SÖKAREN

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR1
Year: 1981

This issue of "Sökaren" (NR1, 1981) is a Swedish magazine focusing on spirituality, alternative lifestyles, and new age philosophies. It features a prominent article on Mark Satin and his concept of "New Age Politics," alongside pieces on human unity, magic and healing in Peru, and an exploration of Kahlil Gibran's "The Prophet." The magazine also delves into the world's leading gurus, examines the emotional causes of cancer, and includes numerous book reviews.

Mark Satin: "New Age Politics"

Per Sellmann reports on Mark Satin, author of the successful book "The New Age Politics." Satin, who describes himself as a "study bug," developed his concept of "new age politics" during a period of introspection in Canada. His book, initially published by a small Canadian press, gained significant traction, leading to multiple printings and revisions. Satin is currently working on a new magazine called "Renewal," which aims to cover practical and political changes driven by new ideas, focusing on governmental responses, and the efforts of environmental groups and individuals.

Satin emphasizes that "politics is how we live ourselves." It extends beyond voting to encompass how we treat each other, nature, and ourselves, including our consumption, diet, health, education, energy choices, and careers. He advocates for breaking free from restrictive mindsets, including excessive analysis, egocentrism, patriarchal attitudes, and nationalism. He believes that raising individual consciousness is key to political change. Satin is also involved in launching "The New World Alliance," a political party based on a questionnaire sent to decision-makers.

He is actively promoting the "New Age Politics" concept and has been invited to speak at various events, including the "Levande Företag i en ny tid" conference in Åbo. Despite past organizational setbacks, Satin remains optimistic about the potential for positive change.

Human Unity and Spiritual Paths

Maria Adkinson writes about Gita Keiller and Anthony Brooke, who work to strengthen networks between peace organizations and other groups promoting peace and human development. They act as a link, sharing information about global developments and gathering insights from different countries.

Gita and Anthony believe in the fundamental unity of life, seeing the universe as a single organism driven by a divine idea. They emphasize that humans are not alone but are integral parts of this greater whole, capable of expressing the source of all life. They advocate for developing a sense of oneness with the universe, leading to a radiant existence.

Regarding good and evil, they suggest that instead of judging others, love and understanding are more effective in fostering development. They do not adhere to specific spiritual movements but have drawn wisdom from various sources, including the New Testament, Bhagavad-Gita, and the teachings of Paul Brunton.

They see the goal of human striving as living in harmony with the universe and experiencing this unity in daily life. They believe that the "new age" is not confined to spiritual circles but is manifesting across all aspects of society, including in countries like China and the Soviet Union.

Magic and Healing in Peru

Bertil Jarl explores the world of "brujos" (medicine men) in Peru, who carry on the magical traditions of the Inca Empire. He notes the secrecy surrounding brujos due to the existence of both black magic (for harm) and white magic (for healing). Many market vendors sell herbs, San Pedro cactus, and items used in brujo rituals.

While some brujos are genuine healers, others are charlatans who exploit people for money. The practice of white magic often involves high fees, making it more accessible to the wealthy. Brujos treat various ailments, including those considered incurable by conventional medicine, and also offer advice on personal matters. The article mentions a conference in 1979 where doctors and brujos discussed potential collaboration and the establishment of a joint hospital.

Herbal remedies are prevalent in Peru, with brujos using complex mixtures, sometimes including perfume, for healing. The article describes a ceremony involving the ingestion of a potent mixture of San Pedro cactus and alcohol-soaked tobacco leaves, as well as the use of perfume, believed to stimulate certain energies and facilitate inner experiences.

Gurus and Spiritual Movements

The magazine features profiles of several prominent gurus and their associated movements:

• Mark Satin: Discussed in detail above, focusing on his "New Age Politics."
• Swami Satyananda Saraswati: Active within the International Yoga Fellowship, he aims to unite various branches of Hindu missionary movements. His Bihar School of Yoga in India is influential, and he has a prominent Danish disciple, Swami Janakananda Saraswati, who has established a yoga empire in Scandinavia and England.
• Guru Maharaj Ji (Divine Light Mission): A controversial figure, Guru Maharaj Ji, born in 1957, was presented as the "Lord of the Universe." The Divine Light Mission (DLM) began in India in 1960 and expanded internationally, reaching a peak in the early 1970s. However, his family has largely distanced themselves from him.
• Swami Muktananda: A "siddha yogi" known for his supernatural powers (siddhis) gained through hatha yoga. He is part of a tradition of "babas" in India and emphasizes the guru's divine status, with students expected to offer complete devotion.
• Sathya Sai Baba: Born in 1926, he is considered an incarnation of Sai Baba of Shirdi and is known for performing miracles, including producing healing ash (vibhuti). He claims to be God in human form and an avatar.
• Swami Narayanananda: Originally from the Ramakrishna Mission, he later founded his own Yoga Trust and operates ashrams in Scandinavia, Germany, and India. His teachings, particularly his semi-tantric practices, have generated discussion.
• Ananda Murti: Founder of the Ananda Marga movement ("Path of Bliss"), which includes a political wing called PROUT (Progressive Utilization Theory). Ananda Murti is viewed by followers as a divine incarnation. The movement faced legal challenges in India in the 1970s, with Ananda Murti himself imprisoned for a period.
• Bhagwan Rajneesh: A syncretic guru who combines modern therapy with elements of Zen, Sufism, and Christianity. He emphasizes personal development and the spiritual potential of sexuality, advocating for "Hu-meditation."

