Sokaren - 1974 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 3
Date: 1974

This issue of Sökaren delves into a variety of spiritual, philosophical, and parapsychological topics, with a prominent focus on the ancient Persian prophet Zoroaster.

Zoroaster: The Prophet of Good Thoughts

The lead article, "ZOROASTER" by Sverre Holmsen, introduces Zoroaster as a divine prophet who emerged during a time of darkness and corruption. It highlights his teachings of "good thoughts, good words, and good deeds" as the foundation of his message. The article traces Zoroaster's life from his upbringing in northwestern Iran to his eventual mission, emphasizing his role in establishing a new era of religion and development. It notes the influence of Zoroastrianism on later religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The text also touches upon the destruction of ancient Zoroastrian scriptures and the enduring legacy of his teachings. The article presents Ahura Mazda as the sole, true God, with other deities being mere illusions. It discusses the dualistic struggle between good (Spenta Mainyu) and evil (Angra Mainyu) and the human role in choosing sides. The concept of reincarnation and the afterlife is also alluded to.

The Wisdom of Zoroaster

A section titled "SÅ SADE ZOROASTER" (Thus Spoke Zoroaster) provides a collection of quotes attributed to the prophet. These quotes emphasize the importance of alleviating suffering, the virtue of helping others, the value of good character, the need for caution in actions, the significance of strengthening good, and the merit of draining marshes and irrigating land as religious acts. It also highlights the importance of gratitude, truthfulness, and fulfilling promises.

Parapsychology and the Unseen World

Cleve Backster and Plant Consciousness

An article by P. A. Atterbom, "BROBYGGARE" (Bridge Builder), discusses the work of American psychologist and criminologist Cleve Backster. Backster's experiments with a polygraph suggest that plants and even yogurt bacteria can react to external stimuli and human intentions, indicating a form of consciousness or sensitivity in living organisms. The article recounts an experiment where a plant in a murder victim's apartment reacted strongly to the suspected killer, suggesting plants might have memory.

The Mystery of Recorded Voices

Another section, "SYNPUNKTER" (Viewpoints), features an account of a visit to Friedrich Jürgenson, known for his recordings of "electronic voice phenomena" (EVP). The author, Per Beskow, describes listening to Jürgenson's tapes, which contain unexplained voices. Beskow discusses the controversy surrounding the origin of these voices, contrasting the "spirit hypothesis" with the "psychokinesis hypothesis," which suggests the voices might originate from the experimenter's subconscious mind, as proposed by parapsychologist Hans Bender.

Telepathy and Everyday Life

Per Beskow also contributes an article titled "TELEPATI I VARDAGSLIVET OCH HISTORIEN" (Telepathy in Everyday Life and History). He explores the concept of telepathy as a pervasive influence in human interaction and historical events. Drawing on theories from philosophers like Bergson and researchers like L. L. Vassiliev and Whately Carington, Beskow suggests that telepathic influences might be constant but often imperceptible. He discusses how mass psychology and political movements could be influenced by telepathic connections rather than just oratory skills. The article also touches upon the idea of "psykoner" (psychons) as entities that form part of a collective subconscious.

Mysticism and Schizophrenia

Örjan Björkhem's article, "MYSTISK SCHIZOFRENI?" (Mystical Schizophrenia?), explores the similarities between the experiences of classical mystics and individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. He presents case studies, including that of psychiatrist Richard Bucke, who described an experience of "cosmic consciousness." Björkhem argues that the distinction between mystical experiences and schizophrenic episodes often lies in how society perceives and interprets them, suggesting that a lack of societal acceptance can lead to a diagnosis of illness for those with profound spiritual experiences.

Interview with Christer Leopold

An interview with Christer Leopold, chairman of the Swedish-Chinese Friendship Association, offers insights into life in China. Leopold, who lived in Beijing for two years, discusses the formation of a "new person" in Chinese society, the emphasis on collective work for the common good, and the absence of careerism. He touches upon the longer working hours, the gradual reduction of wage differences, and the importance of collective decision-making in factories and residential areas. Leopold also comments on the role of Mao's ideology, the limited freedom of the press, and the Chinese approach to religion, stating that religion is considered a private matter.

