Energy

[Lady_Love]

I hear the term “energy” throw around a lot these days. I have spent some time thinking about the context in which people speak of “energy.” I would take their statements and replace the word “energy” with “spirit” and discovered that in most cases they mean the same thing.

“Chuck has an angry energy.” vs. “Chuck has an angry spirit.”
“This church has a light spirit. I feel elevated in this church.” vs. “This church has a light energy. I feel elevated in this church.”
“Rachel has a peaceful spirit.” vs. “Rachel has a peaceful energy.”

Mathew Kelly in one of his books talks about language. How some people say “God” and some people say “Universe.” He does not take offense at the terminology. He says that language evolves over time and that the context of a word 1000 years ago might have a different context in today’s time. I think this very well could be the case in the term “energy,” that it would/could translate to mean “spirit.”

Many individuals who maybe had abusive parents that used their child’s faith in God to manipulate them into doing their will may have triggers that arise from the use of familiar religious terms. I am of the opinion that if a certain word triggers a person and prevents them from opening to God’s grace than to rename it would be acceptable. Even God renamed Abraham, Elijah, and Peter. It is a different context I understand but given that God renames maybe He would not be offended by changing the name we use for “spirit.” God even has many names by which He is referred in the scriptures, Emmanuel, Yaweh, I am, etc.

What are your thoughts or objections?

I prefer “spirit” but I am not offended when someone says “energy.”

 

[InLight247]

As far as I know the New Age uses the word “energy” a lot. It preaches enhancing one’s vital energy, tapping into the subtle energy of the universe etc… When I saw the title of this thread, “New Age” was my first thought. Be careful not to use “energy” or “chi” for “spirit”.

Also, the word “universe” cannot be used for God. God creates the universe, God is above the universe and God does not equal to the universe.

 

[Bruised_Reed]

One of my closest friends is a non-theist (her word). Because of bad experiences with other Christians she’s sensitive to some of the attitudes and gestures from Christians. For example, being told “I’m praying for you” is a loaded statement so I tell her I’m sending her positive vibes (energy?).

I’ve heard and even read on this forum people using “I’m praying for you” as a parting shot in a disagreement and sometimes it’s like they are saying “you are wrong and you suck and obviously need prayer and way more than I do.” When used this way it isn’t interpreted as a act of love but one that is hostile or even manipulative. I’ve had people tell me they are praying for me when it seems like they are saying, “well enough about you, let’s talk about me”. So I get why she she’s uncomfortable with it. I’m not going to keep the doors of communication open with her if I constantly use that kind of language around her.

I’ve had the same thoughts about “God” and “the Universe” and it doesn’t bug me. I try to understand what they mean by it and respect that but I can’t help but understand it the way I do (the Triune God). Just like with the prayer and good vibes thing I know what I mean, and I’m ready to talk about it if she brings it up. I want her to know I pray for her to be blessed but also for her conversion and that is something that is her free will and that God will not impose himself on her. I’m going to let God sort out what her conversion looks like and not make her feel like she is a bad person now and if she believed in God that she is then, a good person. Let’s be honest; there are Christians that think that and even more that act like they believe that.

 

[Lady_Love]

I just wonder sometimes if we demonize or clam up at these terms unnecessarily and alienate individuals who are seeking the same thing…God. Could discerning “energies” be the gift of discerning spirits?

 

[Lady_Love]

One of my closest friends is a non-theist (her word). Because of bad experiences with other Christians she’s sensitive to some of the attitudes and gestures from Christians. For example, being told “I’m praying for you” is a loaded statement so I tell her I’m sending her positive vibes (energy?).

I’ve heard and even read on this forum people using “I’m praying for you” as a parting shot in a disagreement and sometimes it’s like they are saying “you are wrong and you suck and obviously need prayer and way more than I do.” When used this way it isn’t interpreted as a act of love but one that is hostile or even manipulative. I’ve had people tell me they are praying for me when it seems like they are saying, “well enough about you, let’s talk about me”. So I get why she she’s uncomfortable with it. I’m not going to keep the doors of communication open with her if I constantly use that kind of language around her.

I’ve had the same thoughts about “God” and “the Universe” and it doesn’t bug me. I try to understand what they mean by it and respect that but I can’t help but understand it the way I do (the Triune God). Just like with the prayer and good vibes thing I know what I mean, and I’m ready to talk about it if she brings it up. I want her to know I pray for her to be blessed but also for her conversion and that is something that is her free will and that God will not impose himself on her. I’m going to let God sort out what her conversion looks like and make her feel like she is a bad person now and if she believed in God that she is then, a good person. Let’s be honest; there are Christians that think that and even more that act like they believe that.

