Sokaren - 1992 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: SÖKAREN
Issue: 1
Volume: 29
Date: 1992
Price: 35:00 INKL. MOMS

Sökaren, issue 1 of volume 29 from 1992, is an independent magazine for worldview issues. The cover features portraits of Curt Jonsson, Martinus, and Hans Granlid, alongside a calligraphic representation of Lao Tzu. The main cover headline is "Kärlek är att veta vem Du är" (Love is knowing who you are).

Articles and Content

"Kärlek är att veta vem Du är" by Curt Jonsson

This article explores the concept of love as the ability to see reality clearly and to know one's true self. Jonsson posits that our perceived reality is often a dream or illusion, shaped by internal fears and misconceptions. He draws parallels with dreams, which seem real while we are in them but are recognized as false upon waking. He suggests that our interactions with others are like actors playing roles, and that true connection comes from recognizing our shared essence as part of a universal love. The article references "A Course in Miracles" and advocates for a shift in perception to awaken to a more authentic reality. Jonsson shares personal anecdotes of sending out loving signals and experiencing positive results in communication and relationships. He emphasizes that true love stems from knowing oneself as an expression of universal love and that inner stillness is key to connecting with this source.

"Mystikens världsbild" (The Worldview of Mysticism)

This section delves into various mystical worldviews, contrasting them with traditional Christian beliefs. It highlights the Hindu concept of Brahman as the fundamental, living essence of the universe, in which all existence resides. Unlike the Christian view of God as external, Hinduism sees the world as a manifestation of Brahman, with individual consciousness being fragments of a universal consciousness. The article discusses the concept of Atman being equal to Brahman, meaning the individual soul is identical to the world soul. It touches upon the Hindu concepts of reincarnation and karma, and the ultimate goal of liberation (nirvana). The text also references the Christian concept of God's creation and salvation plan, and briefly mentions figures like Master Eckehart as examples of mystics who experienced unity with the divine.

Martinus and Cosmic Consciousness

The Danish author Martinus is presented as a modern mystic who developed a cosmology based on a profound light experience. He perceived a cosmic consciousness and the highest love as the ultimate reality. His cosmology suggests that the universe is a living entity, the eternal Godhead, and that all beings, from minerals to humans, are fundamentally one with this Godhead. Martinus's philosophy emphasizes love and wisdom as the core properties of God, enabling life and diverse experiences. Suffering and hardship are seen as part of a process of improvement through reincarnation. The article notes that Martinus's view aligns with pantheistic and monistic philosophies, where everything is part of God.

"Taoism" by Stefan Stenudd

This extensive section explores the philosophy and history of Taoism, focusing on Lao Tzu and the "Tao Te Ching." The author notes the historical uncertainty surrounding Lao Tzu's existence, suggesting he may have been a legendary figure or a composite of teachings. The article discusses the traditional accounts of Lao Tzu's life and his encounter with Confucius, as recorded by Ssu-ma Ch'ien. It highlights the challenges in dating the "Tao Te Ching" and the discovery of ancient manuscripts in Ma-wang-tui that shed new light on the text's authenticity and structure. The author emphasizes that Taoism, as presented in the "Tao Te Ching," is not a religion with rituals but a philosophy of living in harmony with the 'Tao' (the Way) and 'Te' (virtue). The text suggests that true wisdom lies in understanding the natural flow of existence and accepting life's mysteries without seeking to control them. The article also touches upon the distinction between Taoism as a philosophy (Tao chia) and Taoism as a religion (Tao chiao), noting how later religious interpretations sometimes deviated from Lao Tzu's original teachings.

"Vardagsmystik" (Everyday Mysticism) by Bengt Petersen

Bengt Petersen shares personal anecdotes illustrating what he terms "everyday mysticism." These are synchronistic or seemingly coincidental events that suggest a deeper, guiding force in life. He recounts moving to a new city without a plan and finding unexpected connections through literature and people. Petersen questions whether these are mere coincidences or manifestations of a meaningful pattern in existence. He briefly considers explanations like karma, astrology, and Carl Jung's synchronicity but finds them ultimately inconclusive. He concludes that these experiences occur when one is open and selfless, and that practicing spiritual development may lead to more such occurrences.

