Sokaren - 1982 No 09

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR9
Volume: 19
Date: 1982

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on alternative lifestyles, spirituality, and health, delves into a variety of topics, including ethical business practices, holistic well-being, and historical religious movements. The cover features a collage of images representing different aspects of the magazine's content, such as personal development, nature, and intellectual pursuits.

Alternative Business Models: Briarpatch and MeMO

The magazine highlights two organizations promoting alternative business philosophies. Briarpatch, based in the San Francisco area, is a network of small businesses that prioritize deeper human values like honesty and openness over profit. Roger Pritchard, a representative, explains that these businesses have thrived by fostering mutual support and believing in the value of their work. The article details how networking parties and shared ideals form the core of Briarpatch's philosophy, with members helping each other and sharing knowledge.

MeMO, a Dutch organization, is presented as a chain of businesses that are 'friendly to people and the environment.' Klas van der Ven and Anna te Wechel from MeMO's Amsterdam office explain that MeMO companies focus on conscious limitation of profit and income, developing personal relationships and cooperation over competition, self-governance, openness about finances, and producing useful, high-quality products with efficient resource use. The article traces MeMO's history back to the 1960s when individuals in the Netherlands sought to change societal structures. MeMO provides financial aid through its own bank and offers advice and support to its member companies.

Holistic Health and Spirituality

An exhibition titled 'Helhetssyn' (Holistic View) on human and health is presented, created by Ulla-Britt Johansson. This exhibition, along with a compendium of the same name, emphasizes that true health requires not only physical well-being but also psychological and spiritual balance. The compendium, co-authored by Ingrid Pettersson and Helena Hernborg, explores themes like the pioneering work of Are Waerland and the importance of a natural, conscious lifestyle. It also touches upon the ethical treatment of animals and the concept of the 'inner healer' as described by K. O. Schmidt.

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to an article about Kent Forslund and his collective, living north of Stockholm. The article debunks rumors about the group, portraying them as individuals seeking a better, more conscious life based on a spiritual worldview and a belief in God as positive energy and love. Kent Forslund, a self-taught therapist, guides the group in solving problems and fostering personal growth. The collective members share their reasons for joining, including dissatisfaction with conventional life and a search for meaning.

Religious and Philosophical Explorations

The issue features an in-depth article by Nils Wiklund on 'Christianity as a Culture Builder: The Significance of the Fight Against Gnosticism.' It discusses how the early Christian church's victory over Gnostic ideas was crucial in shaping Western culture. The article highlights the differences between Orthodox and Gnostic beliefs, particularly regarding Christ's resurrection, the nature of God, and the role of religious authority. The discovery of Gnostic texts at Naj Hammadi is mentioned as a significant event for understanding this historical conflict. The author suggests that while Gnostic ideas might appeal to modern seekers due to their emphasis on personal insight and equality, the Orthodox framework provided the necessary structure for building a lasting culture.

Another section presents 'Levnadsregler för 20:e århundradets människa' (Life Rules for the 21st Century Human), offering modernized versions of the Ten Commandments, contributed by readers. These new rules emphasize love, respect for life, personal responsibility, and ecological awareness.

Other Features

The magazine also includes a section on 'Ödets lotter' (Fates' Lotteries), comparing the financial support and operational models of Sökaren with other Swedish publications, highlighting the challenges faced by non-news-oriented magazines.

Astrology is featured with a personalized horoscope service, and the 'SökarguideR' section lists various events, workshops, and courses related to alternative lifestyles, spirituality, and health, including a 'Livsfestival' (Life Festival) in November.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren are the pursuit of a more meaningful life through alternative business practices, holistic health, spiritual exploration, and a critical examination of societal norms. The magazine promotes a stance of personal responsibility, community support, and a conscious engagement with the world, advocating for a shift away from materialism and towards values that benefit both individuals and the environment. There is a clear editorial leaning towards promoting self-sufficiency, ethical living, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 3, 1982
Date: June-July 1982
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on spiritual growth, mythology, and alternative teachings, presents a diverse range of articles exploring the intersection of science, spirituality, and societal issues.

Evolutionism vs. Creationism in the USA

The lead article details the ongoing battle between evolutionists and creationists in the United States, particularly in New York City. School boards are taking stances on the issue, with the New York school board's director, Charlotte Frank, complaining to publishers about biology textbooks that do not firmly establish evolution as the majority scientific view and present creationism without labeling it as supernatural. Prentice-Hall and Laidlaw Brothers are mentioned as publishers whose textbooks have faced scrutiny. A law in Louisiana mandating the teaching of both theories has been challenged in court by evolutionists. The article posits that the core of the debate lies in whether life was created by a higher being, implying a sacredness and potential eternity to life, or if it arose by chance, making it less inherently sacred.

