Sokaren - 1993 No 02

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren, dated March 1993, is the second issue of Volume 30, priced at 35 SEK including VAT. The magazine's subtitle, "tidskrift för livsfrågor" (a journal for life questions), sets the tone for its diverse content, which spans spirituality, nature, psychology, and esoteric subjects.

Cover Story: TAROT – Guidance for the Psyche?

The cover prominently features a tarot card, 'The World', suggesting a focus on divination and psychological insight. The headline "TAROT – vägledning för psyket?" (TAROT – guidance for the psyche?) invites readers to explore the role of tarot in understanding oneself and navigating life's challenges. The cover also highlights "Arne Weise – nature friend and Swedenborgian" and "Troll-Mia – a modern witch," indicating these figures are featured within the issue.

Arne Weise: Nature's Advocate with Environmental Commitment

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to Arne Weise, a well-known nature journalist and television personality. The article details his spiritual grounding in the teachings of Emanuel Swedenborg, which influences his deep empathy for animals and nature. Weise is described as being in the midst of planning a major nature-TV project focusing on Europe's wildlife and migratory birds. He expresses concern over the ignorance and ruthlessness contributing to the endangerment of species, emphasizing that once an animal species is gone, it is gone forever. The article touches upon his views on animal sentience, contrasting the fear of prey with the potential for animals to not process death in the same complex emotional way as humans. Weise also critiques the anthropomorphism of animals in popular media like Disney films.

The Influence of Swedenborg

Weise's upbringing within the Swedenborgian tradition is explored. While he finds some of Swedenborg's teachings on heaven and hell precise, he sometimes struggles to reconcile them with the suffering he observes in the world. However, he acknowledges that Swedenborg's ideas about phenomena like near-death experiences resonate with modern accounts, suggesting a universal spiritual experience.

Skepticism and the Unknown: The Nature of Creation

An article titled "Finns det en plan bakom kosmos utveckling?" (Is there a plan behind the development of the cosmos?) delves into scientific and philosophical questions about the universe's origin and complexity. Drawing from physicist Paul Davies' work, it discusses the idea of a "cosmic plan" and the ongoing debate between scientific explanations based on natural processes and the possibility of an intelligent guiding factor. The article highlights the inherent complexity and apparent purposefulness of life forms, posing the question of whether these are merely products of chance or guided by a higher design. It touches upon concepts like self-organization and teleology.

A Journey Through the Holy Land

"En ensam stjärna gråter..." (A lonely star weeps...) recounts a personal journey to the Holy Land, offering impressions of Israel and Palestine. The author contrasts the biblical significance of the sites with the modern reality of military presence and political tension. The article describes encounters in Jericho, Bethlehem, and Jerusalem, highlighting the coexistence of different religions and the palpable atmosphere of conflict and hope. The presence of soldiers is a recurring theme, as is the symbolism of barbed wire representing fear and division.

Esoteric Practices and Personal Development

Several sections are dedicated to various esoteric practices and New Age philosophies:

• Tarot: Thomas Jönsson is featured for his work with Tarot, horoscopes, and voice training. A book by him, "TAROT – den inre världsomseglingen" (TAROT – the inner journey of the world), is advertised, described as a guide to interpreting symbols and using tarot cards for questions about the past, present, and future.
• Reiki: A notice for Reiki courses is included, explaining it as a healing technique involving the laying on of hands to channel universal energy. Courses are offered in various cities across Sweden.
• Light and Brian Miller: This couple from Hawaii, described as life coaches, are presented as touring Sweden to teach "life knowledge." Their program combines philosophy, exercises, bodywork, therapy, and natural health, with a focus on the joy of smell and the power of scents.
• Kayakalpa: The legend of Kayakalpa, an ancient Indian rejuvenation therapy, is explained. It involves a full-day treatment combining massage, breathing exercises, meditation, and rituals aimed at profound change and development.
• Peace Pilgrim: An excerpt from Peace Pilgrim's autobiography is featured, detailing her journey of peace and her message of overcoming evil with good, falsehood with truth, and hate with love.
• Astro Geography: An advertisement for Astro-Geografi maps is included, offering personalized astrological world maps to help individuals understand favorable locations for work, relationships, and love.

