Sokaren - 1991 No 08

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: NR 8
Volume: 1991 ÅRGÅNG 28
Date: 1991
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Price: 30:00 INKL. MOMS

This issue of Sökaren, an independent journal for life-view issues, features a cover story on author Carl-Erik af Geijerstam and explores themes of self-development, spirituality, parapsychology, and indigenous wisdom.

Articles

The Art of Surrender

This reportage by Åsa Freij details a workshop on inner personal development led by Sandy Levey, a self-proclaimed "magic lady." The workshop focuses on the concept of 'surrender,' which Freij interprets as a positive act of letting go of fear and struggle to embrace the present moment. Levey's approach is described as insightful, with her ability to see and affirm positive qualities in participants. The article recounts Freij's personal experience attending an introductory evening and a subsequent workshop in Skåne, highlighting Levey's encouraging words and the profound impact they had. The workshop aims to help participants experience their higher selves and achieve a state of 'surrender.' Freij also touches upon the high cost of such workshops and the philosophical implications of Sandy's teachings, particularly regarding the nature of reality and thought.

Poltergeist Activity at Lars O.'s House

Nils-Olof Jacobson documents an extensive investigation into alleged poltergeist phenomena at the home of Lars O. over two nights in August 1991. The report meticulously lists 83 separate incidents, detailing the time, location within the house, and the object involved. These incidents include objects such as knives, clocks, glasses, bricks, brushes, and even a portable heater moving, falling, or appearing seemingly on their own. Jacobson categorizes the events based on his proximity to Lars O. and the visibility of any potential explanation, concluding that the phenomena appear to be genuine and not the result of trickery. The detailed log suggests a persistent and active poltergeist presence, with objects appearing in unexpected places or moving with considerable force.

Psi, Worldview Problems, and Mental Structures

Gunnar Matti discusses the challenges faced by parapsychology within the scientific community. He argues that the prevailing scientific worldview, rooted in mechanistic and materialistic principles, struggles to accommodate paranormal phenomena. Matti draws on Thomas S. Kuhn's theories of scientific revolutions to explain how deeply ingrained 'mental structures' and 'worldview problems' create resistance to new paradigms. He suggests that scientists often operate with unstated metaphysical assumptions that shape their research and interpretations. The article highlights the difficulty in integrating findings from modern physics, which are often abstract and theoretical, into everyday life and societal structures. Matti posits that a new worldview is necessary to understand psi phenomena, but this requires a fundamental shift in thinking and living.

Dialogue is the Key to Understanding: The Great Law of Peace

This reportage by Hans Brattberg introduces Manitonquat, a representative of six indigenous nations who travels to share the wisdom and promote 'The Great Law of Peace.' Manitonquat emphasizes the importance of dialogue – characterized by total attention, active listening, and reflection – as the civilized method for resolving conflicts. He explains the concept of a 'talking stick' used in indigenous traditions to ensure respectful communication. The article also touches upon Manitonquat's work with prisoners, using indigenous purification ceremonies and dialogue to foster spiritual depth. Manitonquat's message of interconnectedness with nature and humanity contrasts with certain religious views that see humans as dominant over the earth. The article concludes with Manitonquat's participation in a world conference and his ongoing efforts to spread the principles of the Great Law of Peace.

Roberta's New Technique: Rocking in the Fetal Position Can Make Us Reborn

This reportage by Hans Brattberg introduces 'holistic pulsing,' a new therapy method originating from Australia, now being introduced in Sweden by Roberta Skye. The technique involves gentle rocking movements, mimicking the rhythm of the womb, to promote healing and a sense of rebirth. Skye explains that the method is reciprocal, benefiting both the giver and receiver, and can help individuals process painful memories and release emotional blockages. The article emphasizes the importance of accepting one's feelings rather than fighting them, as this acceptance is the first step towards change. Roberta suggests that true healing comes from taking responsibility for one's life and not viewing oneself as a victim of circumstances.

