Sokaren - 1990 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 3
Volume: 27
Year: 1990
Subtitle: Oberoende tidskrift för livssynsfrågor (Independent journal for life philosophy issues)

This issue of Sökaren delves into various aspects of spirituality, self-development, and alternative perspectives on life, health, and business. The cover prominently features philosopher Paul Brunton, with a quote from his "The Notebooks of Paul Brunton" emphasizing inner grounding.

Möte med Paul Brunton (An Encounter with Paul Brunton)

By Anna Bornstein

Anna Bornstein recounts her profound first encounter with Paul Brunton in 1971, describing it as a meeting outside of time that led to an "upholding of personal limitations" and an immersion into a deeper existence. She highlights Brunton's ability to convey a sense of boundless peace and stillness. Bornstein, who translated Brunton's works into Swedish, shares her experiences over ten years of visiting him. She emphasizes that while Brunton had personal characteristics like anyone else, his essence was that of an "open window" to the timeless and intangible. Brunton's daily practice involved writing "seed thoughts" which were categorized into twenty-eight sections. His major posthumously published work, "The Notebooks of Paul Brunton," is described as the most comprehensive account of the spiritual quest available in modern Western language. Brunton's philosophy bridges the eternal, unchanging aspect of reality with the ever-changing world of senses, positing that human consciousness connects these two realms. He proposed two paths for seekers: meditation and contemplation to turn inward and connect with the eternal source, and then returning to the world to let it be illuminated by this inner light. This allows one to live in the world while remaining anchored in a reality beyond its changes. Bornstein illustrates this with an anecdote of Brunton pointing out the subtle nature of reality, describing the world as a "luminous sphere woven from thought-stuff" in the creator's consciousness.

"Att vilja det goda" – tema för etiksträvande journalister vid seminarium på Sigtunastiftelsen ("To Want the Good" – Theme for Ethics-Striving Journalists at a Seminar at Sigtunastiftelsen)

This section reports on a seminar organized by "Nätverket för god journalistik" (The Network for Good Journalism) at Sigtunastiftelsen. The seminar focused on "wanting the good" and explored spiritual-psychological-philosophical themes aimed at self-insight, ethics, and understanding inner reality. The program included meditation, guided fantasies, and group activities. Docent in Psychology, Maj-Britt Lindahl, explained the concept of a true, role-free self and how societal communication is often hindered by fear and pre-conceived notions. Gestalt therapist Anna-Karin Elfstrand led exercises on managing stress and emotions. A panel discussion featured journalists discussing personal experiences with ethics and balancing conscience with other interests. The seminar's entertainment included a one-person play based on Ingvar Bratt's book "Mot rädslan" (Against Fear), about whistleblowing on arms smuggling. Hans Brattberg summarized the seminar's aim: to understand that "the good is the same as the wise," not naive or self-sacrificing, and that ethical rules depend on whether journalists prioritize understanding and connection over sensationalism and self-promotion.

"Vad vill du egentligen?" och "Naturen gör halva jobbet!" – Intervju med Jürgen Sass, terapeut och mångsysslare ("What Do You Really Want?" and "Nature Does Half the Job!" – Interview with Jürgen Sass, Therapist and Multitalented Person)

By Åsa Freij

This interview with Jürgen Sass, a therapist and multifaceted individual, explores his unique approach to personal development. Sass, who also works in architecture, design, and sailing, emphasizes the role of nature in his therapeutic work, stating "nature does half the job." He conducts personal development courses often combined with wilderness experiences like mountain hikes. Sass believes that true self-discovery and healing occur in everyday reality, though concentrated therapeutic sessions can be necessary. He stresses that the primary goal of a therapist is not to impose solutions but to guide clients to discover their own inner truth. Sass's approach is described as result-oriented, focusing on the present and future rather than dwelling on the past. He highlights the importance of "love" as a fundamental principle for personal growth and problem-solving, distinguishing it from romantic or erotic love. He also touches upon the concept of the "sixth, higher sense" taking over from the five senses, which will transform businesses from profit-driven entities to platforms for human development.

