Sokaren - 1995 No 04

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 4, 1995 (årgång 32)
Date: 1995
Price: 50:- inkl. moms
Subtitle: – tidskrift för livsfrågor – (A journal for life questions)

This issue of Sökaren magazine, dated 1995, focuses on the life and work of Rudolf Steiner and the movement he inspired, Anthroposophy. It also delves into paranormal phenomena, particularly the Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) and Instrumental Transcommunication (ITC).

Rudolf Steiner's Legacy and Anthroposophy

The cover story, "I Rudolf Steiners spår mot tillvarons djup" (In the Footsteps of Rudolf Steiner Towards the Depths of Existence), highlights the enduring influence of Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy. The article emphasizes the core areas of Anthroposophy: pedagogy, medicine, architecture, and biodynamic agriculture.

It introduces Arne Klingborg, the 80-year-old founder of the Rudolf Steinerseminariet (Rudolf Steiner Seminary) in Järna, Sweden, a center for anthroposophical education. Klingborg's work is linked to the artistic theories of Wassily Kandinsky, who was inspired by Steiner's view of art and color as having spiritual dimensions. The article notes how Steiner's ideas influenced artists and writers, mentioning Saul Bellow's visit to Kristofferskolan, a Waldorf school.

The text discusses the unique appeal of Anthroposophy, particularly to women, citing authors like Selma Lagerlöf, Edith Södergran, Gerda Antti, and Sara Lidman. It highlights the movement's diverse nature and its minimal sectarianism, noting that Järna, a community of 5,000, has 2,000 people connected to anthroposophical activities.

Anthroposophers in Järna are credited with pioneering biodynamic agriculture and composting since 1935. The community operates as a self-contained system with organic farms, specialized hospitals (like Vidarkliniken), Waldorf schools, kindergartens, and toy manufacturing, collectively representing a significant economic force.

The article touches upon the financial aspects, mentioning Anders Kumlander, who believes economics and ecology are intertwined. The movement operates through foundations without profit motives, attracting donations from those who believe in its ideals.

Architect Abbi Asmussen is featured for his work at the Rudolf Steinerseminariet, interpreting Steiner's architectural principles. Despite international recognition, Asmussen remains relatively unknown in Sweden.

The text draws a parallel between Anthroposophy and the myth of Cassandra, suggesting that those who understand profound truths are often misunderstood or ridiculed.

The Struggle for Acceptance: Vidarkliniken and Iscador

The article recounts the challenges faced by anthroposophical initiatives, such as the twenty-year struggle to build Vidarkliniken and gain approval for the anthroposophical medicine Iscador (mistletoe extract). It highlights a police raid in 1974 where mistletoe preparations were confiscated, leading to a lengthy legal battle that eventually resulted in a symbolic fine.

Today, Iscador is prescribed by doctors, and anthroposophical hospitals are recognized worldwide, with Vidarkliniken being the largest in the Nordic region.

Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) and Instrumental Transcommunication (ITC)

Nils-Olof Jacobson contributes an article titled "Rösterna från rymden" (Voices from Space), discussing the Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) and Instrumental Transcommunication (ITC).

He introduces Friedrich Jürgenson, an artist who, in 1959, accidentally recorded an unknown male voice on his tape recorder while attempting to record bird songs. Jürgenson's subsequent research led him to believe these were messages from the deceased. The article mentions that experts examined his recordings, but opinions remained divided.

EVP has evolved, with researchers now receiving voices directly through radios, telephones, and televisions, enabling dialogues. This is termed Instrumental Transcommunication (ITC).

Lizz Werneroth, who began her EVP research in 1968, is presented as having extensive experience in Sweden. Jacobson shares his own experiences with EVP, noting the difficulty in obtaining clear messages and the desire for dialogue.

The article references research by Maggy and Jules Harsch-Fischbach in Luxembourg and Adolf Homes in Germany, as well as physics professor Ernst Senkowski in Mainz, who is described as having the best overview of the phenomenon in Europe.

