Sokaren - 1997 No 06

Magazine Overview

'Sökaren' (The Seeker), issue number 6 from 1997, volume 34, is a Swedish magazine focused on 'life questions'. This issue features a prominent article on 'healing with love' by Dr. Leonard Laskov, a parapsychologist Dean Radin, and an extensive historical account of Guru Maharaj Ji and the Divine Light Mission. The cover is dominated by a portrait of a man and highlights these key articles.

Articles and Content

Doktor Laskov teaches Love Healing

The lead article features Dr. Leonard Laskov, an American physician who has shifted his focus to healing. He asserts that the body's natural instinct is to heal itself and that love is a powerful force in this process, capable of influencing even DNA. Laskov's 'holoenergetic' method involves focusing on concentrated thought and will to address early traumatic experiences that create negative energy patterns ('holoforms'). He shares anecdotes of successful healing and discusses scientific experiments, including those with bio-physicist Glen Rein, suggesting that directed energy can affect bacteria and cancer cells. Laskov emphasizes that while he advocates for love-based healing, it should not replace traditional medical treatment. He also touches upon the concept of 'transcendence,' an experience beyond the ordinary, body-bound identity.

Nytänkande parapsykolog besöker Sverige (A New Thinking Parapsychologist Visits Sweden)

This article by Göran Brusewitz introduces Dean Radin, an increasingly recognized American parapsychologist. Radin's research spans a wide range, including investigations into clairvoyance, hauntings, and precognition. He has been involved in studies for the CIA and has explored haunted castles in Denmark and Sweden. Radin's work challenges the prevailing scientific worldview, and he argues that psi-phenomena are now scientifically proven. He uses modern technology, including the internet, for his experiments, allowing participants to engage in tests for telepathy and psychokinesis remotely. The article notes Radin's background in classical violin and country music, suggesting it fostered his creativity. His research into hauntings involves measuring electromagnetic fields and correlating them with subjective experiences.

Guru Maharaj Ji

Authored by Jonas Bernholm, this multi-page article delves into the history of Guru Maharaj Ji, born Prem Pal Maharaj. It recounts his early life as an 8-year-old proclaimed 'Lord Of The Universe' and his succession to his father, Shri Hans Maharaj. The article details the rise of the Divine Light Mission (DLM) in the 1970s, its introduction of 'Knowledge' (meditation techniques) to the West, and its rapid expansion with centers worldwide. Bernholm, a former member, describes his personal experiences with the movement, including Satsangs (gatherings) and the initiation process. The article highlights the movement's organizational structure, financial challenges, and internal conflicts, including the eventual split from Guru Maharaj Ji's family. It also touches upon his later life, his marriage to an American woman, and the differing paths taken by his family members.

Medveten skapelse! (Conscious Creation!)

Lennart Kjellson argues against a purely Darwinian explanation for the development of life. He uses examples like the metamorphosis of a butterfly and the formation of the testicles to illustrate his point that complex biological structures must have been designed with a purpose from the outset, rather than evolving gradually through 'trial and error'. Kjellson suggests that these intricate designs point to a conscious creator and a 'conscious universe'. He also discusses the rapid physiological changes that occur at birth, such as the closure of fetal circulatory structures, as evidence for pre-programmed design.

Other Content

• Vad är viktigt? (What is Important?): An editorial piece by Sven M. questioning the focus of cultural pages in media, which he finds often superficial and lacking in depth regarding life's fundamental questions.
• Peace in Mind hösten 1997: A report on a 'Peace in Mind' festival, featuring aura healing, clairvoyance, and various alternative products and services.
• Videokassetten Hypnos-terapi-spiralen: An advertisement for a hypnosis therapy video cassette promising self-confidence, pain relief, smoking cessation, and more.
• Läsarforum (Readers' Forum): Includes letters from readers discussing 'new age' prophets, the cost of spiritual courses, and appreciation for the magazine's content.
• Martinus okända symboler: An announcement for a weekend course on the symbols of spiritual teacher Martinus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, alternative healing, consciousness, and the limitations of conventional scientific materialism. There's a clear interest in phenomena that challenge established paradigms, such as psi-abilities, spiritual experiences, and the idea of a conscious universe. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting diverse perspectives and historical accounts, while also critically examining the claims and practices within these movements. The magazine seems to advocate for a deeper understanding of life's mysteries beyond purely material explanations.

