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When energy is mentioned in a room of normal non-pagan people, the first thought is of electricity or physical stamina. A physics standpoint views energy as the reaction from the electrons trading atoms. From a biology standpoint, energy is the chemical reaction between substances to produce functions for an organism. However, if you mention the word energy in a group of pagans, a different meaning altogether springs in mind.
Pagans work with energy on a different level: the energy of nature, of the spirit, of the gods, of animals, and of all life. The easiest way to refer to this energy is as spiritual or natural energy. This form of energy is never created nor destroyed, but unlike in physics where it is simply transferred, this energy is borrowed and requested. When a ritual or spiritual work is done, Pagans do not demand the gods give them anything. There is no show of force or application of pressure to gain this energy. This energy is asked for, and always returned. It is never truly “used” in the same sense that people use sugars as energy. It is also important to note, this energy is not superior to physical energy, it is only the other side of the coin, the spiritual balance to the physical world.
Spiritual or natural energy does not have its limits in ritual or magical works; like all energy in the universe it can be borrowed or asked for to accomplish any number of tasks. For those who practice Reiki (or Attunement for some), they ask for energy in order to help heal another. Energy can be used for physical tasks, for clarity, for protection, or for personal growth. Spiritual energy is also a means to learn, and grow. It provides lessons within it, lessons that can show more of the world than seen before. However, it is important to understand that this form of energy has its own additional rules for physical energy.
Spiritual energy does not have a limit however; if one abuses it or asks for too much, the universe will balance the excess. If one asks for too much and thinks only of oneself, nature will provide either a lesson with a means of returning the energy asked for, or a punishment for those who attempt to master that which is bigger than themselves. Spiritual energy does not always come in the way that is requested, either. It comes in the best and yet simplest form. The infinite nature of the universe will provide what is needed, not always what is wanted.
There is no end to what spiritual energy can do, because like nature it is various and infinite. It is open and free, not bound by human thought or limitation. Pagans are able to learn from this energy, and even follow it to the divine, using it as a connection to the past. It provides many lessons needed to advance and grow, but requires patience and dedication. This is the nature of energy, the way of natural energy.
Energy 101
By Maltiok Shiroshi