Sokaren - 1996 No 02

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 2, 1996, Årgång 33
Date: 1996
Publisher: Sökaren
Price: 50:- inkl moms

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life questions, delves into the realms of crystal healing, alien abductions, and spiritual phenomena. The cover prominently features a large, clear quartz crystal with the headline "Helande kristall" (Healing Crystal), alongside a portrait of Tiiu Serenander, the article's author.

Helande kristaller (Healing Crystals)

Author: Tiiu Serenander

The lead article by Tiiu Serenander explores the concept of crystal healing. Serenander posits that crystals enhance the body's natural healing processes through their vibrations, which interact with the human energy field. She explains that crystals, formed deep within the Earth, have the ability to absorb and reflect white light, the highest form of energy. Serenander categorizes people's attitudes towards crystals into three groups: those who believe crystals can instantly cure all ailments, the completely skeptical, and those who approach crystals with an open mind and intuition.

She highlights clear quartz (bergkristall) as the most well-known crystal, composed of silicon and oxygen, essential components of Earth's energy and human biology. The article mentions Marcel Vogel, a former IBM data engineer and researcher, who scientifically investigated crystal energy and discovered its interaction with human thought and music, leading to therapeutic applications.

Serenander shares her personal journey into crystal healing, including attending a school in the USA. She recounts an experience with a chiropractor whose practice was adorned with crystals, which he claimed helped patients relax and deepened the healing process. The article touches upon the use of crystals by shamans and healers across cultures, emphasizing their role in restoring balance to the body's energy systems. It also references the Kirlian camera, used to visualize the human energy field, and studies by Marcel Vogel and Dael Walker demonstrating how crystals can amplify and "repair" this field. The text suggests that crystals act as a bridge between the spiritual and material, offering a connection to nature's healing forces.

Telepatiska sällskapsdjur (Telepathic Companion Animals)

Author: Rupert Sheldrake

This section features an article by Rupert Sheldrake, a British biologist known for his research into the psychic bond between animals and their human companions. Sheldrake discusses anecdotal evidence of pets exhibiting unusual awareness of their owners' arrivals, sometimes hours in advance. He recounts a story of a neighbor whose cat would signal her son's imminent return. Sheldrake notes that while conventional science often dismisses such phenomena as superstition or illusion, the consistent reports from pet owners suggest something more profound.

He mentions that many pet owners claim their animals can sense their owners' return, even when there are no audible cues or predictable schedules. Sheldrake expresses his belief that these "animal telepathy" cases might hold a key to understanding the nature of animals and humans. He cites experiments, including those involving a dog named Jaytee, which consistently reacted to its owner's departure and impending return, even when she used unconventional methods of travel. The article also briefly touches upon the concept of morphic fields as a potential explanation for these phenomena.

Livet som glädje och möjlighet (Life as Joy and Opportunity)

This is a philosophical piece inspired by the American magazine "Science of Mind." It promotes a positive outlook on life, emphasizing the power of positive thinking and affirmations to harness the "infinite intelligence" that surrounds us. The text suggests that by changing destructive thought patterns to constructive ones, individuals can achieve self-fulfillment and success. It advocates for recognizing one's unity with the universal spirit and embracing one's inherent worth and abundance.

MAGI: Västerlandets egen yoga (MAGIC: The West's Own Yoga)

This section announces lectures by Dolores Ashcroft-Nowicki, an expert in Western esoteric traditions. She is described as a clairvoyant, ritual magician, and director of the Servants of the Light esoteric school. The lectures, held in Stockholm, focus on the Western Mystery Tradition and its parallels to Eastern yoga systems, emphasizing self-knowledge and unity with the divine.

Livets sju andliga lagar av Deepak Chopra (The Seven Spiritual Laws of Life by Deepak Chopra)

This is a promotional blurb for Deepak Chopra's book, highlighting its bestseller status and its distillation of seven principles for achieving success based on Vedic philosophy and the intelligence of nature.

John E. Macks undersökningar av människor som tror att de kidnappats av främmande varelser (John E. Mack's Investigations into People Who Believe They Have Been Abducted by Aliens)

Author: SM (Translator)

This article details the work of John E. Mack, a Harvard University psychiatrist, who investigated alleged alien abductions. Inspired by Budd Hopkins, Mack used hypnosis to interview 49 individuals who reported being taken aboard alien spacecraft. He found striking similarities in their accounts, often detailing experiences from childhood. Mack's methodology and findings were scrutinized but ultimately upheld by Harvard. The article describes common elements of these experiences, including encounters with "small grey" beings, medical examinations, and messages about humanity's destructive path. It also touches upon the concept of "hybrid experiments" and the possibility of aliens attempting to crossbreed with humans. Mack suggests these experiences, though often traumatic, can lead to profound personal growth and spiritual development.

