Sokaren - 1986 No 09

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 9, ÅRGÅNG 23
Date: 1986
Price: 18:00 INKL. MOMS

This issue of Sökaren magazine delves into various aspects of spirituality, alternative lifestyles, and critical examinations of controversial movements.

Stiftelsen Stjärnsund: A Swedish Findhorn

The main feature explores Stiftelsen Stjärnsund, a community in southern Sweden inspired by the Findhorn community in Scotland. Six red houses near the old Stjärnsund estate house fourteen adults and ten children who have chosen to break away from conventional life to pursue spiritual and ethical growth. The community aims to help each other grow spiritually and ethically, and to provide a nurturing environment for others through courses. Their lifestyle includes organic gardening, living in harmony with nature, and engaging in meditation and inner development. The article highlights their practical efforts in establishing the community, from renovating old houses to cultivating land and gathering firewood. The program for autumn 1986 and spring 1987 includes courses on Reiki healing, mushroom days, 'A Course in Miracles', Sacred Dance, and esoteric interpretations of the Gospel of John. They also offer an 'experience week' for those interested in their way of life, allowing them to live and work alongside the community members.

Stiftelsen Stjärnsund also offers alternative healing methods such as massage, healing, zone therapy, and treatments with Bach flower remedies and biochemical tissue salts, based on their holistic view of health. The community strives for self-sufficiency through farming and their own businesses in publishing, health food, and innovation. They have managed without loans, with each member contributing personal funds.

Eva Johansson and Roald Pettersen are highlighted as key figures who were inspired by Findhorn and initiated the Stjärnsund project. Roald, a Norwegian, humorously states he is held hostage as the only non-Swede to ensure the project remains Nordic. The establishment of Stjärnsund faced initial setbacks, including the loss of a desired estate, but they eventually acquired five houses and a building for a course center.

Parapsykologin Kritiseras

This section presents a debate on parapsychology, featuring a response from Göran Brusewitz and Jens Tellefsen to Sven Ove Hansson's critique. They defend their references and argue that parapsychology, as a young science, should not be held to the same strict standards of reproducibility as established sciences like physics or psychology. They discuss the concept of reproducibility in parapsychology, citing experiments with random number generators, Helmut Schmidt, Bill Delmore, and Pavel Stepanek as significant studies. Brusewitz and Tellefsen criticize Hansson for making sweeping generalizations and for not standing by his own statements. They argue that Hansson's skepticism is based on a closed-minded approach, failing to consider the possibility of phenomena that defy current scientific understanding.

The article also touches upon the 'experimenter effect' and the difficulty in establishing definitive proof for psi phenomena, suggesting that a combination of openness and critical sharpness is needed. They contend that psi phenomena present a significant scientific challenge, and that a rigid definition of proof might exclude genuine findings.

Several books critical of parapsychology are reviewed, including works by G.O. Abell, J.E. Alcock, K. Frazier, M. Gardner, C.E.M. Hansel, D. Marks, R. Kammann, A. Neher, and J. Taylor. The reviews highlight the skeptical arguments, often from organizations like CSICOP, which question the scientific validity of parapsychological research, citing issues with methodology, reproducibility, and the lack of a coherent theoretical framework.

Scientology: A Critical Perspective

This section includes a critical examination of Scientology and its founder, L. Ron Hubbard. An interview with Ron DeWolf, Hubbard's son, presents a harsh critique, alleging his father was driven by a desire for money, power, sex, and drugs, and that he practiced black magic. DeWolf claims Hubbard's original intention was to start a religion to gain wealth. The article details accusations of Scientology's aggressive tactics against critics, including lawsuits and harassment, and describes the organization's methods of control over its members through financial demands and psychological manipulation.

A response from Per-Olof Samuelsson, a former member, echoes these criticisms, describing the church's rigid discipline and the labeling of dissenters as 'SP' (suppressive persons). He highlights the financial pressures and manipulative practices used to extract money from members.

Another article discusses the relationship between money and religion, noting how various religious movements, including Scientology, Moonies, and Rajneesh's movement, have generated significant wealth. It questions the tax-exempt status of religious organizations and the difficulty in distinguishing genuine spiritual pursuits from financial gain.

