Sokaren - 2007 No 01

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: Nr 1, 2007 (Årgång 44)
Date: January 2007
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- inkl moms
ISSN: 0038-0504

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine for life questions, delves into themes of spirituality, self-discovery, and the nature of reality. The cover prominently features Gangaji, a spiritual teacher, with the headline "Gangaji Explains Who We Really Are." The magazine includes articles by various authors exploring consciousness, out-of-body experiences, UFO phenomena, and philosophical inquiries.

Gangaji: You Are Not Who You Think You Are

The lead article introduces Gangaji (formerly Antoinette Roberson Varner), who, after meeting her teacher Papaji in India, experienced a profound realization of her true nature. She now travels the world sharing this insight, emphasizing that our deepest longing is for our inherent, unchanging nature – pure consciousness, or Brahman, as described in Vedanta. The article explains that our suffering arises from identifying with the ego and temporary thoughts and feelings, rather than recognizing our true self, Atman, which is identical to Brahman. Gangaji's teaching encourages looking inward to discover this inherent truth, which is beyond definition and unaffected by life's changes.

Agneta Milde: Meeting Tathagata

Agneta Milde recounts her experiences with Tathagata, a spiritual teacher who emphasizes simplicity and being present. Milde describes attending a satsang with Tathagata (whose given name is Florian) in Norway, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and the profound impact of his presence. She details how Tathagata's approach encourages participants to relax, let go of self-judgment, and simply be present, allowing their true nature to emerge. The article also touches upon the challenges of living as love in the world and the role of the body in storing stress and emotions, referencing insights from Isaac Shapiro.

Agneta Milde: Maneka – Deepening

This section focuses on Maneka, who explores deeper spiritual insights. She describes a silent satsang with diksha (a spiritual transmission) and her journey of letting go of the need to help others, finding peace in simple acts like making a sandwich for her children. Maneka shares a profound experience where her heart seemed to be expanded to encompass the universe, leading to a realization of the interconnectedness of all things. She discusses the concept of the "Golden Middle Way" and the balance between love and nothingness, and how the mind struggles to grasp these paradoxes.

Robert Larson: Beware, Your Thoughts Are Creative

Robert Larson, author of "Know Yourself," discusses the power of thoughts in shaping reality. He explains that our thoughts are creative forces that manifest in our lives, and that by examining our motives and thought patterns, we can change our experiences. Larson warns against the "advaita trap," where the concept of non-duality can be misused to avoid confronting pain and emotions. He advocates for a conscious effort to clear the mind of negative thoughts and cultivate a positive outlook, emphasizing that our thoughts have consequences and reflect back to us.

Viveka Lindgren: Out-of-Body Experiences

Viveka Lindgren explores the phenomenon of out-of-body experiences (OBEs), where consciousness appears to leave the physical body. Camilla Persson shares her personal experiences with OBEs, which began in her teenage years as a way to escape a difficult reality. She describes leaving her body, observing herself from above, and traveling to other dimensions. Lindgren notes that while OBEs may not prove life after death, they can offer insights into the nature of consciousness and reality. The article also touches upon historical perspectives on OBEs and the concept of an astral body connected to the physical body by a silver cord.

Åsa Freij: Paths to Healing for Humanity and the Earth

This section reports on a conference titled "Paths to Healing for Humanity and the Earth," which brought together 170 participants to discuss holistic approaches to well-being and environmental healing. The conference featured lectures and seminars on the connection between spiritual consciousness, health, and environmental care. Speakers included theologian Harry Månsus, who spoke on the holistic view of creation, and professor Karl E. Arfors, who discussed the need for healthcare to evolve beyond outdated Newtonian models. The event also included various therapists and practitioners offering insights into complementary medicine and spiritual healing.

