Sokaren - 1973 No 09

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR9
Date: 1973

This issue of Sökaren presents a diverse range of articles exploring spiritual, philosophical, and social phenomena. It features a prominent cover story on a young Indian spiritual leader, alongside in-depth discussions on communism, skepticism, Buddhism, parapsychology, and Satanism.

The 'Boy Guru' and Eastern Spirituality

The lead article introduces Guru Maharaj Ji, a 15-year-old Indian leader of the Divine Light Mission. The piece notes the significant interest in Eastern prophets in the West, suggesting a spiritual void in traditional Western religions. It contrasts the approaches of various spiritual teachers, highlighting Guru Maharaj Ji's emergence and the large followings he attracts. The article questions the background and depth of understanding among his followers, while also acknowledging the appeal of his message.

Per-Olof Bergkvist, a representative of the Divine Light Mission in Sweden, shares his positive experiences with the movement, stating that it offers a profound spiritual experience that other practices like yoga and meditation could not provide. The teachings are described as revealing the 'true self' through meditation, leading to inner peace and understanding. The article also touches upon the concept of the 'third eye' and the manifestation of divine knowledge.

Susanne Bertilsson and Per-Olof Bergkvist offer personal testimonies about Guru Maharaj Ji, describing him as the 'perfect master' who reveals the 'true self' and the divine harmony within. They emphasize the practical methods taught by the mission to connect with this inner self.

Olle Wedholm: Communism and Humanism

An interview with Olle Wedholm, described as a communist and esotericist, explores his worldview. Wedholm discusses his understanding of God as an infinite, incomprehensible force rather than a personal deity. He views Jesus as a significant spiritual teacher but not the sole path to truth, critiquing the dogma of organized religion. Wedholm draws parallels between Eastern and Western philosophies, particularly Pythagorean thought.

He elaborates on his communist ideals, emphasizing a humanist approach that prioritizes social and economic equality. Wedholm defends certain aspects of communist societies, suggesting that they offer more freedom and less exploitation than capitalist systems, though he acknowledges issues with information control in some Eastern Bloc countries. He advocates for a Swedish form of communism that respects national culture and history.

Wedholm also touches upon the concept of free enterprise within a socialist framework, suggesting that private businesses are tolerated as long as they do not accumulate excessive capital or power.

Skepticism in Antiquity

This section delves into the origins and principles of skepticism in ancient Greece. It identifies Pyrrho of Elis as a key figure, whose philosophy centered on achieving peace of mind by refraining from definitive judgments about the nature of reality. Skeptics questioned the possibility of attaining certain knowledge, highlighting the contradictions and uncertainties in various philosophical doctrines.

The article explains that skeptics argued against dogmatic claims, pointing out that for every argument, a counter-argument could be made. They emphasized the unreliability of sensory perception and the diversity of human experience, leading to the conclusion that absolute truth is elusive. While extreme skepticism aimed for complete suspension of belief, milder forms, like those found in the Academy, suggested that some beliefs might be more probable than others.

The text notes that skepticism, in its less extreme form, influenced the development of modern science, promoting critical inquiry and empirical investigation.

Buddhist Reflections: Compassion and the Concept of God

Anagarika Vajira presents two Buddhist perspectives. The first, "Buddhism and Compassion," emphasizes the interconnectedness of intellect and emotion, advocating for a balance between reason and empathy. It highlights Buddhism's goal of teaching individuals to live in harmony with themselves and the world, accepting the natural cycle of life and death. The article stresses that true compassion, not mere imitation, is central to Buddhist practice and essential for personal growth and spiritual liberation.

The second piece, "Buddhist Thoughts on Freedom and the Concept of God," offers a subjective reflection on the nature of freedom and the existence of God from a Buddhist viewpoint. The author suggests that the concept of God can be a hindrance to true freedom and enlightenment, as liberation comes from within, through the eradication of suffering and egoism. The article posits that the divine is not an external entity but an inherent aspect of all beings, and that true understanding comes from self-realization rather than adherence to dogma or external divine intervention.

Parapsychology: Band Voices and the Nature of Reality

Nils-Olof Jacobson discusses the phenomenon of 'band voices' in parapsychology, responding to previous articles and personal attacks. He references the work of parapsychologists like Hans Bender and Konstantin Raudive, who investigate alleged communications from the deceased. Jacobson presents Bender's cautious scientific approach, emphasizing that while survival after death is plausible, definitive proof remains elusive. Bender suggests that 'band voices' might originate from the subconscious of the experimenter rather than from discarnate entities.

