Sokaren - 1991 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 3
Volume: ÅRGÅNG 28
Date: 1991
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: Dan Andersson, en sökare och mystiker.

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish independent journal for life-view questions, delves into themes of mysticism, spirituality, personal development, and alternative practices.

Articles and Features

Dan Andersson: A Seeker and Mystic

The issue features an in-depth look at the Swedish poet Dan Andersson, exploring his life and work through the lens of mysticism and his search for meaning beyond the material world. Literary researcher Anne-Marie Odstedt is cited, calling one of his poems "the most religious poem in the Swedish language." The article discusses various scholarly interpretations of Andersson's religious beliefs, noting disagreements among researchers regarding whether he leaned towards Christianity, Indian philosophy, or agnosticism. It highlights his engagement with Indian philosophy, particularly the Bhagavad Gita, and his exploration of mystical traditions. The article critiques academic research that attempts to force Andersson's complex views into rigid theoretical frameworks, suggesting that researchers often find what they are looking for. It emphasizes that Andersson's work reflects a dualistic worldview, a common theme in Christian and Indian mysticism, and his search for a higher, less anthropomorphic concept of God.

The Science of Dowsing

An article titled "Att gå med slagruta" (To Dowse) by Dan Mattsson explores the practice of dowsing. It debunks the notion of an external force guiding the dowsing rod, attributing the movement to involuntary muscle reactions in the dowser's arms and hands, which are not consciously controlled. The article references historical perspectives, including those of Jesuit pastor Athanasius Kircher and the French Academy of Sciences, which pointed to psychological influences and involuntary muscle movements. It discusses various dowsing tools, such as the traditional forked branch and modern L-rods, explaining how they amplify subtle physical signals. The piece cites scientific studies, including research from Utah State University and a German study by Professors Hans-Dieter Betz and Herbert König, which suggest that dowsing reactions are not random and can occur with high accuracy in specific locations, indicating a reaction to unknown stimuli.

Holistiskt Center: A Meeting Place for Seekers

This reportage introduces "Holistiskt Center" in Gothenburg, founded by Yvonne Mårtensson in 1983. The center aims to be a forum for existential questions and a meeting place for individuals seeking community beyond societal norms. Mårtensson, a gymnastics director, psychologist, and environmental advocate, envisioned a space where people could openly discuss life views, spirituality, and deeper life values. The center offers a diverse range of services, including psychotherapy (using gestalt exercises and visualization), alternative therapies (like healing massage, zone therapy, and acupuncture), and private sessions with guest lecturers on subjects such as Ayurveda, astrology, and numerology. Holistiskt Center also hosts lectures and courses, with a broad perspective on life philosophy, psychology, and spirituality. The article notes the growing competition in Gothenburg for similar services and Mårtensson's desire for collaboration rather than direct competition.

Interview with Lars-Eric Uneståhl

An interview with Lars-Eric Uneståhl, rector of Ledarhögskolan in Örebro, focuses on his philosophy of personal development, mental training, and living in the present moment. Uneståhl describes himself as unconventional, believing that "impossible" is a term for the past. He discusses his upbringing in a religious home, which fostered an early understanding of the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. He emphasizes that meaning in life is self-created, driven by the desire to contribute to others and improve the world. Uneståhl differentiates between infatuation and love, suggesting that while infatuation can be a temporary, albeit useful, state, love is a deeper connection. He advocates for seeing the advantages in others and fostering positive relationships based on acceptance and constructive change. He also touches upon the concept of "constructive emotions," suggesting that anger can be channeled positively. Uneståhl believes in living in illusions, defining a "better" reality as one that helps an individual function well and feel good, rather than one that is objectively true or false.

Other Features

• "Andas för att må bra!" (Breathe to Feel Well!): This section details the experience of Anitha Magnusson with "frigörande andning" (liberating breathing), a technique involving deep, continuous breathing. She describes her initial skepticism and subsequent positive experience, including emotional release and a sense of inner peace. The practice is led by Rigmor Karlsson and Björn Jungeröd.
• Book Reviews: The issue includes reviews of books such as Kenneth Ring's "Livet nära döden" (Life Near Death), which explores the positive personality development following near-death experiences, and "Där blott andar vandrar" (Where Only Spirits Wander) by an unnamed author, detailing conscious soul journeys.
• "Vad är Rosenkorset?" (What is the Rosicrucian Order?): A brief explanation of Lectorium Rosicrucianum, the Golden Rosicrucian Order, describing its teachings on universal liberation and self-transformation.
• Replik (Reply): A letter from Bjarne Håkansson responding to an article by Håkan Blomqvist concerning Sten Lindgren and alleged contact with extraterrestrials. Håkansson defends Lindgren and criticizes Blomqvist's article for its tone and alleged factual inaccuracies.
• Reportage on Lena Kristina Tuulses: This feature highlights Lena Kristina Tuulses and her "Wäxthuset" (Greenhouse) initiative, which aims to create alternative communities based on positive future visions, healthy living, and spiritual connection. She draws inspiration from figures like Gandhi and Jesus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic and spiritual approach to life, encouraging personal growth, self-discovery, and a deeper connection with oneself and the world. There is an emphasis on alternative perspectives, questioning conventional societal norms, and exploring the mind-body connection. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and supportive of individuals seeking meaning and well-being through various spiritual and psychological practices. The magazine actively features individuals and organizations dedicated to these pursuits, fostering a sense of community among like-minded seekers.