Bruised Reed,

I agree with you. Sometimes, I think some of the people who speak in such terms are headed very much in the right direction. They are concerned often with love. I use the expressions that they are comfortable with and make comparisons with the terminology that I am familiar with. In this way we often find common ground and see that we are speaking the same language after all.

Recently, I attended classes on Vatican II and John the 23rd made this statement, “We may not always agree but we can all love each other.” Love is the universal language.

 

[AlanFromWichita]

I see much more commonality and less difference with other religions and practices than most on here, I’m afraid.

I actually have several facebook friends who are New Agey but you know what? They have a whole lot going for them. And yes, they have strange vocabulary but they are trying to get to the same place we are, whether you call it enlightenment, awakening, or being born of the spirit and entering into the kingdom. (And please don’t tell me it’s by baptism; that’s a whole separate argument.)

What I like to do is read what they write, and when they say things that make sense, I agree with them. When they talk about crystals, chakras, etc. I just let it go because I’m not going to win them over by insulting what they believe in. Besides, many of the ideas they exchange are Christian at heart.

Sometimes when it particularly compelling, I might comment, “in my religion, Jesus says this or that,” and undoubtedly it’s right on the mark and they know it and aren’t afraid to like it. In fact, they even post memes that are Christ-centered, right there mixed up with their New Age stuff.

And yes, I agree that when they say energy, in a practical sense they are speaking of spirit. And it isn’t just New Agers. A few theological details about the beliefs involved don’t IMSO negate the commonality and even potential unity of the situation. But then again, I am much more interested in discovering unity, than divisions. There are enough people working on that.

Alan

 

[Lady_Love]

I see much more commonality and less difference with other religions and practices than most on here, I’m afraid.

I actually have several facebook friends who are New Agey but you know what? They have a whole lot going for them. And yes, they have strange vocabulary but they are trying to get to the same place we are, whether you call it enlightenment, awakening, or being born of the spirit and entering into the kingdom. (And please don’t tell me it’s by baptism; that’s a whole separate argument.)

What I like to do is read what they write, and when they say things that make sense, I agree with them. When they talk about crystals, chakras, etc. I just let it go because I’m not going to win them over by insulting what they believe in. Besides, many of the ideas they exchange are Christian at heart.

Sometimes when it particularly compelling, I might comment, “in my religion, Jesus says this or that,” and undoubtedly it’s right on the mark and they know it and aren’t afraid to like it. In fact, they even post memes that are Christ-centered, right there mixed up with their New Age stuff.

And yes, I agree that when they say energy, in a practical sense they are speaking of spirit. And it isn’t just New Agers. A few theological details about the beliefs involved don’t IMSO negate the commonality and even potential unity of the situation. But then again, I am much more interested in discovering unity, than divisions. There are enough people working on that.

Alan

Glad you jumped on board with this one Alan. I too have “unity” in my heart. I notice that many Catholics are great at making barriers to relationship. I have learned so much from my friends, especially TRUST. One of their common phrases that I love is “Trust the process.” They display levels of trust that are admirable.

 

[FCEGM]

. . . I am of the opinion that if a certain word triggers a person and prevents them from opening to God’s grace than to rename it would be acceptable. Even God renamed Abraham, Elijah, and Peter. It is a different context I understand but given that God renames maybe He would not be offended by changing the name we use for “spirit.” God even has many names by which He is referred in the scriptures, Emmanuel, Yaweh, I am, etc.

What are your thoughts or objections?

God Himself has given us those Names in Scripture by which we address Him; He is the one Who changes the names of those certain men He has chosen to accomplish His will (neither they nor anyone else changed their names, only God); it isn’t up to us to change His name to suit our peculiar needs. Similarly, “spirit” as used in Scripture and Tradition when speaking of the Spirit of God or the spirit of man have particular meanings as understood by the Church. “Energies” bespeaks the thought that a man is a manifestation of universal energies unrelated to the God of Revelation, rather than a direct creation by the Uncreated God.

 

[Lady_Love]

“Energies” bespeaks the thought that a man is a manifestation of universal energies unrelated to the God of Revelation, rather than a direct creation by the Uncreated God.

I don’t see it. No matter what terminology gets used it can NEVER relay an encompassing portrayal of God. All language will fall short. When I hear the word “energy” is never crosses my mind that it negates the existence of God. It actually brings awareness that God is the source of all energy and that energy is in everything that exists. I find the term “energy” expansive.

