Sokaren - 2005 No 03

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 3, 2005, årgång 42
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish
Cover Headline: Du kan bli en Kristus, en Buddha, en Shiva (You can become a Christ, a Buddha, a Shiva)

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine for life questions, features spiritual leaders Shri Bhagavan and Shri Amma on its cover. The main article, "Du kan bli en Kristus, en Buddha, en Shiva" by Agneta Milde, explores the teachings of Bhagavan, who claims to facilitate spiritual awakening and higher consciousness through a process called deeksha.

Key Articles and Themes

"Du kan bli en Kristus, en Buddha, en Shiva" by Agneta Milde

The article introduces Shri Bhagavan and his wife Shri Amma, who are presented as spiritual leaders capable of transforming individuals. Agneta Milde recounts her experiences in India, attending a course at Oneness University, and witnessing Bhagavan's teachings. Bhagavan asserts that he can help people achieve higher states of consciousness, comparing them to Christ, Buddha, or Shiva. He explains that deeksha is a process that transfers energy to the brain, altering its activity to facilitate spiritual states. He emphasizes that these states are not about adopting a specific religion but about achieving a higher consciousness that is naturally loving and blissful.

Bhagavan discusses the concept of avatars, stating that he is an avatar and that God can manifest through various avatars throughout history. He also mentions his wife, Amma, as an avatar.

The Concept of Deeksha

Deeksha is described as a process that transfers energy to the brain, leading to a transformation of consciousness. It is presented as a way to overcome negative emotions like jealousy and anger, and to achieve a state of love and bliss. The article notes that Bhagavan's disciples, trained to administer deeksha, can perform this process.

Spiritual Journeys and Experiences

The article includes testimonials from individuals who have experienced profound transformations through deeksha. Judith Bourque shares her journey of healing from childhood trauma, attributing the breakthrough to the combination of deeksha and inner work. Thomas Westberg discusses the concept of Christ consciousness and its rarity in Sweden.

The Golden Age and 60,000 Enlightened Beings

Asharya Sammadarshiniji, a spokesperson for Bhagavan, speaks about the vision of a golden age where 60,000 enlightened beings will emerge by 2012, leading to a widespread shift in consciousness.

Parapsychology and Worldviews

Another significant section of the magazine delves into parapsychology and the clash of worldviews. Hans Bender, a German professor and parapsychologist, is quoted on the conflict between a mechanistic view of the world and other perspectives that include parapsychology.

#### "Amerikanska flygvapnet stödjer studie av teleportation" (US Air Force supports teleportation study)

This article discusses a report by Eric W Davies on four potential methods of teleportation: wormhole, quantum, extra-dimensional, and psychokinetic (PK) teleportation. The PK method, which involves using mental power to move objects, is highlighted as having shown practical results. The article mentions experiments by Jack Houck, who organized "PK parties" where participants learned to bend metal objects. It also references Chinese experiments in the 1980s that reportedly demonstrated teleportation.

#### "Tillämpad psykokinesi" (Applied Psychokinesis) by Jack Houck

Jack Houck, an aerospace engineer, describes his experiences organizing PK parties. He explains the process of teaching participants to bend metal objects, emphasizing that over 85% of attendees learn this ability. Houck believes that PK parties are significant because they offer a reliable and repeatable paranormal experiment, demonstrating that individuals can achieve extraordinary feats with the right mental attitude and technique.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine

The magazine features discussions on alternative and complementary medicine. Dr. Edzard Ernst, a professor of complementary medicine, expresses skepticism about many alternative therapies, attributing positive results to the placebo effect. He notes that while some natural remedies have proven effects, they can also interfere with orthodox medicine. The article also touches upon the high number of deaths attributed to medical errors and hospital infections in the USA.

