Sokaren - 1998 No 05

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 5, Volume 35
Date: September 1998
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- inkl moms
Cover Headline: THOMAS DI LEVA

This issue of "Sökaren" (The Seeker), a Swedish magazine for life questions, offers a diverse range of articles exploring spirituality, consciousness, and contemporary phenomena.

En Kärlekens Rymdblomma – ett möte med Thomas Di Leva

This feature article by Elisabet Broomé introduces the musician and artist Thomas Di Leva. Di Leva is portrayed as an incorrigible optimist and a spiritual being, akin to the cosmos itself – boundless and absolute. He speaks about his recent "inner spring cleaning" and his philosophy of living in the present moment. Di Leva emphasizes that external actions (like cleaning) should be balanced with internal reflection. He describes himself as "meditation" and practices a form of yoga where all actions are infused with a meditative heart, prioritizing love above all else. He believes that all life's experiences, both positive and negative, are part of a larger whole and can be transformed through love. Di Leva discusses the concept of universal love uniting different spiritual paths, comparing them to colors in a rainbow originating from a single light. He advocates for witnessing oneself and one's heart to nurture one's vision. The article touches upon his birth name, Sven Thomas Magnusson, his early life in Gävle, and his music career, including albums like "Marginal cirkus," "Vem ska jag tro på?", "Rymdblomma," and "Noll." He also mentions his Swedish and English releases and his 1997 album "Jag är du."

Di Leva explains that he doesn't get angry but experiences emotions as ripples on the surface, which he can transform into different energies. He sees himself as a servant of God, providing inspiration and support rather than dictating. He stresses the importance of self-discovery, urging readers to ask "Who am I?" and to peel away layers of identity. He believes in living in the present, stating, "I am. I walk and stand and say. I am. I do HAVE. I do this HERE. I do it to manifest."

When asked about the source of his knowledge, Di Leva remains somewhat enigmatic, suggesting that revealing everything might diminish the mystery. He prioritizes present actions and future potential over past memories or rigid beliefs. He views religion as a limiting word, preferring "spirituality," which he believes fosters open-heartedness and unconditional giving, unlike the "stifling" energies often associated with organized religion. He advocates for "lighting a candle" wherever one goes, making spirituality a part of everyday life through simple acts of giving. He believes that thought and action are intertwined and that even thinking is a physical act. He suggests that stress and illness can be alleviated by meditating or chanting mantras. Di Leva's concept of God is omnipresent and accessible to everyone, not confined by religious dogma. He sees God as a force that permeates everything, and he believes that by connecting with this force, one can bring peace to the world.

Emilia Fogelklou – A Life of Spiritual Engagement

Bengt Petersen's article focuses on Emilia Fogelklou (1878-1972), a deeply spiritual Swedish woman who was also actively engaged in societal issues. Petersen contrasts Fogelklou with some New Age adherents who he feels retreat into their inner worlds, suggesting they could learn from her example of drawing strength from inner experiences to engage with external realities. Fogelklou's profound spiritual experience in 1902, described in her book "Barhuvad," involved a feeling of living goodness, joy, and light, which she identified as the great Mercy, or God. This experience liberated her from fear and allowed her to see beyond the superficial.

Fogelklou felt little need for traditional religious institutions like churches or clergy, viewing them as "packaging around God." She was driven not to convert others but to gain insights into life and build bridges between different worlds. She pursued studies in logic, mathematics, and natural sciences to test the validity of her spiritual understanding. In 1909, she became the first woman to earn a theology degree in Sweden but did not pursue the priesthood, finding it difficult to respect professional religious leaders. She found a spiritual home among the Quakers, appreciating their silent devotion, gender equality, and social engagement.

Fogelklou's interests spanned women's and peace issues, social work, and pedagogy, all while maintaining her spiritual focus. Her book "Arnold" details her marriage to Arnold Norlind, a man of spiritual depth. She held high personal standards, once canceling a dinner invitation due to feeling schadenfreude towards someone who had treated her poorly. Her faith was described as free and wild, not strictly logical. She viewed life as a gift from God and lived in poverty, often giving away her books and offering flowers or fruit to visitors. Towards the end of her life, she longed to "go home."

The article includes quotes from Fogelklou and Arnold Norlind, emphasizing themes of truth, love, and seeing with the "eye of love."

