Sokaren - 1994 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 2, 1994, årgång 31
Date: February 1994
Publisher: Sökaren
Price: 50:- inkl moms

This issue of Sökaren, a magazine for life questions, focuses on the controversial topic of astrology, questioning whether it is a profound knowledge system. The cover features a detailed illustration of the zodiac and poses the question, 'Is astrology a deep knowledge?'

Rinkesta Castle: A Growing Spiritual Center

The magazine highlights Rinkesta Castle in Sörmland as an important focal point for the 'new era' and spiritual development. It serves as the headquarters for the political party Enhet and is a central location for 'A Course in Miracles' (ACIM) practitioners. The article details the castle's transformation from a former nursing home into a vibrant center through volunteer efforts and donations.

People at Rinkesta

Several individuals are featured: Thorbjörn Eriksson, who left a materialistic life to live at Rinkesta and assist with ACIM courses; Leif Jönsson, a former journalist and author of 'Economic Disobedience,' who is politically active with Enhet and works as a cook at the castle; and Ulf Wåhlström and Gunilla Wigertz, founders of the Enhet party, who envision Rinkesta as a hub for spiritual activities.

'A Course in Miracles' (ACIM)

The magazine explains ACIM as a spiritual teaching that aims to change one's mind and perception of reality, emphasizing forgiveness and the idea that we are all children of God without guilt. It is described as a daily guide for personal transformation and is being led by practitioners like Hans-Jörgen Gerloff at Rinkesta.

Political Activism with Enhet

The political party Enhet, founded in 1990, is presented as a movement that seeks to guide political work through spiritual insight. Their platform emphasizes that societal change must begin within individuals and proposes a new economic system based on human needs, free from interest and inflation. The party received 888 votes in the last general election and is preparing for the next.

Astrology Under Scrutiny

Scientific Skepticism vs. Astrological Belief

Astronomer Curt Roslund argues that astrology is superstition, not science, as its claims are not based on critical, objective research. He criticizes astrologers for not questioning their beliefs, unlike scientists. He points out that the vast number of possible astrological combinations makes it impossible for astrology to be based solely on observation.

Research on Astrology

The article discusses research into astrology, including the work of French psychologist and statistician Michel Gauquelin. Gauquelin's studies, which analyzed birth dates of famous individuals, suggested a correlation between planetary positions at birth and certain personality traits or professions, contradicting the idea of fate but suggesting a link to character. His findings are presented as controversial and not universally accepted by the scientific community.

Gauquelin's Findings and Criticism

While Gauquelin's research found some statistically significant results, many scientists remain skeptical. Vernon Clark's experiments and Shawn Carlson's more extensive study indicated that astrologers performed no better than chance in matching horoscopes to personality descriptions. The article notes that Gauquelin's results are not always consistent with traditional astrological interpretations, such as the lack of effect from the Sun and Venus in some of his studies.

Alternative Explanations and Holistic Views

Alternative explanations for Gauquelin's findings are explored, including the possibility that individuals might choose professions aligned with astrological symbolism or that the 'scientific' paradigm itself is too limited. The concept of a holistic worldview, where the universe is seen as an interconnected system rather than a mechanistic one, is presented as a potential framework for understanding such phenomena. Jan Romander, an engineer and astrologer, advocates for this holistic view, suggesting that the universe is guided by intelligent intent rather than just cause and effect.

Astrological Interpretations

Astrologers like Jan Romander and Hans Ljungqvist believe that astrology functions as a symbolic system and a 'dramatized psychology,' offering insights into the order of things based on feeling and intuition. They see the universe as a continuous act of creation where consciousness and matter are inseparable polarities. Thomas Jönsson emphasizes that planetary positions at birth symbolize possibilities and conditions, not predetermined fates.

The Role of Rinkesta in Courses

The magazine details various courses offered at Rinkesta related to 'A Course in Miracles,' including weekend seminars, foundation courses, and thematic weeks focusing on relationships. These courses are led by individuals like Hans-Jörgen Gerloff and Ulf Wåhlström.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue grapples with the tension between scientific rationalism and spiritual or esoteric beliefs, particularly astrology. It highlights the growing interest in alternative spirituality and personal development, exemplified by the activities at Rinkesta Castle and the teachings of 'A Course in Miracles.' While presenting scientific critiques of astrology, it also gives voice to proponents who believe in its efficacy and symbolic meaning, often framing it within a holistic or spiritual worldview. The magazine appears to be exploring these diverse perspectives without definitively endorsing one over the other, but rather presenting them as part of a broader search for meaning and knowledge.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 1994, focuses on the concept of 'The Perennial Philosophy' as explored by Aldous Huxley, alongside articles on paranormal phenomena and alternative spirituality.