Other Sections

• "Är cirklarna ett naturfenomen?" (Are Circles a Natural Phenomenon?): This brief article discusses theories about the origin of crop circles, including a meteorological explanation involving ionized air vortices, while also acknowledging the possibility of hoaxes.
• "Demoner i TV" (Demons on TV): This piece comments on a TV program about possession, drawing parallels between the phenomenon and mediumship within spiritualism, suggesting it might involve personality splits or external influences.
• "Djurplågeri i 'kristna' länder" (Animal Cruelty in 'Christian' Countries): The author criticizes the lack of compassion for animals in some Christian traditions, contrasting it with the broader compassion for all life found in Buddhism and Hinduism.
• "Lev vegetariskt!" (Live Vegetarian!): This short note highlights the health benefits of a vegetarian diet, citing a doctor who suggests humans are naturally suited to be vegetarians.
• "Falska profeter" (False Prophets): The article critiques prophetic claims, citing examples like Elizabeth Clare Prophet and biblical figures like Paul and Daniel, whose predictions of future events did not materialize.
• "Agneta och Bo": This section discusses spiritualists Agneta and Bo Nässling, questioning the validity of their "automatic writing" and "inspiration," suggesting it may stem from psychological dissociation or subconscious influences rather than direct spiritual communication.
• "EG?": This piece expresses concern about Sweden's potential membership in the European Community (EG), arguing it would lead to a loss of national sovereignty and cultural identity.
• "Mästarnas lära" (The Masters' Teachings) by Håkan Blomqvist: This critical review of Lars Adelskogh's book "Förklaringen" (The Explanation) examines the hylozoist teachings of Henry T. Laurency. The author questions the source of Laurency's knowledge, suggesting it may be derived from his extensive study of theosophical literature and telepathic contact with 'masters.' Blomqvist critiques hylozoism for its anti-intellectualism, reliance on inner knowledge, subjectivism, and potential for fascism, while acknowledging its logical structure and pedagogical presentation in Adelskogh's book.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, mysticism, and alternative worldviews. There is a strong emphasis on self-knowledge, the nature of reality, and the search for deeper meaning. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring various spiritual and philosophical traditions, including Eastern philosophies like Taoism and Hinduism, as well as Western esoteric movements. However, there is also a critical element, as seen in the review of hylozoism and the discussion of false prophets, suggesting a discernment between genuine spiritual inquiry and potentially misleading doctrines. The magazine promotes vegetarianism and critical thinking regarding religious and spiritual claims.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1992, issue 1, is titled 'Att styrka sina påståenden' (To Strengthen One's Claims). The magazine focuses on critical examination of various belief systems and phenomena, including hylozoism, ufology, and esoteric philosophies.

Religionskritik: Hylozoism

The article 'Religionskritik' by Lars Adelskogh critically analyzes hylozoism, a spiritual philosophy. Adelskogh argues that hylozoism's emphasis on an 'inner knowledge path' is subjective and can lead to authoritarianism, contrasting it with the 'outer knowledge path' of science. He likens hylozoism's educational theories to Nazi ideology, particularly its distinction between 'Nordic' and 'Jewish' science. The concept of hylozoism as an 'working hypothesis' is dismissed as a form of faith, as its claims are not empirically verifiable. Adelskogh criticizes the 'refinement syndrome' associated with hylozoism, which he describes as a fear of the physical and sensual, leading to neurotic attitudes. He also points out a perceived double standard in hylozoism regarding sexuality, condemning it while also exhibiting prudishness. The article highlights the antisemitic undertones, citing a book that labels Freud as a Satanist and a Jew, and connects hylozoism's ideology to the far-right and neo-Nazism, advocating for a theocratic state ruled by 'masters'.

Fordomsfullt om UFO

This section features a letter from Sune Hjorth responding to an article by Sven Magnusson. Hjorth accuses Magnusson of being prejudiced against UFO research, particularly his dismissal of figures like Erich von Däniken, Frank Scully, Charles Berlitz, and William Moore, while praising skeptical sources like Phil Klass. Hjorth defends his book 'Den dolda sanningen om UFO' (The Hidden Truth about UFOs), arguing that it presents overwhelming evidence of a government cover-up regarding extraterrestrial presence. He cites former CIA assistant Victor Marchetti, who suggested that knowledge of superior civilizations could undermine traditional power structures. Hjorth also mentions the military's interest in reverse-engineering crashed UFOs to gain a technological advantage. He criticizes Magnusson for not addressing the core theme of his book: the deliberate concealment of UFO evidence and the motives behind it.

In response, Sune Hjorth is labeled an 'unforgivable sinner' by an unnamed critic who questions his reasoning, assessments, and claims. The critic suggests Hjorth is too eager and may not grasp the complexity of the subject, advising him to listen to his critics to avoid damaging the reputation of ufology. The critic also notes that most reviews of Hjorth's book are negative, with only one positive review in UFO-Aktuellt, which stated that reading Hjorth sends the brain on vacation.

The critic then discusses the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging that while many cases are explained, a significant core remains unsolved. While inter-planetary spacecraft are considered a primary hypothesis, other explanations like natural phenomena, hoaxes, unknown creatures, time travelers, or even psychological illusions are mentioned. The critic emphasizes the importance of scientific investigation into UFOs.

IFO – UFO?