This issue of Sökaren, dated 6/1997, focuses on the Gimleskolan, a private school in Lödöse, Sweden, inspired by Sathya Sai Baba, which emphasizes 'human values'. The cover story, reported by Jan Torberntsson, highlights the school's unique approach to education, integrating principles of non-violence, creativity, cooperation, and joy through a curriculum that includes 'Education in Human Values'.

Gimleskolan: A School of Human Values

The reportage details the daily life at Gimleskolan, starting with a morning assembly that includes songs, poetry, and guided meditation. The school's curriculum is based on five core values: Truth, Right Action, Peace, Love, and Non-violence. Students and teachers engage in activities designed to cultivate these values, such as storytelling, group work, and singing. The school is described as being religiously and politically independent, supported by the Gimlestiftelsen.

Students like Emelie and Monia express their contentment with the school's environment, appreciating the sense of community and the positive atmosphere. Older students, Cristoffer and Victor, who transferred from a traditional school, highlight the reduction in bullying and the more supportive learning environment at Gimleskolan.

Susanna Tornlind, a teacher of 'Education in Human Values', explains that the program involves daily sessions focusing on uplifting texts, theater, and singing to deepen students' connection with their intuition and inner wisdom. The school emphasizes the connection between intuition and creativity, leading to the creation of art that spreads hope and spiritual quality. The 'Education in Human Values' program is based on Sathya Sai Baba's teachings but is presented as universally applicable, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.

Rector Ulla Andrén shares her personal journey to Gimleskolan, initially seeking a better education for her seven children. She notes the school's focus on character development and the importance of providing a space for stillness and reflection in a fast-paced society. The class sizes are intentionally kept small, between 15 and 20 students, with a total of seven teachers working part-time.

Annika Freudendal, a teacher who has been with the school since its inception, contrasts her experiences teaching in Korea and India with Swedish schools, noting a perceived lack of engagement and happiness among children and teachers in Sweden. She observes that in other countries, mothers often stay home to care for children, receiving support from other mothers, whereas in Sweden, both parents often work, leaving less time for children.

Britt-Marie Andén, the school's initiator, recounts her journey inspired by Sathya Sai Baba's teachings. She speaks of financial challenges and how they were overcome, attributing this to a test of faith. She describes her relationship with Sai Baba as deeply trusting and profound.

The school's educational approach is further elaborated through its musical productions, such as 'The Power of Intuition', which focused on Saint Birgitta, and the current musical project themed 'Our Creative Diversity', intended for a UNESCO conference.

Related Initiatives and Community

The issue also touches upon the Sindrekollektivet, a collective formed by the school's enthusiasts, where residents live and work together. Ulrika and Linn, members of this collective, describe the supportive environment and shared vision.

Other Articles and Reviews

Beyond the Gimleskolan feature, the magazine includes several other sections:

• Quotes: A collection of quotes from various individuals, including Viktor Frankl, Seb Allthorp, and others, touching on themes of life, meaning, and ideals.
• Deepak Chopra: An article discussing the popular Indian-American doctor and author Deepak Chopra, known for his work on New Age philosophy, meditation, and holistic health.
• Animal Rights: A review of David DeGrazia's book 'Taking Animals Seriously' and Peter Singer's work on animal liberation, discussing the ethical considerations of human-animal relationships.
• Inner Development: An article referencing Eva Moberg's piece in Ordfront, which explores inner growth, self-knowledge, and empathy as crucial aspects of human development beyond technological advancement.
• Miraculous Tears: A brief report on a statue in Brunsum, Netherlands, that appeared to weep blood, later found to be melted resin.
• Unusual Defense: A note about a court case in Tucson, Arizona, where a defendant claimed alien possession as a defense for murder, which the jury rejected.
• Chlorinated Miracle: News from Lourdes, France, about the holy water being chlorinated for hygiene reasons, causing controversy.
• 'Sök & Finn' Excluded from Fair: An account of a New Age bookstore, 'Sök & Finn', being denied participation in a health and wellness fair in Malmö due to objections from a Pentecostal church.
• Welcome, UFOs!: A brief mention of the Brazilian city of Barro do Garcas designating a landing area for UFOs.
• Hildegard of Bingen: A review of a book on the medieval visionary, poet, and composer Hildegard of Bingen, highlighting her holistic view of humanity and creation.
• Indian Wisdom: Reviews of books presenting the wisdom of Native American traditions, emphasizing their connection to nature and spirituality.
• Reincarnation: A review of Jenny Cockell's book 'My Previous Lives - and My Coming Ones', exploring her experiences with past lives and the afterlife.
• 'Förunderligt och märkligt' by Lena Katarina Swanberg: A review of Swanberg's book, which documents her journey through the New Age movement in Sweden, discussing her observations on its various practices and philosophies.
• 'Livsuniversitetet' (Life University): An article about a project aiming to create an ecological and spiritual community, with a focus on holistic living and education, located on a farm in Väddö, Sweden.
• Amritanandamayi (Amma): A description of a visit by the Indian spiritual leader Amritanandamayi, known as Amma, to Stockholm, highlighting her message of universal love and her humanitarian work.
• Robert G. Jahn and Consciousness: A piece discussing the work of physicist Robert G. Jahn on the influence of consciousness on reality and its implications for a new worldview.
• New Age on the Internet: A section exploring various Swedish websites related to New Age beliefs, including 'Centara' (UFOs and New Age), 'Metatron' (esoteric knowledge and travel), and 'Ambres' (spiritual guidance).
• 'A Course in Miracles': Information about the spiritual self-study program 'A Course in Miracles' and its associated website.
• Book Reviews: Several book reviews are featured, including 'The Cosmic Cathedral' by Harry Månsus, 'Healing with Love' by Leonard Laskow, and 'The Ancient Secret of the Flower of Life' by Drunvalo Melchizedek.
• Gandhi's Autobiography: A review of M.K. Gandhi's autobiography, emphasizing his experimental approach to truth and non-violence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, inner development, holistic health, and alternative lifestyles. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between traditional religious beliefs and New Age philosophies, as evidenced by the 'Bromma-Dialogen' initiative. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various perspectives on spiritual and personal growth without necessarily endorsing all of them. The magazine seems to encourage critical thinking and personal exploration while highlighting the growing influence of New Age ideas in Swedish society during the 1990s.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 6/1997
Volume: 40
Date: 1997
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren, dated 6/1997, focuses on the transformation of the New Age movement. The cover headline, "New age-rörelsens förvandling" (The transformation of the New Age movement), sets the theme for the main editorial piece.

New Age Movement: Transformation and Critique

The editorial, "Ord från redaktören" (Editor's words), by the magazine's editor, discusses the evolution of the New Age movement. The editor contrasts the movement's early, intellectually driven phase with its current, more popular and often superficial, manifestations.

Early New Age Ideals

According to the editor, early New Age, as described by Marilyn Ferguson in her book "Mot en ny tidsålder" (Towards a New Age) and Mark Satin in "Politics for a New Era," was a movement focused on a profound shift in consciousness. It encompassed new perspectives on the universe, humanity, ethics, nature, health, politics, and business. Prominent thinkers associated with this early phase included Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, Willis Harman, Peter Russell, Marilyn Ferguson, Mark Satin, Michael Murphy, Fritjof Capra, and E. F. Schumacher. These individuals contributed intellectual and forward-thinking ideas. Practices like astrology, numerology, and tarot were peripheral to this core philosophy.