 

[AlanFromWichita]

God Himself has given us those Names in Scripture by which we address Him; He is the one Who changes the names of those certain men He has chosen to accomplish His will (neither they nor anyone else changed their names, only God); it isn’t up to us to change His name to suit our peculiar needs.

No one name is big enough to “define” God. All we can do it point to Him with whatever many names we humans make up to worship Him.

Similarly, “spirit” as used in Scripture and Tradition when speaking of the Spirit of God or the spirit of man have particular meanings as understood by the Church. “Energies” bespeaks the thought that a man is a manifestation of universal energies unrelated to the God of Revelation, rather than a direct creation by the Uncreated God.

You mention spirit of man and God have definitions. Are you comfortable with use of the word “spirit” in the context, “she has a peaceful spirit?” I’m not familiar with the definitions you are talking about, so I’m asking.

Alan

 

[AlanFromWichita]

I don’t see it. No matter what terminology gets used it can NEVER relay an encompassing portrayal of God. All language will fall short.

Jinx.

You posted this while I was typing essentially the same thing.

It’s one of the first things I learned with spiritual direction and beginning into contemplative prayer, that no name is sufficient. No combination of names is sufficient. No description can do Him justice.

I recommend you check into a good translation of the Cloud of the Unknowing. I like the William Johnston edition. You can peek inside it at amazon. It will either speak to you or not.

Alan

 

[Bruised_Reed]

God Himself has given us those Names in Scripture by which we address Him; He is the one Who changes the names of those certain men He has chosen to accomplish His will (neither they nor anyone else changed their names, only God); it isn’t up to us to change His name to suit our peculiar needs. Similarly, “spirit” as used in Scripture and Tradition when speaking of the Spirit of God or the spirit of man have particular meanings as understood by the Church. “Energies” bespeaks the thought that a man is a manifestation of universal energies unrelated to the God of Revelation, rather than a direct creation by the Uncreated God.

What about people who don’t have scripture or know about the Judeo-Christian God?

 

[Lady_Love]

I recently found a quote by Nikola Tesla, scientists and son of a Russion Orthodox priest. He was alive shortly after the break through of electricity and he said this, “If you wish to understand the Universe, think of energy, frequency, and vibration.” This was back in the 1800’s.

 

[AlanFromWichita]

I recently found a quote by Nikola Tesla, scientists and son of a Russion Orthodox priest. He was alive shortly after the break through of electricity and he said this, “If you wish to understand the Universe, think of energy, frequency, and vibration.” This was back in the 1800’s.

As an electrical engineer, I actually do think of the universe as being very much of those things.

But I also look at the organization of those things, so I also see “information.” Information can be transformed into many other things, and back. A hologram is just a way of capturing and presenting information, for example. It calls upon frequency, etc, but ultimately it can be reduced to information.

The creative Word of God is where “information” can be transformed into matter, energy, universes, or anything He wants it to be. Einstein “changed” physics with the discover that matter and energy are not conserved but can be exchanged for each other. I’m just saying that whatever that matter and energy is at its essence, “information” is the lowest reducible form. I can argue that on a physical level, or by a scriptural reference.

[BIBLEDRB]john 1:1-5[/BIBLEDRB]

So it was the Word, which IMO wasn’t necessarily a verbal literal word, since I believe God’s native language is silent to our eardrums, but an intent – an intent (will of God) coupled with information – that created all.

Every interaction on CAF is a capture of information at one place and a presentation of that information at another. To an electrical engineer, whether it’s happy, sad, important, or photos, it’s all just “information” and needs to be delivered to the right address and displayed in the proper window. And if you think this is TMI, don’t get me going on “light.”

Alan

 

[Lady_Love]

I love it Alan! I’ve always believed in “intention.” I believe it speaks more loudly than words. I often reflect on how Jesus says if we even think, “You fool!” we are guilty of murder. Why? because our thoughts have POWER, our intentions have POWER. That is why it says in the scripture to think of all that is holy and good. It’s as though we transfer power through our thoughts and intentions. As children of God we should take this responsibility very seriously and really focus focus focus on all that is beautiful, holy, and good.

 

[Lady_Love]

I went to Mass this morning and my priest spoke of “energy.” How ironic huh? He spoke of how it is a scientific fact that people have “energy fields” and that they can even be photographed. He referred to all our holy pictures and how they sport halo’s. He questioned, “What do you think they mean? except that they symbolize this energy field.”

It is interesting to hear this come out of the mouth of our normally cynical priest, with the British heritage and dry wit. He spoke of our need to be responsible for our energy/spirit by conforming to the spirit of Jesus.

Just one of those ways that Jesus validates my thinking.

