Spirituality: meaning, definitions and examples

Spirituality is best used when discussing one's connection to the inner self or a higher power, without necessarily being tied to organized religion. It encompasses personal growth, inner peace, and a sense of purpose.

• She finds her spirituality through meditation and being in nature.
• His spirituality grew stronger after attending the retreat.

Faith is used when talking about trust or confidence in something or someone, often without logical proof. It is frequently connected to religious contexts but can also mean having trust in people or ideas.

• Her faith in humanity's goodness never wavered.
• He has deep faith in his religious teachings.

Belief refers to the acceptance that something exists or is true, especially without proof. It is often used in broader contexts, both religious and non-religious.

• She has a strong belief in the power of positive thinking.
• His belief in ghosts frightens him at night.

Religion refers to an organized system of beliefs, practices, and rituals often centered around the worship of a deity or deities. It includes specific doctrines, institutions, and community practices.

• He practices Buddhism, which is his chosen religion.
• They attend church every Sunday as part of their religion.

Use when discussing a personal or collective sense of connection to something greater than oneself. Often involves questions of existence, purpose, and connection but is not necessarily tied to religion.

• She found great solace in spirituality after her father's passing.
• Many people turn to spirituality during difficult times.

Use when discussing the act of going beyond normal or physical human experiences, often implying a higher state of being or existence.

• The artist's work aims to capture moments of transcendence.
• Some believe that meditation can lead to moments of transcendence.

Use when discussing philosophical theories or studies about the fundamental nature of reality, including concepts like being, knowing, identity, time, and space.

• The philosopher's lectures on metaphysics challenged the students to rethink their understanding of reality.
• Metaphysics explores questions that go beyond the physical sciences.

Use when referring to beliefs and practices aimed at attaining direct, personal experience of the divine or the ultimate reality. Often involves esoteric or hidden knowledge.

• The book delves into the mysticism of ancient religious traditions.
• Her interest in mysticism led her to study various forms of meditation and prayer.