Other Articles and Sections

• "Djurens rätt" (Animal Rights): A brief note about a change in editorship for the magazine "Djurens rätt."
• "Stöd åt skeptikerna" (Support for Skeptics): Critiques organizations that promote skepticism, such as Vetenskap och Folkbildning (VoF), and individuals who dismiss alternative viewpoints.
• "Den farliga sjukvården" (The Dangerous Healthcare): Discusses the potential harms of synthetic medicines and the rise of diseases like diabetes.
• "Svensk professur i bl a parapsykologi" (Swedish Professorship in Parapsychology): Reports on the establishment of a professorship in psychology with a focus on parapsychology and hypnology at Lund University.
• "Varia" (Various): A section containing short articles on diverse topics, including the Danish margarine manufacturer Poul Thorsen's donation for parapsychology research, the selection of Etzel Cardeña for the professorship, and the concept of synchronicity.
• "Bokfloden" (Book Flood): Reviews of several books, including:
• "Asa-Tors hammare - gudar och jättar i tro och tradition" (Thor's Hammer - Gods and Giants in Belief and Tradition) by Ebbe Schön.
• "Låt kärleken välja" (Let Love Choose) by Cornelia Södergren.
• "Den dolda bron" (The Hidden Bridge) by Solveig Almqvist.
• "Medveten närvaro" (Mindful Presence) by Sylvia Boorstein.
• "Lär av dina tidigare liv" (Learn from Your Past Lives) by Sylvia Browne.
• "Den rena källan" (The Pure Source) by Marie-Louise and Robert Hahn.
• "Forskare klargör Myter om maten" (Researchers Clarify Myths About Food).
• "Själens intelligens" (The Intelligence of the Soul) by Richard A. Bowell.
• "Konsten att leva" (The Art of Living), an anthology.
• "Den inre rösten" (The Inner Voice): Discusses the concept of an inner voice or intuition as a guide, drawing on the work of Carl Jung and James Bolen.
• "Mat och hälsa" (Food and Health): Reviews the book "Forskare klargör Myter om maten," which discusses dietary myths and health.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes a worldview that embraces spirituality, alternative healing, and parapsychological phenomena. It appears critical of mainstream scientific and medical establishments, often portraying them as dogmatic and closed-minded to unconventional ideas. The editorial stance favors personal spiritual experience and exploration over rigid, materialistic explanations. There is a strong emphasis on self-transformation, achieving higher consciousness, and the potential for human beings to transcend their current limitations. The magazine also seems to advocate for a more holistic approach to health and well-being, integrating spiritual and natural methods with conventional practices.

The magazine's content suggests a belief in the existence of higher powers, spiritual realms, and phenomena that defy current scientific understanding. It encourages readers to question established norms and explore alternative perspectives on life, consciousness, and reality.

This issue of Sökaren (Issue 3/2005) presents a diverse range of articles, primarily focusing on book reviews, debates on scientific and pseudoscientific topics, and personal development.

Book Reviews: Feng Shui

The magazine features reviews of three books on Feng Shui by Agneta Nyholm Winqvist:

• Feng Shui för svenska hem (Feng Shui for Swedish Homes): This book, praised for its beautiful format, extensive color photos, and practical advice, explains the principles of Feng Shui, including the concepts of chi, the five elements, and yin and yang. It guides readers through applying these principles room by room to create a harmonious living space. The reviewer found the advice easy to understand and inspiring, noting that even small changes could enhance the environment.
• Feng Shui för svenska trädgårdar (Feng Shui for Swedish Gardens): The second book, also richly illustrated, applies Feng Shui principles to garden design. The reviewer expresses some initial overwhelm with the detailed suggestions for a typical Swedish suburban garden, but highlights the book's emphasis on patience and respecting nature's forces.
• Feng Shui för själen (Feng Shui for the Soul): This third book is described as more philosophical, recounting the author's personal journey after a life-threatening illness. It offers a broader perspective on applying Feng Shui principles to life's transitions, focusing on finding balance by decluttering both physically and spiritually.

Another book, Feng Shui med nya ögon (Feng Shui with New Eyes) by Birgitta Tryberg, is also reviewed. This book is recommended as a good starting point for those curious about Feng Shui, offering personal insights and practical tips derived from the author's life experiences. It emphasizes that cleaning is the first step in applying Feng Shui.

Debate: Evolution and Intelligent Design

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to a debate on the existence of an intelligent factor in evolution, sparked by a reader's letter from Lennart Kjellson and responses from Professor Dan Larhammar and Erland Lagerroth.