Doomsday Prophecies

Another section discusses the historical inaccuracy of doomsday prophecies, citing examples from around the year 1000, 1033, 1186, 1335, 1654, and 1814. It highlights more recent predictions by Willie Day Smith and Leland Jensen in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and a prediction by Richard Keininger for the year 2000. A Scandinavian doomsday prophet from Borup, Denmark, is also mentioned.

Windows to the Future? (Near-Death Experiences)

This article reports on researcher Kenneth Ring's interviews with 13 individuals who claim to have seen the future during near-death experiences (NDEs). While personal future visions varied, global events described were similar: geographical changes, socioeconomic collapse, and the threat of nuclear war. However, these visions often concluded with a transition to global peace and brotherhood, seen as a necessary purification of humanity from materialism, racism, and chauvinism. The visions are described as 'memories' rather than predictions, and Ring suggests four possible explanations: projections of personal fears, reflections of known doomsday visions, descriptions of the actual future, or glimpses of alternative, non-deterministic futures.

Eating and Morality

A brief, provocative piece questions the morality of humanity's relationship with animals, suggesting that our consumption of animal products is based on the 'cruel oppression of animals.' It implies that daily confrontation with factory farming and slaughterhouses would lead many to protest and refuse to eat meat.

Agnosticism and the Search for Answers

This short reflection discusses the academic and spiritual search for 'opportunistic truths.' It concludes that there are no definitive answers, only questions, and proposes an 'agnostic credo' – the acceptance of not knowing – as a path to peace and freedom from doubt.

The Krishna-Christ Theory from India

This extensive article explores the theory proposed by P.N. Oak, director of the Institute for Rewriting of Indian History, who suggests that Jesus is the Hindu deity Krishna. Oak argues that Christianity is the result of a temple dispute among Hindu Krishna worshippers and that the name 'Christ' is a corruption of 'Krishna.' The article details numerous parallels between the lives and stories of Krishna and Christ, including the temptation by the devil, the virgin birth, miracles like feeding thousands, and the resurrection on the third day. Oak also posits that temples in Jerusalem and Corinth were originally Krishna temples. The article notes that while many Western researchers have explored non-confessional explanations for Jesus and Christianity, Oak's theory is particularly radical in its assertion of a direct Hindu origin.

New Scientist: Plant-Derived Medicines and Regeneration

An article from New Scientist discusses the potential of plants to provide life-saving medicines, citing examples of treatments for leukemia and other diseases. It highlights the importance of 'secondary plant products' and the ongoing research into plant-based cures. Another piece from New Scientist explores the role of electricity in healing and regeneration, noting that natural electrical currents seem to play a crucial role in wound healing and the regrowth of lost body parts in animals like salamanders. Research into 'skin batteries' and their application in stimulating healing is mentioned.

New Scientist: Electricity and Organism Development

This article from New Scientist delves into the role of electricity in shaping organisms from fertilized eggs. It suggests that bioelectricity might be the key to understanding how cells develop into complex life forms and maintain their structure, challenging the notion that simple electrical ions could control such complex processes.

Transcendental Meditation (TM) Critique

Kurt Ejstrup, a former TM teacher and official, shares his critique of the TM movement after 11 years. He argues that TM is undemocratic, with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's word being law. Ejstrup believes TM is a fascinating human being and transcendental meditation is a valid technique, but criticizes the movement's claims of supernatural abilities like levitation, stating that the 'Sidhi techniques' do not work. He warns that if the movement continues to be led by 'fanatical programmed idiots,' it could become dangerous.

Combating Pseudoscientific Cults

An announcement details the formation of a committee in Sweden to combat pseudoscientific phenomena, inspired by similar organizations in the US and Australia. The group aims to promote scientific inquiry and critical thinking against what they perceive as dangerous cults and irrationalism.

Fib Kulturfront: Critiquing 'New Age'

An interview with Sven Ove Hansson, a 'social democratic doctor,' criticizes 'New Age' philosophy, viewing its 'holistic approach' as a step backward. He argues against speculative approaches and warns that the emphasis on simpler lifestyles could be exploited by the upper classes against the less fortunate.

