Sokaren - 1978 No 09

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR9
Date: 1978
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 7:00 inkl. moms

This issue of Sökaren delves into the controversial topic of Transcendental Meditation (TM), questioning whether it constitutes a covert form of Hinduism aimed at Westerners. It also features articles on parapsychology, skepticism, and the concept of synchronicity.

Article: Sker en smyghinduisering av västerlänningar genom TM? (Is there a covert Hinduism of Westerners through TM?)

The main article addresses the criticism that TM, while presented with scientific language, is fundamentally a Hindu movement. Critics, such as theologian Vagn Folkerman, argue that TM leads people into a Vedic worldview instead of a Christian one, calling it a 'hinduization' of unsuspecting Westerners. The article explains that TM's ideology stems from the Vedic scriptures, which form the basis for Hinduism, Buddhism, and other philosophical traditions. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, a Hindu, has previously written about Vedantic philosophy. The article acknowledges that TM uses concepts like 'atman' (world soul within oneself) and 'brahman' (world soul of the universe), which are central to Hinduism, but states that TM often uses more neutral terms like 'creative intelligence' and 'source of thought'.

It clarifies that the TM technique itself is religiously neutral and can be practiced by anyone, including Christians, Muslims, and irreligious individuals. The initiation course focuses solely on the meditation technique and does not require adherence to any specific philosophy or religion. Many believers find that TM deepens their Christian faith. The article defends TM against claims of causing psychological harm or promoting escapism, citing research suggesting TM improves self-confidence and independence.

However, the article also touches upon the Vedic philosophical side of TM, which can offer an alternative worldview to those seeking deeper understanding of existence. It notes that the initiation ceremony has a Vedic basis, including Sanskrit recitations, but emphasizes that it does not bind participants to Hindu beliefs. The secrecy surrounding the mantra is questioned, with the movement explaining it as a way to preserve the technique's purity and ensure individual adaptation.

Article: Blir TM-meditatörer "hinduiserade"?

This section further explores the idea of 'hinduization' through TM. It reiterates that TM's background is in Vedic scriptures and that practitioners can choose to study these ideas. Critics from a Christian perspective find Vedic concepts incompatible with Christian tenets of salvation through Christ's sacrifice. The article defends TM's technique as adaptable to any belief system, citing examples of Christians practicing 'Christian TM' or 'Christian Zen meditation'. It suggests that TM can deepen a Christian's faith. The article also addresses the criticism that TM promotes passivity and escapism, arguing instead that it fosters active engagement and personal growth.

Article: DIKTER Av Maria Lassmo

A collection of poems by Maria Lassmo, exploring themes of existential questioning, societal alienation, and personal reflection.

Article: Sathya Sai Baba: Mitt liv är mitt budskap...

This article profiles Sathya Sai Baba, an Indian spiritual leader revered by many as an avatar or divine incarnation. It details his early life, his claims to be the reincarnation of Sai Baba of Shirdi, and his demonstration of paranormal abilities, which he calls his 'visiting cards'. The article highlights his humanitarian work and his teachings on universal love, truth, righteousness, and peace. It also touches upon the concept of 'Atman' (the self or soul) and 'Paramatman' (God) as central to his philosophy, emphasizing the oneness of all beings.

Article: ÄR DET PARANORMALA PARANORMALT?

This is a response by Per Såthe to an article by Nils Wiklund, defending the study of paranormal phenomena. Såthe argues that 'absolutely certain proof' is rare even in empirical sciences like physics, and that parapsychology, as an empirical science, cannot be expected to provide such proof. He criticizes Wiklund's dismissal of parapsychological experiments, particularly the Pearce-Pratt series, and defends the work of researchers like Helmut Schmidt. Såthe suggests that the scientific establishment's resistance to paranormal phenomena stems from a mechanistic-materialistic worldview, and that theoretical physicists are more open to these ideas due to their understanding of quantum mechanics and the interconnectedness of space, time, and matter.

Article: Synkronicitet

This article explores the concept of 'synchronicity', defined as meaningful coincidences without a causal link, as theorized by Carl Jung. It discusses examples from the diaries of Paul Kammerer and Jung's own observations, including the famous scarab beetle incident. The article suggests that synchronicity might be a natural law akin to causality, stemming from a 'collective unconscious' and archetypes. It also touches upon the idea that parapsychological phenomena might be manifestations of synchronicity.