• Lennart Kjellson's initial letter questions the purely random nature of evolution, citing the complexity of biological structures like the gubernaculum testis (which aids in testicular descent) as evidence for intelligent design. He argues that DNA is a 'script' rather than a product of pure chance.
• Dan Larhammar and Erland Lagerroth respond by defending the evolutionary explanation, arguing that complex structures can arise through gradual processes and natural selection. Larhammar dismisses Kjellson's arguments as lacking scientific basis and suggests that Kjellson is misinterpreting evolutionary theory. Lagerroth, while acknowledging the complexity of some biological processes, maintains that they do not necessitate a 'conscious intent' and that evolutionary processes can explain them.
• The debate touches upon the eye's complexity and the development of reproductive organs, with Kjellson arguing that these are too intricate to be explained by chance alone.
• A related point is raised by Arne Wyller, who suggests the possibility of a consciousness within cells and an overarching intelligence in nature.

Personal Development and Spirituality

• Stefan Sebö, an 'inspirator' in personal development, is featured, discussing the importance of positive thinking, perseverance, and having a clear vision. He uses examples like Walt Disney and Thomas Edison to illustrate how strong beliefs and persistent effort lead to success.
• Eivor Hansson presents her work with 'Det Blå Ljuset' (The Blue Light) and 'Diamanthjärtat' (Diamond Heart), which she uses for healing purposes, including distance healing. Testimonials from readers describe positive effects on physical and emotional well-being.

Critiques of Skepticism and Pseudoscience

The magazine includes several articles critically examining the work of skeptics and the claims of pseudoscientific phenomena.

• Göran Brusewitz reviews the anthology 'Vetenskap eller villfarelse' (Science or Delusion), compiled by the organization Vetenskap och Folkbildning (VoF). Brusewitz argues that the book, despite its scientific tone, often presents biased and incomplete information, making pseudoscientific claims itself. He criticizes the book's dismissal of phenomena like dowsing, reincarnation, and parapsychology without thorough investigation or consideration of anecdotal evidence and personal experiences.
• Sven Ove Hansson and Dan Larhammar are frequently cited and critiqued for their skeptical stances. Brusewitz contends that their arguments are often based on limited knowledge and prejudice, rather than rigorous scientific inquiry.
• The articles discuss the nature of skepticism, distinguishing between 'genuine skepticism' (open-minded, evidence-based inquiry) and 'pseudoskepticism' (prejudiced dismissal of phenomena). The authors suggest that many prominent skeptics exhibit pseudoskepticism by selectively accepting evidence that fits their worldview.
• Specific phenomena discussed include UFO sightings, the Turin Shroud, Uri Geller's abilities, dowsing, reincarnation cases (particularly those studied by Ian Stevenson), and out-of-body experiences (OBEs). The magazine presents counterarguments to the skeptical explanations, suggesting that they often overlook contradictory evidence or alternative interpretations.
• The role of scientific institutions and the pressure to publish are also examined, with the book 'Betrayers of the Truth' by Broad and Wade being referenced to highlight issues of fraud and bias within science.

Other Topics

• Astrology is discussed, with a critique of Curt Roslund's view that it is mere superstition. The article suggests that while some dismiss astrology, many find personal relevance in astrological descriptions.
• The concept of consciousness and its relation to the physical universe is explored, with references to philosophical and spiritual ideas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently questions the absolute authority of mainstream scientific skepticism, particularly when it dismisses phenomena that proponents believe have validity. There's a strong emphasis on the importance of personal experience, open-minded inquiry, and challenging established paradigms. The editorial stance appears to favor a more holistic view that integrates scientific findings with personal intuition and broader philosophical considerations, often criticizing what it perceives as the dogmatism and narrow-mindedness of certain skeptical viewpoints. The issue advocates for a balance between critical thinking and openness to explore phenomena that may lie at the fringes of current scientific understanding.