Psyket styr kroppen (The Psyche Controls the Body)

Jürgen Sass discusses the connection between psychological states and physical health, suggesting that unaddressed psychological issues can manifest as physical ailments, such as vision problems. He views illnesses as signals that something is wrong, urging people to listen to these signals rather than just seeking to eliminate symptoms. Common issues he helps clients with include relationship difficulties, lack of life satisfaction, depression, and anxiety.

Klientens minnesanteckningar av samtal med Jürgen Sass (Client's Memory Notes from a Conversation with Jürgen Sass)

This is a poetic reflection from a client's perspective, capturing the struggle with self-awareness, fear of vulnerability, and the process of letting go of pretense to find one's true self, inspired by a conversation with Jürgen Sass.

Genombrott för "fri energi"? (Breakthrough for "Free Energy"?)

By Nils-Olof Jacobson

This article discusses the emerging field of "free energy," focusing on a "Water Fuel Cell" technology presented by Stanley A. Meyer. The technology reportedly uses water and a high-voltage field to create hydrogen and oxygen gas, which can then be used as a fuel source. The article mentions a Volkswagen modified to run on this system, achieving remarkable fuel efficiency. It also touches upon the "Testatika" machine from Methernitha, which is kept secret until humanity is deemed morally ready. The author expresses cautious optimism, noting past "breakthroughs" that have since faded into silence. Information on Meyer's technology is available from his company, though manufacturing is restricted.

Rolf Österberg: Ett nytt slags företag med ett nytt sätt att tänka (Rolf Österberg: A New Kind of Business with a New Way of Thinking)

In this article, Rolf Österberg argues that the current economic system is "anti-economic," based on fear and power, and is nearing collapse. He proposes a new economic model driven by a higher consciousness, emphasizing balance between logic and emotion, and intuition. Businesses, in this new paradigm, will serve as platforms for human development rather than solely focusing on profit. Key points include:

1. The primary purpose of business is human/personal development, with profit as a byproduct.
2. The leader's role shifts from ordering to coordinating a self-organizing system.
3. A non-hierarchical system empowers individuals to solve problems at their source.
4. Goals are replaced by a shared vision, with the journey itself being the aim.
5. Generated profit should be reinvested into the business to fuel development.
6. Businesses should focus on producing what they believe in, considering the ethical implications and the well-being of all involved.

Österberg suggests creating networks of like-minded individuals and businesses to foster this new way of thinking.

Reportage: Den stående gurun – En helig man i Murthal (Reportage: The Standing Guru – A Holy Man in Murthal)

By Örjan Björkhem

This reportage describes an encounter with Baba Rajinder Nath, a sadhu in Murthal, India, who has been standing for six years and plans to continue for six more. The author initially approaches the story with a journalistic intent, seeking a "scoop." He describes the initial encounter with the sadhu and other holy men at the temple, noting the presence of hashish. A subsequent visit reveals a different atmosphere, with people drawn to the temple despite its unassuming appearance. The article touches upon the concept of obedience in Indian spirituality, the sadhu's refusal to explain his vow, and the community's reverence for the holy place. The author observes that the sadhu's presence has led to the prohibition of meat and alcohol in the vicinity. He notes the sadhu's "ironic Christ-like smile" and the palpable sense of spirituality and peace he emanates, suggesting that true spirituality and religiosity are often found in unexpected places.

Bokrecension: Are Waerland – Vision och illusion (Book Review: Are Waerland – Vision and Illusion)

This is a review of Rolf Ahlzén's book about Are Waerland, a prominent figure in the Swedish vegetarian health movement. The reviewer acknowledges Waerland's pioneering role and his emphasis on nature's healing power and the primacy of the mind over matter. Ahlzén's book is described as an objective and nuanced portrayal, exploring Waerland's historical context, his health philosophy, and his views on illness and diet. The review notes the similarities between Waerland's ideas and New Age concepts. It also discusses Ahlzén's critical examination of Waerland's potential "contempt for weakness" and compares Waerland's foresight with the prevailing medical views of his time. The reviewer concludes that Waerland was largely correct in his health principles, even when initially dismissed by the medical establishment.