Messages from 'The Other Side' and the 'Zeitstrom' Group

Maggy Harsch-Fischbach summarized a lecture by Swejen Salter, an entity from 'the other side' belonging to a group called 'Zeitstrom' (Time Stream). Salter describes a world similar to ours but without physical ailments, where people live in pleasant environments and have an average age of 25-30. They coexist with other life forms and have access to synthesized nutrition.

Salter explains that their 'third level' is on a planet called Marduk, which has three suns and is not part of our solar system. They experience physical pain but not physical illness. Their society is organized into groups based on shared beliefs.

The 'Riverworld' and Marduk Parallels

The article notes the uncanny similarities between descriptions of Marduk and the fictional world of 'Riverworld' by science fiction author Philip José Farmer. In Farmer's novels, all deceased humans are resurrected on a planet called Riverworld, where they live in a world shaped by a single, all-encompassing river.

This parallel raises questions about the source of these descriptions, with the Harsch-Fischbachs suggesting that 'Technician,' a higher entity, may have inspired Farmer. However, Farmer himself was unaware of any such inspiration.

The 'Ninth Insight' and Alternative Spirituality

Lennart Lidfors reviews James Redfield's book "Den nionde insikten" (The Ninth Insight), which has become a bestseller in the alternative movement. The book, framed as an adventure novel, describes the discovery of an ancient manuscript in Peru containing nine insights into human existence and spiritual development.

The insights cover topics such as the significance of coincidences, historical consciousness, energy perception, overcoming human conflict by connecting to a higher energy source, mystical experiences, the control drama in human relationships, and the evolution of human society towards higher energy levels and vibrational states.

The book suggests a future where humanity voluntarily reduces its population, lives in harmony with nature, and embraces advanced technology while maintaining a spiritual connection.

Hälsans Hus: An Oasis for Body and Soul

The magazine features "Hälsans Hus" (House of Health) in Stockholm, an organization offering a wide range of holistic therapies and practices. It highlights services like lymph drainage, Rosentherapy, Kinesiology, Bildterapi (art therapy), and Dansterapi (dance therapy).

Founded by journalist Agne Windmark, Hälsans Hus aims to provide a platform for therapists and associations promoting health and spiritual well-being. The article details various approaches, including the Esoteriska Vägen school, which focuses on meditation and esoteric teachings, and Rosentherapy, which aims to release physical and emotional tension.

Kinesiology is presented as a method to identify and address imbalances in the body's energy systems through muscle testing. Bildterapi is described as a way to access inner feelings and knowledge through art, while Dansterapi uses movement to explore personal issues and promote self-awareness.

Paranormal Phenomena: Talking Tables and Phone Calls from the Dead

Another article, "Ett talande bord" (A Talking Table), describes an investigation into a 'talking table' in Värmland, Sweden. The table, with three legs labeled 'yes,' 'no,' and 'count,' reportedly responded to questions by tilting. The author found that the table answered approximately 50% of the questions correctly, suggesting a paranormal phenomenon.

A separate article, "Telefonsamtal från de döda?" (Phone Calls from the Dead?), discusses the research of D. Scott Rogo and Raymond Bayless, who investigated claims of phone calls from deceased individuals. They concluded that such calls, while difficult to prove scientifically, are likely genuine attempts by the deceased to communicate with the living.

The article recounts several anecdotal cases, including a psychoanalyst receiving a call from his deceased mother and a doctor hearing his deceased mother's voice. It also mentions a Hollywood actress who witnessed a call from a deceased friend's daughter.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Sökaren strongly emphasizes spiritual exploration, alternative healing modalities, and the investigation of paranormal phenomena. The magazine appears to be open to, and actively exploring, topics that lie outside conventional scientific understanding. There's a clear interest in Rudolf Steiner and Anthroposophy, presented as a foundational philosophy for many of these alternative approaches. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider these phenomena and their potential implications for understanding life, death, and consciousness. The inclusion of personal testimonies and research into EVP, ITC, and near-death experiences suggests a commitment to exploring the 'unexplained' and providing a platform for diverse spiritual and philosophical viewpoints.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: nr 4
Volume: årgång 32
Date: August 1995
Publisher: SÖKAREN
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
ISSN: 0038-0504
Cover Headline: Ifrågasatta fenomen (Questioned Phenomena)

This issue of "Sökaren" delves into various paranormal and New Age phenomena, adopting a critical and questioning approach. The magazine features articles on channeling, UFOs, reincarnation, and alternative healing methods, while also examining the potential for fraud and self-deception within these movements.

