Sokaren - 1993 No 07-8

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren (Nr 7-8, 1993, Årgång 30) is dedicated to exploring spiritual and transformative experiences, with a strong focus on shamanism and near-death experiences (NDEs).

Shamanism: Indigenous Healers and Modern Medicine Women

The magazine features an in-depth article by Åke Hultkrantz, a professor emeritus in religious history, detailing the practices of Shoshoni medicine men. Hultkrantz explains that medicine men, or 'puhagan,' are spiritual specialists who heal the sick, often receiving their abilities through visions and the guidance of protective spirits. The article describes various methods used by medicine men, such as spiritual journeys, healing songs, and the use of symbolic objects like feathers. It highlights that while many believe these powers are divinely bestowed, the process often involves rigorous spiritual preparation and a deep connection with the spirit world. The article also touches upon the role of medicinewomen, though they are noted as being fewer in number and possessing less power than their male counterparts.

Another significant section introduces Denise Linn, a Cherokee-Indian medicinewoman who travels the world sharing indigenous wisdom and healing techniques. Linn recounts her own spiritual journey, including a near-fatal shooting incident and her encounters with various indigenous traditions. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature, ancestral roots, and the inherent healing powers within individuals. Her teachings often involve rituals, drumming, and the use of natural elements.

Near-Death Experiences: Encounters with Death and Life's Meaning

A substantial part of the magazine is dedicated to near-death experiences. Stefan von Jankovich, a Swiss architect, shares his profound NDE following a severe car accident. He describes an out-of-body experience, a life review, and an encounter with a luminous being, which fundamentally altered his perspective on life, death, and spirituality. Jankovich's experience led him to advocate for conscious living, self-responsibility, and the pursuit of truth.

Dr. Göran Grip, a Swedish anesthesiologist and a leading expert on NDEs in Sweden, is interviewed about his research and personal experiences. Grip explains that NDEs are often transformative, removing neurotic blockages and providing a new outlook on life, often diminishing the fear of death and material possessions. He discusses the common elements of NDEs, such as moving through a tunnel and meeting a light being, and notes that while many interpret this being as Jesus or God, the experience itself is more significant than its religious interpretation. Grip also touches upon 'deathbed visions,' where the dying may communicate with deceased relatives, offering comfort to the living.

Spiritual Architecture and Indigenous Movements

The magazine also features an article on the 'Den Goda Viljans Tempel' (Temple of Good Will), a pyramid-shaped structure in Brazil built by the Legion of Good Will. This temple is presented as a place for spiritual development, promoting peace, brotherhood, and the purification of the soul. It highlights the symbolic use of the number seven and the integration of various spiritual and energetic elements.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the profound impact of spiritual experiences on individuals, the wisdom found in indigenous cultures, and the transformative power of confronting mortality. The magazine appears to advocate for a more holistic and spiritual understanding of life, encouraging readers to explore their inner selves and connect with deeper truths beyond material concerns. The editorial stance seems to be one of openness to diverse spiritual traditions and experiences, particularly those that promote personal growth and a greater understanding of life and death.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: November 1993
Volume: 21
Date: November 1993
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0284-2534
Price: 20:-

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated November 1993, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on spirituality, self-discovery, nature, and alternative practices.

Roland Adlerberth ur tiden

The magazine notes the passing of Roland Adlerberth at the age of 69. Adlerberth was known for his regular column "Utländsk bokvandring" (Foreign Book Wanderings) in Sökaren, where he reviewed books on topics of interest to the magazine's readers. He was a librarian with a passion for science fiction, but also showed fascination for UFOs, Erich von Däniken, and various paranormal phenomena like fairies, spirit photography, Atlantis, Geller phenomena, ghosts, and the Loch Ness Monster. He approached these subjects with a lighthearted and amused attitude.

Apornas rättigheter

An article highlights a call for the rights of great apes, inspired by a piece in New Scientist titled "A Bill of Rights for Apes." Zoologist and author Richard Dawkins argues for the apes' right not to be exploited in laboratories or zoos. The article emphasizes the close genetic similarity between humans and chimpanzees (98.4% DNA) and states that chimpanzees are more closely related to humans than gorillas. Philosophers and biologists are advocating for apes to be recognized as individuals with rights, not property, and for their interests to be represented. Over 300 biologists, philosophers, and authors have supported these demands.