Himmeliska Fenomen (Celestial Phenomena) - Donald H. Menzel

This article reviews Donald H. Menzel's book 'The UFO Enigma,' which presents naturalistic explanations for UFO sightings. Menzel, a Harvard astronomer and UFO skeptic, attributes many sightings to atmospheric phenomena, optical illusions, radar errors, and psychological factors. The article discusses specific cases, including the 1947 Mount Rainier sighting and Menzel's own experience with what he initially thought were aircraft but turned out to be water droplets on a window. Menzel also debunks theories by authors like Erich von Däniken, particularly regarding the pyramids, and dismisses parapsychology as largely bluff.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes several book reviews: 'Welfare, Simon. Arthur C. Clarke's Mysterious World' (a collection of unexplained phenomena), 'Jeffner, Anders. Vägar till teologi' (a meta-theological work), 'Næss, Arne. Ekologi, samhälle och livsstil' (an ecophilosophy text), 'Havemann, Robert. I morgon' (a critique of industrial society), 'Hallgren, Åke. Liv och död i universum' (a popular science book on cosmology and life), 'Kurrells, Jan. Astrologi' (a book on astrology), and 'Rasmussen, Tanya. Fråga grodan först!' (a book on environmental impact).

Other Sections

Other sections include 'Horoscope,' 'Existential Astrology,' 'Books in English,' 'Life Lights' (numerology and color consultation services), and advertisements for the magazine's back issues and related books.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around the search for meaning, the questioning of established beliefs (religious, scientific, and societal), and the exploration of alternative perspectives. The magazine appears to champion critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and a balanced approach to spirituality, while also being open to exploring phenomena that challenge conventional understanding. The editorial stance seems to favor rational explanations and a healthy skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, while acknowledging the human need for spiritual and existential answers. There's a consistent effort to present diverse viewpoints, from scientific critiques to spiritual explorations, and to provide readers with information and resources for further investigation.

This issue of Sökaren, dated September 1982, is titled "Världskrisen" (World Crisis) and focuses on the theme "ett relationsproblem" (a relations problem). The magazine is an independent journal for worldview issues, published by Sökaren, with Sven Magnusson as editor and publisher. The issue features a prominent article addressing the geopolitical tensions between the USA and the Soviet Union, alongside a comprehensive section dedicated to the works of the Danish philosopher and author Martinus.

The World Crisis: A Relations Problem

The lead article, attributed to "SM," posits that the current world crisis, characterized by the nuclear threat between the USA and the Soviet Union, cannot continue. It argues that both sides misinterpret and fear each other, with the West viewing communism as aggressive and the East seeing Western democracy as a threat. The article stresses the urgent need to improve relations between "East" and "West" through intelligent dialogue about political systems, dangers, and common interests. It advocates for increased scientific and cultural exchange, including student programs and joint projects. A cautious disarmament initiated by NATO, with an invitation to Warsaw Pact countries, is proposed. The author warns against leaving humanity's fate to chance and emphasizes that true disarmament can only follow increased friendship and understanding, not precede it. The article calls for "relations research" to practically address inter-state problems and highlights the necessity of crisis awareness, correct diagnosis, a will for understanding, insight, and love for these changes to occur.

Martinus Cosmology: The Third Testament and Related Works

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to "Martinus kosmologi" (Martinus Cosmology), presenting his "Tredje Testamentet" (Third Testament), also known as "Livets Bok" (The Book of Life). This multi-volume work is described as a worldview that can help people find answers to life's questions, free from any sect or organization. The magazine details the content of various volumes of the Third Testament, including:

• H14. DEL 1: An introduction to the fundamental principles of cosmology, covering world situations, divine creation, international relations, and the evolution from animal to human.
• H20. DEL II: A study of cosmic chemistry, focusing on the laws of elemental reactions, the eternal energy sources of the ego, and thought climates.
• H24. DEL III: Continues "Cosmic Chemistry," exploring the principle of cycles, life's mysteries, and detailed explanations of "life substances," including sexual principles.
• H30. DEL IV: Discusses "Eternal Life," the spiral cycle's realms, evolution and involution, love for one's neighbor, and critiques of dictatorship, democracy, capitalism, and communism.
• H33. DEL V: Further explores "Eternal Life," focusing on the "highest fire," sexuality, and the transformation of poles.
• H39. DEL VI: Continues "Eternal Life," comparing the logic of creation with human logic and interpreting the symbolism of the Jerusalem temple.
• H44. DEL VII: "The Cosmic World Morality," tracing the development of beings from animal to true human and the path to divinity.