Channeling and the 'Sirius Invasion'

The lead article, "Kanaliserade dumheter" (Channelled Stupidity) by Mikael Hedlund, critically examines the phenomenon of channeling. It highlights how numerous individuals claim to channel various entities, from galactic commanders to spiritual masters, often delivering messages of a utopian future and spiritual ascension. The article points out the commercial aspect of channeling, with channelers often publishing books, holding seminars, and selling merchandise. A particularly striking example is the case of a woman channeling Barbie, who was threatened with a lawsuit by Mattel Corporation.

The article then focuses on Sheldon Nidle, who claims to channel beings from Sirius. Nidle, along with Virginia Essene, published a book detailing a supposed history and future of Earth, involving galactic wars and genetic manipulation by Atlanteans. According to this narrative, humans were originally from the Lyra constellation and have been genetically altered, resulting in a twelve-spiral DNA molecule instead of the current double helix. The Earth once had an ice firmament that was destroyed by the Atlanteans, leading to the flood. The current solar system is said to be moving closer to Sirius, where a utopian society exists with no seasons, rain, or wind, and people live for thousands of years looking young.

Nidle predicts an 'invasion' from Sirius before December 1996, when Earth will enter a photon belt around Alcyone. This event will cause darkness, temperature drops, and the failure of all electrical equipment, followed by a return of light and a transformation of all physical life. The solar system will then be 'rescued' by an Interdimensional Rescue Bubble and transported to Sirius. Mass landings of Sirius troops are expected six months prior to entering the photon belt.

Anders B. Johansson, a PhD in Sweden, is presented as a spokesperson for these 'Sirian' messages. He has initiated a 'Sirius Embassy' in Stockholm, requiring a 5000 SEK donation to become an ambassador. The funds are intended for computer equipment and translation of Nidle's book. The author of the article, Mikael Hedlund, strongly criticizes this as a blatant case of fraud, exploiting people's longing to feel significant. He questions the need for electronic equipment if the photon belt will render it useless and expresses concern about what Johansson will do when the predicted invasion fails to materialize.

The article suggests that this phenomenon reflects a desire for escapism from the difficulties of life, offering a vision of a better world where all sorrows cease. It questions why individuals cannot take personal responsibility for their lives and development instead of relying on higher beings.

Inner Sources of Knowledge

"Inre källor" (Inner Sources) by SM discusses various individuals and movements that rely on inner guidance, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, and automatic writing. It mentions Alice A. Bailey, who received messages from the Master Djwhal Khul, and Elizabeth Clare Prophet, who claims to channel Masters like Jesus and Buddha. Benjamin Creme is presented as a central figure in the New Age movement, claiming telepathic contact with Maitreya.

Marina Munk describes her clairvoyant and telepathic contact with beings from higher planes, including Jesus and Ashtar, who communicate about astral realms, Lemuria, and Atlantis. Helen Schucman received the book "A Course in Miracles" through an inner voice from Jesus. Eileen Caddy was guided by an inner voice to establish the Findhorn Foundation. May Hedlind wrote about human history from an inner voice, and Eva Lagnefeldt experienced automatic writing.

Swedish mediums like Doris Ankarberg and Helena Montelius are also mentioned. The article notes that while these inner voices often promise a better world and spiritual enlightenment, the scientifically oriented view them skeptically, attributing them to the unconscious mind. The article questions the reliability of these 'spirits,' warning that they can be destructive.

Reincarnation and Past Lives

"Förflutna liv" (Past Lives) by Elsa Pehrsson, originally published in 1965, explores the increasing number of people, particularly children, remembering past lives. The article recounts the story of a four-year-old boy named Sven who expressed intense fear of death and spoke of 'the last time I lived.' His mother, initially dismissive, becomes concerned after hearing about similar cases where children recall dying violently in past lives, possibly as soldiers in World War I. The article suggests that children are not blank slates but rather 'foster children' entrusted to parents for care, carrying the experiences of previous lives.