This section features a letter from Janne Johansson, a member of UFO-Sverige, expressing his views on the UFO debate. Johansson defends Håkan Blomqvist (HB) and Sten Lindgren (SL), who have written about UFOs and given public lectures. Johansson recounts SL's experience of witnessing a landed UFO with occupants, an event that was also presented in public forums. He criticizes UFO-Sverige's leadership, particularly Clas Svahn, for discrediting SL and insinuating he was lying. Johansson argues that SL's personal sacrifices and professional standing make it unlikely he would fabricate such an account. He also criticizes UFO-Sverige for only focusing on 'identified flying objects' and stifling members who hold different views. Johansson concludes by expressing his strong belief in the work of Bertil Kuhlemann and Sten Lindgren and is considering resigning from UFO-Sverige due to its current direction.

En dröm om kärlek

This personal reflection by Lennart Berg explores the concept of God and the meaning of life. Berg, who has experienced existential crises, shares a dream where he understood God as an eternal force of energy and love present in all living things. He believes that life's purpose is to learn and gather experiences to evolve spiritually, with paradise found on Earth rather than in an afterlife.

Bokrecensioner

SAI BABA

A poem by Birgit Cars reflects on the divine nature and miraculous abilities attributed to Sai Baba.

Väck upp Din kärlek! - En bok om mirakler

This review discusses Curt Jonsson's book 'Väck upp Din kärlek!' (Awaken Your Love!), which is based on 'A Course in Miracles' (ACIM). The reviewer praises Jonsson's simple and grounded writing style, filled with practical examples. ACIM's core idea that physical reality is an illusion and that true reality is love and harmony is highlighted. The review notes that ACIM's workbook aims to break down conventional thinking, citing the third lesson which encourages acknowledging one's lack of understanding of the visible world. The reviewer finds Jonsson's book a helpful guide for integrating ACIM into daily life.

Hans Granlids är således enhetsmystiken som är basen för dårskap

This review discusses Hans Granlid's book 'Dårskap' (Madness). Granlid, a solitary and unconventional author, is known for his spiritual and philosophical writings. 'Dårskap' is presented as a historical novel set in 19th-century Russia, following Johan von Tannenberg's journey and his encounters with various spiritual seekers. The book is described as a well-written narrative that explores themes of spiritual seeking, purity, goodness, poverty, and humility, with vivid descriptions of people and settings.

Ordning och kreativitet

This review of 'Ordning och kreativitet' (Order and Creativity) by David Bohm and F. David Peat discusses the book's exploration of the relationship between order, chaos, and creativity in life and science. The reviewer highlights Bohm's controversial ideas and his collaboration with Einstein. The book advocates for a new wave of creativity that seeks wholeness and meaning, moving beyond fragmented scientific approaches. It touches upon concepts like chaos theory, fractals, and paradigm shifts, emphasizing the importance of open communication and free-flowing thought.

Urgammal österländsk vishet

This review of 'Tao te ching' (The Energy Publishing House, 1991), translated by Stefan Stenudd, discusses the ancient Taoist text. The reviewer notes that the text is a profound observation of the world as it is, offering wise guidance without making promises. The translation is described as faithful but sometimes difficult to fully grasp, requiring slow reading and personal interpretation. The initial verses are interpreted as describing an ineffable ultimate reality, the importance of a desireless inner state, the interdependence of opposites, and the wisdom of non-interference and humility.

Guds experiment med sig själv

This review discusses 'Projekt Liv' (Project Life), a condensed version of Per Bruus-Jensen's work on Martinus cosmology. The book explores the theory of evolution and the origin of the universe as a divine plan. It describes life's journey from mineral to human consciousness as a grand experiment by God, emphasizing the development of cosmic consciousness and unity with God. The book also touches upon the conflict between the animalistic and humanistic aspects of the self, ultimately highlighting Jesus as a moral genius.

Dansk UFO-historia

This review of Willy Wegner's 'Ufoer over Danmark' (UFOs Over Denmark) covers the history of the UFO movement in Denmark. The reviewer praises Wegner's balanced approach, moving from an initial interest in Adamski to a more skeptical stance. The two-volume work is described as a comprehensive account of Danish UFO interest, including observations, 'astro-archaeology', and folklore. While the first volume meticulously cites sources, the second relies more on news reports. The reviewer notes that Wegner's personal views on UFOs remain unclear but that he is clearly fascinated by the subject.

Döden är livsviktig

This review of Elisabeth Kübler-Ross's book 'Döden är livsviktig' (Death is Vital) discusses her work on caring for terminally ill children and near-death experiences (NDEs). The reviewer acknowledges Kübler-Ross's empathy and pioneering work but criticizes her unscientific and wishful-thinking approach to NDEs. The reviewer argues that her claims about life after death and the nature of the 'light' are not sufficiently supported by evidence and are more akin to pleasant fantasies. The review suggests alternative sources for a more rigorous understanding of NDEs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking and a skeptical approach to unsubstantiated claims, particularly in the realms of spirituality, esotericism, and ufology. It encourages readers to question assertions, demand evidence, and engage in reasoned debate. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational and scientific perspective while remaining open to exploring diverse philosophical and spiritual ideas, provided they are supported by logical reasoning or verifiable evidence. The magazine also seems to have a particular interest in the UFO phenomenon and its potential implications.