News and Critical Perspectives

The "Nyheter från när och fjärran" (News from near and far) section covers several topics:

• UFOs and Hallucinations: An article discusses the theory that some UFO sightings might be explained by hallucinations, referencing the experiences of authors like Whitley Strieber. It also mentions the critical stance of the Swedish UFO magazine "UFO-Aktuellt" towards certain figures in the UFO community.
• David Bohm and Charles Honorton: The issue notes the passing of physicist David Bohm, known for his work on quantum physics and the concept of an "implicate order," and parapsychologist Charles Honorton, a pioneer in ganzfeld research, which aimed to demonstrate ESP.
• Dr. Georgi Sytin's Healing Method: The article briefly mentions Dr. Sytin's method of healing through spoken affirmations, described as a powerful form of therapy.
• Quotes: A collection of quotes from various figures, including scientists and philosophers, are presented, touching on themes of wisdom, intolerance, and the inner self.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sökaren strongly emphasizes personal growth, spiritual exploration, and a holistic approach to life. There's a clear interest in bridging the gap between scientific inquiry and esoteric knowledge, as seen in the articles on cosmology and parapsychology. The magazine also champions environmental awareness and a compassionate view of both humans and animals. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded, encouraging readers to question, explore, and seek deeper meaning in their lives, while also presenting critical perspectives on phenomena like UFOs and psychic abilities. The recurring theme is the search for understanding and guidance in navigating the complexities of existence, whether through ancient wisdom, modern science, or personal introspection.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Mars 1993 (Nr 3)
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: En god häxa kommer till tals (A good witch has her say)

This issue of Sökaren magazine delves into themes of spirituality, alternative beliefs, and personal development, featuring a prominent interview with 'Troll-Mia', a Swedish witch, alongside articles on tarot, UFOs, and self-help literature.

Feature Article: En god häxa kommer till tals (A good witch has her say)

The main feature introduces Mirjam Larson Kruse, known as 'Troll-Mia', who identifies as a witch from an 'old tribe' with the ability to communicate with 'tomtar' (gnomes), 'troll', and other beings from the underworld. She claims to be initiated into traditional witchcraft, emphasizing that true witchcraft is not learned through modern courses but through a rigorous process of overcoming darkness and light to find truth and enlightenment. Troll-Mia asserts that she has 'troll blood' and is clairvoyant, having spoken with nature spirits since childhood.

She explains that trolls were once small, human-like beings knowledgeable in magic, citing ethnologist Hyltén-Cavallius and his book "Wärend och Wirdarne." She mentions that some witches claim lineage from the underworld beings, sharing ancestral roots with 'vittror' (sprites) and figures like Lilith, the 'black moon witch'.

Troll-Mia is part of a coven that meets outdoors during new and full moons, typically at midnight. During these gatherings, thirteen women and men dance in a circle around a fire, using drums, rattles, flutes, singing, and cymbals to enter a trance state and connect with other worlds. She clarifies that these meetings are not orgies and that they hold the body, marriage, and children as sacred, strongly rejecting any association with Satanism. Their focus is on seeking the good and practicing it.

Her activities include fortune-telling with cards, using a crystal ball, making her own medicines, and healing. She mentions that younger witches are taught by elders in their 80s and 90s, and they perform ceremonies to heal Mother Earth, sick humans, and animals. She states that witches have existed throughout history, being as old as life itself and an integral part of Mother Earth.

Troll-Mia expresses concern that Mother Earth is saddened and angered by human actions, particularly pollution and the use of electricity. She believes that elves, trolls, and other underworld beings are essential for life on Earth, caring for plants and animals, but suffer greatly from human pollution of water, soil, and air, as well as radiation from electrical devices. She criticizes modern humans for using artificial electricity, stating that humans do not understand the forces they are manipulating. She also touches upon the concept of the 'third eye' and seeing radiation from computer screens as irritating to living cells.

She explains that in ancient times, humans made offerings to the underworld beings out of respect. When humans disturbed their habitats or polluted their environment, the underworld beings would retaliate with illnesses, as seen with 'älvablåst' (elf-blown hives) or curses from 'tomten' (gnome). She notes that modern humans are in conflict with these beings due to environmental pollution and the use of computers, leading to sickness and natural disasters as Mother Earth tries to heal herself.