Merlinorden och rosencreutzare

Solsjortens loge in Stockholm is organizing a series of lectures and ceremonies for the autumn. These include topics like "A Journey to Ancient Egypt," "Angels in Nature" with Elis Wikström, "Ancestor Ceremony," and a "Gnostic Mass." Interested individuals can contact Merlinorden in Stockholm for a program.

Samverkan i naturen

This section discusses the concept of cooperation in nature, contrasting it with Darwin's "survival of the fittest." Drawing from Kropotkin's book "Mutual Aid," the article emphasizes that cooperation is as vital a principle as competition in nature. It cites examples from nature where individuals within a species help each other, such as trees and fungi, or the symbiotic relationship within the human body. Jan Danielson, a TV personality and nature enthusiast, is quoted as observing these examples daily and underscoring the importance of cooperation as nature's leading principle.

Indianers kamp uppmärksammas och får pris

Two Shoshone Indian women from the Western Shoshone Nation in North America, Mary and Carrie Dann, have been awarded the Alternative Nobel Prize (The Right Livelihood Award) for 1993. The award recognizes their long-standing work and struggle for their land rights and against nuclear weapons testing and mining pollution. Three other women also received the award: Arna Mer-Khamis from Israel for "Care and Learning," Sithembiso Nyoni representing "The Organization of Rural Association for Progress" in Zimbabwe, and Vandana Shiva from India for her work empowering women and integrating ecology into development aid. Sökaren plans to provide a more detailed presentation of the laureates in a future issue.

Mirakelkursen blir översatt

According to a press release, Jan Vintilescu has been appointed by the Foundation for Inner Peace in the USA to translate "A Course in Miracles" into Swedish. He will be the chief translator, supervisor, and final editor. Vintilescu expresses his hope for genuine cooperation with those who feel strongly about the course and are willing to contribute. The translation is expected to be completed in about 4-5 years, with all work being unpaid. The magazine offers its encouragement to the project.

Det heliga i vardagen

This article explores the concept of finding the sacred in everyday life. It suggests that mundane objects and experiences, often overlooked, can be perceived as holy. The author argues that everything that exists is an expression of Life and that recognizing its greatness and holiness leads to reverence. Even simple objects like a spoon or a knife are seen as sacred because they are products of the human brain, which is considered one of the universe's wonders. The article also touches upon electricity as a powerful force that has always existed but was only recently harnessed by humans. It encourages readers to observe their surroundings and recognize the sacredness in everyday items, including the computer and the act of writing. Music and poetry are also mentioned as aids to experiencing the sacred. The author concludes that while the sacred is all around us, we often have difficulty seeing it because it is so close.

Quotes on Inner Power and the Universe

• Several quotes are featured:
• Axel Fredenholm states that true power lies within oneself, not in external sources or created deities, referencing the idea that "You are gods and the kingdom of heaven is within yourselves."
• Peter Nilson suggests that the existence of life in the universe is not a coincidence but an inherent possibility in creation's program, implying that life exists with the same certainty as stars and particles.
• Johan Diesenhofer poses the question of humanity's place in the universe but emphasizes the importance of exploring our inner selves in the coming years.
• Paul Davies questions the fundamental nature of reality, suggesting that the distinction between the real and the subjective may be blurring, and that the concept of an "external real world" might lack a basis.
• Peter Nilson further questions the existence of atoms, wave functions, and natural laws, asking how much humans create through their efforts to understand the universe.

Utbildning i Intuitiv Massage

This section announces an upcoming training program in Intuitive Massage, described as a path to increased physical, psychological, and emotional awareness. The method is presented as a blend of intuitive listening and deep muscular work, aimed at helping individuals achieve self-insight and balance. The training is designed for both beginners and those with prior experience in bodywork, offering a deeper perspective. The course is led by Lajla Tröften, who developed the method. Several upcoming lectures and workshops are listed for November and December 1993 in Stockholm.