Title: Existens extra
Issue: Våren 2005 (Spring 2005)
Publisher: Brommadialogen
Country: Sweden
Language: Swedish

This issue of *Existens extra* centers around the book "Konsten att leva – verktyg för en befriande andlighet" (The Art of Living – Tools for a Liberating Spirituality) by Harry Månsus (editor) and the associated conferences organized by Brommadialogen. The magazine highlights the book's utility as a toolbox for wellbeing, recovery, and solidarity, and as a starting point for discussions and personal growth.

Conferences and Events

The magazine details several upcoming conferences and events in Sweden and Norway during the autumn of 2005 and spring of 2006. These include:

• Nordic Conference (September 16-17, 2005) in Sunne, Sweden: Focused on the dialogue between the church and new spirituality, with participants from Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
• Rastplats 2005 (October 5-8, 2005) in Stockholm, Sweden: An event at Fryshuset themed 'Spirituality that Liberates and Challenges', featuring various sub-events like a course on 'The Art of Living', an educational day on 'Five Paths to a Deeper Life' with Harry Månsus, an inspirational evening on the Pilgrim Movement, and a networking meeting for 'lona-inspired'.
• Regional Conferences in late autumn 2005: Scheduled for Helsingborg (October 13-15), Furuboda (October 21-22) on Wellbeing, and Vimmerby (October 28-29).
• Spring 2006: Events planned in Södertälje, Oslo, and Göteborg.
• Mini-conferences with Harry Månsus: Held in August and September 2005 in Fagernäs Camping, Karlstad/Kil, and Lycksele, focusing on 'The Art of Living'.

Information on programs, prices, and accommodation for these events is available on the Brommadialogen website.

The Book: "Konsten att leva" (The Art of Living)

The magazine extensively promotes the book "Konsten att leva – verktyg för en befriande andlighet." It is described as a toolbox for wellbeing, recovery, and solidarity, suitable for individuals, groups, congregations, schools, and workplaces. The book is presented as an inspirational work for diaconal and social work, and a study book for courses like Alpha. It features contributions from various authors covering topics such as health, well-being projects, the connection between body and spirit, overcoming co-dependency, the 'twelve steps' program, advocating for the vulnerable, and finding spiritual depth.

The book is available for purchase at a special price of 249 SEK (ISBN 9171957502, 250 pages).

Hercólubus and Earth Changes

A section of the magazine discusses the planet Hercólubus, referencing the work of V.M. Rabolú. It describes Hercólubus as a gigantic planet that is causing significant climatic changes on Earth, including the melting of polar ice caps, increased volcanic activity, earthquakes, and epidemics. The magazine suggests that these changes are already evident.

Wisdom and Quotes

The first page features a collection of quotes from various thinkers and writers on themes of wisdom, life, and personal growth. Notable quotes include:

• "For us to reach heaven, we must take it into ourselves." - Henry Drummond
• "Evil has wings, good moves at a snail's pace." - Voltaire
• "The question is not what you look at, but what you see." - Henry David Thoreau
• "The secret of happiness is not more than a secret, but our will to choose our life." - Leo Buscaglia
• "The best part of a good person's life: their small, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love." - William Wordsworth
• "The doors of wisdom are never closed." - Benjamin Franklin
• "A person's destiny depends not on chance, but on choice. Destiny is not something to wait for, but something to strive for." - William Jennings Bryan
• "The greatest part of a good person's life: their small, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love." - William Wordsworth
• "It is better for science if a few scientists create new ideas while others criticize everything new, than if all scientists are skeptical and uninterested in all news." - Henry M. Bauer
• "We understand very little of anything. We have a wilderness of mysteries to pave our way through." - Lewis Thomas

Other Content

The magazine also includes a brief mention of 'MODERN TEOSOFI: its origin and character' with a website address (www.teosofi.net) and a section on 'Gifts' listing contributions from various individuals to support the publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are spirituality, personal development, and the exploration of existential questions. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting self-discovery, inner growth, and a proactive approach to life through the concepts presented in "Konsten att leva." There is also an interest in alternative perspectives, such as the I Ching for guidance and the potentially disruptive influence of Hercólubus, suggesting an openness to a wide range of spiritual and even esoteric topics.