En magisk världsbild (A Magical Worldview)

Author: Dénis Lindbohm

This article, written by Dénis Lindbohm, explores the concept of a "magical worldview" in contrast to a materialistic one. Lindbohm argues that our perceived reality is a four-dimensional universe with a "surface tension" that separates it from other dimensions. He explains that magic involves lowering this surface tension to allow energies from other dimensions to interact with ours. Lindbohm emphasizes the importance of a "magical circle" where all participants have a positive attitude to ensure the effective flow of magical energy.

He draws parallels between the creation of the universe and the structure of DNA, suggesting that both are products of conscious intent and planning rather than random chance. Lindbohm posits that the "Great Power" (Den stora Makten) uses symbols, such as DNA, to manifest life. He likens individuals to "miniature consciousnesses" within this Great Power, and magic as a means to connect with this greater force.

Spiritismen (Spiritism)

Author: Håkan Arlebrand

This section discusses spiritism, the belief in communication with spirits, and its various manifestations. It traces its history from antiquity to modern times, mentioning figures like Emanuel Swedenborg and Helena Blavatsky. The article highlights "writing mediums" (skrivmedier) who channel messages from spirits, citing examples like Alice Bailey and the Urantia Book. It also covers "channeling," a New Age phenomenon where individuals receive messages from higher beings, mentioning Shirley MacLaine and the teachings of Seth, Ramtha, and A Course in Miracles.

The article presents critical interpretations of spiritism, suggesting that phenomena can be explained by psychological factors, self-deception, or even fraud. It notes that many channeled messages may originate from the medium's own subconscious. The section concludes by discussing the role of mediums in founding new spiritual movements and the growing interest in channeling as a form of "transcendental education."

Böcker (Books)

This is a bibliography of books on parapsychology, intended for readers interested in phenomena and research related to mediumship. It lists several Swedish-language books, including works by John Björkhem, Poul Bjerre, Hans J. Eysenck, Rosalind Heywood, Olle Holmberg, Martin Johnson, and Harald Schjelderup, providing brief descriptions of their content and authors' backgrounds.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, alternative healing, and the unexplained. It presents a range of perspectives, from scientific inquiry into phenomena like telepathy and alien abductions to more esoteric beliefs in crystal healing, spiritism, and magic. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and inquisitive, encouraging readers to explore these topics while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for further research. There is a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional scientific paradigms and offer alternative ways of understanding life and consciousness.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: February 1996
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of Sökaren magazine explores themes of spiritual transformation, consciousness evolution, and critical perspectives on established beliefs. It features articles on Kundalini awakenings, near-death experiences, the nature of Jesus, and the emergence of a new era for humanity.

Röster på tröskeln till morgondagen: Mönster för en mänsklighet med större kraft

Bonnie Greenwell, a transpersonal psychotherapist, discusses the growing phenomenon of Kundalini awakenings and other multidimensional experiences. She posits that these experiences, occurring across cultures and among successful individuals, indicate a collective shift in human consciousness, potentially leading to a 'more grandiose evolution for humanity.' Greenwell suggests that humanity might be undergoing a profound transformation, akin to birth pangs, and that individuals who achieve personal transformation are key to navigating this period of chaos and uncertainty.

She highlights that while fear and uncertainty are natural responses to current global challenges, deep inner work and personal transformation offer a path toward a new paradigm. This new vision, she believes, will be built on understanding past mistakes and fostering a global, humanistic perspective. Greenwell quotes various spiritual teachers and messages from other dimensions, all pointing towards a time of great purification and transformation on Earth, necessary for a coming age of greater wisdom and harmony.

Nära döden-upplevelser ger nytt liv åt visionen av en ny tidsålder

John Wren-Lewis, a former futurist, shares his personal experience of a near-death event in 1983, which profoundly altered his perception of life. He argues that the true significance of near-death experiences (NDEs) lies not just in the belief in an afterlife, but in the fundamental change they bring to consciousness itself, reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of eternal presence. Wren-Lewis suggests that the 'game' of life functions better without the 'anxiety for tomorrow,' and that finding less drastic ways to calm the 'hyperactive survival energy' is crucial for the dawn of the Aquarian Age.