Article: "HISTORISK SAMTIDIGHET" Av Sven Rosén

This article examines the phenomenon of 'historical simultaneity', where multiple individuals independently make similar discoveries or inventions around the same time. It cites examples from science and history, such as the discovery of Neptune, oxygen, and the theory of evolution. The author suggests that these simultaneous discoveries are not mystical but rather a reflection of 'the spirit of the age' or the 'zeitgeist', where ideas are 'in the air' and ready to be grasped when the time is ripe. It also touches upon the role of knowledge accumulation and the potential for 'K-ideas' (shared concepts) to facilitate such simultaneous breakthroughs.

Article: THE SKEPTICAL INQUIRER

This section introduces 'The Skeptical Inquirer', an American magazine dedicated to critically examining claims of the paranormal. It highlights the magazine's role in debunking pseudoscience, including ESP, UFOs, and astrology. The article discusses the case of psychic Jean-Pierre Girard, detailing tests conducted by scientists and illusionists that failed to produce paranormal phenomena under controlled conditions. It also mentions the skepticism of researchers like James Randi and John Beloff regarding the reliability of parapsychological experiments.

Article: Holistisk hälsosyn (Holistic Health View)

This article describes the holistic approach to health, which views the human being as an integral part of nature. It emphasizes the importance of natural, unprocessed food, organic farming, and living in harmony with the environment. The article states that illness arises from breaking natural laws and that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when supported by a natural lifestyle. It also mentions various complementary therapies like acupuncture, homeopathy, and visualization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of spirituality, science, and skepticism. There is a clear interest in new religious movements and alternative belief systems, as evidenced by the in-depth coverage of TM and Sathya Sai Baba. However, the publication also engages with critical perspectives, featuring articles from 'The Skeptical Inquirer' and discussions on the scientific validity of paranormal claims. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to critically examine these topics rather than blindly accepting or rejecting them. The magazine seems to advocate for a balanced approach, acknowledging the limitations of current scientific understanding while also being wary of unsubstantiated claims and potential deception.

This issue of "Sökarguiden" (Guide to Seeking) from November 1978, with the primary cover headline "ÄR GUD ALLSMÄKTIG?" (Is God Omnipotent?), delves into profound theological, philosophical, and spiritual topics, alongside UFO phenomena and alternative practices. The magazine presents itself as an independent publication for life-philosophy questions, allowing for diverse viewpoints.

Theodicy and the Problem of Evil

The lead article by Alf Ahlberg directly confronts the theological challenge of reconciling an omnipotent, loving God with the reality of suffering and evil in the world. Ahlberg critiques traditional explanations for evil, such as the 'greater good' argument (likening it to a concentration camp prisoner being told their suffering is necessary for the whole) and the idea that suffering ennobles. He argues that while suffering can refine some, it brutalizes many, and that justifications for suffering have often been used to maintain unjust social orders.

He examines the Old Testament, where God is depicted as all-powerful, sending both good and evil as punishment. However, he notes the difficulty in maintaining this view, referencing the Book of Job as a profound exploration of suffering and divine justice. Ahlberg highlights the dialogue between God and Satan in Job, where God's power is emphasized, but also God's inscrutability and incomprehensibility to human wisdom. He concludes that the Old Testament's final answer is that God's absolute incomprehensibility means human concepts of good and evil do not apply to Him, referring to God as 'das ganz Andere' (the wholly Other).

Ahlberg then contrasts this with the Christian concept of God as love. He posits that Christianity's distinctiveness lies not in an omnipotent ruler, but in a 'struggling and suffering God' who shares in the world's pain. The cross is presented as a symbol of this suffering God, and the struggle between good and evil is ongoing, with the ultimate victory of suffering love being a matter of faith beyond time.

He also touches upon the idea of a connection between human sin and nature's curse, as mentioned by Paul, and the potential for nature's liberation with the triumph of suffering love. The article suggests that the Christian God is not an all-powerful, detached ruler, but one who suffers with creation.

Hesiodos: The First Philosopher?

