A second example considers the transformation of the sensitive energy E5 into conscious energy E4 by the entrance of the creative energy E3 into man as shown in figure 28.

The transformation of sensitive energy into conscious energy requires the direct action of the creative energies discussed in the previous chapter. The creative energy in present and available for utilization at all times, although, there is not automatic transformation of the sensitive to the conscious since this would, given sufficient time, allow all life to attain to the God head. Such a demand on the non-conscious machine is too much since real progress requires the active pursuit of inner pain. Consequently, demanding conscious evolution of every man is unjust since each and every man cannot be forced to grow by a loving god.

A man or woman centered in E4 has become essentially a free-agent, that is, he or she has an individual will. As you will see below, although this state grants a person immortality within the life-time of the universe, is not the final resting place of man. The highest state normally available to a developed man is centered in the creative energies, E3. a person centered in this energy relinquishes his or her personal will and his personal self (the false personality of Gurdjieff). In a sense, a person centered in the God-self or the E3 energy realizes that the will is like air–it is present everywhere. They understand that just because air enters into our own pulmonary system, it does not mean we can claim it as our own.

The best way to accomplish this transformation is to follow Gurdjieff’s injunction, “work involves conscious labor and intentional suffering.”

As is typical of all energy transformations, entropy demands that some waste be present (see Gurdjieff’s creation story). Therefore, some of the interaction energies between E3 and E5 will be catabolically lost to E6 and E5.

Figure 27

Anabolic Energy Transformation for Chlorophyll

Figure 28

Transformation of Sensitive Energy

Figure 29

Transformation of Conscious Energy

The third example considers the transformation of the conscious energy E4 into E3 as shown in figure 29.

The transformation of E4 to E3 only occurs under the influence of Cosmic Love, E2.

To conclude this section I am going to include a diagrammatic summary of the various transformations normally occurring within the body of living forms. This diagram (figure 30) is from Bennett’s book, DEEPER MAN.

In a later Chapter, we will discuss the goals of energy transformation for a student upon the path.

Figure 30

The Scale of Energy Transformation in Man

NOTES:

1. I am excluding the instinctual actions of self-preservation through bodily defense and feeding displayed by animals in this category for such actions remain the useful activities of Nature–Gurdjieff called this the “doctrine of reciprocal maintenance”.