This issue of 'UFO' magazine, dated 1991, delves into a variety of topics including relaxation techniques, critical analyses of major religions from a humanist perspective, and detailed accounts of UFO abductions. The magazine features articles by Bengt Petersen, Siwert Aldenryd, Gunnar Ståldal, and Budd Hopkins, among others, covering themes of self-development, spirituality, and unexplained phenomena.

Relaxation and Self-Development

Bengt Petersen's article, "Avslappning - njut av livet" (Relaxation - Enjoy Life), posits that relaxation is a natural and simple skill that people often overcomplicate. He argues that the key to relaxation is to let go of control and surrender to one's innate wisdom, rather than trying too hard. Petersen suggests that learning relaxation can be achieved through courses or self-practice, and that it is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle, complementing exercise and good nutrition. He emphasizes that stress and tension are signals that the body has been pushed too far, and that learning to listen to these signals is crucial for well-being.

Religious Figures Through a Humanist Lens

Siwert Aldenryd, in "En Messias premisser: En historisk rekonstruktion, grundad på många pusselbitar" (A Messiah's Premises: A Historical Reconstruction Based on Many Puzzle Pieces), critically examines Jesus, Buddha, and Muhammad from a humanist standpoint. He argues that while these figures are revered, their teachings and actions should be evaluated based on humanist principles of wisdom and virtue. Aldenryd suggests that the New Testament's portrayal of Jesus is often filtered through later theological interpretations, and explores potential connections between Jesus' teachings and the Essene sect. He contrasts the humanist emphasis on critical thinking with religious dogma, questioning the unquestioning acceptance of religious doctrines.

Gunnar Ståldal's article, "Buddha, Jesus och Muhammed bedömda utifrån humanismens ideal" (Buddha, Jesus and Muhammad Assessed According to Humanist Ideals), continues this critical analysis. Ståldal evaluates the founders of the three major religions based on humanist principles of independent thought and humanity. He finds that while all three figures espoused basic moral tenets like not stealing or killing, their motivations and methods differed significantly. Ståldal highlights Buddha's emphasis on personal development and ethical conduct for its own sake, contrasting it with religious motivations. He critically examines the harshness and exclusivity present in some of Jesus' teachings, particularly in the New Testament, and notes the dogmatic and often intolerant nature of Islamic law as dictated by the Quran.

UFO Abductions and Alien Encounters

Budd Hopkins, a prominent UFO researcher, contributes an article titled "Utomjordiska besökare" (Extraterrestrial Visitors), which details several cases of alleged UFO abductions. Hopkins shares personal accounts from individuals who describe encounters with alien beings, often characterized as small, grey-skinned with large heads. These accounts frequently involve medical examinations, implantation of devices, and unexplained physical marks or pregnancies. Hopkins emphasizes the emotional distress and confusion experienced by abductees and suggests that these experiences may be part of a systematic alien breeding program. He recounts specific cases, including those of Kathie Davis, Andrea, and Susan Williams, highlighting the recurring patterns and physical evidence associated with these encounters.

Civil Disobedience and Esotericism

An article on "Civil olydnad" (Civil Disobedience) by Anders Gernandt, based on Per Herngren's work, defines civil disobedience as an open, non-violent, and illegal action aimed at societal change. The article outlines criteria for such actions and discusses their personal consequences for participants.

Other sections include book reviews, personal ads, and information about esoteric organizations and publications. The magazine also features an advertisement for "VEGETAR," a vegetarian magazine, and information on meditation courses and esoteric literature from "pyramid energy."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a critical and analytical approach to spirituality, religion, and unexplained phenomena. There is a strong emphasis on humanism, critical thinking, and self-development as alternatives or complements to traditional religious beliefs. The publication appears to be skeptical of unsubstantiated claims but open to exploring controversial topics like UFOs and alternative therapies. The editorial stance encourages readers to question, investigate, and form their own conclusions, rather than blindly accepting dogma. The recurring theme is the exploration of the unknown and the human quest for meaning, often through a lens of critical inquiry and personal experience.

