The Power of the Real
Too much light and the individual would be blinded, unbalanced. Too little light and her potential for transformation would be limited. Some traditions also work with spiritual groups in this way, giving the energy of the divine to the group as a whole. As with an individual, the amount of divine energy that is given to a group must be carefully monitored. For example, if a group is too focused on its own dynamics, too inward-looking, then a certain energy is withheld. A spiritual group—like an individual wayfarer—must be gradually awakened to the dimensions of servanthood. In this process each individual contributes to the dynamic of the whole group, and yet the group also has a life of its own. In the Sufi tradition the sheikh watches over the group like his own family, giving it the energy it needs for its development and work. On the outer plane this energy can be given through group meetings; on the inner plane it is done through the inner connection from heart to heart and the merging of souls. A spiritual group is a container for inner work, providing a place of protection and nourishment for the individual wayfarer. Being in the company of friends is of great assistance on the path. To quote Rûmî: Every prophet sought out companions. A wall standing alone is useless, but put three or four walls together, and they’ll support a roof and keep the grain dry and safe.3
A spiritual group is also involved in the work of service. The energy given to a group makes the group spin at a particular frequency, and it is through the spinning hearts of the lovers of God that certain spiritual work is
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