An Analysis of Religious and Spiritual Beliefs

Abstract:

In today’s modern world the terms religion and spirituality are used interchangeably, but while they aren't diametrically opposite, neither are they identical. We can define religion as a personal set of beliefs, attitude and practice in religious institutions, while spirituality on the other hand is a way individuals seek to express meaning and purpose to life. Although there are similarities, we can find differences between the two. The current study aims to analyze the religious and spiritual beliefs of an individual and its impact on his/her life. It also discusses how the phenomenon of spirituality is generating new paradigms of consciousness. The article draws on literature on religion, spirituality, sociology, and anthropology to conclude that religion will persist despite secularization.