Troll-Mia emphasizes that the underworld beings are not enemies and are willing to cooperate if humans return to living in accordance with nature's laws. She expresses a somber view of humanity's current state, stating that humans have forfeited their right to be on Earth and have brought Ragnarök upon themselves, with 20 animal and plant species becoming extinct daily. She references an ancient Native American myth and witch lore that foretells the destruction of the Earth by an awakening dragon if humans continue to destroy it.

She also briefly touches upon the creation myth of Ymer from Norse mythology, where trolls and giants shaped the world with over-tone singing.

In a separate section, Troll-Mia discusses her past life experiences through hypnosis, recalling being burned at the stake. She mentions that witches in the past could perform 'shapeshifting' and be in two places at once. She explains that thoughts are creative and that negative thoughts attract negativity, while positive thoughts attract good things, calling this a natural law. She states that witches do not practice 'hocus pocus' but understand the laws of nature and magic, using them for good or evil. She notes that dark forces exist, but witches, shamans, and magicians have kept their knowledge secret to prevent misuse. She mentions that witches know how to fly with thought power but do not teach this skill.

She describes the world as an illusion created by humans, and that death is not an end but a transformation of the soul or spirit body. Troll-Mia identifies as a 'white witch' who stands for good, believing in an eternal light, the Great Spirit, or God, which represents a true, peaceful world beyond darkness. She claims to travel to the 'overworld' in her soul and be purified there.

She offers advice on how to potentially see elves dancing: go to a damp area like a marsh on a Thursday evening or twilight, place honey and cloudberries near a stone, and pray for the experience. She mentions that elves are almost transparent and shimmer in all colors of the rainbow.

Tarot Readings: Sveriges framtid (Sweden's Future)

This section features three tarot readers – Thomas Jönsson, Eva Lagnefeldt, and Annakarin Svedberg – who provide readings on personal spiritual development and the future of Sweden. All three readers used tarot cards as a significant tool.

Thomas Jönsson, author of "Tarot - den inre världsomseglingen" (Tarot - the inner world voyage), uses the Rider deck. His reading for the author indicates a multifaceted spiritual development across physical, emotional, mental, and intuitive levels. He foresees a creative surge, particularly in the latter half of the year, manifesting through singing or artistic creation. He also identifies a tendency for the author to take on others' burdens, advising her to find inner security. His reading for Sweden's future suggests strength through adversity, a discovery of inner resilience, and a call for greater trust and less suspicion, indicating optimism and creativity.

Eva Lagnefeldt, using the Voyager deck, also provides a reading for the author, focusing on an open heart chakra, love, knowledge, and creativity. She sees the author developing integrity and the ability to make her own choices. Her reading highlights the author's cleansing of the past, gaining deeper inner knowledge, and the next step being to find strength, balancing earthly life with spiritual awareness. For Sweden's future, Eva draws cards like 'Synergy' with white swans, symbolizing a union of opposing forces, cooperation, and understanding. She predicts a clear brightening towards the end of the year, with the disappearance of old structures and a higher level of leadership.

Annakarin Svedberg, who paints her own tarot cards, also reads for the author. Her reading suggests the author is on the right track, with her work involving spirituality becoming increasingly significant. For Sweden's future, Annakarin draws cards indicating a 'broken heart' economically, with illusions in economic planning, but a potential recovery. She advises politicians to think with their hearts regarding economics, warning of corporate bankruptcies and county council problems. She foresees an opportunity for small-scale initiatives and a 'liberation' towards the end of the year, emphasizing honesty and settling debts.

The section also discusses the growing trend of clients asking tarot readers about employment issues, with readers helping people find new resources, change course, or use periods of unemployment for reflection and personal growth.

Book Reviews: Floden (The River)

This section reviews several self-help books:

• "Konsten att förändra ditt liv" (The Art of Changing Your Life) by Antony Kidman: A concise guide on analyzing problems, thinking rationally, and accepting life's disappointments. It emphasizes that our perception of events, not the events themselves, causes distress. The book offers advice on changing negative thought patterns to improve one's life.
• "Din gränslösa styrka" (Your Limitless Strength) by Anthony Robbins: This book, originally "Unlimited Power," offers motivational advice on achieving success by emulating successful people and using NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming). It stresses the importance of action and practical application of knowledge.
• "Sju principer" (The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People) by Stephen R. Covey: This book outlines seven habits for personal and professional effectiveness, including being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, prioritizing, thinking win-win, seeking first to understand then to be understood, synergy, and sharpening the saw. It emphasizes the importance of empathetic listening.
• "Bli frimodig!" (Become Bold!) by Jonathan Cheek: This book addresses shyness, offering advice for overcoming it and becoming more confident. It discusses different types of shyness and the importance of friendship.