The Perennial Philosophy

Aldous Huxley's Exploration

The main article, written by Sven Magnusson, introduces Aldous Huxley's book 'The Perennial Philosophy,' which posits the existence of an eternal, unchanging spiritual truth underlying all religions and philosophies. Huxley, initially an agnostic and nihilist, moved towards mysticism and compiled this anthology of wisdom. The philosophy recognizes a divine reality as the essence of all things, life, and souls, and sees the human soul as identical with this divine reality. The ultimate goal of human existence, according to this philosophy, is the knowledge of this all-pervading ground of all existence.

Huxley believed these ideas to be ancient and universal, found in primitive cultures and fully developed in higher religions. They began to appear in writings 25 centuries ago and have been discussed by numerous authors across different languages. Huxley's book includes many illustrative quotes with commentary.

The Inner Core

The perennial philosophy, as described by Huxley, is about "the one and divine reality which constitutes the essence of the manifold world of things, life, and souls." This divine inner core is not easily grasped intellectually; it requires a loving and pure heart. The author shares a personal anecdote about initially finding Huxley's book valueless but later appreciating its depth.

'Tat Tvam Asi' - 'This is You'

A central tenet of the perennial philosophy is the Sanskrit phrase 'tat tvam asi,' meaning "this is you." This concept asserts that one can see anything and realize it is oneself in another form. The eternal self within each individual is identical with, or at least related to, the divine life-ground. This inner self, known as 'atman' in Sanskrit, is one with 'brahman,' the absolute principle of all existence. The ultimate aim is to discover one's identity with the totality, realizing that the self is one with the divine.

William Law is quoted describing a 'depth' or 'center' of the soul from which all spiritual life emanates, where one is identical with God. This inner realization allows one to perceive the divine presence within one's own soul and in all other beings.

Intuition Grasps

The perennial philosophy is not based on rational thinking but on intuition, which can perceive the unity underlying worldly diversity. These ideas are found across various philosophies, particularly in Indian thought, notably the Upanishads and later systematized by Shankara.

Huxley quotes Shankara's "Crest-Jewel of Discrimination," emphasizing that the ultimate reality (brahman) is all-pervading, the source of light for all things, yet cannot be illuminated by them. True knowledge comes from direct spiritual perception, not from learned discourse. Shankara states that 'atman' (the individual self) is identical with 'brahman' (the universal self). The text highlights that brahman has no name or form, is beyond time and space, and is the sole cause of multiplicity, yet independent of causality. The phrase "This is That" is a meditation on this truth.

The article includes quotes from various figures, including Katarina of Genoa and Bernhard of Clairvaux, illustrating the concept of the self being one with God.

God in the World

The philosophy asserts that God, the world-ground, is the innermost essence of all. The text explains that the 'bottom' of oneself is the 'bottom' of another, implying universal connection. All beings are seen as different manifestations of God. This immanence of God in the world suggests that nature is sacred, and humans should cooperate with it rather than dominate it, treating all life forms with respect.

Love

Love is presented as a central idea in higher religions and the perennial philosophy. William Law is quoted stating that love is infallible and that one can only love what one knows, and truly know what one loves. Intense, selfless love leads to a union of knowledge with the object, providing a reliable source of truth. Sincere love involves action, serving God with righteousness, strength, and humility, as stated by Teresa of Ávila. Augustinus is quoted saying, "Love and do what you will," highlighting love as the root and essence of morality.

Truth

Quotes from Lao Tse and Eckhart suggest that ultimate truth is elusive and cannot be fully grasped or described by words. The idea is that our perception of truth is colored by our own state of being. Hui Neng's quote implies that any attempt to define or grasp truth is inherently limited.