It highlights that while adults often forget past lives, children's memories can be vivid, though they tend to fade with age. The article notes that cases of past life recall have been documented in France, England, and Italy, with some children providing details about their former names, locations, and times of incarnation. The author speculates that only those who died prematurely or traumatically might retain these memories, and that such memories might be more common in the current generation.

The article concludes by suggesting that while the brain is an organ for remembering and forgetting, the ability to recall past lives might indicate a shift in human consciousness, and that humanity may be evolving to handle such increased awareness.

Other Phenomena and Critiques

"Sökarnyheter" (Seeker News) section covers various topics:

• Homeopathy Confirmed: Reports from The Lancet and British Medical Journal suggest evidence for the effectiveness of homeopathic medicine, even in double-blind studies, challenging the medical establishment's skepticism.
• Placebo Discussed: A conference at Harvard University highlighted that approximately one-third of patients respond positively to placebos, with some researchers reporting up to 70% positive responses. The patient's belief in the doctor is noted as a significant factor.
• Vegetarianism: The magazine Vegetar promotes vegetarianism and features an article on Dr. Karl-Otto Aly, who advocates for biological therapy and emphasizes the importance of psychosocial factors in health.
• Xdjopir?: A brief mention of a claim in Weekly World News that twelve US senators are aliens, with one senator responding in an unknown language.
• The Meaning of Fragrance: Research suggests that pleasant scents can improve mood and performance, increasing students' willingness to help each other.
• UFOs: An article in UFO-Aktuellt debunks the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, attributing the myth to sensationalist writing. It also discusses Rauni-Leena Luukanen's book "Universums barn" (Children of the Universe), which contains automatic writing and prophecies of Earth's end for those who do not change. The article mentions Edward J. Ruppelt's involvement with Project Blue Book and UFO sightings, as well as predictions of UFO landings in 1995 by various seers.
• Inner Voices and Skepticism: The magazine reiterates the importance of being cautious about 'spirits' and 'inner voices,' as exemplified by the Sheldon Nidle case. It notes that while inner sources of information are popular in the New Age movement, scientifically oriented individuals remain skeptical, preferring explanations rooted in the unconscious mind. The article acknowledges that our understanding of the unconscious and its connections is limited, leaving room for the possibility of phenomena beyond current scientific comprehension.

Reader Feedback and Editorial Stance

Several individuals provide feedback on "Sökaren." Göran Brusewitz praises the magazine's critical examination of parapsychology and New Age beliefs. Tomas Frankell believes "Sökaren" is essential for questioning the 'new spirituality' and suggests topics like spirituality in everyday life and youth perspectives. Ulf Wåhlström and Gunilla Wigertz appreciate the magazine's critical approach but suggest focusing more on practical manifestations of spiritual awakening and interviewing 'celebrities' who embrace spiritual values. Erik Åhrberg humorously suggests renaming the magazine "Tvivlaren" (The Doubter) due to its constant questioning, advocating for more 'belief' and less 'science-based' skepticism. He argues that some things, like God or the soul, cannot be measured or proven by science.

The editorial response emphasizes that "Sökaren" aims to combine openness with a critical, questioning attitude, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. It acknowledges the need for good contributors and reporters.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of paranormal phenomena, New Age beliefs, and spiritual claims. The magazine consistently questions the origins and validity of channeled messages, UFO sightings, and past life regressions, often suggesting psychological explanations like the unconscious mind. There is a strong emphasis on skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly those with a commercial or exploitative aspect, as seen in the critique of Anders B. Johansson's 'Sirius Embassy.' The magazine also touches upon alternative healing methods like homeopathy and the placebo effect, presenting them with a degree of scientific backing. The overall editorial stance is one of cautious inquiry, encouraging readers to think critically and not accept claims at face value, while still acknowledging the existence of phenomena that may lie beyond current scientific understanding. The magazine aims to provide information and stimulate discussion rather than offering definitive answers.