UFOs: Ufologerna söker svaret (Ufologists Seek the Answer)

This article explores the diverse landscape of Swedish UFOlogists and their perspectives.

• Håkan Blomqvist, a librarian and member of UFO-Sverige and AFU, is presented as a critical researcher who debunks claims of contact with extraterrestrials, viewing them as fantasies or inner experiences.
• Sören Broman advocates for contactee Eduard Meier, who claims communication with an extraterrestrial named Semjase from the planet Erra.
• Tony Eckardt and Eva Olsson discuss their video featuring contactees Sten Lindgren, Daniel Glantz, and Ante Jonsson, who claim contact with aliens and discuss concepts like 'non-time tunnels' for faster-than-light travel.
• Håkan Ekstrand is the editor of UFO-Sverige's magazine UFO-Aktuellt, known for his anonymous and diligent work.
• Daniel Glantz claims to have collaborated with extraterrestrials since 1964 and leads a small group of believers.

The article also mentions several individuals who were active in the UFO field but are no longer prominent, such as Thor-Leif Dahnielson, Bjarne Håkansson, and Ernst Linder. It notes the passing of Gösta Rehn and Eugen Semitjov.

Skeptics, represented by the association Vetenskap och Folkbildning (Science and Folk Education), believe that all UFO reports can be explained naturally with sufficient information.

Other Articles and Sections

• Roland Bergman, "ljusväsen" (Light Beings): Bergman shares his mystical experiences, including past life recollections and contact with 'light beings'. He developed his own religion based on Martinus' cosmology, advocating for a future 'metahuman' who is free from disease, aging, and death. He claims to have achieved physical immortality through a diet of bananas and milk.
• Astrology Debate: A letter from Rune Landén defends astrology as a tool for self-knowledge and planning, distinguishing it from fortune-telling. He argues that it is not deterministic and can be compatible with religious beliefs. The response from the magazine questions the scientific basis of astrology, referencing studies by Eysenck and Nias, and suggests that while some individuals find it accurate, more research is needed.
• Reader Feedback: A section presents reader feedback on the magazine, with comments praising the new direction, requesting more book reviews, and expressing interest in topics like Sai Baba, UFOs, and Eastern philosophies. Some readers express a preference for critical journalism and less 'fluff'.
• Advertisements: The issue includes advertisements for books on self-help and spirituality, tarot card readings, and a subscription offer for Sökaren magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are spirituality, alternative beliefs (witchcraft, UFOlogy, astrology), and personal development. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting various perspectives on paranormal and esoteric subjects while also encouraging critical thinking and scientific inquiry where applicable. The editorial stance seems to favor exploring diverse viewpoints and providing readers with information to form their own conclusions, as evidenced by the balanced presentation of UFOlogists' differing opinions and the debate on astrology. The emphasis on self-help and personal growth suggests a focus on empowering readers to improve their lives and understand themselves better.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Mars 1993 (Nr 2)
Publisher: Energica Förlag AB
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Theme: Esotericism, New Age, Holistic Health, Personal Development, Ufology.

Contents

Water Quality and Energetics

The magazine begins with an article titled "Ett friskt vatten lever" (A healthy water lives) by Gisela Ahlberg, which explores the energetic properties of water through the study of ice crystal formations. It highlights how different types of water, such as tap water and spring water, exhibit distinct structures when frozen, correlating with their 'life energy'. The article also mentions the use of Kirlian photography and the AMMA foundation's research on frozen water samples treated with various substances.

Synergigrupper for Knowledge

An article by Håkan Unander and Erhard Fleck introduces "Synergigrupper för kunskap" (Synergy groups for knowledge), a meeting format designed to foster effective and rewarding collaboration. These groups aim to create a safe space for open dialogue, where participants can share their themes and questions, leading to increased personal effectiveness, self-esteem, and a sense of purpose.

