Sokaren - 1995 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 1, 1995, Årgång 32
Date: 1995
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- inkl moms

This issue of "Sökaren" magazine, a Swedish publication focused on "life questions," offers a diverse range of articles exploring spiritual, esoteric, and paranormal topics. The cover features Kerstin Nordin, described as a "serving thinker," and highlights a large New Age festival in Stockholm and the concept of men being like tuning forks.

Brokig festival för själsfrid (A Colorful Festival for Peace of Mind)

This article details the "International Peace in Mind Festival" held in Stockholm's Medborgarhuset in October. The festival attracted many visitors interested in various New Age practices, including healing, tarot, shamanism, flying saucers, and elemental beings. The event featured 87 speakers and numerous workshops, covering a wide array of topics from crystal sales to meditation. The author notes the long queues and the diverse audience, ranging from young mothers to older individuals.

• Key aspects covered:
• Healing and Nutrition: Jan Bohman from Regnbågscentret discussed "body electronics" (kroppselektronik), a healing method aimed at resolving resistance in the body by working on cellular levels. He emphasized the importance of optimal nutrition, advocating for a strict vegetarian diet with an emphasis on raw foods, stating that physical well-being is foundational for higher spiritual principles.
• Feminine and Masculine Principles: Artist Anders Linder presented a talk and show on "The Return of the Goddess," advocating for the re-emergence of the feminine principle, which he believes was dominant 5000 years ago before the rise of patriarchal structures. He stressed the need for balance between masculine and feminine energies.
• UFO Seminars: Alongside the main festival, "Pans Vänner" organized UFO seminars. Sten Lindgren presented evidence of mass UFO sightings in Sweden in 1965, involving thousands of witnesses, including prominent figures. He described these as test flights of a convoy of mother ships and smaller UFOs. Lindgren also claimed contact with an extraterrestrial group that is 800,000 years ahead in development and monitoring Earth.
• Anders B. Johansson's Teachings: Anders B. Johansson, known in New Age circles, discussed Sweden's role in the Aquarian Age, mentioning "Ascended Masters" and "light-bearers" who channel their messages. He claimed to be a light-bearer and listed various masters. He also spoke of increased "light quanta" in our cells and predicted special development in the Åre region from June 1995, urging Sweden to "bring down higher consciousness."
• H.C. Petersen on UFO Cover-ups: Danish Major H.C. Petersen, who worked at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, discussed alleged government cover-ups regarding UFO phenomena. He recounted an incident where UFOs disappeared from radar and military authorities ordered no reports to be filed.
• Jannicke Jarlum's Transformation: Norwegian pop singer Jannicke Jarlum shared her experience of a "third-degree" encounter in March 1992, involving a craft and two beings. This experience led to physiological and psychological changes, including out-of-body experiences and automatic writing, resulting in the creation of 100 songs and a book.

A Course in Miracles

This section promotes "A Course in Miracles" (ACIM) and announces that Stiftelsen En Kurs I Mirakler has taken over Rinkesta Slott to create a center for ACIM study. Several upcoming courses and seminars are listed, including introductions, special topics like "Holy Relations" and "Forgiveness," and year-long courses led by Hans-Jörgen Gerloff and Ulf Wåhlström. The section also lists ACIM events in Eskilstuna/Västerås, Stockholm, and Gothenburg.

Sällsamma Samband utmed vägen (Strange Coincidences Along the Road)

This article by Dénis Lindbohm recounts several personal experiences of seemingly improbable coincidences, which he believes are not mere chance but indicative of a larger reality.

• The Moped Incident: Lindbohm describes running out of gas for his moped just in front of the only gas station for miles, where the owner's neighbor happened to be present to open it, despite having no particular reason to be there.
• The Axe Incident: While on an outing with friends, their car got stuck. Lindbohm found an axe precisely where it was needed to cut through a log, which he believes was "borrowed" to help them.
• The Screwdriver Incident: His motorcycle stalled in a remote forest, and he discovered a screwdriver nearby that perfectly fit the carburetor screws, allowing him to fix a water-in-the-carburetor issue.
• The Scooter Incident: His scooter's front fork broke, and he found a brass tube and a spring from discarded farm equipment that perfectly matched the damaged parts, allowing him to repair it temporarily.
• The Domkraft (Jack) Incident: While driving a Messerschmitt, he had to perform a dangerous maneuver to avoid a collision due to a flat tire. He found a car jack on a trailer nearby, which he believes was placed there intentionally.
• The Gas Incident: While riding a moped, he ran out of gas. A passing car stopped, and the driver offered him moped fuel from a canister that had been accidentally filled with the wrong type of gas, which he saw as a helpful coincidence.