 

[AlanFromWichita]

I went to Mass this morning and my priest spoke of “energy.” How ironic huh? He spoke of how it is a scientific fact that people have “energy fields” and that they can even be photographed. He referred to all our holy pictures and how they sport halo’s. He questioned, “What do you think they mean? except that they symbolize this energy field.”

It is interesting to hear this come out of the mouth of our normally cynical priest, with the British heritage and dry wit. He spoke of our need to be responsible for our energy/spirit by conforming to the spirit of Jesus.

Just one of those ways that Jesus validates my thinking.

Oh, yes. I’ve seen videos of experiments where the interaction in magnetic fields between people were tested in a lab.

I just Googled this. I’m not familiar with the source, but these two paragraphs say what I already believed to be true, so I will give them my two cents of confidence:

The heart’s magnetic field:

Research has also revealed that the heart communicates information to
the brain and throughout the body via electromagnetic field interactions. The
heart generates the body’s most powerful and most extensive rhythmic
electromagnetic field. The heart’s magnetic component is about 500 times
stronger than the brain’s magnetic field and can be detected several feet away
from the body. It was proposed that, this heart field acts as a carrier wave for
information that provides a global synchronizing signal for the entire body
(McCraty, Bradley & Tomasino, 2004)

Heart field interactions between individuals:

There is now evidence that a subtle yet influential electromagnetic or
‘energetic’ communication system operates just below our conscious awareness.
Energetic interactions possibly contribute to the ‘magnetic’ attractions or
repulsions that occur between individuals, and also affect social relationships. It
was also found that one person’s brain waves can synchronize another
person’s heart (McCraty, 2004).

Source: The Heart, Mind and Spirit
Professor Mohamed Omar Salem, Royal College of Psychiatrists web site

 

[Lady_Love]

I think that is very intersting. I remember this one time I was speaking with a woman and then burst into uncontrollable crying. I was very shocked by my tears but then the woman confessed that she was heartbroken over her ill granddaughter who was dying of cancer. I often wondered if I was mirroring her heart.

 

[AlanFromWichita]

I think that is very intersting. I remember this one time I was speaking with a woman and then burst into uncontrollable crying. I was very shocked by my tears but then the woman confessed that she was heartbroken over her ill granddaughter who was dying of cancer. I often wondered if I was mirroring her heart.

I can’t say that is exactly what happened, or if you and she were perhaps exchanging “microexpressions” (very subtle body language tells – like a flickering eyelid) or communicated the sadness another way. But I can say that if you were within a few feet of each others, your hearts can literally “feel” each other so it could be a matter of how sensitive you are to whether you will pick up on the other person’s waves. Also, there are ways to analyze signals from ECG and determine whether it shows stress, and these signals are literally transmitted from one person to another like two magnets, each one wiggling its own frequency – it wouldn’t surprise me, if they could make machines sensitive enough to detect it, that your heart actually “felt” what hers was doing through feeling her magnetic signature, both in your heart and in your brain.

New agers also like to talk about trying to “vibrate at their highest frequency.” While their hearts are in the right place, I wouldn’t say necessarily that “highest frequency” is the only way to adjust one’s natural frequency response. It is one point, but I can see much more potential for multiple points or more of a broadband approach. Then again, I’ve always been impatient about how fast one person can exchange information with one or more others.

Perhaps I’d better like terms that involve interaction, like “synchronizing” or “coordinating” or “calibrating,” rather than look at “vibrating” as if it were something you do without factoring in the surrounding world, including other people and other electrical/magnetic signals. But I can get picky about my terminology – or other people’s.

Alan

 

[Lady_Love]

New agers also like to talk about trying to “vibrate at their highest frequency.” While their hearts are in the right place, I wouldn’t say necessarily that “highest frequency” is the only way to adjust one’s natural frequency response. It is one point, but I can see much more potential for multiple points or more of a broadband approach. Then again, I’ve always been impatient about how fast one person can exchange information with one or more others.

Perhaps I’d better like terms that involve interaction, like “synchronizing” or “coordinating” or “calibrating,” rather than look at “vibrating” as if it were something you do without factoring in the surrounding world, including other people and other electrical/magnetic signals. But I can get picky about my terminology – or other people’s.

Alan

I read recently that chanting, such as the Divine Office, can re-synchronize the vibrations of the heart. They actually did studies in major cities with high crime and noted that when groups were chanting the crime levels decreased dramatically in the cities during the chanting. Now, this is just another sign to me of the wisdom of God and His church and the mystery of the Divine Office.

Another source of re-setting vibrations is in the ringing of bells.