Kenneth Ring, a psychology professor and author on NDEs, discusses his research, which indicates that extraordinary experiences, including NDEs and UFO encounters, can lead to significant psychophysical changes. These changes, he notes, suggest a refinement of the nervous system and an expansion of spiritual consciousness. Ring proposes that these transformative effects might be spreading through the collective human consciousness, akin to a beneficial virus, potentially leading to a more compassionate and spiritually aware humanity.

Hemkomsten

This section compiles personal accounts of near-death experiences, focusing on the encounter with a profound, loving light. Testimonials describe the light as an all-encompassing presence, a source of immense strength, tenderness, and compassion that transcends ordinary understanding. Participants report a sense of 'homecoming' and a deep acceptance, leading to a fundamental shift in their perspective on life and the self.

Vem var Jesus?

This section presents a critical examination of the historical Jesus, drawing from the work of Andreas Edwien and Finn Lie. Edwien, a critic of Christian dogma, argues that traditional theological claims about Jesus' infallibility, divine authority, and resurrection lack historical and scientific basis. He suggests that Jesus was a mystic whose teachings were influenced by his time and context, including a belief in the imminent end of the world and a harsh judgment.

Finn Lie further supports this critical view, stating that much of the New Testament narrative about Jesus has questionable historical value, being layered with myths and dogmas. He points out that the Gospel writers were not direct witnesses and that the earliest surviving manuscripts are from centuries later. Lie also highlights that historical figures like Josephus Flavius do not mention Jesus, and that Paul's epistles, while foundational to Christian theology, focus on the resurrection rather than Jesus' life. The section concludes that Jesus' teachings are not entirely unique, with parallels found in earlier Jewish wisdom, and that his message contained contradictions, such as advocating for peace while also predicting conflict.

Bokfloden (Book Reviews)

This section features reviews of several books:

• "Nytändning. Om vitsen med arbete och meningen med livet" by Matthew Fox: Praised as a significant New Age thinker, Fox's book offers a new vision of work, emphasizing its sacredness and connection to the cosmos. It critiques modern materialism and advocates for a mystical, holistic approach.
• "Satan är dagens man" by Alexander J. Markus: A review notes the book's esoteric claims and lack of sources regarding Hitler and Nazi occultism.
• "Dela din gåva med världen. En guide till din livsuppgift" by Helena Montelius: Described as a channeling work from 'light guides.'
• "Konsten att se och tolka auran" by Ted Andrews: A review of a book on aura interpretation.
• "Nycklar från Plejaderna till Det Levande Biblitet" by Barbara Marciniak: A review of a book by a transmedium channeling 'Pleiadians.'
• "Zara. En bok om tvillingsjälar och om meningen med livet" by Lennart Forsberg: A review suggesting this is a fictionalized account of a medium.
• "Ärkeängeln MiChaEl. En ljusets krigare" by Mikael Kvist: A review noting its claims about the creation of the universe and Archangel Michael.

Sökarnyheter (Sökaren News)

This section includes short news items:

• Änglar (Angels): A mention of the Pope affirming the existence of angels and a shift in scientific perspective towards a more mystical view of the universe.
• Långt liv med gott humör (Long life with good humor): A Danish study suggests that moderation, good humor, and avoiding stress contribute to longevity.
• Healing undersöks (Healing is being researched): A report on a Danish research project investigating healing, citing studies showing positive effects on hemoglobin levels and reduced goiter in mice.
• Sveriges Samantha Khury: A brief mention of a Swedish woman who claims to communicate with animals.
• Sökaren erkänd kulturtidskrift (Sökaren recognized as a cultural journal): Sökaren is noted for its inclusion in library catalogs and its critical articles.
• Sekter i USA (Sects in the USA): An article discussing the prevalence of sects in the US, including religious and 'money sects,' and the work of organizations helping people leave them.
• Upplysare och förvillare (Enlighteners and Misleaders): An announcement of awards given by Vetenskap och Folkbildning, highlighting the controversy surrounding the 'Årets Förvillare' award given to Associate Professor Nils-Axel Mörner for his work on dowsing.
• Självmord (Suicide): A mention of suicide statistics in Sweden and a forthcoming booklet on suicide prevention.

Läsarforum (Reader's Forum)

This section contains letters to the editor:

• A letter from Lennart Lidfors defending channeling against skeptics.
• A letter from 'En broder i Kristus' criticizing the magazine for publishing 'anti-Christian' material and warning of damnation.

