One thousand faces of spirituality: from ancient traditions to modern approaches
Spirituality is a multifaceted and complex concept that has been defined in multiple ways across academic disciplines, from psychology and sociology to theology and philosophy (see references at the end of the article). Some of these definitions are:
-One of the most common view is that spirituality is the human search for meaning, purpose, and connection with something greater than oneself. This definition emphasizes a personal, existential quest for understanding life's deeper meanings.
-Some other definitions see it as a process of self-transcendence, where individuals move beyond their ego-centered concerns to connect with broader aspects of life, such as community, nature, or a higher power.
-Other scholars emphasize spirituality’s relationship with the sacred, which may or may not involve organized religion. Spirituality, in this sense, is seen as a personal experience of the divine or the sacred, often outside traditional religious institutions.
-Spirituality has also been defined as a process of personal growth and development, where individuals strive for higher levels of consciousness, awareness, and ethical living. In this view, spirituality involves self-improvement, mindfulness, and becoming more attuned to one’s inner life.
-Other definitions emphasize its social dimensions, suggesting that spirituality involves not only personal beliefs but also communal practices and relationships. This perspective sees spirituality as integral to forming connections with others and building community, which can offer support, meaning, and a sense of belonging.
-Others suggest that spirituality is a framework that helps people organize their thoughts and feelings about life’s most profound issues, such as mortality, suffering, and the pursuit of happiness.
-Finally, some researchers define spirituality as an integral part of eudaimonic well-being, which involves living a meaningful, purposeful life. They argue that spirituality contributes to personal growth, self-acceptance, and the ability to maintain positive relationships.
While all these definitions are valid from their own perspective, what I propose is not one more definition! But instead, a different way of investigating this multifaceted and complex subject matter. For that purpose, I will explore modern approaches of spirituality which have not only transcended traditional religious frameworks, but also evolved into diverse forms that draw from ancient philosophical schools, secular approaches, and even atheistic viewpoints.
In this article, we will examine various dimensions of spirituality such as philosophical, humanistic, existential, mystical, transpersonal, ecological, etc. and what is uniquely appealing in each of them for a modern spiritual seeker, depending of his own journey. We will also attempt to situate briefly ancient wisdom traditions like Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism and Taoism, within these dimensions. We will conclude by drawing some integrative thoughts from this exploration of the many faces of spirituality.
Philosophical Spirituality: A Path to Wisdom and Self-Realization
Philosophical spirituality, as articulated by the French philosopher Pierre Hadot, emphasizes the transformation of the self through philosophical reflection and ethical practices. Hadot's seminal work, Philosophy as a Way of Life (1995), is a foundational text that reintroduces the spiritual exercises of ancient Greek and Roman philosophers such as the Stoics, Epicureans and Platonists. These exercises, including contemplation, self-examination, and meditation, are aimed at aligning individuals with the cosmos and cultivating virtues like wisdom, patience, and courage.
Hadot views philosophical spirituality as a practical and lived experience, one that goes beyond intellectual knowledge to foster an inner transformation that leads to tranquility and wisdom. For him, the ultimate goal of philosophical spirituality is self-realization and unity with the natural order. Unlike religious or theistic spirituality, this approach is secular and focuses on human reason, ethics, and the pursuit of wisdom.
The emergence or maybe re-emergence of this form of spirituality is visible when one looks at the number of books released in recent years about ancient Greek philosophy. It is apparent that this form of spirituality resonates deeply with those seeking a meaningful, reflective life without relying on metaphysical or religious beliefs. Because it offers a pathway for individuals to transcend personal ego, contemplate their existence in relation to the universe, and achieve a sense of inner peace through disciplined thought and ethical living.
Stoicism
Stoicism, an ancient Greek school founded by Zeno of Citium, promotes the development of virtues like courage, self-control, and wisdom to align one's life with the rational order of the cosmos. For Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, spirituality involves accepting the natural course of events (in line with the Stoic concept of "logos") and focusing on what one can control while letting go of the rest.
Key Stoic practices, such as contemplating death (memento mori) and self-examination, foster inner tranquility and resilience, mirroring spiritual practices found in modern philosophical spirituality, where ethical reflection and self-discipline lead to inner peace.
Like many modern secular forms of spirituality, Stoicism’s core message is one of inner peace achieved through rational reflection and ethical living.
Platonism
Platonism, particularly as developed by Plato in the 4th century BCE, offers a rich and profound form of philosophical spirituality. It is a spiritual path deeply rooted in the idea of ascending beyond the material world which is not the ultimate reality, toward the realm of eternal truths, or Forms. Spirituality, in this sense, involves a gradual process of intellectual and moral ascent toward the contemplation of the Good, which is the highest of all Forms and the ultimate source of truth and reality.
This idea resonates with modern seekers who see philosophy, science, and rational inquiry as spiritual practices in themselves through the contemplation of higher truths—whether through philosophy, art, or science. Those who seek spiritual fulfillment through self-improvement, intellectual exploration, or psychological growth may find Plato’s metaphor for the ascent of the soul compelling. It represents a journey from superficiality to deeper understanding, which mirrors the goals of many secular and humanist spiritual paths.
