Sokaren - 2005 No 01

Magazine Overview

This issue of Sökaren, dated January 2005, is the first issue of volume 42. The magazine, subtitled 'tidskrift för livsfrågor' (journal for life questions), features Catherine Ingram on its cover, with a headline suggesting she teaches how to live a life of passionate presence, in full use of one's heart, in silence, tenderness, joy, and wonder.

Articles and Features

Catherine Ingram: Living a Life of Passionate Presence

Agneta Milde interviews Catherine Ingram, an American author who has toured extensively with her 'dharmadialogues'. Ingram, described as a humble and uncomplicated woman, shares her insights on how to live in the present moment. She emphasizes that 'being' is about presence and that the experience of presence extends to encompassing others. Ingram's book, 'The Seven Powers of Presence', is mentioned, with the subtitle 'Rediscover the intelligence of the heart'. She believes that to survive as a species, more people must discover Presence, as world problems cannot be solved by ideologies or politics but require a change in consciousness.

Ingram's journey began after a difficult childhood and a period of engagement with Buddhism, which led to depression. A meeting with spiritual leader Poonjaji in India marked a turning point, ending her search and allowing her to live in total presence. She draws from various traditions, taking the best from each and leaving the rest, finding more truth in literature than in spiritual books. Ingram discusses the seven qualities of awakened consciousness: Silence, Tenderness, Embodiment, Authenticity, Discernment, Joy, and Wonder. She advocates for a more feminine understanding, emphasizing love, compassion, and the ability to live together.

TV Occultism: Entertainment or Ethical Breach?

Adrian Parker and Nils Wiklund critically examine the rise of paranormal TV programs. They argue that while channels like TV3, TV4+, and TV5 broadcast shows on topics like 'Mind Control' and 'Messages from the Dead', these programs often lack scientific rigor and rely on trickery, suggestion, and selective editing. The authors distinguish between serious parapsychology and the pseudo-psychology presented on television. They highlight the use of 'mentalism' by performers like Derren Brown, which involves suggestion and trickery rather than genuine paranormal abilities. The article criticizes programs that claim to receive information from the deceased, suggesting that much of this information is already public knowledge and that selective editing can create the illusion of accuracy. The authors also discuss the case of John Edward and his 'cold reading' technique, which involves making vague statements and using audience reactions to guide the conversation. They question the ethical implications of presenting such programs as factual, especially when they prey on people's grief and vulnerability.

Personal Development and Cognitive Therapy

Nils-Olof Jacobson presents an article on 'Cognitive-Philosophical Therapy', drawing on the philosophies of Epictetus and Buddha. He emphasizes that 'our thoughts create our world' and that the mind constantly generates thoughts of three types: neutral, negative ('minus'), and positive ('plus'). Jacobson explains that while we cannot prevent thoughts from arising, we can choose whether to dwell on them. He introduces the 'likhetsprincipen' (law of attraction), suggesting that what we focus on tends to grow. The article provides practical advice on how to manage negative thoughts by shifting focus to neutral or positive ones, a technique he calls 'From minus thoughts to neutral'.

Near-Death Experience: A Journey of Love and Light

Viveka Lindgren reports on Margareta Carlsson's near-death experience (NDE) during childbirth in the 1970s. Carlsson describes an overwhelming experience of light, love, and a different dimension, which profoundly changed her life. Initially, she was disappointed to return to her physical body, but the experience gave her a new perspective on life, leading her to engage in environmental issues and feel a deeper connection to all living things. The article notes that NDEs were not widely understood at the time, but Moody's book 'Life After Life' helped validate such experiences. Carlsson's NDE, like many others, involved a sense of unconditional love, a life review, and encounters with light beings.

Critiques of Science and Belief Systems

An article titled 'Problem inom vetenskapen' (Problems within science) discusses how dominant paradigms in science can stifle new ideas and critical thinking. It highlights that scientists who challenge established theories, such as those related to the Big Bang or relativity, often face resistance and are marginalized. The article suggests that scientific progress often comes through revolutionary shifts in understanding rather than incremental adjustments. It also touches upon the critique of religious beliefs, with a piece by Barbara Smoker arguing against the existence of an all-good, all-powerful God, citing the existence of suffering in the world as evidence against such a deity.

