Sokaren - 2007 No 05

Magazine Overview

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 5/2007
Volume: 44
Date: October 2007
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden
Price: 50:- incl. VAT

This issue of Sökaren, a Swedish magazine for life questions, focuses on personal transformation, spirituality, and philosophical inquiry. The cover story highlights Vidya Lindberg's journey to harmony and self-realization through hyposynthesis, a method she learned from Veesui Versaichi.

Cover Story: Vidya Lindberg's Transformation Through Hyposynthesis

The cover features Vidya Lindberg, who shares her experience of finding increased self-acceptance, inner peace, and deep trust in life through hyposynthesis. The article details her life changes, including leaving a secure job, traveling to India, adopting a new name ('Vidya'), and moving to Stockholm to fully embrace hyposynthesis. Lindberg describes her past as a social worker and hypnotherapist, and how her training in hyposynthesis, which incorporates NLP, led to a profound shift in her life.

She explains that hyposynthesis teaches how we create our lives, consciously or unconsciously, and provides techniques to clear blockages and reveal our true essence. Lindberg expresses her current happiness and lack of concern about financial instability, stating, "Right now I have no fixed income, no home, and no idea where this will lead, but I have never felt so happy!"

Article: Contact with Hyposynthesis Changed Everything!

This feature, written by Agneta Milde, delves deeper into Vidya Lindberg's (formerly Anita) life before and after discovering hyposynthesis. Lindberg recounts her upbringing, her career in social services, and her initial training as a hypnotherapist. The pivotal moment came with the hyposynthesis training, which inspired her to make drastic life changes, including a trip to India and a move to Stockholm. She emphasizes the importance of listening to her heart and embracing the present moment, even without a concrete plan.

Lindberg also discusses her name change, adopting 'Vidya' (meaning knowledge/wisdom) from India, as a symbol of her new life and a desire to live in the now. She describes herself as a lifelong seeker who has finally found peace by looking inward rather than outward.

Article: Mellen-Thomas Benedict - Back from the Light

This article by Göran Brusewitz reports on a lecture by Mellen-Thomas Benedict, who claims to have had a near-death experience (NDE) 25 years prior, during which he was clinically dead for over an hour. He returned with profound knowledge about humanity and the cosmos, and has since become an inventor with several patents. Benedict attributes his inventions to insights gained from 'the Light' and 'Universal Intelligence'.

The article raises questions about the authenticity of his claims, such as the duration of his NDE and the source of his knowledge. It mentions endorsements from NDE researchers Kenneth Ring and P.M.H. Atwater, but also notes that the organization IANDS, which studies NDEs, is aware of Benedict but has no specific research on him.

Article: An Intelligent Universe

This piece by Sverker Johansson and Sven Magnusson discusses the concept of an intelligent factor behind the universe and evolution. Johansson argues against naive creationism but suggests that the idea of an intelligent design is not necessarily religious speculation. Magnusson, in his commentary, criticizes the materialistic-atheistic worldview that dismisses the possibility of a creator. The article explores arguments for and against intelligent design, referencing thinkers like Michael Behe and the concept of irreducible complexity.

Article: The Sufi Path of Love

This article introduces Sufism as a mystical movement within Islam that is also a universal path. It emphasizes Sufism's focus on love, wisdom, and the unity of all religions. Sufis aim to spread knowledge of this unity, transcending differences in faith and promoting universal brotherhood. The article explains that Sufism seeks to awaken the divine light and power within individuals, fostering a deep connection with the Divine.

Article: "A Wild, Complex, Dynamic Being" - Stephan Harding on Planet Earth

Erland Lagerroth reports on a lecture by Stephan Harding, a 'resident ecologist' from Schumacher College, who discusses the Gaia hypothesis. Harding presents Earth as a living, interconnected system, emphasizing feedback processes in its ecological systems and the sun's energy. He advocates for a holistic science that integrates intuition and a reverence for nature, viewing Earth not as a dead object but as a sentient being.

