Sokaren - 1973 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR2
Volume: 1973
Date: November 1973

This issue of Sökaren delves into various spiritual, psychological, and scientific topics, with a strong focus on meditation, yoga, and alternative healing methods.

Samtal om Vipassana-meditation

The main feature is an interview with Bruno Mertens, a 58-year-old Dutch artist and Vipassana meditation teacher. Mertens describes Vipassana-Satipatthana as the most demanding, yet most effective, method for self-knowledge, love, and understanding. He explains that it helps to discipline the mind by observing and understanding the 'wandering of the mind' (tankarnas vandring). He meditates for a couple of hours daily, emphasizing that true meditation is about developing mindful awareness in all activities, not just during formal practice. Mertens contrasts Vipassana with Transcendental Meditation, stating that Vipassana focuses on developing all-encompassing attention rather than concentration on a single point. He asserts that this inner discipline leads to inner freedom and can prevent conflict situations. Mertens also notes physical benefits, such as reduced need for sleep and elimination of rheumatism by avoiding sugar, milk, and dairy products. He shares his personal journey into meditation, inspired by a lecture from the Thai ambassador's wife in Holland, and his intensive training at the Thai embassy. He believes Vipassana can contribute to a better world by fostering self-awareness and understanding, which he sees as more crucial for peace than political systems. He recounts teaching meditation to drug-addicted youths in Amsterdam, with significant success in helping them overcome addiction.

Yoga

Written by Claus Oreskov, this section explores the philosophy and practice of Yoga. It explains that Yoga is deeply intertwined with the worldview of traditional Hinduism, emphasizing concepts like samsara (cycle of birth, death, and rebirth), karma, and the soul's immortality (atman). Oreskov clarifies that Yoga is not solely a part of Hinduism but a universal discipline. He discusses the dualistic nature of Yoga, distinguishing between soul and matter, and the individual soul and the world soul (Brahman). The text highlights the illusion of maya, the material world, which obscures the true nature of reality. The concept of karma is explained as the law of cause and effect, where past actions influence present and future lives. The article outlines the four main paths of Yoga: Karma-yoga (path of action), Bhakti-yoga (path of devotion), Jnana-yoga (path of knowledge), and Raja-yoga (royal path of meditation). Raja-yoga is detailed through its eight steps: yama (restraints), niyama (observances), asana (posture), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and samadhi (union with the divine). The ultimate goal of Yoga is described as achieving nirvikalpa samadhi, a state of complete liberation and union with God.

Radionics

This section features an interview with Eric Söderström, who continues the work of George de la Warr, a British engineer known for his radionic diagnostic and treatment apparatus. Söderström explains that de la Warr's work was inspired by Dr. Albert Abrams and Dr. Ruth Drown. Radionics posits that living organisms are surrounded by an 'organizational field' that mirrors the physical body. De la Warr's devices could detect disturbances in this field, allowing for diagnosis and remote treatment. Söderström discusses the scientific skepticism surrounding radionics and details the process of diagnosis using a blood sample, emphasizing the role of the operator's thought energy and the apparatus's resonance with specific disease frequencies. He also touches upon experiments in radionic treatment of plants, noting mixed results. Söderström offers radionic analysis and remote treatment services, explaining the costs and the time involved.

Vår Värld – En Rusvärld?

Percival's article explores the increasing use of mind-altering substances in modern society as a response to the perceived emptiness and pressures of urban and technological life. The author critiques the failures of technocracy and mass media in providing fulfillment, leading people to seek escape through alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, and more potent drugs like opium, LSD, and mescaline. The article references Aldous Huxley's experiences with mescaline and Timothy Leary's advocacy for LSD. It discusses the rise of a 'subculture' associated with these substances, seeking new forms of expression and self-discovery. The author questions whether these 'rus' (intoxications) are the true path to liberation or merely a temporary escape, suggesting that genuine fulfillment lies in 'light' rather than 'intoxication.' The article also briefly mentions the film 'Chappaqua' by Conrad Rooks as a documentation of this 'rus-world.'