The article also touches upon the idea of an 'anti-world' and the scientific concept of antimatter, clarifying that parapsychological phenomena are not necessarily supernatural but may operate within natural, albeit not fully understood, laws.

Satanism: Ideals and Practices

This section explores the history and manifestations of Satanism. It traces the concept of the devil from its roots in Christian theology to its role in medieval witch hunts and its later reinterpretation by figures like Anton LaVey. The article discusses various forms of Satanism, from historical cults to modern movements, noting their often oppositional stance to traditional religion.

It highlights the commercial aspects of some Satanic organizations, such as LaVey's 'Church of Satan,' and mentions the publication of 'The Satanic Bible.' The piece also touches upon instances of Satanic activity in Scandinavia, including alleged rituals on the Danish island of Anholt and a former sect in Stockholm. The author expresses concern that sensationalized media coverage might attract vulnerable individuals to Satanism, likening it to drug experimentation. Psychological explanations for involvement in such groups are also considered.

Criminal Care and Societal Responsibility

The final article addresses the issue of criminal care and rehabilitation. It argues that criminals are products of their environment and upbringing, and that effective rehabilitation requires a supportive and ethical environment within correctional facilities. The author suggests a system of differentiated care, with 'friendly' prisons for those amenable to rehabilitation and more traditional facilities for those who are not.

The piece emphasizes the importance of fostering positive values and personal development, both within the prison system and in society at large, particularly through education. It advocates for a balanced approach that combines strictness with compassion and a focus on reintegrating individuals into society.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sökaren consistently explores the human search for meaning, truth, and spiritual fulfillment, often contrasting traditional religious and philosophical systems with alternative perspectives. There's a recurring theme of questioning established norms and seeking deeper understanding, whether through Eastern spirituality, humanist communism, ancient skepticism, or parapsychological inquiry. The magazine appears to adopt a critical yet open-minded stance, presenting diverse viewpoints and encouraging readers to engage with complex ideas about existence, consciousness, and society.

Sökaren Magazine, Issue 9, 1973

This issue of "Sökaren" (The Seeker), volume 10, number 9, published in 1973, offers a diverse range of articles touching upon esoteric, spiritual, and socio-political themes. The cover prominently features the title "ELEATERNA" with the subtitle "Parmin och Zenon," hinting at philosophical or spiritual content. The magazine maintains a critical yet open stance on various subjects, encouraging dialogue and independent thought.

Key Articles and Themes

Eleaterna: Parmin och Zenon

The cover story, "ELEATERNA" by "Parmin och Zenon," suggests a focus on philosophical or spiritual concepts, though the specific content is not detailed in the provided text.

Communism: An Interview with Olle Wedholm

The section "SM: KOMMUNISMEN" features an interview with Olle Wedholm, a self-identified communist. The editor, while stating that "Sökaren" is not a political magazine, emphasizes the importance of engaging with individuals who hold different views. The editor expresses a personal disagreement with Communism, viewing it as a risky ideology with a history of "terrible expressions" in countries where it has been imposed. The editor highlights the danger of a Communism that suppresses freedom of thought and systematizes lies, but acknowledges that some Swedish communists may oppose certain "state-criminal phenomena" in Eastern Europe. The editor advocates for a humanist, social-liberal democracy, emphasizing free elections and complete freedom of opinion as the ideal societal structure.

UFO Investigations and Ancient Mysteries

NICAP's Stance on UFOs: The magazine reports on the private UFO research organization NICAP's perspective. NICAP believes that while many UFO reports can be explained conventionally, a significant number of unexplained cases warrant scientific investigation. They consider the theory of intelligent, non-terrestrial craft operating in Earth's airspace as plausible and deserving of serious scientific consideration. NICAP stresses the need for an active research program using accepted scientific methods to understand the UFO phenomenon.

National Enquirer's UFO Prize: The article mentions the National Enquirer's 1972 offer of a $50,000 prize for proof of UFOs originating from space. After a year of review, no prize was awarded, but the Johnson family from Delphos, Kansas, received $5,000 for their material concerning a UFO sighting on May 28, 1972. The object was described as mushroom-shaped and left a glowing ring in the ground. A panel of scientists, including Dr. James A. Harder and Dr. J. Allen Hynek, reviewed the evidence.