The article touches upon Harding's concept of 'Anima Mundi' (the world soul) and his view of nature as animated. It contrasts this with the mechanistic worldview that emerged from the scientific revolution. Harding's work is presented as a call to reintegrate humanity with nature and to recognize the Earth's complex, dynamic, and evolving nature.

Article: Thoughts on the World Soul

Signe Ohlsson reflects on the concept of a universal soul or 'world soul' (Anima Mundi), drawing parallels with ancient philosophies and modern scientific and spiritual thought. She discusses the idea that all individual souls are part of a cosmic consciousness and that the universe is a thinking entity. Ohlsson connects this to the Kabbalistic concept of the Tree of Life and the importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies. She also references the Mayan calendar and its cyclical view of human consciousness development.

The article touches upon the idea of reincarnation and the value of regression therapy, citing authors like Brian L. Weiss. Ohlsson concludes by emphasizing that the ultimate purpose of life is to remember one's true divine nature and to help others do the same.

Article: On Intuition, Meditation, and Stillness

This report by Åsa Freij covers a talk by Anna Bornstein, a meditation teacher and author, on the topic of intuition, meditation, and stillness. Bornstein discusses the nature of intuition, cautioning against mistaking ego-driven thoughts for genuine inner guidance. She highlights the importance of stillness and meditation as paths to inner clarity, comparing the process to sediment settling in water. Bornstein emphasizes that true intuition is a subtle inner voice that guides us towards our life purpose.

The article also touches upon the scientific perspective on intuition, with quotes from figures like Jonas Salk and Albert Einstein, who valued intuition in their work. It acknowledges that while rational thinking is emphasized in Western society, intuition is a natural human ability that complements logic.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of spirituality, self-discovery, personal growth, and the search for meaning. There's a clear editorial stance favoring holistic and alternative perspectives on life, consciousness, and the universe, often contrasting these with materialistic or purely rationalistic viewpoints. The articles encourage readers to look inward, develop their intuition, and seek inner peace and self-realization. The magazine appears to promote a worldview that sees a deeper intelligence or purpose behind existence, challenging conventional scientific and societal norms.

Title: Sökaren
Issue: 5/2007
Date: May 2007
Publisher: Sökaren
Country: Sweden

This issue of Sökaren magazine delves into a variety of philosophical, spiritual, and scientific topics, with a strong emphasis on alternative perspectives and critical examination of established paradigms.

Articles

"En närhetens sublima tankegång" (A Sublime Way of Thinking About Closeness) by Rutger Bergström

This article explores the philosophy of Albert Schweitzer, highlighting his principle of "reverence for life." Schweitzer, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, dedicated his life to serving humanity, particularly through establishing a hospital in Africa. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of goodness, warmth, and care for all living beings. The article contrasts Schweitzer's approach with the idea of self-absorption, suggesting that true mystical experiences arise from selfless impulses. It also draws parallels between Schweitzer's ethos and the moral courage of figures like Vaclav Havel, Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi, and the Dalai Lama, who all faced adversity with integrity and a commitment to love and openness.

"Den gudomliga gnistan" (The Divine Spark) by H. P. Blavatsky

This piece, attributed to H. P. Blavatsky, discusses the concept of an inner, eternal core within each human being, referred to as the "Divine Spark" or the "Higher Self." This inner essence is described as a silent witness to life's changes, unchanging and ever-present. The article suggests that this Higher Self is connected to the ultimate reality, Brahman, and that recognizing its presence is key to remembering past lives and achieving spiritual awareness. It emphasizes meeting every being with respect, acknowledging the shared journey towards a common goal, and understanding that while external forms may change and die, the eternal inner self endures.

