Spirituality: A Glowing and Useful Term in Search of a Meaning

Abstract

The article examines the remarkable popularity of the term “spirituality” and its proliferating definitions. Multiple uses for term keep its exact meaning fuzzy. This term is the latest within long quest for personal and positive dimension of religion, within perceived secularization of society. The quest continues Schleiermacher's and Tillich's theological attempts to define and isolate such a de-institutionalized religion. Sociologists of religion noted the new models of “quilted together” identities that support such private-sphere invisible religion. “Spirituality” also does duty to preserve the contributions of humanistic psychology and existentialism within the death awareness movement's basic language and vision. It is a non-contentious term somewhere in between religion and scientific psychology.