Sökarnyheter (News Snippets)

Definitions: A list of definitions is provided for terms like Atheist, Skeptic, Pseudoskeptic, Rationalist, Intellectual, Christian, Seeker, Agnostic, Idealist, Realist, Believer, Scientist, Humorist, Misanthrope, and Philanthropist.

Teosofisk världskongress: The 8th Theosophical World Congress was held in Brasilia, Brazil, with the theme "The Path to Wisdom and a Noble Society." Approximately 500 participants from around the world attended, including seven from Sweden. The congress featured lectures, symposia, and workshops. The location, Brasilia, is situated on a high plateau believed to have strong energies, attracting many meditation centers and spiritual sects.

Book Recommendations: Several books are recommended, including "Runmagi och schamanism" and Michael Harner's "Schamanens väg." The magazine also promotes its own audio tapes on topics like "Inner Strength," "Freedom," and "Meeting Your Light Guide."

Hon ser och målar naturandar

This is a feature article about the artist Elisabeth Ryhre from Gothenburg. Ryhre, an acclaimed artist who has received several grants and had numerous exhibitions, discusses her encounters with nature spirits. She explains that most people do not see these beings because they exist in a different dimension of reality. Ryhre began painting in a style reminiscent of Hieronymus Bosch, but later shifted to themes of reincarnation and human awakening. She now paints nature spirits, which she perceives not with her physical eyes but through an inner vision, often during meditation. She describes how these spirits manifest in nature and how she can connect with them. Ryhre also mentions Rudolf Steiner's concept of diverse beings surrounding humans that are not perceptible to the senses. She believes that nature spirits are real and exist in a condensed reality. The article includes her quote: "The more we go inward, meet ourselves, learn to know and accept our entire inner energy and emotional spectrum, the more we can also spontaneously sense, understand, and guide each other."

Söka kraft och kunskap genom trumresor

This article explores shamanism, described as one of humanity's oldest religious expressions, found across various cultures and religions. It explains that shamanism is not a religion but a collection of techniques for achieving altered states of consciousness to access other realities, including spiritual worlds and spirit animals. The article notes the increasing interest in shamanic practices in the West. It details the methods used, such as chanting, dancing, drumming, fasting, and the use of psychoactive substances, and explains the shamanic worldview, which includes a physical world (the middle world) and spiritual realms (the upper and underworld). The article highlights the role of shamans as healers and keepers of ancient knowledge. It also discusses modern inspirations and the resurgence of interest in shamanic techniques in the West over the past twenty years. The article includes testimonials from individuals who have benefited from shamanism, reporting increased personal clarity, authority, tolerance, and a reduced focus on material possessions. They describe experiences of connecting with their "spirit animals" or "power animals" and finding a deeper sense of purpose and joy in life.

Bokfloden (Book Reviews)

Älska dig själv så kan du älska andra! by Louise L. Hay: This review discusses Hay's book, which focuses on self-love and acceptance as prerequisites for loving others. It is described as a workbook with exercises covering various life areas like self-knowledge, health, sexuality, and relationships. The reviewer notes that while the book offers practical advice, it can also be an "adventure" of self-discovery.

Din egen kraft by Louise L. Hay: This is another book by Louise Hay, containing material from her lectures and personal reflections on life. It includes mental exercises.

Annastina och avataren by Annastina Vrethammars: This memoir is about the author's experiences with the Indian guru Sai Baba. It details her belief in his miracles, such as telepathy and materialization, and her encounters with him. The book explores themes of positive thinking, body therapies, shamanic journeys, and reincarnation. Vrethammars views Sai Baba as an avatar, a divine incarnation, and emphasizes his teachings of love.

Sann drömmar & drömtolkning by David Ryback: This book by psychologist David Ryback explores the phenomenon of "true dreams" or precognitive dreams. The article explains that these dreams can be interpreted as "memories of the future" and discusses how they might offer warnings or guidance. Ryback's work also touches upon "simultaneous dreams" (telepathic or clairvoyant experiences) and theories about time. The reviewer notes that Ryback himself claims not to have had true dreams but has extensively researched them. The book provides practical advice on dream interpretation and working with dreams.