Other Sections

The magazine also includes 'Klokord' (Wise Words) with quotes from various thinkers like Epictetus, Wayne Dyer, and Johannes Ude. There is a section on 'Positivt tänkande' (Positive Thinking) with practical advice on managing thoughts. The issue also features a discussion on the nature of God and belief systems, with an atheist perspective presented by Barbara Smoker.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around personal growth, consciousness, and the search for meaning. The magazine promotes a critical yet open-minded approach to spirituality, psychology, and paranormal phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on the power of individual consciousness and the importance of living in the present moment. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages introspection, self-awareness, and a questioning of established norms, whether in science, religion, or media. The magazine aims to provide a platform for diverse perspectives on life's fundamental questions.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 1/2005
Date: January 2005
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine focusing on spirituality, parapsychology, and alternative perspectives, features a prominent article on Norse mythology, specifically the myth of the white god Balder and his death. The issue also includes a diverse range of articles covering topics such as near-death experiences, UFO phenomena, the nature of consciousness, health and well-being, and philosophical reflections on belief systems.

The White God: Balder's Myth

The main cover story, "Den VITE GUDEN" (The White God), written by Ebbe Schön and drawing from his book "Asa-Tors hammare," recounts the tragic myth of Balder, the beloved son of Odin and Frigg. Balder, known for his beauty, wisdom, and kindness, was killed by his blind brother Höder, who was tricked by the mischievous god Loke. Despite Frigg's efforts to protect her son by obtaining oaths from all natural elements not to harm him, she overlooked the mistletoe, which Loke exploited. The article details the events leading to Balder's death, his funeral rites, and the subsequent punishment of Loke, who was bound with chains and subjected to eternal torment, causing earthquakes.

Parapsychology and Near-Death Experiences

Several articles delve into the realm of parapsychology and the human experience of consciousness beyond the physical body. Karlis Osis's research on deathbed visions is highlighted, presenting statistical data on the types of visions reported by the dying, often involving encounters with deceased loved ones. The article "Vad döende ser" (What the Dying See) discusses Osis's findings that these visions are largely consistent across cultures and suggest a transition to another realm. The concept of out-of-body experiences (OBEs) is also explored, referencing research by the American Society for Psychical Research (ASPR) and experiments involving individuals who claim to have left their physical bodies. The work of Dr. Alex Tanous is mentioned as providing "encouraging" results in OBE experiments.

UFOs and Extraterrestrial Encounters

The magazine touches upon UFO phenomena, referencing the famous case of Barney and Betty Hill, who reported an alien abduction in 1961. The article notes Betty Hill's unwavering conviction in the reality of their experience until her death. Another piece briefly mentions astronaut Gordon Cooper's belief in extraterrestrial visitors and his advocacy for scientific investigation of UFOs.

Health, Consciousness, and Spirituality

Several articles explore the connection between mental states and physical health. "Medvetandet en hälsofaktor" (Consciousness as a Health Factor) discusses research suggesting that positive emotions and social interaction can positively impact health, while negative emotions can be detrimental. The article "Arbeta dig frisk!" (Work Yourself Healthy!) notes that women with multiple roles (wife, mother, professional) tend to be healthier. The benefits of animal companionship are also mentioned in "Djur är bra för människor" (Animals Are Good for People).

Philosophical and Skeptical Perspectives

The issue includes articles that engage with skepticism and alternative worldviews. "Fåtöljskeptiker" (Armchair Skeptics) critiques those who dismiss paranormal phenomena without thorough investigation, arguing for a more open-minded scientific approach. The magazine also presents a materialistic worldview in "Som alla vet finns icke..." (As Everyone Knows, There Are No...), which posits that only matter exists and that phenomena like the soul are products of the brain. This is contrasted with the idea of an "intelligent factor" in the universe, suggesting a creator or higher consciousness.

Book Reviews and Editorials

"Bokfloden" (Book Flood) features reviews of several books, including Dénis Lindbohm's "Den inre väktaren" (The Inner Guardian) and Cyril Scott's "Den invigde i mörka cykeln" (The Initiated in the Dark Cycle). The "Redaktörstankar från förr" (Editor's Thoughts from the Past) section includes reflections on Jesus' teachings on love and their application to social issues, as well as a discussion on the future of religion in a scientific age, suggesting a shift towards a dogma-free mysticism.

