Sokaren - 1978 No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR4
Year: 1978
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 7:00 incl. tax

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1978, delves into spiritual, parapsychological, and holistic health topics. The cover features a headline about 'Simeno from the spirit world teaching through a transmedium,' accompanied by a photograph of three individuals. The magazine explores various facets of spiritual exploration, alternative healing, and personal growth.

Simeno from the Spirit World Teaches Through a Transmedium

The lead article details a reportage at the home of Sture and Turid Johansson in Lidingö, Sweden. Sture Johansson, described as a carpenter by profession, acts as a medium for entities from the spirit world, identified as Simeno and Ambres. The magazine describes a 'teaching' session where Simeno communicates wisdom from another world. The session involves Sture entering a meditative, trance-like state, during which he speaks with a different voice and demeanor. Simeno addresses questions about identity, the nature of the universe, and the concept of 'Ryttaren' (The Rider) as an extension of God Almighty's arm into the material world, collecting experiences. The teachings touch upon higher dimensions, the Creator, and the cyclical nature of existence. The article also mentions that Sture and Turid Johansson have compiled information from approximately 80 cassette tapes of these sessions into three stenciled booklets.

'Hälsans Hus' - A Center for Holistic Health

Another significant section focuses on 'Hälsans Hus' (House of Health) in Stockholm, which has been in operation for seven years. Founded on the ideas of Bölje-Sven Johansson, it aims to be a center for youth and a hub for healthy living. The initiative was spearheaded by Agne Windmark, who was inspired by Bölje-Sven's vision of a 'Youth Castle' offering sports, music, healthy food, and discussions. The article details the journey of establishing Hälsans Hus, from initial planning and fundraising to securing a location in a historic building. It highlights the various activities and groups operating within Hälsans Hus, including:

• Föreningen för Psykobiofysik (Association for Psychobio-physics): This group researches connections between the psyche, biological organisms, and physical matter, covering topics like parapsychology, healing, and bio-rhythms.
• Frisksportarna (The Fitness Sports Enthusiasts): This club offers various outdoor activities, cooking courses, and a book market.
• Stadsmiljögruppen (Urban Environment Group): This group advocates for a more balanced and human-friendly urban environment.
• Aktionsgruppen Stoppa Rusdryckerna (Action Group Stop Alcohol Abuse): This group campaigns for a total ban on the production and sale of alcoholic beverages.
• Martinus Institut: This institute disseminates knowledge about Martinus's cosmology, which presents a universal worldview encompassing the physical and inner psychic universe.
• White Eagle Lodge: A Swedish branch of an international religious foundation that aims to lay the groundwork for a new era through living a life of love, goodwill, and brotherhood.
• Britt-Louise Nordvall: Offers spiritual counseling and guidance.
• Vegetarian Restaurant: A popular vegetarian eatery within Hälsans Hus.

The article emphasizes the importance of kindness, joy, and tolerance as core values of Hälsans Hus, which are provided free of charge.

HO - A Meditation!

This article describes the experience of participating in 'HO-meditation,' a technique originating from Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh. The meditation involves intense breathing, chanting the 'HO' mantra, and expressive release, including screaming, crying, and shouting. The author recounts their personal experience at a session in Stockholm, where participants, dressed in minimal clothing, engage in these practices. The session progresses from intense breathing to chanting 'HO' from below the navel, followed by a period of stillness and then a dance to meditative music. The author notes the physical and emotional release experienced during the practice.

Visualize Yourself Healthy!

This piece explores the connection between psychological factors and the onset of cancer. It discusses how psychic stress, such as loss or difficult relationships, can contribute to the disease. Dr. Lawrence LeShan's theory suggests a link between traumatic experiences and cancer development. The article also touches upon personality traits observed in cancer patients, including tendencies towards resentment, self-pity, poor relationships, and low self-esteem. Dr. Carl Simonton's work is highlighted, emphasizing the role of the patient's will to live and a positive attitude towards treatment. Simonton's psychotherapy involves relaxation and visualization techniques, where patients imagine their tumors being destroyed and their bodies healing. The article stresses that while psychological factors play a role, the body and soul function as a whole, and positive attitudes can significantly aid the healing process.