Percival: Dagsedel om Ödmjukhet

This poetic piece by Percival contrasts different forms of humility. It advocates for humility before nature, art, and the universe, but rejects humility towards systems, institutions, or superficiality that exploit or harm life. The author emphasizes the importance of action and genuine deeds over mere words or beliefs, drawing parallels with the teachings of Jesus and Buddha.

Varia: BBC-debatt om Parapsykologi

This section reports on a BBC debate concerning parapsychology. Experimental psychologist Christopher Evans expressed skepticism about ESP phenomena, calling them illusions and noting the lack of significant scientific results over a century of research. Statistician Christopher Scott also voiced skepticism due to alleged inaccuracies in experimental reports. Professor C.E.M. Hansel, a proponent of parapsychology, suggested that the field has reached a dead end but might persist as a fringe group, similar to astrology. Dr. John Beloff defended parapsychology, arguing that it is approaching reproducible experiments, citing work by Dr. Helmut Schmidt. Professor C.W.K. Mundle highlighted the resistance of psychologists and biologists to new theories compared to physicists. The report also mentions Mrs. K.M. Goldney's account of visiting the medium Rudi Schneider.

D. Scott Rogo's Mening

D. Scott Rogo, writing in 'Parapsychology Review,' discusses a crisis in experimental parapsychology. He argues that the field has contributed little to understanding spontaneous ESP and has neglected areas like mediumistic studies and physical phenomena. Rogo advocates for 'field investigations' over laboratory studies, suggesting that the latter have yielded meager and debatable results. He believes that modern parapsychology needs new technology and measurement methods to make breakthroughs.

Rhine...

Professor J.B. Rhine, a pioneer in experimental parapsychology, believes there are no fundamental flaws in the experimental approach but acknowledges difficulties in studying psi phenomena due to their unconscious nature and lack of clear principles.

Tidskriften Science prisar Hyneks bok

This brief note reports that the journal 'Science' has praised J. Allen Hynek's book 'The UFO Experience,' commending his 'scathing critique' of the Condon report and his defense of UFOs as a valid scientific subject.

Jonathan Havsmås

This piece by Birgit Lange recounts the story of Richard Bach and his book 'Jonathan Livingston Seagull.' Bach, a former jet pilot, claims to have received the story through a voice. The book, about a seagull striving for self-perfection beyond the flock's limitations, became a bestseller. Lange describes Bach's struggle to find a publisher and the book's eventual massive success, leading to merchandise and film adaptations. The article touches upon Bach's unconventional views on the 'voice' that inspired him and his belief in self-realization and freedom.

Religonsdebatt: Så talade Kristus

Per Glanell analyzes the teachings of Jesus, contrasting them with church doctrines. Glanell emphasizes Jesus's radical demands for total renunciation, selfless action, and a focus on deeds rather than faith alone. He criticizes the church's interpretation of Jesus's teachings, particularly regarding salvation through faith, and highlights Jesus's emphasis on personal responsibility for forgiveness and spiritual growth. Glanell suggests that Jesus's ethical framework aligns with principles found in other religions, such as Buddhism, and that true Christianity involves living by these principles, which ultimately require detachment from worldly possessions and even personal attachments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently promotes self-awareness, inner discipline, and spiritual growth through various practices like Vipassana meditation and Yoga. There's a critical stance towards societal pressures, materialism, and conventional religious doctrines, advocating for a more direct and personal experience of truth and liberation. The magazine also explores fringe scientific and psychological topics, such as radionics and parapsychology, suggesting an openness to alternative perspectives. The overall editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging individuals to seek deeper meaning and self-understanding beyond superficial societal norms and beliefs.

This issue of Sökaren, Volume 10, Issue 2, published in 1973, focuses on the broad theme of 'VI MÄNNISKOR' (We Humans), exploring the commonalities and limitations of human understanding across different belief systems. The magazine covers a range of topics including UFO sightings, parapsychology, spirituality, occultism, and book reviews.