Solsõkehem – Hälso & Kursgård med själen i centrum (Sun-Seeking Home – Health & Course Center with the Soul at the Center)

This section lists upcoming courses and retreats at Solsõkehem, a health and course center. Offerings include workshops on "The Third Ear" (music's impact on well-being), "Just Being Week," "Life's Game" (a transformation game), "Life Insight" (based on Martinus' philosophy), and "From Man and Woman to Human" (exploring masculinity and femininity). A "Game of Transformation" retreat with John Talbot from Findhorn is also advertised. The center emphasizes a personal atmosphere and small group settings.

Other Sections:

• SUBTEL BODY BALANCING – Bio-Fält energianalys: An announcement for a course by Lutie Larsen on bio-field energy analysis, focusing on balancing energies in plants, animals, and humans, and creating homeopathic remedies.
• SJÄLSPEGELMETODEN (Soul Mirror Method): An introduction to Denny Johnsson's method for identifying genetic behavioral patterns through eye structure. It mentions upcoming weeks and courses in Sweden.
• VEDISK HEALING (Vedic Healing): An advertisement for healing services based on Vedic techniques.
• DRÖMVECKA (Dream Week): A course on dream interpretation and self-knowledge with Louise Minerva Frostegren.
• Böcker som beRIKar ditt liv! (Books that Enrich Your Life!): Advertisements for books like "Tänk rikt – bli rik! Pengaglädje" (Think Rich – Become Rich! Money Joy) by Jerry Gillies and "Andningen som helande kraft" (Breathing as a Healing Force) by Gunnel Minett.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic and spiritual approach to life, emphasizing inner development, self-awareness, and the interconnectedness of all things. There is a strong focus on alternative health practices, meditation, and philosophical inquiry. The editorial stance appears to be open to new ideas and technologies, such as free energy, and critical of materialistic or purely profit-driven perspectives. The articles encourage readers to seek deeper meaning, cultivate inner peace, and live in harmony with nature and themselves. The issue highlights the importance of ethical considerations in both personal lives and professional spheres, including journalism and business.

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated March 1990 (nr 3, volume 1990), is a Swedish publication focusing on spiritual, alternative, and paranormal topics. The cover story, "I Krishnarörelsen" (In the Krishnar Movement), features an interview with Lotta Danielson, who shares her personal experiences within the movement.

Articles and Features

I Krishnarörelsen

Lotta Danielson recounts her four years as a member of the Krishnarörelsen, describing the intense group dynamics, the strict lifestyle, and her eventual departure. She details the process of being "deprogrammed" and her subsequent efforts to help others leave the movement. Danielson highlights the challenges of maintaining individuality within the group and the emotional toll it took.

Vad är personlighet? (What is Personality?)

Alf Ahlberg discusses the concept of personality in the modern age, lamenting the loss of individuality and the rise of conformity due to mass media. He argues that true personality stems from the health of the soul and a connection between body and soul, emphasizing the importance of living in the present moment and embracing life's experiences.

Islam

Björn Ericsson provides an overview of Islam, its origins with the Prophet Muhammed, and its core tenets. He touches upon the historical context of Islam, its spread, and the divisions within the faith (Sunni and Shia). The article also discusses Islamic practices like prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage, as well as the challenges faced by Muslims in Western societies.