Self-Knowledge

Chuang Tse emphasizes the importance of knowing oneself by looking inward. The text notes that humans often mistake dreams for reality, and the perennial philosophy encourages waking from this illusion to realize one's identity with the eternal world-ground (God). Self-knowledge reveals our origin, our present state of exile, and our ultimate destination.

Good and Evil

William Law suggests that the difference between good and evil people lies not in their desires but in their alignment with God's spirit. The perennial philosophy posits that the potential for both good and evil exists within us, and the choice lies in actualizing the good. Rumi is quoted saying, "If you haven't seen the devil, look into your own self." Eckhart advises focusing on being good rather than just doing good, as a good personality naturally leads to good deeds. The Bhagavad Gita states, "Man is created by his faith. As he believes, so he is."

Salvation, Liberation, Enlightenment

Salvation, according to this philosophy, is liberation from the illusion of being a separate, isolated individual. It is the realization of unity with God and all beings. Shankara emphasizes that true liberation comes from understanding and realizing the oneness of the self with the eternal God, not through rituals or speculative philosophy. The experience of union with the Ground is the path to salvation, which can be experienced in the present life.

Immortality and Life After Death

Immortality is understood as participating in the eternal, timeless existence of the Ground. The essence of oneself, being part of this eternal Ground, is timeless and does not die. Identifying one's self with the eternal Ground leads to the perception of being an immortal being.

The author concludes by acknowledging the subjective nature of their interpretation, influenced by their personal engagement with the philosophy.

Unexplained Events

Strange Occurrences

This section, written by Gösta Fröbärj, discusses paranormal phenomena. The author recounts personal experiences and investigations into unexplained events, driven by an early interest in the paranormal that contrasted with a later materialist worldview shaped by scientific literature.

The Unexplained Steps

Fröbärj details an experience in February 1951 where he heard heavy, dragging footsteps in the early morning. He initially suspected the homeowner, but later learned the homeowner had not left his room. This experience was later corroborated by other guests who also heard similar sounds. The author meticulously documented these events.

The Mysterious Voice

In the spring of 1951, while traveling to Göteborg, the author called the doctor's home and spoke to a strange, deep voice that informed him the doctor and his wife were in Göteborg. This was unusual as the couple had not yet informed anyone of their travel plans, which were made in response to the death of the wife's mother.

The Vision

During a walk in the evening, the doctor, his wife, and their dog encountered an indistinct figure. The dog reacted aggressively, but the figure vanished. The wife later remarked that the figure resembled the doctor's deceased father.

Commentary by Nils-Olof Jacobson

Dr. Nils-Olof Jacobson, the homeowner, provides a commentary, agreeing that the events were inexplicable to those involved but questioning their classification as "scientifically established paranormal phenomena." He notes that modern science generally dismisses such events and requires extraordinary evidence. He also suggests that attributing such events to the deceased is a matter of interpretation or belief.

Forandrade Medvetandetillstånd hos Kvinnor i Samband med Förlossning (Altered States of Consciousness in Women During Childbirth)

Out-of-Body Experiences and Near-Death Experiences

This article by Kersti Wistrand explores out-of-body experiences (OBEs) and near-death experiences (NDEs) in women during pregnancy and childbirth. Wistrand's research, initially stemming from editing a book on NDEs and OBEs, led to contact with about 120 individuals who had such experiences.

Eva's Experience

Eva, a 21-year-old woman, describes an OBE during a difficult childbirth. She felt she was floating above her body, observing the medical procedures and the birth of her daughter. She noted a unique, intense light and a pulsating beam of light from her physical body. She experienced the birth without pain from her out-of-body perspective and felt her senses were heightened upon returning to her body.

Research

Wistrand found little mention of these experiences in medical and psychological literature, where they were often classified as maternity blues, depression, or psychotic disorders. Her research involved interviews and a literature review, and she compiled thirteen women's accounts of altered states during childbirth.

Spiritual Seekers

Many women who experienced OBEs felt a lack of understanding from their families and healthcare providers. Some were thrown into existential crises, becoming spiritual seekers. While the experiences were often positive, integrating them into their worldview was challenging. Those with a firm belief system (Christian or atheist) found it easier to process these events. For many, these experiences led to a loss of fear of death, an insight into universal connection and meaning, and a subsequent life change.

