Sokaren - 1972 No 10

Magazine Overview

This issue of "Jäkaren" (The Reaper), dated Nr 10, 1972, offers a deep dive into spiritual and alternative communities, with a focus on two prominent examples in the UK: Findhorn in Scotland and Burrswood in England. The magazine also touches upon theological interpretations of Jesus, parapsychology, and the 'art of living'. The primary articles are written by Nils-Olof Jacobson and Alf Ahlberg, with contributions and interviews providing a comprehensive look at these movements.

Findhorn: An Impression from an English Journey I

Nils-Olof Jacobson recounts his visit to the Findhorn community, located near a bay of the North Sea, about 50 km northeast of Inverness, Scotland. What began as a humble caravan park has transformed into a village with a hundred or so caravans, many with extensions, surrounded by well-kept gardens and abundant flowers, particularly roses. The community includes a house with a kitchen and dining hall for 200 people, rooms for meditation, offices, workshops, a printing press, and a darkroom. It also features fruit trees, vegetable gardens, an herb garden, and even a eucalyptus tree. Artisans such as ceramicists, weavers, candle makers, illustrators, and painters work in studios.

The community's philosophy, as articulated by co-founders Peter and Eileen Caddy, is to "demonstrate an alternative way of life, be pioneers for the new age's way of life in harmony with God's will and His laws." They emphasize seeking God's guidance through various means, including the 'still small voice within,' intuition, and inner knowledge. Eileen Caddy is highlighted as a recipient of detailed guidance that has led the community's development.

The origins of Findhorn are traced back to 1962 when Peter Caddy, his wife Eileen, their three sons, and friend Dorothy MacLean found themselves in a caravan at a "scrappy corner" of Findhorn Bay Caravan Park. Lacking funds and facing job rejections, Peter began cultivating a garden from the surrounding debris. The group lived in their caravan, relying on Eileen's guidance and unemployment benefits. A significant aspect of their early development involved communication with 'devas' (nature spirits) and 'nature spirits' (elves, fauns, gnomes) through Dorothy MacLean, who received guidance on how to create a garden with their help.

Sir George Treveleyan, in the foreword to "The Findhorn Garden," comments on the community's unique approach, noting that while many mediums connect with devas, the Findhorn group consciously bases their work on this connection, fostering a partnership between the human and spiritual worlds.

The community's growth is described through a series of 'miracles,' including the spontaneous establishment of an office with equipment, a printing press, a meditation hall, and a dining hall and kitchen, all achieved through faith and without initial funds. The community's history is marked by a reliance on God's limitless resources, achieved through unified thinking, prayer, and immediate gratitude.

By January 1970, the community had 15 members; by 1971, it grew to 45; and by 1972, it exceeded 100 members, with around 130 by autumn 1972, including about twenty children. Visitor numbers also increased significantly. Findhorn is not a commune in the hippie sense; members are expected to arrange their own housing and living expenses. The community is described as a blend of retired individuals and younger people, attracting individuals from various nationalities.

Findhorn is recognized as a foundation, with its craft studios organized into a separate company. Income is generated from sales of crafts, printed materials, and recordings. Visitors now pay a fixed price for food and lodging. The community's goal is to demonstrate a life of attunement, where individuals learn to resonate with the energies of the new age through practical work and by transcending their ego.

Burrswood: A Healing Home

Alf Ahlberg's article focuses on Burrswood, a healing center founded by Dorothy Kerin. The narrative begins with a dramatic account of Dorothy Kerin's recovery from a terminal illness in 1912, which she attributed to divine intervention and her faith.

After her recovery, Dorothy Kerin felt called to establish a healing home. In 1930, she founded her first institution, relying on her absolute faith in God to acquire the necessary resources. The center later moved to a dilapidated country house in Burrswood, south of London, in 1948. Despite economic hardships, Burrswood expanded and gained recognition. Dorothy Kerin became known through radio and television appearances and lecture tours.