UFOs and Paranormal Phenomena

Several articles delve into UFOs and related phenomena:

• Dialog med universum (Dialogue with the Universe): A report from an international UFO conference in Frankfurt, Germany. It features accounts from speakers like Miko, Virgil Armstrong (former CIA intelligence officer), Sergej Bulantsev (TASS correspondent), Chris Griscom (reincarnation therapist), and Dr. Frank Alper (UFO channeler), discussing alien contact, crashed UFOs, and the need for humanity to help itself.
• Reflexioner om UFO-fall (Reflections on UFO Cases): David M. Jacobs, a historian specializing in UFOs, discusses the phenomenon of alien abductions. He presents research suggesting that abductions have profound and often damaging psychological and physical effects on individuals, challenging the "psychosocial hypothesis" and emphasizing the physical reality of these encounters.
• ESP och jordens geomagnetiska aktivitet? (ESP and Earth's Geomagnetic Activity?): This piece explores research by Michael Persinger and Stanley Krippner suggesting a correlation between low geomagnetic activity and the effectiveness of ESP.
• Telepati finns (Telepathy Exists): An article discussing research that provides evidence for the existence of telepathy, with a particular focus on studies involving mothers and infants.

Alternative Healing and Spirituality

• Homeopatisk medicin verksam (Homeopathic Medicine Active): This article reviews studies supporting the efficacy of homeopathic medicine, citing research published in the British Medical Journal.
• Strån till stacken (A Straw to the Stack): This section highlights various individuals and initiatives contributing to the New Age movement, including musicians, therapists, and publishers of spiritual literature.
• Terapimagneter AB, Solsökehem, Stjärnsund, Strandgården, Esalen, Institut Santa Monica, Pan, Center för Hälsa och Helhet: These are brief descriptions of various centers and organizations offering alternative healing, spiritual retreats, and personal development programs.
• Ivan Troëng: MAGNETTERAPINS GRUNDER (Ivan Troëng: Fundamentals of Magnet Therapy): A mention of a book explaining the principles and applications of magnet therapy.
• Vad är Rosenkorset? (What is the Rosicrucian Order?): Information about the Lectorium Rosicrucianum, an organization offering a path to self-knowledge and spiritual awakening.
• Zenbuddhism: A review of Toni Packer's book "Seendet som inte vet" (Seeing That Does Not Know), which offers a contemplative approach to Zen Buddhism.

Other Sections

• Kort och gott (Short and Sweet): A collection of brief news items and announcements, including information on various spiritual and self-help organizations and publications.
• Bokrecensioner (Book Reviews): Reviews of books on topics such as Krishnarörelsen, mysticism, and humanism.
• Debatt (Debate): Dan Landgré responds to Håkan Blomqvist's article on anthroposophy, defending the concept of mysticism and the possibility of a unified worldview derived from mystical experiences.
• Mins tidigare liv! (Remember Your Past Lives!): An advertisement for a service offering past-life regression.
• Trädens planet (Planet of Trees): A description of a book about Earth from an alien perspective.
• Babajis Kriya Yoga: Information about yoga classes.
• Att dra in Gud i världen (Bringing God into the World): A review of Martin Buber's book "Människans väg" (The Way of Man), which explores Chassidic philosophy and the importance of integrating spirituality into daily life.
• Att resa är att dö och växa (To Travel is to Die and Grow): A review of Per Ragnar's diary, "Min livsscen" (My Life Scene), which reflects on his life as an actor, activist, and advocate for holistic living.
• Bobs nya värld (Bob's New World): A review of Bob Lind's book, which describes his experiences with channeling an entity named "Orrvijnd."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes themes of personal transformation, spiritual exploration, and the search for deeper meaning. There is a strong interest in alternative lifestyles, healing methods, and paranormal phenomena, including UFOs and telepathy. The editorial stance appears to be open to diverse spiritual paths and critical inquiry, as evidenced by the inclusion of both personal testimonies and analytical reviews. The magazine seems to encourage readers to question conventional norms and explore their own inner potential.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: Number 3
Year: 1990
Publisher: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Cover Headline: Vår gemensamma botten (Our Common Bottom)

Main Article: Vår gemensamma botten

The central theme of this issue revolves around the concept of a "common bottom" or shared essence that connects all beings and the world. The article, seemingly inspired by the text on the cover, presents a monistic view where everything is a manifestation of a single, fundamental substance, often referred to as God or the universal consciousness.

