Sokaren - 1980 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR2
Year: 1980
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: ALTERNATIVRÖRELSER I GÖTEBORG (Alternative Movements in Gothenburg)

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1980, focuses on alternative movements, spiritual practices, and holistic health in Gothenburg, Sweden. The cover features a yoga teacher, Christine Heuser-Nyström, and highlights various topics covered within the magazine, including polarity therapy, the Fourth Way, 'offensive medicine,' and esoteric philosophy.

Articles and Features

Yoga for Well-being, Joy of Life, Harmony: An Interview with Christine Heuser-Nyström

The magazine features an in-depth interview with Christine Heuser-Nyström, a yoga teacher in Gothenburg. She emphasizes the importance of positive thinking and how yoga can lead to total well-being, joy of life, and receptiveness to good impulses. She explains that yoga can improve self-confidence, harmony, and balance, influencing one's lifestyle and thought patterns, potentially leading to healthier eating habits and a broader worldview, including acceptance of concepts like reincarnation and karma.

Christine shares her personal journey into yoga, starting with a course in 1970 and eventually taking over teaching from Bert Yoga Jonson. She describes her classes, which cater to a mix of ages and experience levels, emphasizing individual adaptation and the importance of group cohesion. She contrasts hatha yoga with other forms of yoga, noting that while hatha yoga focuses on physical well-being, it also contributes to overall personal development. She also touches upon the challenges of Westerners' high performance demands, encouraging a focus on simply being and existing.

Alternative to Conventional Healthcare: Reportage by Åsa Freij

This section introduces five health therapists who have started a joint center in Gothenburg, 'Göteborgs hälsocenter.' The center's philosophy is based on a holistic view of humanity and the teachings of Danish philosopher Martinus. The therapists aim to provide integrated care, allowing patients to benefit from various specialists in one location.

• Ole Saxe: A 'heilpraktiker' with a three-year German naturopathic education, specializing in iridology, homeopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture, deep relaxation, and chiropractic. He emphasizes self-help and empowering patients to take charge of their own lives.
• Hanna Jacobsen: Specializes in Mensendieck gymnastics, focusing on using the body's natural development potential through conscious muscle work to improve posture, mobility, and breathing. She notes its benefits for muscle pain and its applicability before and after childbirth.
• Laila Leksén: Practices zone therapy, a method of healing through pressure and massage on points on the soles of the feet, which are believed to correspond to different organs and body parts. Her background as a dancer informs her approach.
• Vibeke Saxe and Jim Sandlund: Function therapists and natural therapists specializing in reflexology, diet and herbal advice, chiropractic, tension release, and nasal reflex therapy. They were expected to join the center in January 1980.

The therapists believe in the psychosomatic connection between mind and body, and their work is guided by Martinus's cosmological worldview.

Polaritetsterapi (Polarity Therapy) with Benno and Laura Svensson

Benno and Laura Svensson, who run Gothenburg's polarity therapy center, explain that their therapy focuses on enabling the body to heal itself by ensuring free energy flow. They believe that most illnesses, except congenital ones, stem from blockages in energy currents. A key aspect is balancing the crown chakra. They emphasize that polarity therapy views all diseases as psychosomatic, with a spiritual basis, and that suffering is often self-created.

Their approach involves helping patients understand the importance of the right attitude and promoting self-help. They stress the role of love as the essence of all life and encourage a positive outlook. Diet and light exercises are also important. They offer Bach flower essences as a unique aid in Sweden, which treat the person rather than just the symptoms, working on the psyche and indirectly on physical ailments.

The Fourth Way: Ouspensky-Gurdjieff Teaching

Thomas Agborg, a student of Ouspensky and Gurdjieff's teachings in Gothenburg, explains the 'Fourth Way' as a path of inner development that doesn't require withdrawal from society, unlike the paths of the fakir, monk, or yogi. He discusses the concepts of 'essence' (the true self) versus the 'false personality' (shaped by societal influences and negative emotions). The goal is to develop a conscience and break free from the illusion of being awake and having free will, recognizing that one is often driven by different 'I's' or sub-personalities.

Thomas emphasizes the importance of self-observation, becoming conscious and aware in every action, and developing a permanent 'I' or wholeness. He likens the human psyche to a house full of servants, each with their own agenda, instead of a single, conscious master. The Gothenburg group meets three times a week for reading and discussion, aiming to help each other with observations.