Regnbågsvävar

This is an advertisement for "Regnbågsvävar," offering hand-woven ponchos, shawls, scarves, and blankets made of 100% wool in rainbow colors, suitable for massage and healing tables. Contact information for Wanja is provided.

Free Catholic Church

A list of publications and audio materials from the Free Catholic Church is provided, with prices and order information.

Biomagnetism * Magnetfältsterapi

An advertisement for Biomagnetism and Magnet Field Therapy, with contact information for Margitta Kjellsson.

Välkommen till Eteras doftrike!

An advertisement for "Etera's fragrant realm," offering scented oils, perfumes, and other aromatherapy products based on Ayurvedic knowledge. A catalog with scent samples is available.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren are spirituality, self-discovery, alternative healing methods, the exploration of consciousness, and the connection with nature. The magazine appears to have an open and curious stance towards paranormal phenomena, spiritual practices, and unconventional approaches to health and well-being, presenting them as valid avenues for personal growth and understanding. There is a consistent emphasis on inner experience, intuition, and the potential for individuals to access deeper knowledge and power within themselves and through connection with the natural and spiritual worlds. The editorial stance is one of exploration and encouragement, providing information and platforms for diverse perspectives within the New Age and spiritual communities.

This issue of Sökaren, dated November 1993, is the 30th year of publication and focuses on encouraging subscriptions by highlighting the magazine's unique content and value. The cover story, "Why subscribe to Sökaren?", emphasizes its role as a guide through the world of spirituality, holistic thinking, personal development, parapsychology, and mysticism.

Subscription Drive and Editorial Vision

The introductory section details why readers should subscribe, emphasizing that Sökaren provides knowledge and insights into a vast array of topics relevant to seekers in Sweden. It highlights the magazine's commitment to being an independent publication for life's questions, free from specific doctrines, aiming to inform and discuss without dictating beliefs. The editorial team expresses a desire to make the magazine even more readable, well-researched, and interesting.

Starting in 1994, Sökaren will transition to a bimonthly publication, releasing six issues per year instead of the previous frequency. Each issue will be expanded to 56 pages, with some issues featuring 64 pages, ensuring subscribers receive the same or more valuable content. The circulation is projected to increase to 10,000 copies, with the magazine available in hundreds of press kiosks and stores.

The magazine's core themes revolve around love, the interconnectedness of all things, and the exploration of life's mysteries. The editorial team acknowledges that their navigation of these complex topics may sometimes lead to missteps due to insufficient knowledge or a degree of boldness.

Featured Articles and Content

A Course in Miracles: The issue features information about courses in "A Course in Miracles" offered by Hans-Jörgen Gerloff and Ulf Wåhlström at Rinkesta Slott. These courses are described as a path to self-knowledge, spiritual growth, and inner peace, offering practical methods for changing one's thinking to achieve harmony and joy.

Parapsychology: An article titled "Parapsychology: A Science That Discovers What Is Not Allowed to Exist" discusses the challenges faced by parapsychologists, who often find their work dismissed or questioned by the scientific establishment. It touches upon the closure of parapsychological laboratories in the US and the continuation of research in institutions like the University of Edinburgh.

Book Reviews: Several books are reviewed, focusing on themes of health, spirituality, and personal development. Titles include "Groddar, alger & tofu" (Sprouts, Algae & Tofu), "Vegankost" (Vegan Diet), "Tallmogårdens bästa recept" (TallmO garden's Best Recipes), "Vegetarisk Fest året om" (Vegetarian Feast All Year Round), "Zonterapi - tryck dig frisk" (Zone Therapy - Press Yourself Healthy), "Vital Mat" (Vital Food), "Are Waerland - vision & illusion", "Hälsohemmens bästa recept" (Health Homes' Best Recipes), "Hälsa, bot & bättring" (Health, Cure & Improvement), and "Föllingeprojektet" (The Föllinge Project), "Värk - Reumatism" (Pain - Rheumatism).

Personal Ads (Personsökaren): A section for personal classified ads allows individuals to seek companions, travel partners, or discuss shared interests in areas like personal development, spirituality, and alternative lifestyles.