Vedanta Philosophy

The magazine provides an explanation of Vedanta philosophy, drawing from Vivekanada's "Ingivelsens ord." It defines Brahman as the ultimate reality, the all-pervading and unchanging truth, and Atman as the eternal self within all beings. The core tenet is "Tat Tvam Asi" (You are That), signifying the unity of Atman and Brahman. The concept of Samadhi, a state of inner enlightenment, is also discussed, with Nirvikalpa Samadhi being the highest form, where the individual self dissolves into the ultimate reality.

Other Articles and Features

• "Minnespanorama i dödens närhet" (Memory Panorama in the Face of Death): This section discusses the phenomenon of people in near-death experiences recalling their entire lives in a panoramic fashion, citing accounts from geologists, psychiatrists, and researchers like Elisabeth Kübler-Ross.
• "Tillsamman" by Åsa Freij: An essay exploring the concept of human unity and interconnectedness, drawing on personal experiences and psychological theories.
• "Gud på jorden" (God on Earth): A collection of statements about Sathya Sai Baba, portraying him as a divine incarnation.
• "Månadens sökardikt" (Poem of the Month): A poem titled "I ensamheten" (In Solitude) by Eva Jagrell.
• "Sökarguiden" (Seeker's Guide): A listing of courses, events, and resources related to yoga, meditation, and spiritual practices in Sweden, including details for the Siddha Yoga Meditation Center, Galleri Medmera, Deeva Rajneesh Meditation Center, and the Institute for Ecological Technology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes themes of spiritual exploration, personal transformation, and the search for deeper meaning. It highlights alternative paths to enlightenment, including various forms of yoga, meditation, and the teachings of Eastern gurus. There is a strong emphasis on interconnectedness, human unity, and the potential for a "new age" of consciousness. While presenting information about different spiritual movements, the articles often include critical commentary, particularly from a Christian missionary perspective, as indicated by the reference to Johannes Aagaard's article "Who is who in guruism?" The editorial stance appears to be one of informing readers about these diverse spiritual phenomena while maintaining a degree of critical distance and encouraging discernment.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1981 and identified as Volume 18, Issue 1, is an independent magazine focused on life philosophy questions. Edited and published by Sven Magnusson, it serves as a platform for diverse viewpoints and information, aiming to provide perspectives rather than dictate beliefs. The magazine emphasizes critical examination and personal exploration of truth.

Articles and Features

Spiritual Ceremonies in Peru The issue features an account of spiritual ceremonies in Peru led by a 'brujo' (shaman) named Maestro. The author describes participating in rituals involving San Pedro, a psychoactive cactus, and other elements like incense, chanting, and group participation. These ceremonies are depicted as intense experiences aimed at healing, self-discovery, and spiritual connection. The Maestro's role is described as a therapist-like figure who uses intuition and spiritual guidance to help individuals.

Emotional Causes of Cancer A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an excerpt from Lawrence LeShan's book, "Kämpa för livet" (Fight for Life), focusing on the emotional causes of cancer. LeShan, a psychotherapist, posits that cancer is often linked to a person's psychological orientation and life outlook. He argues that a sense of hopelessness, lack of self-fulfillment, and unresolved emotional issues can contribute to the development of cancer. The article highlights case studies, such as Jenny and John, illustrating how a shift in perspective, the discovery of hope, and a renewed will to live can impact the course of the disease, sometimes leading to remission.

Parapsychology Research The magazine reviews "Mind Reach: Scientists Look at Psychic Abilities" by Russell Targ and Harold Puthoff, researchers at Stanford Research Institute. The review discusses their work on 'remote viewing' and other psi phenomena, noting the book's accessible presentation of complex research. It also touches upon the challenges and criticisms faced by parapsychology, while acknowledging the potential significance of findings that suggest humans may possess abilities beyond conventional understanding.

Another book review covers Obrad Doncic's "Utan gränser" (Without Borders), a comprehensive overview of parapsychology. While praising its breadth and detail, the reviewer notes some critical shortcomings, including a lack of critical engagement with debunked claims and occasional inaccuracies.

Philosophical and Spiritual Teachings

Kahlil Gibran's "The Prophet": Eva Jagrell shares her personal connection to Kahlil Gibran's "The Prophet," describing it as a favorite book that has profoundly influenced her. She highlights Gibran's timeless messages on love, marriage, children, and work, emphasizing the book's ability to inspire introspection and personal creation.

Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy: The issue includes an in-depth discussion of Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy, presented through a review of Frans Carlgren's book "Den antroposofiska kunskapsvägen" (The Anthroposophical Path of Knowledge). The review explains Steiner's philosophy, which seeks a Western form of theosophy, and his emphasis on spiritual development, intuition, and a holistic understanding of nature. It touches upon Steiner's pedagogical principles and the application of Anthroposophy in various fields like education, medicine, and agriculture.

Other Spiritual Topics: Brief mentions are made of other spiritual paths, including a review of a booklet on Sai Baba, which discusses his teachings on love and contentment, and a discussion on the concept of the 'kingdom of heaven within' inspired by Eileen Caddy's "Footprints on the Path."

Personal Reflections and Editorial Stance

Sven Magnusson, the editor, contributes a piece titled "Magnussons Tycksida" (Magnusson's Opinion Page). He clarifies that his articles are not meant to lead readers but to offer information and perspectives for their own journey of seeking truth. He emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and open discussion in exploring life philosophies. Magnusson states that Sökaren is a forum for information and discussion, not an organ for any specific movement or ideology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the search for meaning, spiritual exploration, and the connection between inner states and outer reality. The magazine champions an open, critical, and pluralistic approach to life philosophies, encouraging readers to form their own conclusions. There is a consistent emphasis on personal growth, self-discovery, and the potential for healing and transformation through various spiritual and psychological practices. The editorial stance is one of intellectual curiosity and a commitment to presenting diverse ideas for thoughtful consideration.