UFO – vad är det? (UFO – What is it?)

This section delves into the UFO phenomenon, presenting a historical perspective and the research of historian David Jacobs. The author recounts a personal UFO sighting from 1946, suggesting a non-human origin. The article notes the shift from early UFO interest, exemplified by George Adamski's encounters with benevolent aliens, to a more concerning picture. Jacobs' research, particularly his book "The Threat," posits that aliens are abducting humans not out of curiosity but to create hybrids by cross-breeding their species with ours. This is presented as a strategy for their own survival and to establish a new world order.

Jacobs, who has studied UFOs since 1966 and conducted over 700 hypnosis sessions with abductees, believes that the memories recovered under hypnosis, despite the method's potential for fantasy, reveal a consistent pattern. Abductees report memory gaps, examinations focused on reproductive organs, and the collection of sperm and eggs. The aliens are described as small, gray, and hairless with large heads and eyes, communicating telepathically.

The article discusses the possibility of aliens creating hybrids in stages, with Hybrid 1 being a direct cross, Hybrid 2 resulting from further genetic manipulation, and subsequent hybrids becoming increasingly human-like but retaining alien psychic abilities. These hybrids are described as having a limited emotional range and serving the alien agenda. Jacobs suggests that aliens may be an insect-like species from a dying planet seeking to coexist with humans on Earth, but on their terms, leveraging their intellectual superiority.

While some UFO researchers like Leo Sprinkle and John Mack suggest benevolent alien intentions, Jacobs warns that this is a deception. The article questions the reliability of hypnosis but concludes that Jacobs' findings warrant serious consideration. It also touches upon the idea that these aliens might be preventing humanity from self-destruction.

New Age ur fyra kristna perspektiv (New Age from Four Christian Perspectives)

Joel Eriksson analyzes four Swedish books that offer different Christian viewpoints on the New Age movement. The books are categorized on a scale from negative to positive engagement with New Age ideas.

• Torbjörn Freij's "New Age - de nygamla lögnerna från Eden" (1984): Freij views New Age as a deceptive movement rooted in ancient lies (like promises of immortality and godhood) that ultimately serve Antichrist. He sees it as a loosely connected network aiming to change the world and associates it with various cultural phenomena, including rock music and environmental movements, as part of a Luciferian conspiracy.
• Joseph Carr's "Luciferlänken" (1989): Carr builds on Freij's arguments, strongly linking New Age to Lucifer and Antichrist prophecies, drawing heavily from Constance Cumber's "Hidden Dangers of the Rainbow." He interprets Nazism and modern psychology as products of occultism and New Age ideology, advocating for a strict separation between Christianity and New Age.
• Harry Månsus' "Den kosmiska katedralen" (1996): Månsus offers a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that God can work outside the Christian church. He sees humanity as longing for Eden and proposes building bridges between Christian faith, New Age, and twelve-step spirituality. He criticizes the "all is light" aspect of New Age for neglecting human weakness and suffering, advocating for a spirituality that acknowledges human frailty.
• Ma Oftedal's "Doxa - till hela härligheten" (1996): As a priest, Oftedal engages directly with New Age practices like shamanic journeys, crystals, and spirit communication. She views different spiritual paths as facets of a divine diamond and believes God can be encountered in various traditions. Her openness led to a temporary suspension from her priestly duties.

Eriksson notes that Freij and Carr represent a more fundamentalist biblical view, while Månsus and Oftedal are more open to dialogue and see a broader spiritual landscape. He highlights the difference in their views on whether God works outside Christianity and their interpretations of the Bible. Eriksson concludes that while Freij, Carr, and Nilsson create a clear divide between Christianity and New Age, Månsus and Oftedal foster potential meeting points.

Intuition - vad är det? (Intuition – What is it?)

This article explores the concept of intuition from various philosophical and psychological standpoints. It begins by referencing Henri Bergson, who argued that intuition, distinct from intellect, is essential for understanding the true essence of life. Bergson believed that while intellect serves practical purposes, intuition allows us to directly experience life's flow. He saw intellect and intuition as complementary.