Research in Russian Maternity Hospitals

Wistrand initiated research in St. Petersburg, Russia, in collaboration with Professor Leonid Spivak and his son Dmitri Spivak. The project involved interviewing women in maternity wards about altered states during normal childbirths. Preliminary findings indicated that OBEs occur spontaneously in normal births, though on a small scale.

Alexandra Jakovleva's Experience

Alexandra Jakovleva, editor-in-chief of the Russian magazine 'Inward Path,' recounts a transcendental experience during a difficult childbirth. She saw a soul descending to Earth and a group of non-corporeal beings deciding its destination. This vision led her to a profound life change, including leaving her job and starting a New Age magazine.

Seeking Contact

Wistrand is seeking contact with women who have experienced altered states of consciousness during pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period.

Peter Caddy Ur Tiden (Peter Caddy of His Time)

This section commemorates Peter Caddy, a co-founder of the Findhorn Foundation, who died in a car accident at the age of 76. Eileen Caddy, his former wife and co-founder, shared her love and gratitude for him, mentioning a painting of Peter that would be displayed at Findhorn.

The Power of Prayer

Larry Dossey, a physician, investigated the effects of prayer on patients. He found compelling evidence that prayer can aid healing, either through silent surrender to a higher power or through direct requests. Dossey's research suggests that prayer is a psychological activity that brings one closer to the transcendent. Experiments involving EEG measurements showed synchronized brain patterns when individuals sent empathetic thoughts to each other, highlighting the power of empathy.

Professor Intygar Under (Professor Attests Underneath)

This article reports on the work of Filipino psychic surgeon Ramon Labo, whose operations were observed by German-Israeli medical professor Erich Lasch. Lasch witnessed Labo remove tumors from four cancer patients, with the tumors disappearing or significantly reducing. Labo explained that the healing process occurred on a non-material plane.

Djurfabrikörer Inburade (Animal Factory Farmers Imprisoned)

This brief report describes an experiment where British animal factory farmers were challenged to spend 24 hours in a cage similar to those used for battery hens. All four participants gave up within 18 hours, highlighting the difficulty of such confinement.

Samvaro Bra För Hjärtat (Being Together is Good for the Heart)

Research suggests that loneliness and psychological problems contribute to heart conditions. A study showed that patients who participated in group activities, including yoga and meditation, experienced significant improvement in their health compared to a control group.

Bilders Betydelse För Tillfrisknande (The Significance of Pictures for Recovery)

Studies indicate that images in hospital rooms can aid patient recovery. Patients who viewed nature scenes, particularly those with water, experienced less anxiety and required less pain medication than those who saw abstract art or blank walls.

Naturlig Förklaring Till UFO-Foto (Natural Explanation for UFO Photo)

This article by Paul Cerny critically examines a UFO photograph taken at Willamette Pass, Oregon, in 1966. The witness, a biochemist and former naval officer, claimed to have photographed a UFO. However, through detailed investigation, Dr. Irwin Wieder, a physicist, concluded that the object was likely a road sign. Wieder's analysis, including recreating the photo under similar conditions, suggested that the apparent UFO was an artifact of the camera's movement and the snow on the sign. The article emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific principles in UFO research and suggests focusing on cases with multiple, independent witnesses.

Matthew Fox: Kristen Rebell Och Nytänkare (Matthew Fox: Christian Rebel and Innovator)

This article profiles Matthew Fox, a Catholic priest and theologian advocating for "creation spirituality." Fox critiques traditional Christian theology's emphasis on sin and guilt, advocating instead for a theology that emphasizes blessing, creation, and the interconnectedness of all things. He highlights the importance of the "Cosmic Christ," the feminine aspect of God, and a holistic approach that integrates science, spirituality, and social justice. Fox's views have led to controversy and his eventual suspension from the Dominican order.

The Four Ways

Fox proposes four paths for spiritual growth: via positiva (affirming life's blessings), via negativa (embracing mystery, darkness, and suffering), via creativa (expressing divine energy through creation), and via transformativa (transforming one's perception of reality).