Lindbohm argues that these events are too improbable to be mere chance and suggests they point to a higher order or guiding force.

Michael – en mänsklig stämgaffel (Michael – A Human Tuning Fork)

This article features therapist Michael Barnett, who describes himself as a "living tuning fork" that resonates with the genuine frequency of all living beings. He explains that being "enlightened" is not about intellect but about being fully present and awake in the moment.

• Resonance and Transformation: Barnett believes that changing one's inner state is more effective than trying to change external circumstances. He states that true self-discovery involves transforming one's soul essence to match one's true self, which is interconnected with everything.
• Energy Work: At his "Energy World" center in France, Barnett works with dynamic energies that can manifest through dance, laughter, and trance. Participants often experience the release of psychological tension.
• The Master-Disciple Relationship: Barnett, formerly a disciple of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (Osho), now teaches independently. He emphasizes that to be guided by an enlightened master, one must be open and trust their words.
• The Sound of the Universe: He teaches that by opening oneself to an "inaudible sound" within, one can find inner guidance. This sound is a part of every living being and can lead to a state of "oneness" with the universe.
• Shifting Perspective: Barnett suggests that to "change the world," one must change their perspective. He uses the analogy of tuning a radio to explain how our inner frequency determines our perception of reality.

Himmelstecken vid Jesu födelse? (Celestial Signs at the Birth of Jesus?)

This "Throwback" article from 1964 examines the astrological interpretations of the star of Bethlehem.

• Ethelbert Stauffer's Theory: The article discusses German professor Ethelbert Stauffer's theory that the star of Bethlehem was a conjunction of the planets Jupiter and Venus in 7 BC, and a "coniunctio magna" (great conjunction) of Jupiter and Saturn in Pisces multiple times in 7 BC. Stauffer argues that ancient astronomers meticulously recorded such events.
• Astrological Significance: Jupiter was considered the star of the world ruler, and Pisces was the sign of the end times. The conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in Pisces was interpreted as a sign of the appearance of a world ruler in Palestine.
• Dating Jesus' Birth: Stauffer suggests that the tax registration under Quirinius likely began in 7 BC, the year Joseph and Mary may have traveled to Bethlehem. He notes that Dionysius Exiguus, who calculated the Christian era, made an error.
• Comparison with Mithras Legend: The article mentions Geo Widengren's view that the biblical story of the star of Bethlehem might be a rehash of older legends, such as the birth of the savior Mithras, which also involved a guiding star, a cave, and gifts.
• The Wise Men: The text posits that the wise men from the East might have used astronomical predictions from the year 7 BC, possibly from a "star calendar" from Sippar, to guide them.
• Biblical Interpretation: The article quotes Matthew 2:1-7, where "astrologers" (stjärntydare) inquire about the newborn king of the Jews, suggesting a possible astrological interpretation of the event.

Sökarens läsare – sådana är ni! (Sökaren's Readers – This is Who You Are!)

This section presents the results of a survey conducted among 200 "Sökaren" subscribers, with 120 responses. The survey aimed to create an opinion profile of the magazine's readership.

• Key findings:
• Belief in God: 78% believe in God, 9% do not, and 12% are unsure.
• Religious Affiliation: 45% identify as Christian, 28% have "other religious beliefs," and 23% do not identify with any religion.
• Prayer: 31% pray regularly, 44% sometimes, and 21% do not pray.
• Prayer Answers: 56% have experienced answered prayers.
• Meditation: 28% meditate regularly, 41% sometimes, and 31% do not.
• Paranormal Beliefs: 89% believe in parapsychological phenomena, 77% believe in reincarnation, and 55% believe in remembering past lives through hypnosis.
• UFO Beliefs: 44% believe UFOs are extraterrestrial craft.
• Vegetarianism: 23% are vegetarian (vegan, lakto-vegetarian, or lakto-ovo-vegetarian).
• Influences: Significant influences mentioned by readers include Jesus, the Bible, Martinus, Paul Brunton, and C.G. Jung.
• Political Leanings: The survey shows a significant portion of readers leaning towards the Green Party (21%) and Social Democrats (21%), followed by Moderates (13%) and the Liberal Party (10%).
• Demographics: The average reader is 48 years old, with 16% under 30 and 15% retired. The average readership is estimated at 4,000 people.

