Spirituality in religion refers to the religious process of re-formation that aims to recover the original shape of man, oriented at "the image of God" as exemplified by the founders and sacred texts of the religions of the world. It is a search for ultimate or sacred meaning and purpose in life. Spirituality is different from religion, and one can be spiritual without being religious or a member of an organized religion. Here are some key differences between religion and spirituality:
- Religion: This is a specific set of organized beliefs and practices, usually shared by a community or group.
- Spirituality: This is more of an individual practice and has to do with having a sense of peace and purpose. It also relates to the process of developing beliefs around the meaning of life and connection with others, without any set spiritual values.
Spirituality is an inward journey that involves a shift in awareness rather than some form of external activity. It is much more about inner understanding than outer worship. Spirituality involves the recognition of a feeling or sense or belief that there is something greater than oneself, something more to being human than sensory experience, and that the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic or divine in nature. It involves exploring certain universal themes such as love, compassion, altruism, life after death, wisdom, and truth, with the knowledge that some people such as saints or enlightened individuals have achieved and manifested higher levels of development than the ordinary person. Aspiring to manifest the attributes of such inspirational examples often becomes an important part of the journey through life for spiritually inclined people. Spirituality is a way of gaining perspective, recognizing that ones role in life has a greater value than what one does every day, and can relieve one from dependence on material things and help one understand ones lifes greater purpose.