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: Nr 3, 1991
Publisher: Wallin & Dalholm Boktr AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Full year (8 issues) 220:-, Half year 120:-

Main Article: Religionernas mångfald (The Diversity of Religions)

The central article of this issue, written by Sven Magnusson, explores the vast and often bewildering array of religions and belief systems in the world. Magnusson begins by citing a book that estimates around 2,000 religions, including numerous small groups. He notes the common human tendency to believe one's own version of truth is the only correct one, leading to a dismissal of other beliefs.

Magnusson suggests that a skeptical attitude might seem natural when faced with such diversity. He posits that the conviction of believers often stems from a limited understanding of the world's religions, leading them to immerse themselves in their own chosen worldview and find it sufficient. While acknowledging the personal fulfillment many find in their faith, he questions the human capacity to fully grasp the universe's vastness and the intricacies of life.

He states that even the most skeptical individuals likely hold some form of conviction, perhaps a negative belief in things like God or an afterlife. Magnusson shares his own thoughts on how everything connects, finding Vedanta philosophy and unity mysticism particularly interesting. However, he clarifies that these are personal speculations and not absolute truths, acknowledging that other perspectives might also hold partial truths.

Ultimately, Magnusson refrains from declaring any religion incorrect, asserting that individuals have the right to explore their own spiritual paths and find meaning in their experiences. He concludes that part of life's allure can be found in venturing to the furthest extremes of belief.

Other Articles and Features:

• Att gå med slagruta (Walking with a Dowsing Rod) by Dan Mattsson: Explores the practice of dowsing.
• Holistiskt center – mötesplats för sökare (Holistic Center – Meeting Place for Seekers) by Lise-Lotte Elman: Discusses the role and function of holistic centers.
• Intervju med Lars-Eric Uneståhl (Interview with Lars-Eric Uneståhl) by Kenth Agurell: An interview with Lars-Eric Uneståhl.
• Mystikern Dan Andersson (The Mystic Dan Andersson) by Bengt Petersen: A look at the mystical aspects of Dan Andersson.
• Håkan Blomqvist och rymdbröderna (Håkan Blomqvist and the Space Brothers) by Bjarne Håkansson: Features Håkan Blomqvist and his experiences with alleged extraterrestrial beings.
• Lena Kristina Tuulses wäxthusidé (Lena Kristina Tuulses Greenhouse Idea) by Mona Sundquist: Details an idea related to greenhouses by Lena Kristina Tuulses.
• Andas för att må bra! (Breathe to Feel Good!) by Anitha Magnusson: Offers advice on breathing techniques for well-being.
• Avslappning – njut av livet (Relaxation – Enjoy Life) by Bengt Petersen: Focuses on relaxation and enjoying life.
• En Messias premisser (A Messiah's Premises) by Siwert Aldenryd: Examines the premises of a messiah figure.
• Buddha, Jesus och Muhammed bedömda utifrån humanismens ideal (Buddha, Jesus and Muhammad Assessed According to Humanistic Ideals) by Gunnar Ståldal: A comparative study of these religious figures through a humanistic lens.
• Utomjordiska besökare (Extraterrestrial Visitors) by Budd Hopkins: Discusses encounters with extraterrestrial beings.

Editorial Information:

The magazine is described as an independent journal for life philosophy issues. The editor and publisher is Sven Magnusson, located at Östra Kanalgatan 18, 65220 Karlstad. Contact information includes a phone number (054-11 16 89), Postgiro (706047-8), and Bankgiro (372-8128). Advertising prices are also listed, with a full page costing 1,300:-, a half page 750:-, and small ads at 25:- per column-cm (minimum 75:-).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance:

This issue of Sökaren demonstrates a clear interest in exploring diverse spiritual, philosophical, and belief systems, ranging from traditional religions to more contemporary topics like holistic health and ufology. The editorial stance, as exemplified by Sven Magnusson's main article, appears to be one of open inquiry and a non-judgmental approach to different worldviews. While acknowledging the personal search for truth and meaning, the magazine seems to encourage critical thinking and an awareness of the vastness of human experience and knowledge, without definitively endorsing any single belief system. The inclusion of articles on relaxation, breathing, and comparative religion suggests a focus on personal well-being and understanding across different traditions.