Creation Spirituality

Creation spirituality emphasizes the ongoing process of creation, the divine presence in all things (panentheism), and the importance of Eros (love of life) and creativity. It calls for a shift from a focus on sin and guilt to one of blessing and interconnectedness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, mysticism, the nature of consciousness, and the search for meaning beyond conventional materialism. It presents alternative perspectives on religion, science, and unexplained phenomena, often drawing from Eastern philosophies and New Age thought. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring unconventional ideas and personal experiences, while also encouraging critical examination and scientific rigor, as seen in the UFO photo analysis.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 2
Volume: Årgång 31
Date: Juni 1994
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Price: Helår (6 nr) 250:-, Halvår 150:-

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life questions, delves into the controversial topic of astrology, questioning its validity within a modern scientific framework while acknowledging its widespread appeal. The issue features a prominent article titled "Astrologi - kan det vara något?" (Astrology - can it be something?) by Sven Magnusson, the editor and publisher.

Main Article: Astrology - Can it be Something?

Sven Magnusson's lead article critically examines astrology. He begins by stating that from the perspective of current scientific understanding, it seems improbable that the positions of stars at a person's birth could have any connection to their character or future life. However, he notes that many people claim astrology "fits" or "works" for them. The article highlights the research of the late French psychologist and statistician Michel Gauquelin. Gauquelin, with his wife Françoise, undertook a significant project to gather birth dates for a large number of individuals, cast their horoscopes, and then statistically analyze the data. His work suggested a correlation between the positions of certain planets at birth and specific human traits. While this research may lend support to certain aspects of astrology, Magnusson points out that it only confirms a small part of astrological claims. For the most part, astrology lacks scientific support, either because it hasn't been scientifically investigated or because existing research has been of poor quality or unverified. The article concludes that Gauquelin's results might hint at discoverable astrological truths, which would then present a challenge for thinkers and scientists to explain and integrate into a worldview. Magnusson also mentions that the magazine is back and thanks readers for their appreciation, noting that a report on donations to the support fund will appear in the next issue.

Contents Overview

The issue includes a variety of articles and contributions:

• "Rinkesta slott" by Åsa Freij.
• "Astrologin studeras" (Astrology is Studied) by SM, an article on the study of astrology.
• "Paret Gauquelins undersökningar" (The Gauquelins' Investigations) by H.J. Eysenck & D.K.B. Nias, likely discussing the research of Michel and Françoise Gauquelin.
• "Därför tror jag inte på astrologi" (Why I Don't Believe in Astrology) by Curt Roslund.
• "Intervju med Jan Romander" (Interview with Jan Romander) by SM, featuring an astrologer who states, "The cosmic force reflected through astrology is a mystery."
• "Den oförgängliga filosofin" (The Imperishable Philosophy) by SM.
• "Oförklarliga händelser" (Unexplained Events) by Gösta Fröbärj.
• "Förändrade medvetandetillstånd hos kvinnor" (Altered States of Consciousness in Women) by Kersti Wistrand.
• "Sökarnyheter" (Sökaren News).
• "Förklaring till UFO-foto" (Explanation for UFO Photos) by Paul Cerny.
• "Läsarforum" (Reader's Forum).
• "Bokfloden" (Book Flood), a section likely reviewing books.
• "Matthew Fox, kristen nytänkare" (Matthew Fox, Christian Thinker) by Jan Vintilescu.

Key Persons and Organizations

The issue mentions several key individuals, including Ulf Wåhlström and Gunilla Wigertz, described as driving forces at the New Age-centret Rinkesta slott. Sven Magnusson serves as the editor and publisher. The research of Michel and Françoise Gauquelin is a central theme. Other contributors and interviewees include Åsa Freij, H.J. Eysenck, D.K.B. Nias, Curt Roslund, Jan Romander, Gösta Fröbärj, Kersti Wistrand, Paul Cerny, and Jan Vintilescu, who writes about Matthew Fox. Organizations mentioned include Sökaren itself, the New Age-centret Rinkesta slott, and the printing company Wallin & Dalholm.

Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of science, belief, and the unexplained. Astrology is critically examined, with a focus on scientific evidence versus popular belief and anecdotal experience. The magazine also touches upon broader philosophical and spiritual topics, including altered states of consciousness, unexplained events, and UFO phenomena. The editorial stance, as presented in the main article, appears to be one of critical inquiry, acknowledging popular interest in subjects like astrology while maintaining a commitment to scientific rigor and evidence-based reasoning. The magazine aims to explore these complex subjects, presenting research and different viewpoints for its readers to consider.