Since the beginning of time, most humans have had questions about life, death
and about the creator of the universe. It is very natural to ask questions and
wonder about such things. What is the difference between a spiritual being
versus a religious person? It may be helpful to understand the meaning of
spirituality versus religion. Spirituality is more concerned with the human
soul and spirit rather than physical or material items. This includes a
powerful feeling of inner peace and well-being. A religious person tends to
manifest devotion toward a deity, has defined religious beliefs, joins a
religious order and is motivated by a moral sense of wrong and right. Religion
tends to show traits of godliness, moralistic ideas come through, they may be
God-fearing and tend to be saintly. Religion leans toward the worship of a
superhuman. This may be a controlling power over humans and the universe.
Teachings and doctrines are included in within most religions. This is only
touching on ideas surrounding spiritual versus religion. There is much more to
know about both of these items.
Not Affiliated and Holding to a Life Stance
Many people make the claim that they are spiritual and they hold no valid religious
beliefs. This is referring to holding a belief in God; however, they are unable
to justify the teachings that come with a religious order. Traditional
religions are not part of the spiritual persons stance. This may be viewed as
participating in the idea of a life stance or self-identity. A spiritual person
may hold the belief that they are on a path toward furthering their own
spiritual growth in this life. Spirituality seems to be more concerned with the
spirit realm. This might include; souls, angels, demons and various gods. A
spiritual person may have a deep commitment and love for animals, the planet
and people. They make loving themselves and others a very high priority.
Breathing in an essential element of human life is embraced by a spiritual
person. Breathing together with other people can be encouraged. Many people
have their own unique definitions of spirituality and what it means to them.
There may be variations in the definitions of someone holding to a life stance
or practicing spirituality. The holy bible defines spirituality as a
relationship between God and man. It includes; discipline of the spirit,
holiness, the gift of Spirit and life in the Spirit. A kaddish
service may be included
in order to honor the life of a person who has passed over. Prayer can be a big
part of the spiritual person’s life.
Religion: A Cultural System Relating to Humanity
Religion
does not appear to be too different from spirituality. Religion and
spirituality both seem to hold the belief that love is vital to all humans.
Religion is more organized in the systems and practices. Prophecies, ethics,
behaviors, worldviews and supernatural elements are weaved into religion. It is
a social-cultural system that includes all humans. It ought to be noted that
there are numerous organized religions throughout the planet. Many of them have
a loving theme leaning toward the good of humanity.
Offering Peace and Well-Being to Every Human Being
Spirituality and religion both seem to provide humans with a sense of
well-being and tend to give people a feeling of peace within themselves. This
may be because a supernatural being or person loves and cares for all people.
Both offer a sense of hope because a creator is in control of the outcome of
this planet and all people.