"Människan i kosmos" (Humanity in the Cosmos) by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

This article summarizes the work of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, a French paleontologist and Jesuit priest, particularly his book "Phenomenon of Man." Teilhard's work presents a scientific cosmology that integrates faith and science, viewing humanity as a central phenomenon in the universe's evolutionary process. He describes evolution as a psycho-physical phenomenon, where consciousness develops alongside material complexity. Teilhard posits that evolution is not random but driven by an inner psychic force, moving towards a "point Omega" – the ultimate convergence of consciousness and the absolute. His philosophy suggests that human consciousness, the noosphere, represents a new stage in evolution, leading towards a hyper-personalized and perfected state in Omega, which he equates with God. The article notes that the Catholic Church initially did not permit the publication of his book.

"Skall vi äta våra vänner?" (Shall We Eat Our Friends?)

This section discusses the ethics of vegetarianism and animal rights, noting their infrequent coverage in mainstream media. It references two books: "The Bloodless Revolution" by Tristram Stuart, which traces the history of vegetarianism, and "Djurvänskaper" (Animal Friendships) by Evelyn Sokolowski. The article highlights the historical debate around vegetarianism and the concept of compassion, questioning whether it is an innate human trait. Sokolowski, though a meat-eater, believes compassion is an inherited trait present in animals as well. The piece also touches on the idea that animals are friends and the ethical dilemma of consuming them.

Varia: Intelligent Design Movement

This section introduces the Intelligent Design (ID) movement, which challenges Darwinian evolution. ID proponents argue that certain biological systems are "irreducibly complex," meaning they could not have evolved through gradual, step-by-step processes. They suggest that the intricate design observed in nature points to an intelligent creator. The article notes that while ID does not directly prove the existence of God, it implies a higher intelligence behind the visible world, contrasting with the purely materialistic view of Darwinism.

Varia: Are There Aliens Among Us?

This segment explores the question of extraterrestrial life, referencing books that suggest aliens are present on Earth and interact with humans. It mentions cases where individuals claim to have encountered or communicated with beings from other worlds. The article cites Warren Aston, who believes there are credible cases of alien encounters, and discusses accounts from individuals like Charles Hall and Sir Peter Horsley, who describe interactions with non-human entities.

Varia: Six Thousand Doctors

This brief note mentions the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), an organization advocating for vegetarian diets and against animal testing in medical research. It highlights that PCRM has over 100,000 members, including approximately 6,000 doctors, and works to promote effective and compassionate medical science.

Varia: Trash and Non-Trash

This section offers a critique of contemporary Swedish literature, particularly the popularity of crime fiction. The author contrasts the perceived mediocrity of much genre fiction with the depth and importance found in non-fiction works. The article praises Dieter Strand's book "Hitler and Us: A Family History" for its engaging narrative and historical significance, highlighting how real-life accounts can be more impactful than fictional stories.

Varia: Atheist and Vegan

This piece discusses Chris Lundberg, a doctor and member of Humanisterna (Humanists), who has become a vegan. Lundberg advocates for a vegan lifestyle based on respect for life and the belief that humans can thrive without exploiting animals. The article notes that while secular humanism can sometimes prioritize humans over animals, Lundberg's perspective extends empathy to all beings. It also touches on the lack of information children receive about the suffering of animals in the meat industry.

Osher Centrum for Integrative Medicine

This article reports on the establishment of the Osher Centrum for Integrative Medicine at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, funded by a significant donation. The center aims to research and integrate complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) methods, such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and hypnotherapy, into conventional healthcare. The article emphasizes the importance of studying these methods scientifically and without prejudice, and mentions the study of the placebo effect.

Bönens kraft (The Power of Prayer)

This section discusses the power of prayer and its effects on health, referencing research compiled by Dr. Winston Morrow. The article cites studies suggesting that prayer can have positive health outcomes, leading to faster recovery and improved well-being. It notes that medical journals were initially reluctant to publish such research but that more studies are now emerging, including one in JAMA that reviewed four healing studies with positive results. The piece also mentions the work of Dr. Randolph Byrd, whose 1984 study on intercessory prayer for heart patients showed significant benefits for those receiving prayer.