In addition to the Third Testament, the magazine lists and describes numerous other books by Martinus, available in Swedish and Danish, covering topics such as:

• Logic: Understanding life's principles through logical thinking.
• The Complete Food: Advocating for vegetarianism as a natural and necessary diet.
• Humanity's Destiny: Orienting towards a new world culture and global governance.
• Between Two World Epochs: Explaining cosmic cycles and humanity's current dark phase.
• Cosmic Glimpses: Discussing spiritual thresholds, vanity, and the meaning of commandments.
• What is Truth?: Addressing the human inability to believe in traditional dogmas and the longing for true knowledge.
• The Birth of My Mission: Martinus' personal account of his spiritual experiences.
• Through Death's Door: Exploring the process of dying and the transition to the spiritual world.
• The Principles of Reincarnation: Explaining the concept of rebirth.
• Cosmic Lessons: Covering topics like the psychic temple, the cause of human destiny, and the ego.
• Humanity and the Worldview: Understanding life's mysteries through inner experience.
• The Longest Living Idol: Contrasting Martinus' views with church doctrines.
• Cosmic Consciousness - Mental Sovereignty: The path from animal to "true human" and divine consciousness.
• The Mystery of Prayer: A scientific approach to prayer.
• The Christmas Gospel: An occult interpretation of Jesus' birth.
• Easter: The mission of the world redeemer and the message of Easter.
• The Immortality of Living Beings: Discussing the necessity of spiritual science and the dangers of primitivism and superstition.
• The Creation of Culture: Tracing human cultural development and the role of free will.

The magazine also mentions the journal "KOSMOS" as a valuable study material for those wishing to delve deeper into Martinus' spiritual science.

Other Featured Books and Topics

Beyond Martinus' works, the magazine presents a book list featuring other authors and subjects:

• Raymond A. Moody: "I Dödens Gränsland" (In the Land of Death) and "Frågor vid Livets Gräns" (Questions at the Border of Life), exploring near-death experiences and philosophical questions about life and death.
• Jan Grönholm: "Helhetssyn och Framtidstro" (Holistic View and Faith in the Future), discussing a new human and worldview.
• Nicolaus Kalenus: "Denna Ljuva Himlakropp" (This Sweet Heavenly Body), a novel about idealists, materialists, and life's mysteries.
• Per Bruus-Jensen: "Eksistens og Udødelighed" (Existence and Immortality), an introduction to Martinus' cosmology.
• John Engelbrecht: "Den Intuitiva Tanke" (The Intuitive Thought), presenting the tradition of intuitive thinking from Lao Tzu to Martinus.
• Gunnar Carlsson: "Kosmiska Energier" (Cosmic Energies), explaining the concept of living energies in matter, and "Liv efter döden?" (Life After Death?), a comprehensive work on parapsychological phenomena.
• Anders Gernandt: "Hälsa till Alla" (Health to All), a broad overview of improved public health, vegetarianism, and unconventional therapies.
• J. Helbach & PH Rusch: "Hälsans Trädgård" (Health's Garden), a handbook on natural cultivation and pest control.
• Eunice Ingham: "Zonterapi" (Zone Therapy) and "Zonterapi 2," detailing reflexology and its application to health issues.
• Dennis T. Jaffe: "Din Inre Läkare" (Your Inner Doctor), emphasizing self-responsibility for health and the body's healing capabilities.
• Meta Strandberg: "Baka Nyttigare" (Bake Healthier), offering recipes for healthier bread and baked goods.
• Nils Kalén: "Vettig Föda" (Sensible Food), a guide to health food with recipes and nutritional information, and "Förkylning – Ett Nödvändigt Ont?" (The Common Cold – A Necessary Evil?), explaining the causes and prevention of colds.
• K. O. Schmidt: "Reinkarnation," discussing the significance of reincarnation in religion, literature, and science.
• Gösta Kroon: "Perspektiv på Livet och vår Dogmatiska Politik, Medicin, Religion" (Perspective on Life and our Dogmatic Politics, Medicine, Religion), analyzing the pitfalls of modern civilization and offering paths forward.
• Olof Thorborg: "Fasteboken" (The Fasting Book), a guide to fasting for health and weight loss.
• Juno Borensjö: "Sundare Liv" (Healthier Life), covering principles of healthy living, natural diet, herbs, fasting, and motion.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the urgent need for improved international relations to avert global crisis, and the exploration of spiritual and philosophical concepts, particularly through the extensive presentation of Martinus' cosmology. The magazine's stance, as indicated by the "Världskrisen" article, is that understanding and improving human relationships, both on an individual and international level, is paramount. The detailed coverage of Martinus' works suggests an editorial leaning towards spiritual science, holistic health, and a belief in the potential for human evolution towards higher consciousness and a more harmonious existence. The inclusion of various books on health, diet, and spiritual topics reinforces this perspective.