Vegetarian Food Establishments in Gothenburg

The magazine lists several vegetarian and vegan eateries in Gothenburg:

• Solrosen: A fully vegetarian restaurant, formerly run by Divine Light Mission, now managed by young people. It's known for its affordable and plentiful food.
• Leonis Salladsbar: Offers a variety of healthy options, including 'subs,' salad plates, and natural juices, alongside some less healthy drinks. It also serves homemade ice cream and a daily soup.
• Piazza Verde: A vegetarian restaurant connected to a pizza and meat restaurant, offering vegetarian pizzas, 'biff,' and lasagna, along with natural juices and desserts.

Alternative Movements in Gothenburg: A Directory

The issue includes a comprehensive directory of alternative movements and spiritual centers in Gothenburg, listing organizations such as:

• Ananda Marga: A spiritual and social movement from India focused on self-development through meditation and service.
• Divine Light Mission: An international peace and meditation movement led by Guru Maharaj Ji, offering a free meditation technique called 'Kunskapen' (Knowledge).
• Antroposofiska Sällskapet Pet: Offers books, a lending library, courses, and lectures related to Rudolf Steiner's spiritual science.
• Eckankar: A spiritual path focused on the soul's journey and self-realization.
• Göteborgs Polaritetscenter: Offers polarity therapy, zone therapy, diet advice, and Bach flower essences.
• Hälsocentret: Provides naturopathic services including iridology, homeopathy, reflexology, herbal medicine, acupuncture, chiropractic, relaxation, and diet advice.
• IPPF (Institut för psykologisk och parapsykologisk forskning): Organizes courses and lectures on parapsychology and dream psychology.
• ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness): Offers vegetarian meals, kirtan music, lectures, and a shop selling books, incense, and Indian clothing.
• Gurdjieff-Ouspensky Center: An esoteric school teaching the Fourth Way, focusing on self-observation and practical application of wisdom.
• GICOFF (Göteborgs Informations Center för Oidentifierade Flygande Föremål): A center for information on UFOs.
• Offensiv Medicin: A new association advocating for a proactive approach to health, emphasizing self-help and addressing the root causes of illness.
• Tai Chi Chuan: Offers courses in this meditative movement practice.
• Eckankar: Provides lectures on the 'visible and audible life stream.'
• Martinus Kosmologi: Offers study groups on the cosmological theories of Martinus.

Offensive Medicine: Insight and Self-Help to Relieve Suffering

This article interviews Bertil Nilsson, a co-founder of the 'Offensiv Medicin' (Offensive Medicine) association in Gothenburg. The group believes that conventional healthcare is too reactive and often fails to address the underlying spiritual causes of many physical ailments. They advocate for a more proactive approach to health, emphasizing self-awareness and self-help. Nilsson criticizes the over-reliance on medication and the neglect of psychosomatic connections. The association organizes courses and publishes materials on topics like headaches and patient rights. They also highlight the importance of diet, noting that a significant portion of food consumed in Sweden is considered harmful.

Nilsson also discusses the impact of modern living conditions on health and the psychological effects of societal pressures, such as those faced by ex-smokers. He shares his personal journey, including his initial interest in becoming a monk and his subsequent disillusionment with pharmacy studies, leading him to journalism and a deep interest in learning.

Course in Esoteric Philosophy

This section reports on a course in 'esoteric philosophy' led by Gerd Ellholm, based on the teachings of the late Ronald P. Beesley. The course, conducted in Swedish for the first time, aims to help participants understand their connection to the universe and the underlying laws of life. Participants shared that the philosophy emphasizes self-awareness, the interconnectedness of all things, and the importance of attitude in shaping one's reality. Gerd Ellholm, who was inspired by Beesley's teachings, now runs courses to help others achieve similar insights.

Religious Confrontation in Kandy

This travelogue describes the religious landscape of Kandy, Sri Lanka, highlighting the coexistence and occasional blending of Buddhism, Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. The author notes the influence of Hinduism on Buddhist practices and the challenges of distinguishing between the two. The article also touches upon the significance of the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the author's observations on the daily religious life in the city.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic approach to health and well-being, emphasizing self-improvement, spiritual development, and alternative healing methods. There is a clear leaning towards esoteric philosophies, Eastern spiritual traditions (like yoga and meditation), and the teachings of figures such as Martinus, Ouspensky, and Gurdjieff. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging individuals to explore beyond conventional systems, to seek deeper understanding of themselves and the universe, and to take responsibility for their own health and spiritual growth. The magazine acts as a guide and resource for those on such a path, providing information on local centers, courses, and relevant literature.

This issue of Sökaren, dated January 1980, focuses on the theme of interfaith dialogue, with a particular emphasis on the possibility of engaging with followers of the Hare Krishna movement. The cover story, "Är dialog med Krishna-medvetna möjlig?" (Is dialogue with Krishna-conscious people possible?) by Sten Rodhe, sets the tone for the issue.