Hans Larsson, a professor of philosophy, is also discussed. Larsson argued against the sole reliance on logic, asserting that intuition and synthesis are crucial in philosophical and scientific thought. He noted that intuition has often been mistrusted due to its perceived association with emotion and lack of rigor, but he maintained that intuition is a finer, more stringent application of logic, enabling holistic understanding of complex issues.

The article introduces Pitirim A. Sorokin, a sociologist who viewed intuition as a third source of knowledge alongside reason and senses. Sorokin acknowledged that intuition can sometimes lead astray but argued that its truths, like those derived from senses and reason, can be tested and verified. He highlighted intuition's significant role in cultural history, creativity, and the development of religions and arts.

Lin Martin, an American psychic, is presented as someone who emphasizes the balance between the left (intellectual) and right (intuitive) hemispheres of the brain. She believes that intuition is a natural ability that can be developed and used to understand life's meaning and one's true divine nature.

The article also briefly mentions Mario Bunge's critical view of intuition, seeing it as rapid, probable hypothesis formation rather than a direct source of knowledge. The piece concludes by suggesting that intuition is an integral part of human thinking, working in conjunction with logic, and that a balance between the two is essential for a complete understanding of reality.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a section on "Individuell Astro-Terapi" (Individual Astro-Therapy) offering guidance on self-discovery and personal development. There are also announcements for events, including a dance celebration inspired by Gabrielle Roth's "five rhythms" and a "Satsang with Vartman." Book reviews and reader letters are also present, contributing to the magazine's comprehensive exploration of spiritual and philosophical topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Sökaren" are spirituality, consciousness, the nature of reality, and the human search for meaning. The magazine presents a broad spectrum of viewpoints, from critical analyses of New Age from a Christian perspective to explorations of UFO phenomena and the philosophical underpinnings of intuition. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse ideas and allowing readers to engage with them, rather than promoting a single doctrine. There is a clear interest in bridging different belief systems and exploring the intersection of the spiritual and the material world.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 5/1998
Date: January 1, 1998

This issue of Sökaren magazine, a Swedish publication focusing on alternative spirituality, parapsychology, and self-help, presents a diverse range of articles and book reviews.

Articles

God kvalitet på parapsykologisk forskning This article highlights a study by Rupert Sheldrake, a biologist in London, which suggests that parapsychological research employs rigorous 'blind' methods more frequently than research in other scientific fields. Sheldrake argues that the constant scrutiny from skeptics has made parapsychologists more meticulous, while physicists and chemists show little inclination to adopt such methods.

Bevis för utomjordingars närvaro? This section details ongoing research into suspected alien implants removed from individuals who claim to have been abducted. Dr. Roger K. Leir's reports from the MUFON UFO Journal are discussed, focusing on the surgical removal of small objects, their unusual composition (e.g., iron carbide), and the lack of inflammatory reaction in surrounding tissues. The objects also emitted light under UV radiation, leading to speculation about their function as tracking devices or control mechanisms.

Skepticism The article critiques the stance of skeptics, arguing that their adherence to an atheistic-materialistic worldview prevents them from accepting paranormal phenomena. It asserts that the current dominant worldview has flaws and that a new one is needed to accommodate all known aspects of reality.

Bortförd Jim Sparks, an American, shares his experiences of alien abduction, detailing events that challenge natural laws. He describes how alien intelligences have taken his sperm and probed his being, aiming to make humans aware of their destructive tendencies towards the planet.

Sheldon's fotoner This section briefly touches upon predictions made by Sheldon Nidle and Virginia Essenes regarding a 'photon belt' and mass landings of alien spacecraft, noting that these predictions did not materialize as expected.

Books Reviewed (Bokfloden)