Book Reviews

The issue concludes with a section on new book releases from Livskraft Förlag, featuring titles on spirituality, self-help, and esoteric subjects, including works by Ronald Beesley, K. L. Wikman, and Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, as well as a historical text on alchemy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, personal growth, and alternative ways of living. There is a clear interest in movements that challenge conventional societal norms, such as Stiftelsen Stjärnsund and the Findhorn community. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting both proponents and critics of various spiritual and paranormal phenomena, particularly in the discussions on parapsychology and Scientology. The magazine seems to favor critical analysis while acknowledging the potential for genuine, albeit unconventional, experiences and insights.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1986, focuses on the figure of Jesus and his teachings, contrasting them with established Christian theology and exploring parallels with other spiritual traditions, particularly Buddhism. The cover headline, "Vad kan vi lära av Jesus?" (What can we learn from Jesus?), sets the tone for an in-depth examination of Jesus as a wisdom teacher.

Jesus as an Ethical Teacher and Warner

The lead article, "Vad kan Jesus betyda för oss som inte tror på teologierna kring honom, utan bara ser honom som en vishetslärare?" (What can Jesus mean to us who don't believe in the theologies surrounding him, but only see him as a wisdom teacher?), by an unnamed author, analyzes Jesus' teachings based on the synoptic gospels. It posits that Jesus, like John the Baptist, was a prophet who preached righteousness and warned of divine wrath for the unrighteous. His core message emphasized love for God and fellow humans, urging followers to "go through the narrow gate" and be judged by their deeds. The author highlights Jesus' demanding ethical standards, such as the Golden Rule and turning the other cheek, stating that he was a "demanding ethical teacher."

Jesus Not "Christian"

A significant portion of the analysis argues that Jesus himself was not a "Christian" in the theological sense that developed after his death. The author distinguishes between Jesus' teachings on righteousness and the later theological constructs of Christianity, including the concepts of Jesus as the Son of God, virgin birth, resurrection, original sin, and salvation through faith alone. The article criticizes the modern clergy and church structures as being far removed from Jesus' call for self-denial and service. It asserts that Paul was the first "forger" who diluted Jesus' message of the necessity of loving deeds, replacing it with "faith only." The author notes that this interpretation, which emphasizes grace over works, has become popular, particularly in movements like Pentecostalism.

Influenced by His Time

The article acknowledges that Jesus' teachings were influenced by his time and context, including notions of the imminent arrival of God's kingdom and the concept of hell. However, it emphasizes the enduring ethical quality of his message, particularly the call to love one's neighbor and act with goodness, which is fundamental for human community. While acknowledging that many Christians act in accordance with Jesus' teachings, the author suggests that humanity's comfort and privilege in modern society prevent many from fully embracing his demanding ethic of taking up their cross.

The Nature of Jesus

Another section, "Jesus," by an unnamed author, discusses the difficulty in knowing the "real" Jesus. It posits that the Jesus of the New Testament and the Jesus of theology are different from the historical Jesus, who was likely a Jewish man obscured by myths. The author notes that the Gospel accounts are "faith testimonies" intended to persuade rather than provide historical facts. Different interpretations of Jesus exist across various denominations and theological systems, leading to the idea that "there are many Jesuses." The author concludes that the historical Jesus is not known and cannot be definitively depicted, but he was not a Christian, as Christianity as a theological system developed after his death.

Not Fully Perfect

An article titled "Ej fullkomlig" (Not perfect) by an unnamed author, discusses Jesus' teachings, noting that while he preached love, he never spoke of love for animals. It points out that his pronouncements often included threats of severe punishment and promises of great reward, which are seen as time-bound elements of his message. The author argues that the church's assertion of Jesus' divinity hinders spiritual development and that his teachings should be re-examined in light of modern thought and other wisdom traditions. The article criticizes Jesus' "reward morality," where good deeds are motivated by the promise of heavenly reward rather than by inherent compassion. It also highlights the demanding nature of Jesus' ethics, such as the call to turn the other cheek, and suggests that his teachings are often softened by later interpretations, particularly those of Paul.

