, and finally thought. She suggests that the "self" is an instrument for the human spirit and that true self-realization involves transcending the ego and realizing unity with the universal life.

Bernhard Hegardt, a philosopher, discusses the empirical approach to understanding the self, referencing David Hume's view that the self is merely a stream of consciousness. He notes that yogis claim to achieve intuitive insight into the self.

Per Ragnar, a director and actor, reflects on the nature of self and consciousness, questioning what it means to be "I" and how thoughts arise. He contemplates the relationship between the physical brain and the immaterial nature of thought.

Sigurd Westerlund, an engineer, presents a worldview based on Martinus cosmology, which posits an eternal, individual consciousness ("eternal self") that experiences life through various physical incarnations. He defines the "self" as the "experiencing something" that is beyond physical definition.

Bo Johnson, a psychiatrist, defines having a "self" as the ultimate goal of personality maturation, involving the development of a stable identity, a value system, and consistent behavior.

Upanishads on the Self

This part delves into the concept of "Atman" (the self or soul) as described in the Upanishads, ancient Indian scriptures. It explains that Atman is identical to Brahman, the universal self or God. The text emphasizes that Atman is formless, eternal, and the source of all existence. Realizing this unity between the individual self (Atman) and the universal self (Brahman) is presented as the path to ultimate bliss.

Love Seekers

A short piece describes "Love Seekers" as individuals and groups dedicated to fostering love, empathy, and understanding in the world. They are seen as pioneers of a new era, creating centers for connection and promoting a positive, non-judgmental approach to life and relationships.

Editorial Stance and Recurring Themes

This issue of "Sökaren" demonstrates a broad interest in inner exploration and phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The magazine provides a platform for diverse perspectives on meditation, spirituality, and the unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to explore these topics critically and thoughtfully. Recurring themes include the search for inner peace and meaning through meditation, the evolving nature of religious belief in a modernizing society, and the persistent human curiosity about the unknown, particularly concerning UFOs. The magazine aims to inform and provoke thought on these complex subjects.

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1972, delves into a variety of topics, including parapsychology, spirituality, health, and scientific theories. The cover prominently features "Jagets Eld" by Denis Lindbohm, a book about reincarnation, and Birgit Lange's "Jordskred?", which explores the question of whether death is pleasant. The issue also includes "Vår Tids Mirakler" (Our Time's Miracles), a collection of articles on the supernatural.

Deathbed Visions and the Afterlife

The lead article, "Syner på dödsbädden" (Visions on the Deathbed) by D. Scott Rogo, discusses research on deathbed visions. It highlights the findings of Karlis Osis, who surveyed physicians and nurses about their observations. Osis's research indicates that dying individuals often experience uplifting visions, with apparitions of deceased loved ones being common (52.3%), followed by living persons (28.1%) and religious figures (19.6%). Rogo notes that these visions are often experienced while the patient is lucid and not heavily medicated. He also references earlier work by Barrett, Hyslop, and Hart, and mentions experiments by Duncan McDougall and R. A. Watters related to phenomena occurring at the moment of death.

Reincarnation and Past Lives

"Jagets Eld" by Denis Lindbohm is presented as a book about reincarnation, where the author claims to remember past lives, including a period as a young girl named Esta. The book is described as challenging and thought-provoking, with Lindbohm asserting the immortality of the soul and the concept of constant rebirth. The review includes a quote from Lindbohm stating, "My self is immortal, and so is Yours – for we are all alike, we are cosmic travelers: the universe is our home."

Our Time's Miracles

"Vår Tids Mirakler" is a compilation of articles from Sökaren magazine (1964-1967) focusing on the "supernatural." The content includes topics such as "The Miracle Man from Utrecht," "Blessings as Science," "The Higher Self," "The Power of the Subconscious," "God's Instrument Kathryn Kuhlman," "Psychic Experiences in a Mine," "Healing Spirit," "The Dead Speak," "Making the Impossible Possible," "Meditation in East and West," and "A Case of Rebirth?"

Birgit Lange's "Jordskred?"

Birgit Lange's book "Jordskred?" (Landslide?) is reviewed, with chapter titles like "Is it Pleasant to Die?" Lange discusses out-of-body experiences and automatic writing, and also touches upon Eastern reincarnation doctrines, referencing the work of Professor Ian Stevenson.

Relativity Theory and the Twin Paradox

An article titled "RELATIVITETSTEORIN" (Relativity Theory) discusses the famous "clock paradox" and "or twin paradox." It presents the view of Professor Mendel Sachs from the State University of New York, who challenges the conventional interpretation of Einstein's theory. Sachs argues that the time dilation effect is not asymmetrical and that both clocks (or twins) would show the same time upon reunion. He contends that acceleration and deceleration are symmetrical and that relative motion does not affect the aging process of living beings or the size of objects.

Physics Docent Ulf Ringström offers a counterpoint, noting that many physicists oppose Sachs's views and that the paradox has been verified with unstable particles like muons. The article mentions ongoing experiments with atomic clocks on jet planes to further test the theory.

Health and Vegetarianism

An editorial titled "VERKLIG RIKEDOM" (True Wealth) argues that true wealth lies in health and joy, not just economics. It advocates for the principles of the vegetarian health movement, emphasizing unprocessed foods from the plant kingdom. The article encourages readers to explore vegetarianism and provides resources for health literature and magazines.

Debate on Religious Truth Criteria

A section titled "KLOK, KLOKARE" (Wise, Wiser) features a debate initiated by the magazine's editor regarding religious truth criteria. Bishop Ingmar Ström of Stockholm argues that normal truth criteria should apply to religious contexts, but acknowledges the importance of a "religious mother tongue" of symbols. He expresses skepticism about the magazine's approach of blending various religious ideas. The editor, in response, questions the validity of love for a specific historical figure as a truth criterion and suggests that religions might evolve into systems of symbols rather than absolute truths.

Fil. dr. Kurt Almqvist contributes his perspective, stating that religions and holy scriptures originate from divine revelation, adapted to different cultures. He emphasizes the role of "intellectus" (intuition) as the organ for understanding divine truth, contrasting it with discursive reason. He argues that the Bible's claims should be accepted as divine truth. The editor counters that religions based on divine revelation should be a thing of the past, advocating for a future religion based on a conscious mystical understanding of the All as spirit and love, free from supernatural claims.

Book Reviews

Several books are reviewed:

• "Buddhas Lära" (Buddha's Teachings): A Swedish translation of Chr. Reventlow's book on Buddhism, presented as an accessible introduction. The review discusses concepts like karma and nirvana, noting the difficulty in defining nirvana and the Buddhist view of life as suffering.
• "DRÖMMAR, DRÖMMAR..." (Dreams, Dreams...): A review of an Egyptian-Chaldean-Persian dream book, described as a collection of interpretations of dream symbols. The reviewer finds the book to be a modernized and less engaging version of older dream books.

Other Content

The issue also includes advertisements for various products and services, including a MWO body energy broadcaster, travel opportunities to Guatemala and Yucatan, and spiritualist literature. There are also listings for book orders and subscription information for the magazine itself.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the supernatural, spiritualism, alternative health practices, and philosophical debates on the nature of reality and consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring unconventional ideas and challenging established scientific and religious paradigms, while also engaging in critical discussion and presenting diverse viewpoints. There is a clear interest in parapsychology, reincarnation, and the possibility of life beyond death.