The author explains that the "bottom" of an individual is the same as the "bottom" of everything else. This means that when one observes anything in the world, they are, in essence, observing themselves. The core of one's being, behind thoughts, feelings, and the physical body, is the same as the foundation of the world. This leads to the profound realization: "Thou art that, that thou art." (Du är det, det du är).

This understanding forms the basis for a powerful ethic. If everyone is fundamentally the same, then harming another is akin to harming oneself. The article quotes "God dwells within you as you," emphasizing the divine presence within each individual and the interconnectedness of all. The imperative "See God in Each Other" is presented as a direct consequence of this philosophy, suggesting that one's neighbor is simply oneself in a different form.

The article refutes the idea that the universe and its contents are merely products of "chance and necessity" or random natural laws. Instead, it posits that the intelligent, conscious, and creative ground of the world, the universal consciousness, is responsible for creation. The universe is described as a living, intelligent, conscious, and creative being.

The author contrasts this with the scientific perspective that might suggest that given infinite time, anything could arise by chance, using the analogy of monkeys typing Shakespeare's works. However, the article argues that the creation of the universe is not a matter of random chance but a deliberate act of an intelligent, fundamental consciousness.

Table of Contents Highlights

The issue features a diverse range of articles and interviews, reflecting the magazine's focus on spirituality, philosophy, and the unexplained:

• Anna Bornstein: Discusses a meeting with Paul Brunton.
• Åsa Freij: Explores how journalists can improve their craft and offers "Kort och gott" (Short and sweet) insights.
• Åsa Freij: Interviews Jürgen Sass, a therapist and multi-talented individual.
• Nils-Olof Jacobson: Reports on a breakthrough in "free energy."
• Rolf Österberg: Introduces a new type of enterprise with a novel way of thinking.
• SM: Features Are Waerland.
• Örjan Björkhem: Presents "Den stående gurun" (The standing guru) and a piece titled "Provokation."
• Lotta Danielson: Writes about being "I Krishnarörelsen" (In the Hare Krishna movement).
• Alf Ahlberg: Ponders "Vad är personlighet?" (What is personality?).
• Björn Ericsson: Writes "Uti profeternas namn!" (In the name of the prophets!).
• Marie Ström: Discusses "Dialog med universum" (Dialogue with the universe).
• Jerome Clark: Offers "Reflexioner om UFO-fall" (Reflections on UFO cases).
• Dan Landgré: Responds to Håkan Blomqvist and discusses mysticism.
• The issue also includes a section on a "Ny tidskrift" (New magazine) and "Bokrecensioner" (Book reviews).

Editorial and Publication Details

Editor and Publisher: Sven Magnusson
Address: Östra Kanalgatan 18, 652 20 Karlstad, Sweden
Telephone: 054-11 16 89
Subscription Prices: Full year (8 issues) 195 SEK; Half-year 105 SEK.
Payment Methods: Postgiro: 706047-8; Bankgiro: 372-8128.
Advertising Rates: Include VAT. Full page: 1,300 SEK; Half page: 750 SEK; Small ads: 25 SEK per column-cm (minimum 75 SEK).
Printing: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB, Lund, 1990.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Sökaren positions itself as an "independent magazine for life-view issues." The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring philosophical, spiritual, and unconventional topics, including Eastern philosophies (Vedanta, Krishna Consciousness), parapsychology, UFO phenomena, and alternative approaches to business and energy. The emphasis on a "common bottom" and interconnectedness suggests a leaning towards holistic and monistic worldviews, promoting an ethic of compassion and understanding based on the recognition of shared existence. The inclusion of UFO case reflections indicates an interest in unexplained phenomena, treated with a reflective rather than sensationalist approach.