Håkan Blomqvist's Seeker's Path

Journalist and author Håkan Blomqvist shares his spiritual journey, which has involved shifts between interest in new spirituality, skepticism, and a form of Christian humanism. He recounts his early involvement with hylozoism, a movement he later criticized for its problematic elements. Blomqvist discusses his period as a secular humanist and atheist, influenced by skeptic Sven Ove Hansson, before returning to a belief in a form of Christian humanism. He emphasizes the importance of a spiritual tradition and the mystery of human existence, which he feels cannot be fully explained by materialism. Blomqvist also reflects on his continued interest in UFO phenomena and the role of UFO-Sverige in archiving related information.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around the exploration of consciousness, the nature of reality, and the path to self-discovery. The magazine presents diverse perspectives, from direct spiritual teachings by Gangaji and Tathagata to philosophical inquiries by Robert Larson and explorations of phenomena like OBEs and UFOs. There is a consistent emphasis on looking beyond the ego and conventional perceptions to find deeper truths. The editorial stance appears to be open to various spiritual and philosophical paths, encouraging critical inquiry while remaining open to experiences that transcend ordinary understanding. The magazine promotes a holistic view of life, connecting individual well-being with the health of the planet.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 1/2007
Date: January 2007
Language: Swedish
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Reincarnation: A Fact?

The lead article, "Är reinkarnation ett faktum?" (Is Reincarnation a Fact?), explores the concept of reincarnation from various perspectives. It begins by outlining the Eastern understanding of reincarnation, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism, where the cycle of rebirth is often seen as driven by desire and karma, with the ultimate goal being liberation (nirvana). The article contrasts this with a Western fascination with the idea of continued existence and self-improvement through successive lives.

Historical and Philosophical Roots

The article traces the history of reincarnation beliefs in the West, mentioning figures like Pythagoras and Plato. It notes the presence of these ideas in early Christian movements, such as Gnosticism, and highlights prominent Gnostic figures like Basilides, Marcion, and Valentius. The suppression of reincarnation doctrines by the Church in the 13th and 15th centuries is discussed, along with the persecution of groups like the Cathars who held such beliefs.

Western Intellectuals and Reincarnation

Interest in reincarnation resurfaced in Western culture in modern times. The article quotes several notable figures who expressed belief in or contemplation of reincarnation, including:

• Goethe: Believed his friend Charlotte von Stein might have been his wife in a past life.
• Schopenhauer: Admired Indian philosophy and wrote about reincarnation.
• Gustave Flaubert: Wrote about having memories spanning different historical periods and professions.
• Maurice Maeterlinck: Praised reincarnation as a comforting and moral belief.
• Richard Wagner: Found solace in the concepts of reincarnation and karma.
• Gustav Mahler: Believed in returning, finding meaning in life through this certainty.
• Henry Ford: Stated he believed in reincarnation, finding purpose and meaning in life through this concept.
• David Lloyd George: Expressed a belief in reincarnation and its connection to one's actions in this world.
• Leslie D. Weatherhead: Openly embraced reincarnation as a just and rational doctrine.

The article notes that while the endorsement of these prominent individuals doesn't prove reincarnation, it suggests the idea warrants serious consideration.

Ian Stevenson's Research on Children's Past-Life Memories

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to the research of Dr. Ian Stevenson, a professor of psychiatry who studied cases of children recalling past lives. Stevenson's work, particularly his book "Twenty Cases Suggestive of Reincarnation," is highlighted. He documented numerous cases worldwide, noting that in most instances, the previous personality died young, and the current incarnation was born within a few years, allowing for potential verification through surviving relatives.

#### Case Study: Eduardo Esplugus-Cabrera

One detailed case involves Eduardo Esplugus-Cabrera, a four-year-old boy from Havana, Cuba. Eduardo recounted details of a previous life as a boy named Pancho, including his parents (Pierro and Amparo Seco), siblings (Mercedes and Jean), and a specific date of departure from home (February 28, 1903). Investigations confirmed that a family named Seco lived at the described address until shortly after that date, with a mother named Amparo and sons named Mercedes, Jean, and Pancho. Pancho had died shortly before the family moved. The details provided by Eduardo were largely accurate, with only minor discrepancies.

Stevenson's research aimed to rule out alternative explanations like fraud, cryptomnesia, or ESP. He found that reincarnation was the most plausible explanation for many cases, though he acknowledged the lack of direct scientific proof.