Religious Traditions and Beliefs

The issue also features excerpts and discussions on various religious traditions:

• Sufism: An excerpt from Inayat Khan highlights love, harmony, and beauty as central tenets of Sufism, emphasizing the heart's role in spiritual development.
• Bhagavad Gita: Quotes from the Bhagavad Gita, focusing on devotion to Krishna and the concept of divine service.
• Quakers: A description of Quakers as "mystics" who believe in direct, immediate contact with the divine, without the need for intermediaries.
• Islam: An excerpt from the Quran's opening chapter, "Al-Fatiha," with a commentary on its numerical and linguistic structure.

Other Topics

• "UNDRET" I SHIVAPUR: An article by Per Beskow discusses the phenomenon of people levitating heavy objects, citing historical examples and personal anecdotes.
• Peace and Conscientious Objection: Excerpts from "Fred och Frihet" and "Amnesty-Bulletinen" discuss the complexities of peace, the ethics of military service, and the fight against torture.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of spirituality, consciousness, and the unexplained. There's a recurring interest in phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding, such as parapsychology, mystical experiences, and the nature of reality. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and inquisitive, presenting various perspectives and theories without necessarily endorsing one over another. The inclusion of diverse religious traditions suggests an appreciation for the multifaceted nature of human spirituality. The magazine also seems to advocate for critical thinking and the pursuit of knowledge, as evidenced by its exploration of scientific and philosophical concepts alongside more esoteric subjects.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 3
Volume: 11
Date: 1974

This issue of Sökaren, an independent Swedish magazine for life philosophy, delves into critical examinations of religious beliefs, UFO phenomena, and parapsychology. It features a range of articles, personal reflections, book reviews, and reader contact information, reflecting its commitment to exploring diverse viewpoints on life's fundamental questions.

The Jesus Question

The lead article, titled 'JESUSFRÅGAN' (The Jesus Question) by SM, critically analyzes the Christian belief in Jesus' resurrection. The author expresses a personal interest in truth-seeking and argues that Christianity, like any other worldview, must be open to scrutiny. The article questions the historical evidence for the resurrection, particularly the empty tomb and Jesus' appearances after crucifixion. The author suggests that natural explanations, such as Jesus surviving the crucifixion (a 'shammed death') or the tomb being empty due to human intervention, are more plausible than supernatural events, until proven otherwise. The burden of proof, the author contends, lies with those who propose extraordinary explanations. The piece concludes by stating that while Jesus' followers strongly believed in his resurrection, this belief alone is insufficient grounds for building a theology that explains the world, especially if Jesus merely survived crucifixion without divine intervention.

UFOs and Other Phenomena

UFO Abduction in Pascagoula: The magazine reports on the incident involving Charles Hickson and Calvin Parker on October 11, 1973, in Pascagoula, Mississippi. They claimed to have been taken aboard a UFO and subjected to a physical examination. The article notes that initial polygraph tests suggested they believed their story, and subsequent tests indicated emotional stress. Four possible explanations are presented: the event happened as described, the witnesses lied (despite polygraph results), it was a prank, or they experienced a vivid hallucination or dream.

Skeptical Medium: Rosalind Heywood, a 79-year-old member of the English Society for Psychical Research, is described as a 'medium' who experiences contact with the deceased. However, she maintains a critical stance, admitting she doesn't know what to believe about survival after death. She experiences conflict between her perceptions and her intellect, choosing not to resolve it but to act on her experiences while acknowledging her doubts.

Student Interest in Parapsychology: Professor Charles Tart from the University of California, Davis, notes a significant increase in student interest in parapsychology. He observes that students are now more open to concepts like telepathy and clairvoyance, sometimes to the point of extreme credulity, which he finds more concerning than skepticism.

Fairies and Ghosts: The issue mentions the existence of a 'Fairy Investigation Society' in England dedicated to promoting belief in fairies. It also reports on a 'haunted house' in Richmond, Virginia, where the owner, Governor Linwood Holton, has refused a medium's offer to remove the ghost, stating the family likes the ghost.