Dialogue is Important

Sten Rodhe begins by stating that dialogue about religion is important, but questions whether a meaningful dialogue with Hare Krishna adherents is truly possible. He notes the movement's relatively recent origin (1966 in New York) and its rapid global spread. While some react with indifference and others with fear, Rodhe advocates for taking the movement seriously and engaging in dialogue, provided it's not about fighting or joining.

He frames the dialogue with Hare Krishna as part of a larger East-West encounter in contemporary religious and cultural history. The movement, he explains, is not entirely new but draws from the entire Hindu tradition, specifically the Veda scriptures and texts like the Bhagavad Gita, with its interpretation tracing back to the 16th-century Bengali monk Chaitanya. Vivekananda's role in presenting Hinduism globally in 1893 is also mentioned as a precursor.

Rodhe shares his personal experiences, recounting encounters with the movement since the early 1970s, including visiting a Hare Krishna festival in San Francisco in 1975 and later corresponding with Swedish leaders of the movement. He describes his interactions as generally friendly and accommodating.

What Does Dialogue Mean?

Rodhe clarifies that religious dialogue should involve finding common ground and differences in a search for greater community and truth. He argues that true dialogue is impossible if one party believes they already possess all truth. He finds genuine dialogue with Hare Krishna followers difficult because they believe they have the complete truth in the Vedas and from Krishna.

He uses the book "The Science of Self-Realization" by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada as a basis for his analysis. Prabhupada's followers emphasize his absolute authority, a concept rooted in ancient Hindu tradition where one must revere their guru. Prabhupada himself stated that one should obey their teacher as they obey God, not because the teacher is God, but because the teacher speaks on God's behalf.

Prabhupada's justification for luxury, despite advocating for simple living, is explained through the idea of treating the spiritual leader as equal to God. He argues that just as one would offer God the best, so too should the spiritual leader be treated with opulence. This stance is presented as potentially hindering open dialogue.

False Teachers

Prabhupada distinguishes between true and false teachers, stating that false teachers rely on their own opinions and claim to be God. He also outlines the strict requirements for spiritual life within his movement, including prohibitions against illicit sex, intoxication, meat-eating, and gambling. These strictures extend to avoiding things like contraceptives, fish, eggs, tea, coffee, and tobacco.

Rodhe suggests that Prabhupada's critique of movements with "easy demands" likely refers to Transcendental Meditation (TM). Prabhupada dismisses TM as a "fraud" and a "deception" for promising spiritual advancement within six months.

Science, Not Religion

Both the Hare Krishna movement and TM, Rodhe notes, originate from Hindu tradition but seek to avoid being classified as Hinduism, preferring to be called "science." Both claim to welcome followers of all religions. Prabhupada argues that Krsna consciousness is eternal and not a religion, but a culture that can solve life's problems. He contrasts the ancient Vedic scriptures with religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, which he claims are only a few thousand years old.

He also criticizes Western empirical science, calling its practitioners "rascals" for focusing solely on the material world and neglecting the soul. He advocates for "self-knowledge" based on the authority of the Vedas, arguing that the soul's existence can only be accepted through "circumstantial understanding" and not empirical measurement. He controversially claims that Darwin's theory of evolution is derived from Vedic literature.

Prabhupada's critique extends to Western society, particularly its government, which he calls a "rascal government." He strongly supports the Vedic concept of "varnasrama" (social division based on qualities and stages of life) as the correct societal system, advocating for a classless society with equal rights and duties as a "foolishness."

The Only Necessity

The core practice for Hare Krishna followers is chanting the maha-mantra: "Hare Krsna, Hare Krsna, Krsna Krsna, Hare Hare / Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare." This chanting is believed to purify the heart, extinguish material existence, and bring about peace. Prabhupada claims that stopping crime and achieving world peace can be achieved through this collective chanting.

He dismisses the value of fundraising for aid, suggesting that chanting God's name is more effective. He also points to instances where the movement's chanting supposedly averted political threats.

Personal Faiths

The issue also includes a section titled "Sökarens uppsatstävling" (Sökaren's Essay Competition), featuring short pieces from readers on their personal beliefs. These include:

• A belief in an all-pervading spirituality, emphasizing kindness to all living beings.
• A view of religion as a flower to be cultivated and appreciated.
• A description of the soul as eternal, a part of God, with an eternal life.
• A faith characterized by inner peace and trust in life's lessons.
• A personal experience of divine intervention and overwhelming joy.
• A strong belief in UFOs and an encounter with an alien named Lena.
• A faith that is a "seeking faith," focused on eternal goals, shaped by a religious upbringing and a profound spiritual experience at age fourteen.
• A belief in the inherent goodness of God and the existence of a heavenly realm.
• A conviction that all religions carry a kernel of truth.
• A belief in reincarnation and karma as a process of becoming "God's image."