Ett Monument

The article 'Ett Monument' recounts the story of Gösta Carlsson, who in 1946 reportedly saw a landed UFO and its crew in Vegeholmsskogen, near Ängelholm, Sweden. The landing left distinct marks on the ground, which were later preserved by filling the depressions with cement. Inscriptions such as 'support plate', 'fin', and 'light ramp' were added to the cement. A large, artificial 'flying saucer' has also been placed at the site, which is now enclosed by a fence and gate, making it a memorial to the encounter.

Key Figures and Organizations

Several individuals are mentioned in relation to their work in parapsychology, spirituality, and ufology. Professor Pierre Baranger and Professor N. van Dorp van Vliet are noted as proponents of 'radioni'. Eric Söderström is identified as a 'Radionic operator'. Anagarika Govinda is presented as an author discussing the concept of Maitreya. The magazine also features advertisements for books related to John W. Keely's free energy machines and alchemical texts.

Book Reviews

The issue includes several book reviews:

Bra Livsåskådnings-antologi

This anthology, edited by Per Ragnar, features sixteen essays exploring the concept of life and aiming to broaden the understanding of reality. Contributors include Gustaf Strömberg, Nils-Olof Jacobson (discussing reincarnation research), Birgit Lange (on parapsychologist John Björkhem), Werner Duvernoy (on out-of-body and deathbed experiences), Birger Qvarnström (on modern parapsychology), and Alf Ahlberg (on symbol and reality).

'Guds Ord' och Psi

This review discusses a book by Stockholm priest Ingvar Laxvik, titled 'Parapsykologin och Bibeln' (Parapsychology and the Bible). Laxvik compares biblical accounts of miracles with modern parapsychological findings, suggesting that parapsychology could indirectly support biblical miracles and that the church should support parapsychological research.

Tre Onödiga Böcker

This section critiques three books: 'Astrologiska porträtt' by Traude Schneider and Gun Årestad, which contains astrological descriptions of lesser-known individuals; 'Sia och se' by Sussie Bjuvstedt, a superficial guide to various divination methods; and 'Mose ande- och trolldomslära samt de tolv sibyllornas spådomar' (Mose's Spirit and Sorcery Teachings and the Twelve Sibyls' Prophecies), a collection of ancient spells and prophecies.

Bearbetad, Gammal Jesus-bok

This review discusses a reworked edition of Ditlef Nielsen's book 'Den historiske Jesus' (The Historical Jesus), edited by Birger Edmar. The book aims to present the original, historical Jesus, stripping away later theological accretions and superstitions like the virgin birth, trinity, and resurrection, focusing instead on Jesus's core message of love and God as a loving father. The review notes that the book argues against supernatural events as being part of Jesus's original teachings.

Synska Minnen

This section reviews a series of books by individuals claiming psychic abilities, including works by Astrid Gilmark, Lilly Åkerblom, Charlotte Leopold von Arenstorff, W. A. H. Mulder-Schalekamp, Anna Elisabeth Westerlund, Helga Braconnier, and Aino Kasinen. The reviewer expresses skepticism about the scientific rigor of these accounts, finding them repetitive and lacking in intellectual depth, while acknowledging the potential significance of ESP phenomena for philosophical study.

Editorial Stance and Themes

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, the spiritual, and the psychological. There is a clear interest in phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific understanding, such as UFOs and parapsychology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging the exploration of these subjects, even if critical reviews are also present. The 'VI MÄNNISKOR' article suggests a unifying perspective on human limitations and the search for meaning, regardless of one's belief system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Recurring themes in this issue include the nature of consciousness, the search for meaning beyond material reality, and the investigation of phenomena that challenge conventional scientific paradigms. The magazine seems to cater to a readership interested in alternative perspectives on life, the universe, and the human condition. The editorial stance encourages critical engagement with these topics, as evidenced by both the presentation of new ideas and the critical reviews of books.