Other Sections

• Johnny Love Wisdom: An excerpt from Rolf Blomberg's travelogue describing an encounter with a man named Johnny Love Wisdom, who lived as a hermit in Ecuador. The article details Wisdom's philosophy and his claims of spiritual enlightenment.
• Vandra mot ljuset, Harry Price och Ö.E.: A personal account by Örjan Björkhem about a Swedish patient named Ö.E. who claimed to communicate with a deceased spirit named Harry Price, and how this led to the discovery of a Danish book, "Vandra mot ljuset."
• GAIA CENTER: An announcement about the opening of a new center in Stockholm focused on spiritual and personal development.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a New Age perspective, emphasizing spiritual growth, consciousness expansion, and alternative healing modalities. There is a strong interest in phenomena like Kundalini, NDEs, and channeling. Simultaneously, Sökaren engages in critical discourse, particularly concerning religious dogma and historical interpretations, as seen in the articles on Jesus. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to explore diverse spiritual paths and question established norms, while also providing a platform for critical analysis and personal testimonies.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 2, Årgang 33
Date: March 1996

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focused on life questions and spiritual exploration, presents a diverse range of articles touching upon esoteric phenomena, personal experiences, and critical analyses of established beliefs. The cover prominently features a large crystal and a pentagram, hinting at the themes of mysticism and alternative perspectives.

Contents Overview

The magazine opens with an editorial reflecting on the nature of belief and research in areas like crystal healing and animal telepathy. The editor, Sven Magnusson (SM), expresses a personal inclination towards the idea of healing crystals and strongly advocates for more open-minded scientific inquiry into phenomena that lie outside conventional understanding. He praises researchers like John Mack for his pioneering work, even if his methods are questioned.

Featured Articles:

• Helande kristaller (Healing Crystals) by Tiiu Serenander: Explores the concept of crystal healing, suggesting that personal experience is key to understanding its effects.
• Telepatiska sällskapsdjur (Telepathic Companion Animals) by Rupert Sheldrake: Discusses the potential for telepathic connections between humans and their pets, advocating for further research.
• Gopi Krishna och kundalini (Gopi Krishna and Kundalini) by John Engelbrecht: Details Gopi Krishna's experiences with Kundalini awakening, highlighting its potential dangers.
• John E. Macks undersökningar (John E. Macks' Investigations): An article by SM discussing investigations by John E. Macks.
• En magisk världsbild (A Magical Worldview) by Dénis Lindbohm: Offers insights into magic and a worldview that deviates from conventional paths.
• Spiritismen (Spiritism) by Håkan Arlebrand: Provides a brief historical overview and critical examination of spiritism and its phenomena.
• Kaos och början av en ny tid (Chaos and the Beginning of a New Era) by Bonnie Greenwell: Presents optimistic views from an American book published by a Theosophical press, suggesting humanity is evolving towards a better future.
• Nära döden-upplevelser (Near-Death Experiences) by John Wren-Lewis: Explores the phenomenon of NDEs.
• Att se framåt (Looking Ahead) by Kenneth Ring: Features insights from Kenneth Ring, likely related to future perspectives or research.
• Hemkosten (Home Cooking/Traditional Remedies) by Carol Neiman & Emily Goldman: Discusses traditional remedies or home-based healing practices.

Additionally, the issue includes a "Bokfloden" (Book Flood) section, a "Läsarforum" (Reader Forum), and shorter pieces on topics like "Johnny Love Wisdom," "Vandra mot ljuset" (Walking Towards the Light), and "Vem var Jesus?" (Who Was Jesus?).

Editorial Stance and Themes

The editorial highlights a recurring theme of questioning established norms and embracing unconventional research. The magazine appears to champion a spirit of open inquiry into phenomena that challenge mainstream scientific and religious paradigms. There is a clear interest in personal experience as a valid source of knowledge, alongside theoretical exploration. The inclusion of a critique of Christian doctrine suggests a willingness to engage with and question religious dogma. The overall tone is one of seeking deeper understanding and exploring alternative perspectives on reality, consciousness, and the human condition.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Sökaren consistently explores themes of consciousness, spirituality, alternative healing, and the paranormal. The editorial stance is one of encouraging critical yet open-minded investigation into subjects often dismissed by conventional science. The magazine seems to position itself as a platform for diverse voices and perspectives that challenge the status quo, promoting a holistic and often mystical worldview. There is an evident belief in the potential for human transformation and the emergence of new eras of understanding.