Meditation and Inner Questions

This section features a review of Shakti Gawain's meditation and visualization cassette series, 'Meditations with Shakti Gawain,' and a description of Louise L. Hay's book, 'Hjärtefrågor' (Heart Questions) - 'your inner treasure chest.' Gawain's meditations focus on creating an inner sanctuary, connecting with inner guidance, balancing energies, and expressing creative power. Hay's book offers life philosophy and insights for daily living, addressing issues like health, career, finances, and fears through affirmations and meditations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of self-discovery, alternative spirituality, and the investigation of unexplained phenomena. There's a clear interest in personal growth, spiritual development, and understanding different worldviews, including indigenous traditions and parapsychology. The editorial stance appears open to exploring unconventional ideas and experiences, providing platforms for detailed accounts of alleged paranormal events and personal transformation journeys. The magazine seems to advocate for a broader, more inclusive understanding of reality that goes beyond conventional scientific paradigms.

This issue of SÖKAREN, dated 1991, is a Swedish magazine focused on life philosophies and esoteric topics. The issue, number 8, features a cover story titled 'Jul igen' (Christmas Again) and includes a wide range of articles, reviews, and personal reflections.

Articles and Content

Göran Brusewitz: 'Randi undviker fakta' (Randi Avoids Facts)

Göran Brusewitz critically examines an interview with James Randi, a well-known skeptic. Brusewitz argues that Randi generalizes from isolated cases, makes inaccurate conclusions, and fails to engage with parapsychological research in a balanced way. He defends the validity of parapsychology, citing research on dowsing and homeopathy, and criticizes Randi's dismissive attitude towards these fields. Brusewitz also touches upon the difficulty of proving psi phenomena and the philosophical arguments against them.

Melvin Morse: 'Det klara ljuset' (The Clear Light)

This article, an excerpt from Melvin Morse's book 'Närmare ljuset' (Closer to the Light), discusses near-death experiences (NDEs), particularly in children. Morse, a pediatrician, highlights the phenomenon of encountering a bright, loving light, often described as a profound and transformative experience. He notes that while some aspects of NDEs can be explained by brain physiology (like oxygen deprivation), the light itself remains a mystery to science. The article shares several anecdotal accounts from children and adults who have experienced NDEs, emphasizing the peace, joy, and altered life perspectives that follow.

Siwert Aldenryd: 'Esséertexter förklarar Jesus' (Essene Texts Explain Jesus)

Siwert Aldenryd responds to Marie-Louise Brandsby's critique of his previous article. Aldenryd defends his thesis connecting Jesus to the Essene community, citing historical research, including that of Hugh Schonfield. He argues that the Nazarenes, Jesus' followers, were closely linked to the Essenes and that Jesus' teachings align with Essene traditions, particularly regarding the concept of the awaited Messiah. Aldenryd addresses Brandsby's points about women's roles and the interpretation of biblical passages, asserting that his research is based on established scholarship rather than 'New Age populism'.

Gunnar Gällmo: 'Nyvigd biskop: en kyrka räcker' (Newly Consecrated Bishop: One Church Suffices)

Gunnar Gällmo comments on the appointment of new bishops in the Swedish Church. He expresses concern about the trend towards religious uniformity, drawing parallels to historical events in Spain where religious pluralism was suppressed. Gällmo questions the idea of a single, unified church, suggesting that diversity and dialogue between different faiths are more conducive to intellectual vitality.

Bengt Petersen: 'Den subtila närvarons poet' (The Poet of Subtle Presence)

This article is a literary analysis of the poetry of Carl-Erik af Geijerstam. Petersen describes Geijerstam's work as subtle, introspective, and focused on the quiet, everyday moments of existence. He highlights themes of presence, silence, and the 'obvious secret' – the extraordinary found in the ordinary. Petersen notes Geijerstam's influences from Eastern philosophies like Taoism and his unique perspective on life and spirituality, which he contrasts with more sensational or overtly religious expressions.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a section on 'Ljusets barn' (Children of Light), further exploring NDEs, and a review of Eva Seeberg's book 'Våra kommande liv' (Our Coming Lives) on reincarnation. There are also personal reflections, letters to the editor, and advertisements for esoteric books and services.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores themes of spirituality, the nature of consciousness, the afterlife, and the intersection of science and the esoteric. There is a clear editorial stance favoring open-minded inquiry into phenomena that challenge conventional scientific and religious paradigms, while also encouraging critical thinking. The magazine appears to be a platform for discussing alternative viewpoints on life, death, and the human experience, often drawing from historical, philosophical, and personal accounts.