Calendar of Events (Nätverket för Gränsöverskridande Vetenskap)

A comprehensive calendar lists upcoming events and seminars in Sweden, covering topics such as networking, new economics, water purification, holistic healing, mystical circles, earth mysteries, and more. These events are organized by various groups and centers, including Deva Center, S.E.T., Pans Vänner, and the AMMA foundation.

Tarot and Astrology Services

Ma Shunya Nada offers tarot reading services and courses, emphasizing her ten years of experience. Astrolog Gunnel Winroth provides personalized horoscope readings and has 21 years of experience in the field, working exclusively with individual clients.

"Magins System" - A Book on Magic

A book titled "Magins System" (The System of Magic) is advertised as a comprehensive guide to witchcraft, offering rituals, formulas, and illustrations. It is available for purchase via mail order.

Medial Development Weeks

"Berga Gård" in Värmland hosts "Mediala utvecklingsveckor" (Medial development weeks) in May, featuring mediums from England. These weeks focus on personal instruction in clairvoyance, trance, healing, and hypno-somatherapy, with two distinct courses catering to experienced participants and beginners.

UFOs and Paranormal Documentaries

An advertisement promotes two video documentaries: "Döda Talar! UFO!" (The Dead Speak! UFO!) and "Närkontakt med UFO" (Close Encounter with UFO). These videos reportedly feature Swedish and international researchers discussing UFO phenomena, alien contact, and alleged new natural laws related to faster-than-light travel.

Courses and Workshops

Several courses are advertised, including "Kreativ visualisering och Din inre kraft!" (Creative visualization and Your inner power!) by Per Frisk and Monica Seilitz, focusing on increasing consciousness and self-discovery. Casa dell' Arte offers Italian Riviera-based courses in painting, yoga, writing, and more.

"Vattumannen" Bookstore

"Vattumannen" is presented as Sweden's oldest independent bookstore specializing in esoteric literature, offering books, music cassettes, crystals, and data horoscopes.

"På väg" - Poetry and Philosophy

Kristina Bryngel contributes a short piece titled "På väg" (On the way), reflecting on development and change.

"Solsökehem" Events

Solsökehem announces a series of events and courses in March, April, and August, focusing on themes like freedom, cosmology, life's game, and inner transformation, including Martinus Kosmology.

Personal Ads (Person Sökaren)

A section for personal advertisements allows individuals to seek life partners, friends, or specific items. The ads cover a wide range of interests, from spiritual seeking and vegetarianism to requests for specific books and shared living arrangements.

"Energivågen" Resource Guide

"Energivågen" is promoted as a free resource guide for a new era, distributed in 13,000 copies four times a year, covering courses, seminars, and tools for a holistic approach to life. Subscriptions are available.

"Sökaren" Subscription Drive

Readers are encouraged to subscribe to "Sökaren" magazine, with information on subscription rates and contact details provided.

"Stjärnfylla GALA" for Livsuniversitetet

A major event, the "Stjärnfylla GALA" (Star-filled Gala), is announced for April 3, 1993, at Cirkus, Djurgården, Stockholm. The gala aims to raise funds for the creation of a "LIVSUNIVERSITETET" (Life University), a project focused on holistic education, ecological living, and creating a new societal model. The event will feature numerous artists and personalities.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

Several books are featured and reviewed, including "Omfamna ditt inre - handbok i Voice Dialogue" (Embrace your inner self - handbook in Voice Dialogue) by Hal and Sidra Stone, and "Uppvaknande - vägledning för vardagen" (Awakening - guidance for everyday life) by Shakti Gawain. These books focus on self-awareness, inner dialogue, and living a more conscious life.

"Livets Spel" (Life's Game)

"Livets Spel" (Life's Game), a transformational game developed at Findhorn, Scotland, is advertised. It is designed to help individuals gain awareness of their strengths, beliefs, and life path, facilitating personal growth and change. The game includes a board, various card decks, and instructions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a holistic and alternative approach to life, emphasizing personal growth, spiritual development, and a connection to nature. It features a wide array of topics from ufology and esoteric practices to health and consciousness studies. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and inclusive, providing a platform for diverse perspectives within the New Age and spiritual communities. The emphasis on events, courses, and personal connections suggests a goal of fostering a community around these shared interests. The call for a "Livsuniversitetet" indicates a forward-looking vision for education and societal change based on holistic principles.