• Tänk positivt! Vår undermedvetna kraftcentral by Erhard F. Freitag: A review of a book on positive thinking and self-hypnosis, drawing from the philosophies of Joseph Murphy and Emile Coué. The reviewer notes the book's practical approach and personal anecdotes.
• Var djurvän! by Nordiska Samfundet Mot Plågsamma Djurförsök: A guide advocating for animal-friendly consumption, presenting statistics on animal suffering in Sweden and arguing for vegetarianism based on ethical and economic grounds.
• En ny vision för världen by James Redfield: A review of Redfield's latest book, which focuses on spiritual awareness and synchronicity, continuing themes from his previous works. The reviewer appreciates the direct, non-narrative approach.
• Kärlekens mystik – Tantra och sexuell energi by Margot Anand: A review of a book on tantric sexuality, described as a system of exercises for integrating sexuality with spiritual practice. The reviewer finds the rituals detailed but notes the book's potential to enrich lives for those motivated.
• Konsten att älska by Barry Long: A concise book on physical love as a path to spiritual realization, emphasizing conscious connection and presence. The reviewer praises its poetic and factual description.
• Meditation – en grundkurs by Barry Long: A review of a practical guide to meditation, focusing on achieving inner stillness through observation and self-awareness. The reviewer commends its clear instructions and poetic style.
• Odinsmysterierna och Den Heliga Graal by Kettil Runske, Mikael W Gejel, and Stefan Ottman: A review of a book exploring the esoteric aspects of Norse mythology and its links to Celtic traditions, focusing on Odin and the concept of the Holy Grail.
• Indisk läkekonst – Ayurveda – healing på indiskt vis by Scott Gerson: A review of a book introducing Ayurveda, the Indian system of health and balance. The reviewer notes its comprehensive nature but suggests it's best used under expert guidance.
• Sai Baba – kärlekens mirakel by Howard Murphy: A review of a book detailing the life and alleged miracles of Sai Baba, presented with a balanced perspective that addresses potential skepticism.
• Flying Carpet (Music for relaxation) by Ole Saxe: A review of a CD offering relaxing music for meditation and unwinding.
• Relax – An introduction to Fönix Musik by various artists: A review of a compilation CD of New Age music.

Lyckan This article explores the concept of happiness, suggesting it is an internal state that cannot be pursued directly but arises from contentment with oneself and one's present circumstances. It emphasizes the connection between happiness and health, and the importance of embracing life's ups and downs.

Are Waerland A brief mention of Are Waerland's writings on health, recommending them as supplementary reading.

Thomas Di leva This section discusses the Swedish artist Thomas Di Leva as a 'prophet of love' whose message focuses on compassion and empathy. The article suggests that lessons on love and related concepts should be integrated into school curricula.

Ord från redaktören The editor reflects on different worldviews, contrasting the dominant materialistic perspective with alternative views that include phenomena like UFOs and parapsychology. The editor encourages readers to consider these alternative perspectives.

De Bästa Hemsidorna A list of recommended websites is provided, including those related to animal rights (Nordiska Samfundet Mot Plågsamma Djurförsök), health and vegetarianism (Tallmogården, Hälsofrämjandet), UFOs (UFO-Sverige), and the paranormal (paranormal.o.se).

Fa Lun Gong An introduction to Fa Lun Gong, a spiritual practice based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance, which has gained a large following worldwide.

Avatar Information about the 'Avatar' material, based on Harry Palmer's research on human consciousness and creativity, which aims to help individuals understand and change their limiting beliefs.

Massagebänkar & -stolar An advertisement for Vitaform massage equipment.

Drömtolkning An advertisement for Kjell Myrberg's dream interpretation services.

Problem? An advertisement for Sixten J. Kullbrand, offering psychic and graphology services.

Videokassetten Hypnosspiralen An advertisement for a hypnosis cassette aimed at pain relief, self-confidence, and performance enhancement.

På spaning efter hälsa This is an excerpt from Are Waerland's book 'Hälsans handbok', detailing his personal journey to improved health through outdoor life, sports, and a lacto-vegetarian diet. He defines health as a natural state achieved by living in accordance with natural laws and biological factors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes an open-minded approach to phenomena often dismissed by mainstream science, such as UFOs, alien abductions, and parapsychology. There is a strong emphasis on personal growth, spiritual development, and alternative health practices. The editorial stance appears to be critical of rigid skepticism and advocates for a broader understanding of reality that includes the spiritual and the paranormal. The magazine also features reviews of books and websites that align with these themes, encouraging readers to explore different perspectives and paths to self-discovery and well-being.

This issue, identified by the identifier 'HT-98' and published by Planetstadens Böcker AB, focuses on a range of topics related to spirituality, self-help, and personal development, with a particular emphasis on New Age perspectives and their dialogue with traditional religious thought. The cover prominently features new book releases and upcoming events.