The Historical Jesus

John Hick, a professor of systematic theology, is featured in an article titled "Vem var Jesus?" (Who was Jesus?). Hick argues that while Jesus likely existed, he did not intend to found Christianity, believing the end of the age was imminent. He states that the New Testament accounts are not straightforward reports but faith-based recollections. Hick emphasizes that Jesus was a historical figure, but our understanding is filtered through layers of Christian belief. He suggests that Jesus likely did not consider himself divine or the second person of the Trinity, and that the title "Son of God" was likely used metaphorically, as was common in ancient times for kings and leaders close to God. Hick believes that Christians need not accept later theological theories about Jesus' dual nature and can instead base their faith on his teachings about God's reality and love.

Jesus and Animals

The article "Tyckte Jesus om djur?" (Did Jesus care about animals?) questions Jesus' compassion towards animals, noting that the Bible does not record him speaking of love for them, unlike Buddha. It cites an instance where Jesus allowed demons to enter a herd of swine, causing them to drown, as evidence of a lack of concern for animals. However, it also references "The Gospel of Perfect Life," which contains a passage where Jesus admonishes a man for beating his overburdened donkey, showing a degree of compassion for animal suffering. The article contrasts this with the vegetarian gospel, which it calls a forgery, and advocates for a broader compassion that includes all living beings, aligning with principles found in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Buddhist Teachings: Hinayana, Mahayana, Vajrayana

"Hinayana, Mahayana, Vajrayana" features a lecture by His Eminence Tai Situ Rinpoche, discussing the different paths within Buddhism. He explains that Buddhism was founded by Buddha, who gradually developed to a state of enlightenment. The 84,000 methods of teaching were later crystallized into three main vehicles: Hinayana (the small vehicle), Mahayana (the great vehicle), and Vajrayana (the diamond vehicle). Hinayana focuses on mental and physical discipline, often through meditation and monastic vows, to achieve a collected mind. Mahayana emphasizes compassion and the development of Buddha-nature within all beings, motivating actions for the benefit of others. Vajrayana delves into the core of existence, exploring the nature of reality and the interconnectedness of all things, aiming to transform negative states into wisdom.

Personal Journeys and Practices

"Tre år, tre månader och tre dagar" (Three years, three months, and three days) is a personal account by Freya Drott about her experience in a three-year Buddhist retreat. She reflects on her past as a filmmaker and her search for spiritual guidance, inspired by the Tibetan yogi Milarepa. The article details the rigorous nature of the retreat and the importance of discipline and self-reflection.

Another section, "Ord och Toner" (Word and Tone), reviews various New Age music cassettes, including those by Sangit Sirus, Karunesh, Gino d'Auri, Pushkar, Frank Lorentzen, and Ralph Lundsten. The reviews discuss the musical styles and their potential for relaxation and meditation.

Book Reviews and Personal Ads

The "Bokrecensioner" (Book Reviews) section features reviews of books on consciousness and personal development, including works by Edward de Bono on conflict resolution, Hannes Lindemann on autogenic training, Theodore Isaac Rubin on decision-making, and Dorothy Rowe on depression. The reviews offer insights into the content and potential usefulness of these books.

The "Brev" (Letters) section includes correspondence on topics such as the nature of religious research, the challenges of parenting outside traditional daycare systems, and personal ads seeking friends and partners. There are also announcements for various workshops and courses related to self-awareness, meditation, and holistic health.

UFOs and Skepticism

"På UFO-fronten" (On the UFO front) by Håkan Blomqvist critically examines the official Swedish stance on UFOs, particularly from the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOA). Blomqvist criticizes the agency's "UFO expert," Sture Wickerts, for dismissing most sightings as natural phenomena or psychological issues, and for a lack of engagement with international research. The article highlights instances where Swedish military personnel have reported unexplained phenomena, contradicting FOA's dismissive attitude. Blomqvist also critiques the "Vetenskap och Folkbildning" (Science and Popular Education) association for its pseudoscientific approach to UFOs, arguing that they dismiss the phenomenon without proper investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the tension between established religious dogma and personal spiritual experience, advocating for a more direct and ethical approach to spirituality. It questions traditional interpretations of Jesus and Christianity, suggesting a return to his core ethical teachings. Buddhism is presented as a viable alternative or complement, with a focus on meditation, self-awareness, and compassion. The magazine also engages with contemporary phenomena like UFOs and New Age music, offering critical analysis and personal reflections. The editorial stance appears to favor critical inquiry, personal spiritual exploration, and a rejection of dogmatic or overly simplistic explanations, whether from religious institutions or skeptical scientific bodies.