Erik Berglund's essay, "Min Tro" (My Faith), details a profound spiritual experience at age fourteen, a vision of a beautiful landscape, and a voice telling him he would serve God. He recounts his journey from a conventional Christian upbringing to questioning and seeking, eventually leading him to believe in God as love and the importance of serving Him.

Is TM Flying to the Ground?

This section reports on former Transcendental Meditation (TM) practitioners who claim that the promised ability to "fly" during meditation is a deception. Testimonials from individuals like James Proctor, Mary Grey, Kenneth Finch, and Linda Pearce suggest that TM instructors only teach students to jump around, not to levitate. The article cites Psychic News as its source.

Madhuma and the Magical Family

This piece profiles Madhuma and her "Magical Family," a communal living arrangement in Stockholm. They run a vegetarian café and engage in various healing practices. Madhuma emphasizes sharing everything – possessions, money, and responsibilities – and living in the present moment with a focus on emotions and spontaneity. She credits Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh for her spiritual development, stating that he taught her self-acceptance and to embrace her creativity. The family's lifestyle is described as a manifestation of "new age consciousness."

Reviews and Columns

• Rolig astrologi (Funny Astrology): A review of Stefan Stenudd's book on astrology, praising its humorous and unconventional approach while noting its reliance on Vedic tradition and its critique of Western science. The reviewer, Gustaf Lundgren, suggests Stenudd could benefit from exploring modern German astrology.
• Brännbar von Däniken (Combustible von Däniken): A review of Erich von Däniken's book "The Chariots of the Gods?" (translated as "Det förgångnas profet: djärva tankar om rymdbesök på jorden"). The reviewer, Sven Rosén, finds the book to be a mix of intriguing ideas and nonsensical claims, making it difficult to assess its credibility.
• Bok om böcker i angelägna ämnen (Book about Books on Important Topics): A brief mention of a compilation of essays and reading lists from the publication Bibliotekstjänst, titled "Angeläget." Sten Rodhe's essay on "Meditation" is highlighted.
• Ur dödens land (From the Land of Death): This article discusses near-death experiences, referencing the work of Raymond Moody, Robert Crookall, and Celia Green. It also reviews George G. Ritchie's "Return from Heaven," which presents a Christian perspective on the afterlife.
• Hare Krishna-vegetarism: This section critiques the Hare Krishna movement's vegetarianism, arguing that while it's positive, it lacks sufficient emphasis on raw foods and may include too much sugar. It suggests that the "Health Promotion" approach offers a more holistic view of diet.
• Transfilosofi: A brief mention of a book titled "Teachings of Ambres," which is presented as channeled material. The reviewer finds the content difficult to follow and questions its authenticity.
• Folklig medicin (Folk Medicine): A review of Frants Staugård's book, which examines alternative healing methods. The reviewer notes the book's discussion of various practices like acupuncture, homeopathy, and herbalism, but questions the term "folk medicine" and suggests that some alternative practices are better described as medical systems with different philosophical underpinnings.
• Nyandliga vindar – varthän? (New Age Winds – Where to?): A critical review of Erland Sundström's book, which analyzes new religious movements from a conservative Christian perspective. The reviewer, Björn Sahlin, criticizes Sundström's dismissive terminology, his selective critique, and his perceived bias against non-Christian beliefs.
• Replik till Erland Sundström (Reply to Erland Sundström): Björn Sahlin responds to Erland Sundström's critique of his earlier article in Sökaren. Sahlin defends his right to question Christian dogma and argues for a more modern and honest approach to faith, free from outdated symbolism and unquestioning adherence to tradition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently grapples with the nature of faith, belief systems, and the challenges of interfaith dialogue. There's a clear tension between a critical, analytical approach to religion (as exemplified by Sökaren's own content and the critical reviews) and the deeply held convictions of various belief systems, including Hare Krishna, Christianity, and New Age movements. The magazine seems to advocate for open inquiry and critical examination of all ideologies, while also acknowledging the personal significance of faith. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity and a desire to understand diverse perspectives, even while maintaining a critical distance and questioning claims of absolute truth. The critique of both established religions and newer spiritual movements suggests a commitment to pluralism and a wariness of dogmatism and exclusivity.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: 2
Volume: 17
Year: 1980
Cover Headline: DE MÅNGA RÖSTERNAS TORG (The Many Voices' Forum)

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine dedicated to life philosophy questions, presents itself as a forum for diverse viewpoints. The editorial emphasizes a commitment to reflecting the pluralistic nature of beliefs in contemporary society, encouraging readers to critically engage with the material and form their own conclusions. The magazine aims to inform about various movements, currents of thought, and idealisms present in society without advocating for any single doctrine.

