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Spirituality and Religion
Often when people hear the word "spirituality", they think of religion. Are they the same or is there a difference?
The dictionary provides a few definitions of spiritual, among them, "of, concerned with, or affecting the soul" and "of, from, or relating to God" as well as "of or belonging to a church or religion; sacred".
Religion is defined as "belief in and reverence for a supernatural power or powers regarded as creator and governor of the universe" and "a personal or institutionalized system grounded in such belief and worship."
It is not easy to see a distinct difference in the dictionary definitions but it seems that these days people are seeing that spirituality is not a quality found or explored exclusively in religion. Spirituality is an internal process that has to do with one's own exploration of his or her
connection to God while religion is a set of beliefs and practices that people may choose to embrace.
Clearly, most religions are based on a desire for connection with and a commitment to serve the Creator. Religions create a structure within which members can learn, worship, serve and experience fellowship. One could say that spirituality is the basis for religions and that the religious
institutions exist to further their particular spiritual beliefs and bring others to the same beliefs and manner of worship. Many find that their spirituality is enhanced through continued exploration of sacred texts, prayers and music, rituals, and fellowship with others who share their beliefs.
However, when asked, there are many people who say, "I'm not religious but I am spiritual". What most people mean when they say this is that although they do not attend a church or temple or a mosque regularly or subscribe to particular religious beliefs they do believe in a higher power and explore
their relationship with a higher power in settings other than a religious institution. Many people strengthen their sense of connection with their higher power through being in nature. Others express their spiritual side through art, music and other creative endeavors. There are many who are
continually exploring different beliefs and practices embracing what resonates with their soul along the way.
There are rituals and practices outside of religious institutions that non-religious people use to enhance their spirituality. Some of the practices include meditation, prayer, yoga, tai chi, chi qong, spiritual retreats, drumming circles and many, many more.
Spirituality and religion are inextricably related but it appears a distinction can be made. One way of looking at it is that spirituality can be found in every aspect of life and that many people find their sense of the spiritual enhanced by participating in a religion as a framework for their
beliefs that can guide their experience. Others experience religious beliefs as limiting and in conflict with their innate desire to explore the spiritual in themselves so they find other settings within which to enhance their spirituality. There is not one approach that is right or wrong. A basic
principle of our relationship as human beings with God is "free will" so choosing our own approach to the relationship is our God-given privilege. In your own life, it may help to be aware that whether you participate in a religion or not, the ultimate purpose is to live a spiritual life and to
strengthen your relationship with your higher power in whatever way works best for you.
© 2006, Davis Virtual Assistance. This article may not be reprinted or copied on any type of media either in part or in whole.
Dina Crawford is a personal life coach, seminar leader and writer. For more information visit http://www.wingsofawareness.com.
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