Rolf Ejvegård introduces Hesiodos as a potential candidate for the first philosopher, predating Thales and Anaximander. Hesiodos' works, particularly "Theogony," explore the origins of the world and proper human conduct through mythological narratives. Ejvegård interprets Hesiodos' creation myth as an early concept of an 'energy principle' and love (Eros) as the force that initially held the cosmos together before separation. He notes that Hesiodos' ideas about divine right and reward for humans place him on the boundary between philosophy and religion.

The Boianai UFO Incident

Jerome Clark provides a detailed account of the "best case of a close encounter in history" – the Boianai UFO incident in Papua New Guinea. The article recounts how Father William Booth Gill, initially skeptical, witnessed a large, disk-shaped object with occupants on June 26, 1959, along with 37 other witnesses. The sighting lasted for several hours, with multiple craft appearing. Clark addresses criticisms of the incident, particularly from UFO skeptic Daniel Cohen and astronomer Donald Menzel, who attempted to explain the event as misidentification of Venus or psychological delusion. Gill refutes these claims, emphasizing the number of witnesses, their credibility, and the detailed corroboration of their accounts, including independent drawings of the craft.

Clark also discusses the role of the National Enquirer in UFO reporting, highlighting its reputation for sensationalism and inaccuracy. He notes that the magazine has been criticized for misrepresenting public figures and refusing to print retractions.

Other Articles and Features

• "Dyr primalterapi" (Expensive Primal Therapy): This section critiques the high cost of Arthur Janov's primal therapy, questioning its effectiveness and warning against exploitation of vulnerable individuals. It calls for media scrutiny of such practices.
• "Sökarguiden" Listings: The magazine includes a comprehensive calendar of events, workshops, and lectures related to spirituality, alternative healing, and esoteric subjects in Sweden for November 1978.
• SLUSS: An initiative to share interesting articles, drawings, and images from around the world, creating a network for information exchange.
• Homeopathy: Information about the Swedish Association for Scientific Homeopathy.
• Summit Lighthouse: An announcement for a meeting of individuals interested in Summit Lighthouse.
• HD Meditation: Information about meditation courses.
• Cosmosofical Foundation: A newly formed organization aiming to help people live in harmony with the 'Cosmos', offering lectures on astrology, health, and parapsychology.
• "Alternativ ZRO" Books: Promotion of two books compiling articles from "Sökaren" on various spiritual and esoteric topics.
• "Vår reklam" (Our Advertising): A note about how "Sökaren" uses advertising cards to promote books and services.
• "Älvkunskap" (Elf Knowledge): A brief mention of data analysis of Cottingly fairy photographs, suggesting they depict two-dimensional, heavily made-up figures.
• Per Ragnar's "Reflexioner" (Reflections): Observations on religious life in Rome, including reactions to the abortion law, the strictness of the Catholic Church, and the rise of spiritualism.
• "Ät honung!" (Eat Honey!): A recommendation to consume honey for health benefits, citing historical figures like Pythagoras and Hippocrates.
• "Vad händer efter döden?" (What Happens After Death?): A report on a doctor's research into near-death experiences, suggesting both positive and terrifying encounters.
• "Tummen ner för National Enquirer" (Thumbs Down for National Enquirer): A critical piece detailing the National Enquirer's poor reputation for accuracy and sensationalism, particularly regarding UFO reports.
• Biofeedback: Information about biofeedback as a technique for overcoming stress and improving well-being.
• Stockholm University Courses: Announcements for courses on Buddhism and Hinduism.
• Personal Horoscopes: A service offering personalized horoscopes and advice.
• "Psykisk fanatism" (Psychic Fanatism): A review of Paul Arnold's book "Bland Japans vise män" (Among Japan's Wise Men), criticizing its content as sensationalist and lacking genuine insight into wisdom, particularly concerning the practice of self-mummification.
• "En bok som kommer för sent" (A Book That Comes Too Late): A review of Walter R. Fuchs' book "Liv under fjärran solar?" (Life Under Distant Suns?), criticizing its outdated views on hyper-space and extraterrestrial theories, and lamenting the lack of an index.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the questioning of established religious doctrines (particularly the omnipotence of God), the exploration of alternative spiritual paths and practices, and the critical examination of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to question, explore, and share their experiences, while also maintaining a critical perspective on sensationalism and unsubstantiated claims, particularly from media outlets like the National Enquirer. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between science, spirituality, and the unexplained.