Many Laughed, But Not All

This section presents a travelogue of a trip to Sri Lanka, focusing on the author's experiences with Buddhism. The author expresses a long-held interest in yoga and meditation, particularly Buddhism, and chose Sri Lanka for its Theravada tradition, which is considered close to Buddha's original teachings. The article contrasts the idealized images of Sri Lanka with the reality of an underdeveloped country facing economic hardship. The author observes the daily lives of Buddhist monks, noting their dedication to prayer and meditation but also their passive role in social issues compared to monks in other countries like Burma and Cambodia. The article describes the strict rules in some monasteries, including prohibitions on contact with women and handling money. It also recounts an incident where monks did not intervene to help an injured woman due to their vows, highlighting a perceived disconnect between Buddhist ideals and practical compassion. The author reflects on the mixed feelings of gratitude for their own privileged life and anger at the injustices observed, concluding that inner seeking must lead to increased outward responsibility.

The Dilemma of Indecision, or The Saga of Unity

This philosophical piece by Anna-Greta Ångström explores the concept of unity and the struggle with indecision. Through a dream narrative, the author illustrates how two separate entities, seeking to become one, transform into sugar cubes that dissolve in water, thus achieving unity. The article draws parallels with spiritual teachings from Rumi and Augustine, emphasizing the universal longing for connection with the divine. It suggests that true unity is found not in external searching but within oneself. The author posits that the feeling of uncertainty about one's individual existence might be the first step towards experiencing the joy of being part of a larger whole, a concept echoed in Zen philosophy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren are spiritual exploration, alternative healing methods, and personal transformation. The magazine appears to advocate for a holistic approach to life, integrating spiritual, mental, and physical well-being. The editorial stance seems open to paranormal phenomena, spiritual entities, and unconventional therapies, presenting them as valid avenues for understanding and improving life. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between the material and spiritual realms, encouraging readers to seek deeper meaning and personal growth.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 4, 1978
Date: February 28, 1978
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of Sökaren magazine delves into various aspects of spirituality, parapsychology, and new religious movements, featuring a cover story on Yogi S. A. A. Ramaiah and Babaji's Kriya Yoga. It also includes articles on the conflict between established churches and new spiritualities, the potential military applications of parapsychology, and UFO research.

Yogi S A A Ramaiah från Tamil Nadu och Babajis Kriya Yoga

This article by Christina Olivecrona introduces Yogi S. A. A. Ramaiah, a teacher of Babaji's Kriya Yoga. Ramaiah, originally from Tamil Nadu, India, had a Western-oriented upbringing and studied geology at the University of Madras. A severe bout of tuberculosis led him to meet Sadguru Babaji Naharaj in 1944, who miraculously healed him and opened his spiritual awareness. Since then, Ramaiah has dedicated his life to Babaji's Kriya Yoga, mastering its practices and studying classical yoga literature. He is noted for demonstrating control over bodily functions and has established numerous Kriya Yoga ashrams and clinics across India and internationally, with centers in India, Southeast Asia, Australia, Canada, and the USA.

Since 1954, Ramaiah has organized the International Parliaments of Yoga and Religions, ecumenical gatherings promoting unity among spiritual paths. He spends half the year at his main ashram in Imperial City, California, and the other half traveling globally. He has visited Scandinavia and Sweden, conducting beginner courses and retreats. A notable aspect of these retreats involves an outdoor fire ceremony accompanied by chanting the Babaji mantra.

The article notes that fewer Swedes have had close contact with Babaji's Kriya Yoga, partly due to the early morning practice hours (starting at 4 AM) and the requirement of a vow of silence and a written commitment not to reveal the methods to outsiders. The Tamil tradition associated with Ramaiah may also present a cultural barrier for some. Despite these challenges, a dozen or so Swedish followers are actively practicing. Yogi Ramaiah is expected to return to Sweden in June for potential courses and retreats. Information can be obtained from Vattumannen bookstore in Stockholm or Stettins ashram in Katrineholm.

Nyandlighet och kristendom i Sverige (New Spirituality and Christianity in Sweden)

Björn Sahlin discusses the perceived offensive by established Christian communities in Sweden against new spiritual movements. He argues against terms like 'occult wave' and 'new occultism,' preferring 'new spirituality' to describe movements emphasizing experience and spiritual insight. Sahlin notes that while new spiritualities often exhibit tolerance towards other religions, Christian churches are increasingly organizing opposition, citing critical books like Erland Sundström's "Villfarelsens vindar och väckelsens ande" and Lester Wikström's "Nyandligt." He also points to the establishment of institutes like the one in Denmark led by Johannes Aagaard, which focus on 'researching' new religious movements, and the controversial practice of 'deprogramming' used in the USA to 're-educate' young people involved in new religions.

Sahlin criticizes the theological basis of some Christian apologetics and highlights the conflict arising from different historical backgrounds: the liberal, democratic, and pluralistic ideals influencing new spiritualities versus the older, monistic, and totalitarian tendencies of the 1600s church. He advocates for a broader understanding of religious freedom that allows for a pluralistic and multifaceted religious landscape, viewing new spirituality as a valuable component of society.