Ralph Lundsten - EN LEFNADS SAGA (Ralph Lundsten - A Life Saga)

This is a future report for the United Neighborhood Organization (UNO) by Ralph Lundsten. It discusses the evolution of life on Earth from mineral to human, emphasizing the concept of karma and the cyclical nature of the universe. It touches upon the development of religions and nations, the role of the military, and the eventual transcendence of physical existence into a cosmic consciousness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The "Sökaren" magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, alternative healing, paranormal phenomena (UFOs, psychic abilities), and personal transformation. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and receptive to esoteric beliefs and experiences, encouraging readers to explore their own spiritual paths and question conventional explanations. The magazine provides a platform for various spiritual teachers and personal testimonies, fostering a community of like-minded individuals seeking deeper meaning and understanding of life.

This issue of "Nya Tidsåldern i Sverige" (New Age in Sweden) from 1994 delves into the burgeoning New Age movement within Sweden, exploring its various facets, key figures, organizations, and philosophical underpinnings. The magazine aims to provide a comprehensive picture of what the New Age entails in the Swedish context.

Key Organizations and Publishers

The issue highlights several important entities within the Swedish New Age scene:

• Planetstadens Böcker: A mail-order company run by Jeanette Lundström and Susanne Rangström, selling literature on positive philosophy, relationships, health, astrology, parapsychology, and alternative medicine. They also offer tapes, stones, jewelry, and crystals.
• Energica Förlag: Led by Per and Monica S. Frisk, this is described as the largest New Age publisher in Sweden. They produce the magazine "Tidskrift för Hälsa" (Journal for Health) and "Energivågen" (Energy Wave), along with books aimed at increasing awareness and self-awareness. Their authors include international figures like Gerald Jampolsky, Louise Hay, and Marianne Williamson, as well as Swedish authors.
• Solrosens Förlag: Founded in 1991, this publishing house has released seven books, with editor Gunilla Boman hoping their publications offer comfort and aid in spiritual awakening. They emphasize the reminder that humans are spiritual beings in physical bodies.
• Nyköpings Tvärvetenskapliga Bokförening (NTB): This organization publishes and sells books via mail order, featuring titles on UFOs, Atlantis, and reincarnation.
• Vattumannen: A bookstore in Stockholm that also offers mail-order services. Their 1994 catalog lists books on esotericism, spirituality, magic, occultism, astrology, numerology, tarot, divination, ufology, ecology, holism, shamanism, indigenous cultures, mysticism, reincarnation, death, meditation, yoga, and healing.
• Other Bookstores: The magazine lists numerous other New Age bookstores across Sweden, including Näckrosen in Gothenburg, Sök och Finn in Malmö, and Harmoni Bokshop in Umeå.
• Energivågen: A free advertising magazine distributed by Energica Förlag, serving as a "resource guide for a new era" promoting personal development and a holistic worldview.

New Age Philosophy and Practices

The issue explores various aspects of New Age thought and practice:

• Donald Keys and Planetary Citizens: Donald Keys, president of Planetary Citizens, advocates for global unity and a shared perspective among all beings on Earth and in other dimensions. The organization promotes ecological, economic, and political solutions through global consciousness.
• Astrology: Stefan Stenudd discusses the allure of astrology, suggesting it offers a unique perspective on oneself and can provide explanations for personal traits and challenges, even if its scientific validity is debated.
• Spinoza: A section delves into the philosophy of Benedictus Spinoza, highlighting his rational approach to understanding God and the universe, and his emphasis on intellectual love and self-awareness.
• Kerstin Nordin and Livslust: Kerstin Nordin is featured for her work in Latvia with "Dzivesprieks" (Livslust), a project providing a home and vocational training for orphaned youth. This initiative is presented as a practical application of spiritual ideals, moving from thought to action.
• Enhet (Unity) Party: This political party, based at Rinkesta slott, presents a vision for a future Swedish society based on spiritual principles. Their "working book" outlines ideas for a synthesis beyond traditional politics, emphasizing freedom, equality, and unity, and advocating for an economy free from interest and inflation.
• Alternative Medicine: The magazine notes the increasing use of alternative therapies in European healthcare, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, and homeopathy.

UFOs and Extraterrestrial Contact

Ufology is a recurring theme, with mentions of:

• Books by Rauni-Leena Luukanen and Boris Jungkvist discussing UFOs and alien contact.
• Budd Hopkins' work on alien abductions.
• Donald Keys' belief in extraterrestrial civilizations and interdimensional beings, and his work through Planetary Citizens to foster communication.
• The significance of Mount Shasta as a potential portal and a site of UFO activity.

