Topic > Essay on Religion and Spirituality - 675

Is there a clear difference between religion and spirituality? Or does it depend on one's interpretation? In terms of interpretation, one can be spiritual without being religious and one can be religious without being spiritual. The distinction between religion and spirituality is similar to the cultus and pietas of the ancient Romans. Gary Kessler states, “'Cultus' refers to religion as a cultural system made up of moral codes, rituals, and groups. “Pietas” refers to religion as a personal type of devotion.” On the other hand, shifting definitions between religion and spirituality have called these findings into question. This article will discuss the distinct differences between religion and spirituality by comparing how their meanings have evolved over the centuries. It is often said that people in modern society tend to believe that religion has evolved from following strict morals and ethics to being open-minded about other religions. According to Webster's dictionary, religion is an organized system of beliefs, ceremonies, and rules used to worship a god or group of gods. This definition is not necessarily true or false, but useful for developing a cultural perspective. Kessler himself writes: “Comparative perspective develops an understanding not only of others but also of ourselves, just as we learn more about our religion and values ​​by understanding them in contrast to the religions and values ​​of others.” In other words, today one is more aware of various religions and not just one's own rather than trying to justify one's religion through religious practices compared to other religions. For example, in the 16th century Martin Luther, one of the founders of the Protestant Reformation, “claimed that religion was based on…half the paper……quality” (Kessler 20). Therefore, there is no right or wrong in terms of spirituality. In contrast, religion is not open to change and expects one to follow a specific path or believe in a specific being, which suggests that religions are prejudicial. Religious leaders will modify a religion to justify their religious views in order to dictate to others why one should live life thinking a certain way. Spirituality is a choice and is not forced on a person like religion is in many cases. Therefore, religion is a voluntary methodology while spirituality is involuntary. Ultimately, shifting definitions between religion and spirituality have called these findings into question. Although the word “spirit” has to do with religion, they are two different concepts. Religion means belief in a God or an afterlife. Spirituality simply means believing in yourself, your efforts and your strengths.