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Of all the symbols that human beings have created,
the Conservation Principle of Energy is possibly the greatest. Few other symbols match the profound manner with which it
reflects reality: the continual universal transformation in which energy
is so bounteous it can be usefully be considered a constant i.e. cannot
be created or destroyed.
2500 years ago the Buddha described
reality thus: “"component things come and go, arise and
perish" (uppajjhitva nirujjhanti).
The Buddha was also aware of the immensity of
existence and is reputed to have said, “Space
has no end, and there are endless numbers of worlds.”
The meaning in the Conservation Principle of
Energy symbol is commonly conveyed in our schools in this short
sentence: “Energy can neither be created nor destroyed, it can only
be transformed from one state to another.” Inherent in this
statement is the implicit suggestion that something (humans?) does the
transforming. The active
nature of the universe(s) is perhaps better symbolised: “Energy can
neither be created nor destroyed and it continually transforms.”
The brilliance of the symbol is that when all the
wisdom is unpacked in this short statement it conveys the essential
sense of paradox (change is constant). It contains an inspiring vision
of infinitely varied and interconnected activity while reminding us of
our mortal nature. Its psychological genius is that it both embraces and
liberates us from the limitations of our ego.
Summary
Conserve the potential of the Conservation Principle
of Energy symbol by continually exploring its insights into the
nature of energy – it is as near as we have to a law of the universe(s).
Enjoy
the rewards of being a conservator of the potential of our greatest
symbols.
Page last updated:
Aug 2010
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