Parapsykologi och militärt försvar (Parapsychology and Military Defense)

Rolf Ejvegård reports on an interview with Professor Jan Agrell of the Swedish Defence Research Establishment (FOA). Agrell speculates on the potential utility of parapsychology in defense, suggesting that if paranormal abilities (paragnosis) are hereditary and rare, efforts should focus on identifying families with such traits.

Potential military applications discussed include:
1. ESP-guided missiles: Making missiles harder to jam.
2. Telepathic communication: Enabling more secure communication than radio signals.
3. Intelligence gathering: Intercepting enemy thoughts to gauge their intentions.
4. Psychological warfare: Influencing enemy decision-making or causing uncertainty.
5. Telekinesis: Disrupting enemy technical equipment, such as computers.

Ejvegård questions why state funding is not allocated to parapsychological research, suggesting that even a small investment could be highly beneficial for national defense. He also touches upon the 'nature vs. nurture' debate regarding paranormal abilities and the societal pressures that might prevent individuals from openly exploring these interests.

UFO-forskning (UFO Research)

This section notes that the White House has asked NASA to review the UFO situation and provide recommendations for future research. However, NASA has reportedly declined to resume studies on 'flying saucers,' deeming it a 'waste of money' and unlikely to yield significant results, echoing the conclusions of the earlier Condon Committee.

Other Articles and Sections

• "PSYKOKINESI" lecture: A lecture by Professor Hans Bender on PK-medium Silvio is announced for May 8th in Stockholm.
• "Psykobiofysik – en väg till ett nytt samhälle?" lecture: A lecture by Jan Grönholm on May 19th in Stockholm.
• Arthur Janov: The author of "Primalskriket" is visiting Sweden.
• Barbara Findeisen: A primal therapist from California is also mentioned.
• VÅRFEST (Spring Festival): An event organized by Föreningen ANTHAKARANA featuring lectures and activities.
• Healing courses: Courses in 'Spiritual healing' are offered by The Aetherius Society in London.
• HÄLSANS HUS: An auction and market are announced.
• New Age Festival: An event in London is advertised.
• "Dog Jesus i Indien?" book: A book by Carl-Göte Axheim is mentioned.
• Sunrise magazine: An English-language publication from the Theosophical Society is advertised.
• "Pali Buddhist Texts for the Beginner" by Rune E. A. Johansson: Reviewed by Karl Christiansen, this book is presented as a helpful guide to understanding Buddha's teachings in their original language.
• "Närkontakt av tredje graden" (Close Encounters of the Third Kind): A film by Steven Spielberg is mentioned as an entertainment film with UFO motifs.
• ESP experiments: A study by Ephraim I. Schechter on unintentionally influencing answers based on precognitive ESP is discussed.
• Birger Edmar's poem "Om": A short poem reflecting on life's uncertainties.
• Britt-Louise Nordvall: Offers counseling and spiritual guidance.
• BIRGITTA: A book is advertised that claims the Gospel of John is a forgery and that Saint Birgitta is Sweden's foremost religious figure.
• Teosofisk sommarskola (Theosophical Summer School): An event on 'Living with Infinity' is announced for July 1978.
• Per Ragnar's "Reflexioner": A personal reflection on life, spirituality, and societal issues.
• Horoscopes: Personal horoscopes are offered by various astrologers.
• Personal ads: A section for personal ads seeking connections.
• Contact information: For various organizations and individuals.
• "De tre juvelerna" (The Three Jewels) by Astrid Setterwall-Angström: Reviewed by Maria Adkinson, this book is described as a personal account of life in India, offering insights into its culture and spirituality.
• "Drömkraft" (Dream Power) by Ann Faraday: Reviewed, this book discusses dream research.
• "Fallet Eva" (The Case of Eva): Rolf Ejvegård's work on Eva Hellström's precognitions is discussed.
• "Solkraft, vattenkraft, vindkraft" (Solar Power, Hydropower, Wind Power): A book on alternative energy sources is reviewed by Agne Windmark.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, new religious movements, parapsychology, and UFO phenomena. There is a clear editorial stance in favor of exploring these subjects with an open mind, as evidenced by the promotion of new spiritual teachers like Yogi Ramaiah, the discussion of parapsychology's potential, and the reporting on UFO research. The magazine appears critical of the established church's resistance to new spiritualities and advocates for a more pluralistic approach to religious freedom. It also serves as a platform for announcements and reviews of related books, lectures, and events, positioning itself as a guide for those interested in these alternative fields.