Energivågen: This section promotes "Energivågen," a resource guide for the new age market, distributed free of charge and available via subscription. It lists courses, seminars, and tools for personal development.

Crop Circles: An extensive article titled "Oh, great Sai Baba!" also touches upon the phenomenon of crop circles, with a report on a week-long gathering of Swedish Sai Baba followers at Herrborum. The article discusses the teachings of Sai Baba, emphasizing love and universal acceptance, and includes personal testimonies from attendees. Another section, "Mystiska cirklar" (Mystical Circles), delves into the crop circle phenomenon, questioning their origin and exploring potential explanations, including natural forces, hoaxes, and extraterrestrial involvement. It mentions that UFO-Aktuellt has investigated these circles in Sweden.

Sai Baba: The magazine features a report on a Sai Baba gathering at Herrborum, a historic estate in Östergötland, Sweden. The event, attended by followers of the Indian guru Sai Baba, focused on spiritual teachings, love, and environmental awareness. The article highlights the simplicity and teachings of Sai Baba, as well as the experiences of his followers.

Other Content: The issue also includes a calendar of events related to the supernatural and alternative lifestyles, a section on "Nätverket för Gränsöverskridande Vetenskap" (Network for Transcendent Science) discussing topics like crop circles and earth energies, and a review of books by Martinus Kosmologi, including "Kosmiska Lektioner" (Cosmic Lessons) and "Mänsklighetens Öde" (Humanity's Fate).

New Books Section: This section presents new book releases from Energica Förlag/HÄLSAböcker, including "Åter till kärleken" (Back to Love) by Marianne Williamson, "Din egen kraft" (Your Own Power) by Louise L. Hay, "Ljudterapi" (Sound Therapy) by Olivia Dewhurst-Maddock, "The Wave" (a video), "Aromaterapi för varje dag" (Aromatherapy for Every Day) by Michael Kraus, "Uppvaknande - vägledning för vardagen" (Awakening - Guidance for Everyday) by Shakti Gawain, and "En uppvaknande värld" (An Awakening World) by Peter Russell.

Enlightenment Intensive: An advertisement for an "Enlightenment Intensive" course, described as a direct experience of truth, developed by Charles Berner, is featured.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren are spirituality, personal development, holistic living, and the exploration of the unexplained. The magazine maintains an open and inquisitive stance, presenting various perspectives and phenomena without imposing a specific belief system. It encourages readers to explore these topics and find their own truths, emphasizing love, interconnectedness, and the potential for inner transformation. The editorial stance is one of promoting a broader understanding of life beyond materialistic paradigms, fostering a sense of community among seekers, and providing a platform for diverse voices in the alternative and spiritual fields.

This issue of "Martinus kosmologi" from Världsbild Förlag, dated Autumn 1993, is dedicated to presenting the extensive works and philosophy of the Danish thinker Martinus Thomsen. The magazine serves as a catalog and an introduction to his comprehensive worldview, known as Martinus Cosmology.

Martinus Cosmology: A New Worldview

The magazine introduces Martinus Cosmology as a groundbreaking science of life, formulated by Martinus. It explains that his work explores the fundamental principles that govern nature and shape our experience of life. A central tenet is that the entire universe, from the smallest atom to the largest galaxy, is alive and expresses life. Martinus challenges the common cultural illusion of 'death,' asserting that life is eternal and cannot be created or destroyed. Our current life is presented as just one segment in a much larger life panorama. By understanding the cosmic developmental perspective, concepts like 'chance' and 'coincidence' are dissolved, revealing the inherent meaning and the cause-and-effect relationships that shape our destiny.

Martinus Cosmology aims to assist individuals in finding answers to the profound questions about themselves and existence. His writings, referred to as the "Third Testament," shed new light on the life-giving logic of the commandment to 'love your neighbor as yourself.' Achieving peace and freedom, both mentally and globally, is linked to the development of our humanity and compassion. Martinus's work provides a logical basis for humane thinking, uniting morality and science in a truly human understanding of nature and fellow beings.

