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Definition:
The word "spiritual" can be used in a variety of ways - unfortunately, when people do
use the word, they seem to assume that everyone will automatically know what is meant
and so detailed explanations often aren't forthcoming. Sometimes what is meant, when a
person describes an experience as "spiritual," is simply that it arouses strong
emotions. or Sometimes, when a person describes an experience as "spiritual," they
simply mean that it arouses strong emotions. Other times, they mean that it was
something of a supernatural or paranormal experience involving their soul.
The word spirit is derived from a Latin term for breath or breathe and is used in many ancient religious texts for the power and presence of gods. Today, in America, many people use the word spirituality as a label for any personal quest for god, truth, ultimate reality, etc. Some say that spirituality does not require a belief in any gods, but it seems uncommon for those who call themselves spiritual to also be atheists. It has been claimed that spirituality is simply a matter of one's beliefs and life be "vitalized by emotion" - but that would seem to broaden the concept to include just about everyone.
It is also very common to use the concept of spirituality in contrast to that of religion, specifically organized religion. However, there is some question as to whether such a distinction is actually justified and valid.
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Related Resources:
What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.