Personal Development and Spirituality

Many articles focus on inner growth and spiritual exploration:

• Meditation and Healing: Eivor Hansson offers courses in meditation, channeling, and healing, emphasizing the strong energy experienced during these practices.
• Self-Help Literature: Books like Larry Dossey's "Läkande Ord" (Healing Words) are promoted for their insights into the power of prayer and positive affirmations in healing.
• Spiritual Quotes: The magazine includes a collection of quotes from various figures on spirituality, the universe, and personal growth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of the magazine is the exploration and promotion of New Age ideas and practices in Sweden. It presents a positive and open-minded view of spirituality, alternative healing, and the search for deeper meaning. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging personal growth, holistic living, and a more conscious approach to life and society. There is a clear emphasis on the interconnectedness of all beings and the potential for a more harmonious future, driven by spiritual awakening and practical action.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 1, Volume 32
Date: January 1995
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Address: Box 10, 663 21 SKOGHALL, Sweden
Contact: Tel: 054-51 89 00, Fax: 054-51 89 02
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life questions and spirituality, presents a varied collection of articles. The editorial highlights the 'Frid i sinnet' (Peace of Mind) festival held in Stockholm, noting the enthusiasm of its participants and speakers. The editor reflects on personal experiences that align with Dénis Lindbohm's ideas about mystical help in difficult situations, suggesting these are important positive elements in life.

A significant portion of the editorial is dedicated to the results of a reader survey. Following up on a 1982 survey, the new findings indicate a readership with a high educational level, many of whom are vegetarians and environmentalists. The editor speculates whether the magazine's intellectual tone might have deterred a broader audience.

Featured Articles and Content

• Birgitta Manners: "Brokig festival för själsfrid" (A Motley Festival for Peace of Mind) - Likely a report on the 'Frid i sinnet' festival.
• SM (Short Message/Article): "Smörgåsbord för andligt nyfikna" (A Smorgasbord for the Spiritually Curious) - A collection of short pieces for those interested in spiritual matters.
• Dénis Lindbohm: "Sällsamma samband utmed vägen" (Strange Connections Along the Way) - Discusses mysterious connections and coincidences, possibly related to mystical help.
• Reader Profile: "Sökarens läsare - sådana är ni" (Sökaren's Readers - This is Who You Are) - Presents the findings of the reader survey.
• Ralph Lundsten: "En lefnadssaga" (A Life Story) - Offers lively and ironic reflections on life.
• SM: "Himmelstecken vid Jesu födelse?" (Heavenly Signs at Jesus' Birth?) - Poses a question about the astrological or symbolic significance of events surrounding Jesus' birth, leaving the question open.
• Hans Brattberg: "Michael, en mänsklig stämgaffel" (Michael, a Human Tuning Fork) - Explores the concept of Michael, possibly referring to the Archangel Michael, in a human context.
• SM: "Nya tidsåldern i Sverige" (The New Age in Sweden) - The author describes their understanding of the New Age movement in Sweden today.
• Stefan Stenudd: "Lite grann sådär från ovan" (A Little Bit Like That From Above) - This article likely delves into astrological or spiritual perspectives.
• SM: "Donald Keys – medborgare i universum" (Donald Keys – Citizen of the Universe) - Features Donald Keys, described by the editor as a fine, gifted idealist and New Age personality who spoke of angels.
• Anders Engman: "Spinoza" - An exploration of the philosopher Baruch Spinoza.
• Eva Sanner: "Kerstin Nordin" - An interview or profile of Kerstin Nordin, who has new ideas and is involved in helping work in Latvia, previously associated with the Nytänkarna organization.
• Åsa Freij: "Ett litet parti med en stor vision" (A Small Party with a Big Vision) - Focuses on the message of the 'Enhet' (Unity) party and interviews its author, Ove Svidén.

Editorial Stance and Future Direction

The editor announces significant changes for Sökaren, aiming for a more "popular" or accessible direction. This shift is necessitated by the withdrawal of cultural council funding, making a more easily readable magazine essential for continued publication. The editor expresses hope that these new ideas will appeal to both existing and new readers.

The magazine's content reflects a strong interest in New Age philosophy, spirituality, alternative lifestyles (vegetarianism, environmentalism), and esoteric subjects like astrology and mysticism. There is a personal and reflective tone, particularly in the editorial and in pieces discussing individuals like Donald Keys and Kerstin Nordin. The magazine appears to serve as a platform for exploring spiritual and philosophical ideas within a Swedish context, with an evolving approach to reach a wider audience.