Personal Development and Spiritual Guidance

An article titled "KÄRLEKENS LÄKANDE KRAFT" (The Healing Power of Love) by Andriette Bågenholm describes her transformative experiences with her spiritual guide, Lodewyk. She emphasizes the importance of inner peace and self-acceptance, contrasting the wisdom of an enlightened guru with manipulative spiritual leaders.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Sökaren consistently explores the intersection of science, spirituality, and the human experience. The magazine encourages readers to question conventional paradigms, whether in science, religion, or personal beliefs. There is a recurring theme of seeking deeper meaning and understanding beyond materialistic explanations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting diverse viewpoints and encouraging critical yet open-minded engagement with topics that challenge established norms. The magazine champions the idea that true understanding comes from a balance of critical thinking and an openness to phenomena that may not yet be fully explained by current scientific models.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 1/2005
Date: January 2005
Cover Headline: Personlig utveckling (Personal Development)

This issue of Sökaren magazine focuses on personal development through spirituality, featuring an in-depth look at the spiritual teacher Lodewyk, also known as Gopalji.

Lodewyk's Teachings on Personal Development

The article presents Lodewyk's philosophy on self-realization and the path to enlightenment. He explains that the ego is a construct of accumulated knowledge and past experiences, creating a false identity. True understanding, he suggests, can only be achieved when the mind is still, in the 'gap between two thoughts'.

Lodewyk distinguishes between two types of surrender: the rare, authentic surrender and the common, false surrender driven by the ego's desire for something. Authentic surrender, he states, is not about the mind or ego but arises from a deep longing to return to one's true nature. It is the process of letting go that is its own purpose, leading to stillness and ecstasy.

He emphasizes that by simply being present with a true teacher, one can re-establish a connection with their own inner presence. The path must be walked individually to discern truth from falsehood.

The Guru-Disciple Relationship

Lodewyk discusses the nature of an 'enlightened relationship,' suggesting that while not directly enlightened, a relationship with a true teacher can lead to enlightenment. This relationship, from the disciple's perspective, may initially appear based on desire but is fundamentally a powerful drive to awaken. From the teacher's perspective, it is based on unconditional love, unaffected even if the disciple leaves.

This 'love affair' slowly dissolves the false self. When doubt arises, the Guru's love and the disciple's love for the Guru guide them back to the heart. This continues until the disciple realizes their heart is not separate from the teacher's heart, and the source of love is within themselves. Lodewyk asserts that no true teaching is based on future results.

Author's Personal Experience

The author, who is a trained therapist, doctor, and psychiatrist, shares their personal connection with Lodewyk. They find Lodewyk to be a man who can heal people deeply, beyond the scope of conventional healthcare. The author highlights the unique aspect of having a genuine personal relationship with Lodewyk, describing him as both personal and enlightening. The author recommends Lodewyk's retreats and satsangs for those feeling stuck in unwanted life patterns, stating that they have personally experienced their heart being touched and gained insight that they must first heal themselves before they can help their patients.

Lodewyk's Background

The article provides biographical details about Lodewyk, born in Amsterdam in 1952 and also known as Gopalji. In 1994, he followed an inner calling to India, where he met his enlightened master, Swami Hans Maharaj, in Rishikesh. Swami Hans Maharaj initiated him into a lineage of 'Bhakti,' meaning 'love for God.' Through his Guru's love, Lodewyk experienced enlightenment after several years. He transformed from a successful but stressed hotel director into a compassionate, humorous spiritual teacher and poet of love. Since 1998, he has been working with individuals and groups globally. Readers are directed to his website, http://www.lodewyk.com/, for more information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of personal growth, spirituality, and alternative paths to well-being. The editorial stance appears to be open to and supportive of spiritual teachers and practices that offer deeper healing and self-discovery beyond conventional methods. The focus on Lodewyk suggests an interest in Eastern spirituality, guru-disciple dynamics, and the transformative power of love and presence.