Featured Books and Authors The issue highlights several books available from Planetstadens Böckers:

• Konsten att Skriva Automatisk Skrift (The Art of Automatic Writing) by Edain McCoy: This book presents automatic writing as a method for spiritual development, enabling contact with one's Higher Self and other intelligences for guidance and information. It is suggested as a way to gain insights and personal growth.
• Kommunicera med Djur (Communicating with Animals) by Arthur Myers: This book offers advice on how to communicate with animals, suggesting that interest and adherence to the book's guidance are sufficient, without the need for psychic abilities.
• Tidsresor ur ett nytt perspektiv (Time Travel from a New Perspective) by J.H. Brennan: This book explores the possibility of time travel, referencing evidence such as a human footprint in ancient rock formations and offering practical exercises for readers.
• Season of Tranquility: A Christmas music album described as providing a peaceful and festive atmosphere.

Additionally, the publication promotes books by Tommy Hellsten, including:

• Med människan (With Humanity): Focuses on how to care for others without becoming burnt out, discussing unhealthy selflessness in caregiving and encouraging healthy self-regard.
• Resan till vuxenlivet och dess ansvar (The Journey to Adulthood and its Responsibilities): Addresses contemporary issues of maturity in adults and encourages readers to reconnect with their inner child.
• Flodhästen (The Hippopotamus): Explores the concept of co-dependency in families affected by alcoholism, workaholism, or other forms of hardship.

Two books by Inger Waern are also featured: Möten med änglar (Encounters with Angels), a collection of personal accounts of angelic encounters, and Mirakel (Miracles) by CS Lewis, which examines the concept of miracles in a modern context.

Events and Conferences The magazine details several upcoming events and conferences:

• Konflikt på Jobbet - dödshot eller livstecken? (Conflict at Work - Death Threat or Sign of Life?): A network meeting addressing conflicts in workplaces like healthcare, education, and the church, offering tools for constructive solutions. It features experts with psychodynamic, systemic, and addiction-focused backgrounds, and is linked to the annual Recovery Conference.
• New Age i Sverige - en väg till helande och sig själv? (New Age in Sweden - A Path to Healing and Oneself?): This event involves a dialogue between theologians and New Age profiles, exploring whether meditation and self-discovery techniques are exclusive to Eastern religions or applicable universally. It also questions if the church can become a spiritual center for seekers.
• Recoverykonferens (Recovery Conference): Mentioned as following the 'Konflikt på Jobbet' event.
• Bromma-Dialogen: Described as a dialogue and conference center specializing in ethics, relationships, and spirituality, serving as a meeting place for diverse worldviews and professions. It aims to challenge perspectives that disregard environmental threats and human suffering.
• Själavårdsskola (Pastoral Care School): Offered as an alternative to 'Renewal and Retreat', focusing on personal development and healing relationships, with recovery groups.
• Temadag med Tommy Hellsten i Bromma (Themed Day with Tommy Hellsten in Bromma): The topic is 'Flodhästen på Arbetsplatsen' (The Hippopotamus at the Workplace).
• Helande Relationer (Healing Relationships): A program focusing on relationships and personal growth.

Specific dates and locations are provided for these events, including sessions on November 12-13 and October 2-3, 1998.

Membership in NEW PAGE The publication details the benefits of joining 'NEW PAGE', a book club associated with Planetstadens Böckers. Members receive offers for books ten times a year, with advance notice. They can opt-out of monthly selections by returning a response card. Unwanted books can be returned if unopened. Books are delivered automatically with an invoice, and membership can be canceled at any time.

Other Information

• Retreats: Information is available upon request for retreats at Emmaus, Skaganäs, and Bromma.
• Gummessons: A bookstore in Stockholm where Bromma-Dialogen's publications and books are available.
• Dialog Stockholm: Information about the services offered by Bromma-Dialogen's five branches, including the Swedish Church in Söder, is available upon request.

Contact details for Planetstadens Böcker AB are provided, including address, phone, and fax numbers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this issue revolve around spirituality, personal growth, and the intersection of New Age ideas with traditional religious and psychological frameworks. There is a strong emphasis on dialogue, understanding, and finding constructive solutions to personal and societal challenges. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring diverse spiritual paths and facilitating conversations between different belief systems, while also promoting practical self-help and recovery methods. The publication actively encourages reader engagement through book clubs, event participation, and information requests.