Key Books and Publications by Martinus

The magazine extensively lists and describes numerous books by Martinus, categorized by volume and theme. These include:

• Livets Bog (The Book of Life): Presented as Martinus's central work, divided into several volumes (Del 2-7 are detailed). These volumes delve into topics such as cosmic chemistry, the principle of cycles, the eternal life, the highest fire (sexual transformation), the kingdom of God, and cosmic morality. Each book is described with its page count and price.
• Vägen till Paradiset (The Way to Paradise): Describes a post-death existence in a spiritual realm.
• Kosmiska Glimtar (Cosmic Glimpses): Discusses experiences of heightened consciousness and joy, and the development of intellect.
• De Levande Väsendenas Odödlighet (The Immortality of Living Beings): Explores the concept of universal justice and the relationship between science, society, dictatorship, and democracy.
• Kulturens Skapelse (The Creation of Culture): Examines the factors behind human cultural development and the creation of peace.
• Vad är Sanning? (What is Truth?): Addresses the declining faith in religious authorities and the increasing reliance on facts and personal experience, including the concept of "Christ's return."
• Mänskligheten och Världsbilden (Humanity and the Worldview): Contrasts the mechanistic view of nature with the inner experience of life and consciousness.
• Den Fullkomliga Födan (The Complete Nourishment): Advocates for vegetarianism as natural and essential for overcoming illness and misfortune.
• Genom Dödens Port (Through the Gate of Death): Discusses sleep and death as transitions to other realms, not to be feared.
• Den Längst Levande Avguden (The Longest Living Idol): Critiques the concept of a wrathful God and emphasizes tolerance, love, and the dangers of selfishness.
• Bisättning (Burial): Explores the body as a universe of microorganisms and our responsibility towards this microcosm.
• Meditation: Discusses meditation and prayer, including the risks of certain meditation techniques and the concept of "love cult."

In addition to these, the magazine lists many other books by Martinus, such as "Kosmiska Lektioner," "Mänsklighetens Öde," "Logik," "Den Eviga Världsbilden," "Livets Väg," and "Julevangeliet," each with a brief description, page count, and price.

Other Publications and Media

The issue also highlights other materials related to Martinus's work:

• KOSMOS Magazine: A monthly publication featuring articles by Martinus and others, also available in Swedish. Free sample issues can be ordered.
• Video Films: Several video films are offered, including "Martinus och Världsbilden," "Den Kosmiska Världsbilden," and "Klintbilder," providing introductions to Martinus's life and cosmology.
• Audiobooks: Mention is made of audiobooks available for visually impaired individuals.
• Other Authors: Books by authors like Raymond A. Moody, Kenneth Ring, Eva Seeberg, Melvin Morse, Olof Alexandersson, Gunnar Carlsson, Willis Harman, Juno Borensjö, Nils Kalén, Karin Eklund, J Helbach, P H Rusch, Sture Emby, Gunner Frederiksen, Mogens Möller, Ruth Hallengren, Tage Buch, and Per Bruus-Jensen are presented, often relating to themes of near-death experiences, reincarnation, spirituality, and cosmology, frequently referencing Martinus's work.

Martinus Himself

A section titled "Vem är Martinus?" provides biographical details about Martinus Thomsen, his life in northern Jutland, Denmark, and the transformative inner experience in 1921 that led him to formulate his cosmology. It explains his understanding of the universe as a living organism and the principle of love as the fundamental tone of existence. His mission was to convey the knowledge gained from his experience of "cosmic consciousness" and to present the cosmic worldview.

Supporting Martinus's Work

The magazine includes information on how to support the publication of Martinus's books in Sweden through donations to Världsbild Förlag. It also mentions study plans for various books and courses for study circle leaders.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of the magazine is the promotion and explanation of Martinus Cosmology. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of Martinus's teachings, presenting them as a comprehensive and logical framework for understanding life, the universe, and humanity's place within it. The magazine emphasizes the development of consciousness, the importance of love and compassion, and the eternal nature of life as central to achieving peace and a higher state of being. The publication acts as a gateway for readers to explore these profound concepts through Martinus's extensive literary output and related works.