#### Case Study: Dolon Champa Mitra

Another case study, "Fallet Dolon Champa Mitra" (The Case of Dolon Champa Mitra), details the experiences of a young girl in Kolkata, India. Dolon began speaking about a previous life as a boy named Nishith De, who had died in Burdwan. She provided specific details about his family, home, and death. Investigations confirmed many of these details, including the existence of Nishith De, his family, and the circumstances of his death from a possible brain tumor. The case highlights the emotional impact on the child and the family's attempts to understand these memories.

Stevenson's analysis of such cases often points to the previous personality dying prematurely, leading to questions about why these specific individuals are chosen for such experiences.

Critical Reflections on Reincarnation

The article "Kritiska reflektioner om reinkarnation" (Critical Reflections on Reincarnation) by William Roll discusses the complexities and paradoxes of reincarnation. Roll questions whether it's the entire personality or just fragments of memory that survive. He suggests that memories might be attached to locations or objects, similar to psychometry, and picked up by a new individual. The case of Said Bouhamsy, where memories seemed to be split between two individuals (Sleimann and Imad), is presented as an example of potential "split reincarnation" or "fused reincarnation."

Roll also touches upon the nature of consciousness, suggesting it might not be a singular, isolated entity but rather part of a larger psychic field. This challenges the conventional understanding of individual identity.

Skepticism and Alternative Explanations

The "Adjö, skeptiker!" (Goodbye, Skeptic!) section critiques the stance of publications like "Skeptical Inquirer" and "Folkvett," accusing them of pseudoskepticism that uncritically accepts materialistic explanations while dismissing anything that contradicts the scientific establishment. The author argues that a truly intelligent skepticism should be open to all possibilities.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes several book reviews:

• "Frisk, välbärgad - och uttråkad?" (Healthy, Well-off - and Bored?) by Arne Jernelöv: This book offers advice for retirees, focusing on how to find meaning and purpose in later life. The reviewer notes a perceived lack of spiritual or existential interests among the interviewed retirees.
• "Qigong för ett hälsosamt liv" (Qigong for a Healthy Life) by Michael Tse: A review of a book on Qigong, explaining its principles and offering exercises. The reviewer suggests it's a good companion for those taking Qigong courses.
• "Homeopati och healing" (Homeopathy and Healing) by Majlis Hagenmalm and Solveig Hagenmalm: This review discusses a book on homeopathy and healing, covering its history, principles, and various therapeutic approaches. The reviewer notes the book's practical advice and its connection to concepts like vital energy.
• "Bortom universum" (Beyond the Universe) by Gary R. Renard: A review of a book detailing conversations with alleged "ascended masters" who claim to be former disciples of Jesus. The reviewer questions the book's origin, suggesting it could be a product of fantasy, a psychic crisis, or genuine channeling.
• "Socker och fett på gott och ont" (Sugar and Fat: For Better and Worse) by Charlotte Erlandsson-Albertsson: This book review critically examines the author's views on sugar and fat consumption, questioning some of her assertions about diet and health.

Other Sections

• Notiser (Notices): Includes brief news items, such as the Slovenian president becoming vegan, awards given by the SARA association, and recommendations for exercise to maintain health.
• Läsarforum (Reader's Forum): Features letters from readers, including a protest regarding the interpretation of self-organizing systems and a discussion on Darwinism versus "intelligent design."
• Eckankar: An advertisement for Eckankar, a spiritual organization, promoting its teachings and events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren revolve around spirituality, the nature of consciousness, and alternative explanations for phenomena that challenge conventional scientific and materialistic paradigms. The magazine appears to lean towards exploring these topics with an open, albeit critical, mind, presenting research and personal accounts that suggest possibilities beyond mainstream understanding. While it features skeptical viewpoints and critiques, the overall tone seems to favor an investigation into the unexplained, particularly concerning reincarnation and consciousness. The editorial stance appears to be one of intellectual curiosity, encouraging readers to consider different perspectives on life, death, and the human experience.