In 1959, Dorothy Kerin had a vision of a church at Burrswood, which was subsequently built and paid for within eleven months through spontaneous donations. Dorothy Kerin passed away in 1963, and Burrswood now operates as a foundation.

Burrswood is characterized by a unique integration of medicine and religion. It operates as a nursing home with 30 beds, accepting severely ill patients and providing a peaceful environment for those nearing the end of life. While not performing surgery, it offers care for acute cases, referring them to hospitals. The staff includes registered nurses and former patients who contribute their skills. Dr. Edward Aubert, a former general practitioner, leads the home and provides daily medical care. He is also joined by Dr. Kenneth Cuming, who is both a priest and a doctor.

The center is described as a "spiritual intensive care unit," with daily communion and prayer for the sick being central to its work. Healing services are held three times a week, attracting many participants. Patients who cannot attend can receive individual prayer and laying on of hands.

The article notes that Burrswood is not inexpensive, with a daily cost of at least 5 pounds, typically covered by private health insurance. A bursary fund, financed by donations, assists those who cannot afford the fees. The center is consistently full, with a waiting list.

Dr. Aubert shares his perspective, emphasizing that Burrswood treats the whole person, integrating medical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. He contrasts this holistic approach with the specialization in modern medicine. He also discusses his personal journey into spiritual healing, initially hesitant but compelled by patient outcomes.

Regarding the integration of medicine and religion, Dr. Aubert acknowledges that while some colleagues may be skeptical, many general practitioners understand the need to treat the whole person. He also touches upon the concept of 'miracles,' preferring to focus on the transformation of patients' psychological states and their relationship with illness, rather than solely on physical cures.

Theological Reflections: Albert Schweitzer and Jesus

Alf Ahlberg's article delves into Albert Schweitzer's controversial views on Jesus. Schweitzer, a renowned scientist, musician, and missionary doctor, re-examined the historical Jesus. He argued that the Jesus of Nazareth who preached the kingdom of God and died for its cause, as depicted in the Gospels, was not the historical figure but a construct of rationalism and liberal theology.

Schweitzer believed Jesus was a man of his time, deeply embedded in Jewish apocalyptic thought, and convinced of the imminent end of the age and the arrival of God's kingdom. He posited that Jesus came to believe he himself was the Messiah-Son of Man, possibly due to his lineage from David. Schweitzer suggested that Jesus' understanding of the 'Son of Man' evolved, particularly after the disciples' return from their mission, leading him to accept a role of vicarious suffering before his transformation.

Schweitzer viewed the triumphal entry into Jerusalem not as a Messianic acclamation but as a heraldic role, similar to Elijah. He argued that the trial and condemnation for blasphemy only occurred after Judas revealed Jesus' Messianic self-understanding to the high priest. The crowd's subsequent cry for crucifixion was likely influenced by the Sanhedrin revealing this 'Messianic secret' to the public.

Crucially, Schweitzer argued that Jesus' teachings were not about dogma but about the will and the kingdom of God. He believed that Jesus' ultimate significance for our time lies not in his theological pronouncements but in his inspiring example of a radical will to establish God's kingdom, urging individuals to live in harmony with divine laws and to serve others.

Parapsychological Debate: Olof Jönsson and Natural Laws

This section presents a debate regarding the parapsychological abilities of Olof Jönsson, focusing on Professor Torbern Laurent's 'suggestion and hypnosis theory.' Laurent, in a previous issue, argued that Jönsson's phenomena were not due to ESP but to illusion and hypnosis. Sune Stigsjöö challenges Laurent's conclusions, citing Laurent's own earlier reports from 1949 and 1953 which described experiments with Jönsson that yielded positive results, with no mention of suggestion or hypnosis. Stigsjöö quotes Laurent's own writings from 1949, where he describes experiments that seemed 'impossible to explain as illusionist tricks.'

Stigsjöö also refers to a 1953 protocol signed by Laurent and Professor Arne Ölander, stating that at least 20% of OJ's experiments were successful. Furthermore, a 1970 book by Olle Holmberg, referencing Laurent's work, suggests that Laurent's 'suggestion hypothesis' as a general explanation for parapsychological phenomena is 'unlikely.' The section concludes by mentioning Laurent's participation in an appeal for university research into parapsychological phenomena.