Ancient Technologies and Civilizations:

• Ivan Troëng's "Hur månen föddes för 11.800 år sedan" (How the Moon Was Born 11,800 Years Ago): This book is presented as a follow-up to Troëng's earlier work, "Kulturer före istiden" (Cultures Before the Ice Age). The review acknowledges that while some of Troëng's conclusions are debatable, many of the facts and images he presents are thought-provoking. The review notes Troëng's reference to a Tibetan map of South America and his interpretation of the "Troano Manuscript" as describing the sinking of the continent Mu, similar to James Churchward's theories about Atlantis. The book is praised for its challenging nature and for presenting concrete evidence, particularly regarding "Ancient Technology Lost Cultures," including illustrations from the Dendera temple that suggest the use of electricity in ancient Egypt, and a model of a 2000-year-old Babylonian electric battery found in Iraq.
• Henry Kjellson's Books: The magazine announces the re-release of Henry Kjellson's books, "Forntidens teknik" (Ancient Technology) and "Försvunnen teknik" (Lost Technology). Kjellson, a former aviation director and engineer, is described as a serious researcher who explored ancient mysteries. His books discuss evidence suggesting that lost civilizations possessed knowledge beyond our current understanding, drawing on studies of ancient texts, including the Bible, and supporting theories about advanced ancient technology, the Cheops pyramid, and the Dendera temple. Kjellson's third book, "Mellan fantasi och verklighet" (Between Fantasy and Reality), presents his ideas on life in nature, his non-Darwinist views, and skepticism towards mimicry theory.

Spiritual and Philosophical Content

• "GUD I MÄNSKLIG GESTALT?" (God in Human Form?): This article discusses the Hindu concept of divine incarnations. It focuses on Ramakrishna and his wife, Sarada Devi (Sri Ma), who are considered divine incarnations by their followers. The text describes their lives, teachings, and the establishment of the Ramakrishna Order by Swami Vivekananda. The article highlights their emphasis on selfless service, spiritual discipline, and the realization of God through various paths.
• "YOGA-JONSON I BOKFORM" (Yoga-Jonson in Book Form): This review discusses Bert Jonson's book "Yoga, meditation, reinkarnation" (Yoga, Meditation, Reincarnation). The book covers yoga exercises, diet, fasting, biodynamic farming, meditation, and parapsychology. Jonson's approach is described as a blend of physical and mental practices aimed at spiritual growth. The reviewer notes that the book provides a foundation for those seeking spiritual knowledge and includes a bibliography that features "Sökaren" itself.
• "BREV" (Letter): A reader, Berit-Anita Broström, seeks information about "VEMYSS CABINET," which appeared in a dream. She has found references to an Admiral Vemyss and a place called Vemyss Bay but not the cabinet itself. She also inquires about "Fatima's Third Secret."
• "ATT SÖKA OCH INTE FINNA" (To Seek and Not Find): This personal narrative recounts a man's deep regret over placing his aging father in a nursing home, leading to a profound sense of guilt and a questioning of divine justice and forgiveness. The author grapples with the concept of sin, atonement, and the possibility of a God who understands human frailty.

Other Sections

• "VARIA" (Various): This section includes a vivid, albeit disturbing, account of a vision of hell experienced by someone who claims to have been near death. The text describes the horrors of hell with graphic detail and includes a plea for more explicit warnings about hell from preachers.
• "KONTAKT" (Contact): An invitation for individuals interested in participating in the preparation of a biologically and altruistically oriented community.
• "VÄRLDENS ANDE" (The Spirit of the World): This piece discusses the importance of inner development alongside scientific and technological progress, emphasizing the cultivation of the "heart" as crucial for humanity's survival and the creation of a better society.
• Book Reviews: Several book reviews are included, covering topics such as spirituality, ancient civilizations, and parapsychology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Sökaren" include the exploration of ancient civilizations and their technologies (Atlantis, Mu, ancient Egypt), the nature of spirituality and divine consciousness (Ramakrishna, Sri Ma, Yoga, Reincarnation), and the investigation of unexplained phenomena (UFOs). The magazine also engages with contemporary socio-political issues, particularly Communism, from a critical, democratic, and humanist perspective. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging critical thinking, open dialogue, and the pursuit of knowledge across various disciplines, while maintaining a clear preference for democratic values and individual freedom.