Personal Reflections and Themes

'The Gentle Voice' by Signe Stibe: This personal essay reflects on the contrast between the idyllic image of a peaceful summer day and the harsh reality of human conflict and nature's cruelty. Stibe describes a moment of distress caused by hearing angry shouts from neighbors, which reminds her of a lesson from her children: they would only obey when she spoke with a 'beautiful voice.' This leads to a reflection on the importance of kindness, gentleness, and positive interaction, not just in personal relationships but also on a larger, societal scale. The author emphasizes that nature operates on a principle of predation, and humans, as part of nature, are also capable of great cruelty, often acting without empathy. The essay calls for a change of heart and behavior, not for the promise of heaven, but because 'hell is here.'

'Reflexions' by Per Ragnar: Per Ragnar addresses the question of why he is interested in the supernatural. He explains that his exploration of the 'supernatural' is a natural extension of delving into the concepts of nature, life, and reality, drawing a parallel with Einstein's view that deeper physics leads to metaphysics. Ragnar describes how his TV programs on life philosophy, including research on reincarnation and the medical aspects of death, generated an overwhelming response. He discusses his book 'På väg mot en världsbild?' (Towards a Worldview?) and 'Brevet till mormor' (Letter to Grandmother), which aimed to provide accessible information on these topics. He clarifies that his work is not about proving life after death but about exploring subjective experience versus objective reality, and the interconnectedness of all things, which forms the basis of his vegetarian, pacifist, and socialist views.

Book Reviews and Magazine Information

Book Review: 'Slumpens rötter' (The Roots of Coincidence) by Arthur Koestler: The reviewer praises Koestler's book for popularizing parapsychology and arguing for its scientific validity. The review notes that Koestler's work, along with that of Alister Hardy and Robert Harvey, has brought attention to ESP phenomena and figures like Alec Guinness. The reviewer agrees with Koestler that it's time to move beyond 19th-century materialism and embrace new philosophical perspectives, while also cautioning that parapsychology is an evolving field requiring careful study.

Book Review: 'Gudarnas spår' (The Tracks of the Gods) by Erich von Däniken: This review discusses Däniken's latest book, which compiles photographs to support his theory of ancient alien visitation. While acknowledging the book's impressive imagery, the reviewer questions the omission of certain evidence, like from the Dendera temple. The review also touches upon the controversy surrounding Däniken's claims, including the debunking of alleged ancient caves and a metal library in Ecuador, suggesting his credibility is minimal. It explores the idea that Däniken's work might fill a void left by declining traditional religions, offering a form of substitute belief.

Book Review: 'Jesusforskning' (Jesus Research) by Gustaf Aulén: The review discusses Gustaf Aulén's book on contemporary historical research into Jesus. It notes that while the book provides a comprehensive overview of scholarly findings since 1960, it does not present a divine Jesus. The reviewer finds that the research leaves significant uncertainty about the essential aspects of Jesus' teachings and life, with scholars holding conflicting views. The book is seen as potentially supporting skepticism more than faith, particularly regarding the historical accuracy of biblical accounts and the concept of Jesus' imminent expectation of the 'Kingdom of God,' which is considered a potential mistake by researchers.

Magazine Information: The issue includes details about subscription prices, advertising rates, and contact information for readers wishing to correspond with the magazine or other individuals. It also lists the table of contents for the issue, featuring articles on Zoroastrianism, the nature of telepathy, and various aspects of religion and spirituality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around questioning established beliefs, particularly in religion and the nature of reality. There is a strong emphasis on critical thinking, the search for truth, and the exploration of phenomena that lie beyond conventional scientific understanding, such as UFOs and parapsychology. The magazine appears to provide a platform for diverse, often unconventional, viewpoints, encouraging readers to engage with complex philosophical and spiritual questions. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, challenging dogma, and promoting a broader understanding of existence, even if it leads to uncomfortable or skeptical conclusions. The publication actively facilitates connection between like-minded individuals through its contact and correspondence sections.