Interview with Gunnar Furuland: The Art of Living

Gunnar Furuland, rector and chairman of the Sveriges Religiösa Reformförbund (Swedish Religious Reform Association), discusses his views on the Bible, Jesus, and the nature of God.

Furuland rejects biblical fundamentalism, stating that the Bible is not the literal word of God but contains profound religious thoughts. He believes that the divine truth resides in the human heart, citing Jesus' words: "The kingdom of God is within you."

He views Jesus as a human being, a son of God in the sense that all humans are children of God who listen to His voice. Jesus, he explains, deeply perceived the Father's will and conveyed it to humanity. Furuland dismisses the concept of virgin birth with disgust and interprets the ascension as a symbol of spiritual achievements transcending death.

Regarding miracles, Furuland suggests that many could be explained naturally, like the feeding of the multitude. He believes that God does not act against His own natural laws, which He created. He describes God as a spiritual power that initiated existence and is present in all things.

Furuland also touches upon the concept of reincarnation and the importance of learning the 'art of living,' which he equates with being human and living in harmony with nature and life's laws. He emphasizes self-knowledge, the importance of others' perceptions, and the need for courage to be oneself. He concludes by quoting a poem, "A Lump of Clay," which reflects on the mystery of existence and the journey from material form to consciousness.

Varia: Trends in Religion and UFO Literature

This section briefly covers trends in religion from 1970-2000, citing a compilation of twenty-three predictions. It also highlights a bibliography of Danish UFO literature from 1964-1970, noting the significant number of UFO-related publications in Denmark compared to Sweden. Additionally, it mentions several small Swedish publications related to parapsychology and UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of spirituality, alternative lifestyles, and the search for meaning beyond material existence. The articles on Findhorn and Burrswood showcase communities dedicated to spiritual growth and healing, while the theological discussions challenge traditional interpretations of Christianity. The parapsychology section indicates an interest in phenomena beyond conventional scientific understanding. The interview with Gunnar Furuland reflects a liberal religious perspective, emphasizing inner experience and ethical living over dogma. The magazine appears to advocate for a more holistic and spiritually-oriented approach to life, encouraging personal growth and a connection to higher principles.

Sökaren, Issue 10, 1972

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life philosophies and parapsychology, presents a diverse range of content, including a travelogue from India, extensive book reviews, and a debate on religious perspectives.

I Bangalore: Från en resa i Indien

Astrid Setterwall-Ångström recounts her experiences at the Ramakrishnaashrama in Bangalore, India. She describes the ashrama's mission, its founder Maharaj Swami Yatiswarananda, and the daily life of the monks and the boys being educated there. The ashrama emphasizes spiritual development, physical health, and character building. Setterwall-Ångström highlights the ashrama's role in fostering spiritual growth and its inclusive approach to different beliefs. She also shares a personal encounter with Maharaj, describing his profound spiritual presence and wisdom. The article touches upon the significance of Indian spiritual traditions and the concept of selfless service.

Book Reviews: Utländsk bokvandring med Roland Adlerberth

Roland Adlerberth provides a series of reviews of books primarily focused on esoteric subjects, mythology, and alternative history:

• Lost Continents by L. Sprague de Camp: Reviewed as a comprehensive overview of the Atlantis myth, though de Camp himself leans towards it being Plato's invention.
• Tut-Ankh-Amon er vågnet by Frede Melhedegård: Discusses ancient Egyptian and Phoenician technologies, suggesting advanced knowledge beyond conventional archaeology.
• Die Meister der Welt by Robert Charroux: Criticized for being less engaging and more unbelievable than Charroux's previous works, despite touching on topics like Venus, floods, and extraterrestrial influences.
• Passport to Magonia by Jacques Vallée: Praised for bridging modern UFO sightings with ancient myths and legends of encounters with strange beings.
• The Wright Field Story by James W. Moseley: Examines claims of a UFO crash at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, offering insights into the more fringe elements of American ufology.
• H. P. Blavatsky and the Secret Doctrine (edited by Virginia Hanson): A collection of essays on Helena Blavatsky and Theosophy, exploring her influence on philosophy, art, and literature.
• Madame Blavatsky, Priestess of the Occult by Gertrude Marvin Williams: A biography of Blavatsky, presented as a remarkable and eccentric figure.
• Astrology by Jeff Mayo: A comprehensive guide to astrology, detailing beliefs and practices within the field.
• Witchcraft by William Seabrook: Explores witchcraft, werewolves, and vampires, with Seabrook's work noted for its detailed, though sometimes controversial, approach.
• The Magic Island and The Voodo Island by William Seabrook: In-depth studies of Haitian Voodoo, its figures, and practices.
• Witchcraft, Magic & Alchemy by Grillot de Givry: A richly illustrated work on the history of magic, sorcery, divination, and alchemy, with a strong emphasis on its visual content.
• Exploring the Occult by Douglas Hunt: A well-written introduction to parapsychology and magic.
• King of the Witches by June Johns: A biography of Alex Sanders, focusing on English witchcraft.
• The Dark World of Witches by Eric Maple: Discusses the history of witchcraft in England.
• Witchcraft Today by Gerald B. Gardner: Explores contemporary witchcraft practices.
• They Foresaw the Future by Justine Glass: A look at 6,000 years of prophecy.
• Edgar Cayce's Story of Jesus by Jeffrey Furst: Focuses on the psychic Edgar Cayce's prophecies about Jesus' life.
• Strange World by Frank Edwards: A collection of unusual phenomena, including UFOs and cryptids.
• Strange Monsters and Madmen by Warren Smith: Features stories of ghosts, strange creatures, and supernatural events.
• Clairvoyance in Women by Robert Tralin: Documents cases of female intuition and clairvoyance.
• What the Seers Predict for 1972 by Brad Steiger and Warren Smith: A compilation of predictions from various psychics.

Bokrecensioner: Väckarklocka om Kosten

This section reviews "Recept för en fattig planet" (Recipe for a Poor Planet) by Frances Moore Lappé, which argues for vegetarianism as a solution to global hunger and resource depletion. The review highlights statistics on the inefficiency of meat production and the environmental impact of animal agriculture. It also provides guidance on achieving a balanced protein intake through a vegetarian diet.

Nyttryck av mästerverk: "Den glömda världen"

This review discusses the re-release of Walther Eidlitz's book "Den glömda världen" (The Forgotten World), which explores Hinduism, meditation, and the path of devotion. The reviewer praises the book's literary quality and its insightful portrayal of Indian spiritual wisdom, emphasizing that Hinduism should not be dismissed as mere superstition.

Ett medium berättar

This short piece mentions a book titled "På gränsen mellan två världar" (On the Border Between Two Worlds) by Dutch medium W. A. H. Mulder-Schalekamp, comparing it to similar accounts of spiritual experiences.

Brev till Redaktören

Karin von Rutkowski writes a letter to the editor, questioning the magazine's critical stance on Christianity and advocating for a more tolerant approach to religious dialogue. She argues that the core of Christianity lies in Jesus' teachings and love, not in dogmas. She also defends the Catholic understanding of hell as the absence of God. Editor Magnusson responds, clarifying that his criticism is directed at Christian dogmas, not Christianity itself, and that he aims to foster open discussion on all life philosophies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Sökaren positions itself as a unique and independent platform for exploring life philosophies, spirituality, and parapsychology in Sweden. The magazine aims to be objective and broad-minded, covering a wide range of topics from established religions to fringe phenomena like UFOs and occultism. The editorial stance encourages critical thinking and open dialogue, challenging conventional views and dogmas, particularly within Christianity, while also showing interest in spiritual traditions from around the world. The magazine seeks to be a catalyst for deeper understanding and personal exploration of life's fundamental questions.