The Shift to Popular Practices

The editor observes that astrology, numerology, tarot, channeling, trance journeys, aura photography, and hand analysis have come to dominate the public perception of New Age. These practices are often promoted by mass media and some authors, leading people to believe that this is what New Age is all about. The editor expresses concern that this shift has replaced a promising movement for humanity's transformation with a popular movement characterized by fewer intellectual qualities.

Editor's Personal Connection and Concerns

The editor feels this transformation is particularly sad because the "New Age thinking" was the worldview they had personally aligned with. The editor has written about "wise New Age" since the early 1970s and compiled essential New Age thoughts in a book titled "Stora tankar i vår tid" (Great thoughts of our time). However, this book has not found a publisher and is now available for free on Sökaren's website (www.sokaren.se).

"New Age Today": A Critical Perspective

The section titled "New age idag" (New Age today) offers a critical view of contemporary New Age phenomena. The editor acknowledges that some aspects are interesting and may hold truth, but expresses discomfort with the uncritical attitude that dismisses scientific understanding without justification. The editor notes that many in the current New Age movement readily accept unproven claims and ignore scientific results, particularly in fields like parapsychology. When parapsychology is mentioned, the response often defaults to discussions about mediums.

The editor states that the interest in scientific research among "New Age" adherents is minimal. They are more likely to discuss mystical connections and reincarnation, but with a questioning approach that differs from the typical New Age follower. The editor's approach involves questioning and seeking evidence, rather than blind acceptance.

Calendar Tips (Kalendertips)

The magazine includes a section of upcoming events, primarily in Stockholm, related to spirituality, personal development, and alternative practices. These events are hosted by Gaia Center and Akal Center.

• Monday, November 29, 7:00 PM (Akal): "Your life is a gift" with Bertil Kuhlemann, discussing living fully and finding one's life purpose. Cost: 70 SEK.
• Monday, December 1, 7:00 PM (Gaia): "Earthly spirituality and spiritual ecology" with Onya Dowling and Berit Jarama, exploring how to become caretakers of the Earth. Includes a lecture, exercises, and information about a School for Spiritual Ecology. Local fee: 25 SEK.
• Tuesday, December 2, 7:00 PM (Gaia): "The Goddess ritual and change" with Petra Junus, a doctor of religious psychology and author. She will discuss her experiences with Starhawk's Goddess movement in San Francisco and how rituals can serve as personal and political sources of power. Includes a lecture and ritual. Cost: 70 SEK.
• Monday, December 8, 7:00 PM (Gaia): "Humanity, culture, and evolution - an alternative perspective" with Tomas Ljungberg, author and ethologist. He will present a new, interdisciplinary approach suggesting humans are born to function differently than currently accepted in society. Cost: 70 SEK.
• Wednesday, December 10, 7:00 PM (Gaia): "Mimiga Wajaar - an Aboriginal talk" with Lotten Odh. Her interest in dolphins led to contact with Aboriginal people, and she is now recognized as a member of an Aboriginal tribe and travels there to explore their culture. Cost: 70 SEK.
• Sunday, December 14, 10:00 AM - 4:45 PM (Gaia): "Yogic massage - workshop" led by Eva Cállmin. Participants will learn a powerful yogic massage technique according to Yogi Bhajan to vitalize the entire body. The workshop includes a short yoga session, partner work, and lunch with yogic food and health tips. Cost: 350 SEK + food costs.
• Tuesday, January 7, 7:00 PM (Akal): "The nine insights and the tenth" with Bertil Kuhlemann. Cost: 70 SEK.

Addresses for Gaia Center and Akal Center are provided.

Subscription Renewal

Readers are reminded to renew their subscriptions. An enclosed payment card is included with the last issue of the year. Those who have already paid for the next year do not need to use it. Unsure subscribers can contact the editor for confirmation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the critical examination of the New Age movement, distinguishing between its original intellectual and transformative aspirations and its current popular, often unscientific, practices. The editorial stance is one of intellectual curiosity tempered with skepticism towards unproven claims, advocating for a more evidence-based and critically thinking approach to spirituality and consciousness studies. The magazine positions itself as a platform for thoughtful discussion rather than blind acceptance of popular trends.