Title: Kristus
Issue: 9
Volume: 1986
Date: September 1986
Publisher: Värmlandstryck i Karlstad AB
Country: Sweden
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of Kristus magazine, dated September 1986, presents a diverse range of articles exploring spiritual, philosophical, and potentially paranormal themes. The cover prominently features the title "Kristus" accompanied by an illustration that evokes religious or mystical imagery.

Main Articles and Themes

Jesus: Reinterpreted Teachings

The main article, titled "Kristus," offers a reinterpretation of Jesus' teachings. The author, Åsa Freij, states that she found the Jesus presented in the first three Gospels unappealing, and the fourth Gospel historically questionable due to its lengthy dialogues. She attempts to view "the man from Nazareth" more positively, focusing on his pure love doctrine and suggesting that aspects like threats of hell are products of his time and environment, which can be disregarded. The article posits that Jesus, like all humans, was a product of his time and environment, but that other parts of his teachings continue to illuminate our minds.

The Vastness of the Universe and Reality

An article titled "Avstånden i universum" (The Distances in the Universe) questions humanity's current understanding of reality. It challenges the notion that distances in the universe are insurmountable for spacecraft, suggesting that our knowledge might be incomplete. The author ponders whether reality is fundamentally different from our perception and entertains the possibility of instantaneous travel, where one could dematerialize in one location and rematerialize in another, questioning who can definitively prove such a feat is impossible.

Critiques of Scientology

Several short pieces address Scientology and its founder, L. Ron Hubbard. One section notes that Hubbard's son is critical of the organization. A quote attributed to Ron De Wolf, son of L. Ron Hubbard, is featured, describing religious cults, including Scientology, as dangerous and destructive for discouraging independent thought. Another piece mentions Per-Olof Samuelsson's reply to Bengt Friberg regarding Scientology from the perspective of a former Scientologist, and Torgny Salén also comments on the "lousy Scientology church" as a former member.

Other Spiritual and Esoteric Topics

Other articles touch upon various spiritual and esoteric subjects:

• Stiftelsen Stjärnsund: Åsa Freij writes about this foundation, described as a "Findhorn in Sweden."
• Summit Lighthouse: A brief mention notes that Elizabeth Clare Prophet is being criticized in a "men's magazine."
• Money and Religion: Bertil Falk discusses the relationship between money and religion.
• Freya and Knud's Journey: Freya Drott writes about Freya and Knud's three-year journey, suggesting they went to a Buddhist monastery at the TORA Institute.
• Public Foolishness: Håkan Blomqvist comments on "Public Foolishness and other Sture Wickerts gets criticized."
• Words and Tones: Nils-Olof Jacobson contributes an article on "Words and Tones."
• Parapsychology: Göran Brusewitz and Jens Tellefsen engage in a debate on "The Psi Question," continuing a discussion with Sven Ove Hansson. A related section is titled "Parapsychology is Criticized."
• Who was Jesus?: This section presents Professor Hicks' opinion on Jesus.
• Buddhism: His Eminence Tai Situ Rinpoche discusses "Hinayana, Mahayana, Vajrayana."

Editorial Information and Recurring Themes

The magazine is identified as "SÖKAREN" (The Seeker), an independent journal for worldview issues. The editor and publisher is Sven Magnusson, with the editorial address in Karlstad, Sweden. Subscription prices and bank details are provided. The issue is printed by Värmlandstryck in Karlstad AB in 1986.

Recurring themes in this issue include critical examinations of religious movements and their founders, reinterpretations of religious figures like Jesus, and explorations of consciousness, the universe, and the nature of reality. There is a clear interest in alternative spiritualities and a critical stance towards established religious organizations, particularly Scientology.