Varning! (Warning!)

This short piece criticizes the selective application of warnings, suggesting that while warnings about astrology are issued, more critical warnings about harmful products like alcohol and unhealthy food are lacking in public spaces.

Tidens dumhet (The Stupidity of the Times)

This section critiques the prevailing atheistic-materialistic worldview, arguing that it has been disproven and is often presented as fact without sufficient evidence. It references the magazine "Sökaren" as a platform that challenges this worldview and promotes alternative perspectives.

Kulturen (Culture)

This section reviews the magazine "Kulturen," noting its critical stance on various cultural phenomena. It discusses a review of "Djurens Rätt" (Animal Rights) magazine, criticizing the reviewer's dismissive attitude. The article also mentions "Sökaren" as a publication that often challenges established scientific views and promotes a diversity of cultural and social debate.

Bokfloden (Book Flood)

This section features several book reviews:

• Kosmos gåta (The Riddle of Cosmos) edited by Björn Stenholm: This book contains essays by scientists exploring modern astronomy and cosmology, including the anthropic principle and the technological imperative. Stenholm argues that life may not be unique to Earth and discusses the possibility of multiple universes.
• Gudomliga kvinnor som visar vägen (Divine Women Who Show the Way) by Miranda Shaw: This book examines the role of women in Tantric Buddhism, challenging previous academic views that portrayed them as subordinate. Shaw highlights powerful female figures and their contributions to spiritual traditions.
• Våga leva (Dare to Live) by Eva Dillner: This book is described as a guide to living a full and meaningful life, drawing on personal experiences and spiritual practices like Shen therapy and ecstatic dance.
• Namn i Bibeln (Names in the Bible) by Evald Lindqvist: This is an updated and expanded biblical reference book detailing the names of biblical figures and their contexts.
• Gustav Vasas tid (The Era of Gustav Vasa) by Göte Göransson: This book is a richly illustrated historical account of life in Sweden during the 16th century, focusing on the era of King Gustav Vasa. It covers daily life, customs, and societal structures.

"Märkvärdigt om Swami Omkarananda i Sökaren 4/2007, sid. 25" (Remarkable about Swami Omkarananda in Sökaren 4/2007, p. 25)

This letter to the editor discusses Swami Omkarananda, a spiritual figure who lived in Switzerland and later Austria. The writer shares personal experiences and information about Omkarananda's ashram, a bomb attack that occurred near it, and his subsequent imprisonment and deportation. The letter questions the fairness of his conviction and suggests that the bomb attack may have been politically motivated.

Läsarforum (Reader Forum)

This section includes reader contributions:

• A letter discussing Swami Omkarananda, corroborating some details from a previous issue and questioning the circumstances of his imprisonment.
• A list of donations to the Sökaren support fund.
• A personal ad seeking a partner.
• A note about intuition, with a link to an online resource.

Ny bok från Svenska Misraimförbundet: Uråldrig andlighet (New Book from the Swedish Misraim Association: Ancient Spirituality)

This is a brief announcement for a new book on ancient spirituality published by the Swedish Misraim Association.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Sökaren magazine include the exploration of spirituality, consciousness, and alternative philosophies that challenge mainstream scientific and religious views. The magazine consistently promotes critical thinking, questioning established narratives, and highlighting perspectives often marginalized in conventional discourse. There is a clear interest in the intersection of science and spirituality, the nature of existence, and the ethical treatment of all life forms. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider a wide range of ideas and to critically evaluate information from various sources, particularly those that question materialistic or atheistic worldviews. The magazine also shows a commitment to reviewing books that align with these broader themes, covering topics from cosmology and history to personal development and spiritual practices. The inclusion of reader contributions and letters suggests an engagement with its audience and an encouragement of dialogue.