Editorial Stance and Content Philosophy

The editorial, signed 'SM', outlines the magazine's approach. It states that Sökaren is not intended to be a combative or overly mystical publication but rather a platform for open criticism and informed discussion. The editors strive to engage knowledgeable individuals and utilize good literary sources to inform readers about different movements and thought streams. The core philosophy is one of pluralism, acknowledging that individuals now have greater freedom to find their own truths regarding the meaning of life and the universe. The editorial notes a shift from a time when governing authorities might have guided people towards a 'right' faith, to a present where individuals are left to discover their own path. It also observes that even religious authorities, like the Archbishop, while stating their beliefs, are now perceived as one voice among many.

The magazine explicitly states that it does not endorse any single belief system and aims to reflect the diverse landscape of life philosophies in Sweden. Readers are encouraged to "test the spirits" as advised in the Bible, meaning they should critically evaluate all information, including what the magazine itself publishes, and maintain their own opinions.

Featured Articles and Content

This issue features a variety of articles, many written by Åsa Freij, focusing on alternative spirituality, therapies, and philosophical explorations, with a particular emphasis on activities and groups in Göteborg.

• "Yoga för välbefinnande" (Yoga for Well-being) by Bertil Nilsson: This article likely explores the practice and benefits of yoga.
• "Fem hälsoterapeuter" (Five Health Therapists) by Åsa Freij: This piece introduces five different health therapists, offering insights into their practices.
• "Benno och Laura Svensson, polaritetsterapeuter" (Benno and Laura Svensson, Polarity Therapists) by Åsa Freij: An interview or profile of polarity therapists Benno and Laura Svensson.
• "Martinus i Göteborg" (Martinus in Göteborg) by Åsa Freij: This article focuses on the philosopher Martinus and his presence or influence in Göteborg.
• "Den fjärde vägen" (The Fourth Way) by Åsa Freij: An exploration of the philosophical or spiritual path known as The Fourth Way.
• "Alternativrörelser i Göteborg" (Alternative Movements in Göteborg): This section likely provides an overview of various alternative spiritual and social movements active in the city.
• "Offensiv medicin" (Offensive Medicine) by Åsa Freij: This title suggests an article discussing alternative or unconventional medical approaches.
• "Kurs i esoterisk filosofi" (Course in Esoteric Philosophy) by Åsa Freij: Details about an offering or exploration of esoteric philosophical studies.
• "Religionskonfrontation i Kandy" (Religious Confrontation in Kandy) by Gunnar Gällmo: This article discusses religious interactions or conflicts in Kandy, Sri Lanka.
• "Är dialog med Krishna-medvetna möjlig?" (Is Dialogue with Krishna Consciousness Possible?) by Sten Rodhe: An examination of the potential for dialogue with followers of the Hare Krishna movement.
• "En antik författare om 'dödens gränsland'" (An Ancient Author on the 'Borderland of Death') by Per Beskow: This piece delves into the views of an ancient writer on the concept of the afterlife or the transition to death.
• "Madhuma och Den magiska familjen" (Madhuma and The Magical Family): This appears to be a shorter piece or review related to these subjects.

Publication Details

• Publisher: SÖKAREN
• Address: Box 3063, 103 61 Stockholm 3, Sweden
• Postgiro: 70 60 47-8
• Bankgiro: 372-8128
• Telephone: 08/69 60 27
• Subscription Prices: Full year (10 issues) 68 SEK; Half year 36 SEK.
• Advertisement Prices: Full page 700 SEK, half page 450 SEK, small ads 15 SEK per column-cm (minimum 45 SEK). Inserts 800 SEK.
• Printed by: Smålandspostens Boktr. AB, Växjö 1980.
• ISSN: 0038-0504

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of diverse spiritual paths, alternative healing methods, and philosophical inquiries. The magazine positions itself as a neutral platform, committed to presenting a wide spectrum of beliefs and practices without bias. The editorial strongly advocates for intellectual independence and critical thinking among its readers, encouraging them to form their own informed opinions rather than passively accepting any doctrine. This stance reflects a broader societal trend towards individual spiritual seeking and a questioning of traditional authorities, as highlighted in the editorial's commentary on the changing role of religious institutions.