Like Stoicism, Platonism also emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous life in accordance with higher principles. Plato believed that virtue leads to harmony both within the individual and society. For modern spiritual seekers, this focus on ethical living—cultivating virtues such as justice, wisdom, courage, and temperance—can serve as a spiritual guide for leading a meaningful and purposeful life, independent of theistic beliefs.
Epicureanism
Founded by Epicurus in the 4th century BCE, this philosophy emphasizes personal happiness, inner tranquility, and ethical behavior. Epicurus is often misunderstood as advocating for indulgence in material pleasures, but his concept of hedonism is far more nuanced. He taught that the highest pleasure is freedom from pain and anxiety (ataraxia), which comes not through overindulgence but through moderation and the cultivation of intellectual pleasures. Epicurean spirituality, therefore, involves striving for a peaceful mind, free from fear, especially the fear of gods and death.
Epicurus was one of the earliest philosophers to propose a non-theistic worldview. He argued that while gods might exist, they do not interfere in human affairs, rendering them irrelevant to the pursuit of happiness. This makes Epicureanism a highly secular form of spirituality, where individuals focus on cultivating peace and contentment through their own efforts, rather than relying on divine intervention or metaphysical beliefs.
Finally, at the core of Epicureanism is the belief that true happiness arises from living wisely and justly. This means making ethical decisions that minimize harm to oneself and others while maximizing inner tranquility. Epicurean spirituality involves a deep commitment to rational self-discipline and the understanding that external material wealth or fame do not bring lasting satisfaction.
Epicurean philosophy’s emphasis on rationality, ethical living, and the pursuit of inner peace aligns closely with the goals of modern secular spirituality and humanism. Its focus on Personal Well-Being and inner peace as the ultimate goals in life, appeal to modern individuals seeking spirituality that promotes mental health, mindfulness, and balance. Like modern humanist philosophies, Epicureanism proposes an ethical framework that is independent of religion. It emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with others, treating them with fairness, and cultivating personal virtues—all without relying on a higher power. The Epicurean pursuit of simple pleasures and the avoidance of unnecessary desires align with modern movements like minimalism and mindfulness. In a world overwhelmed by consumerism, Epicurean teachings can guide people toward a more intentional and spiritually fulfilling lifestyle based on simplicity.
Secular Spirituality: Transcendence Without the Divine
Moving into the realm of secular spirituality, we encounter the work of Thomas Metzinger, a philosopher specializing in the nature of consciousness. Metzinger’s secular spirituality is centered on the idea that self-transcendence—commonly associated with religious or mystical experiences—can be achieved without invoking the divine or supernatural beliefs. In his work The Ego Tunnel (2009), Metzinger explores how humans can gain profound insights into the nature of the self and consciousness through science, mindfulness, and meditation.
Metzinger proposes that by understanding the illusion of the self—what he refers to as the “ego tunnel”—people can achieve self-transcendence. This leads to a transformation in ethical consciousness, making individuals more empathetic and compassionate. For Metzinger, secular spirituality is about expanding self-awareness and deepening one's ethical commitments without relying on traditional religious doctrines. Practices like mindfulness and meditation, stripped of metaphysical claims, can still foster profound spiritual experiences and personal growth.
Secular spirituality resonates with those who seek spiritual fulfillment but prefer a naturalistic worldview, grounded in scientific understanding. It provides a framework for connecting with something greater—whether that be nature, humanity, or the cosmos—without invoking the concept of a higher power.
Secular spirituality shares a philosophical kinship with Buddhist mindfulness practices and Stoic exercises, emphasizing self-awareness, ethical behavior, and inner peace. It resonates with individuals who seek spiritual fulfillment through naturalistic and scientific frameworks.
Atheist Spirituality: Meaning in the Human Experience
André Comte-Sponville articulates a vision of atheist spirituality, where spirituality is grounded in the immanence of human experience rather than transcendence or divine intervention. In The Book of Atheist Spirituality (2008), the French philosopher Comte-Sponville argues that spirituality is not exclusive to religion or belief in the supernatural. Rather, spirituality is a human experience that involves moments of joy, awe, love, and connection with others.
He emphasizes immanence—the idea that the sacred or transcendent is found in the present moment, in human relationships, and in the beauty of the world. For him, atheist spirituality celebrates life as it is, without the need for divine intervention. His perspective resonates with individuals who find spiritual fulfillment in art, nature, love, and moral philosophy.
Atheist spirituality shares similarities with existentialist philosophy, where individuals are seen as responsible for creating their own meaning in an indifferent or chaotic world. This form of spirituality also echoes the immanent spirituality of eco-spirituality, which also finds the sacred in the natural world and human relationships, rather than in a higher power.
Mystical Spirituality: Direct Experience of the Divine
Mystical spirituality transcends doctrinal boundaries and focuses on direct, personal experience of the divine or ultimate reality. This type of spirituality often emphasizes practices such as meditation, contemplation, and prayer that lead to a state of unity with the divine. In Sufism, Christian mysticism, Hindu bhakti movements and Kabbalah, mystics such as Rumi, St. Teresa of Avila, Mirabai describe spiritual experiences that transcend the ego and lead to union with God or the divine.
Mystical spirituality relies on practices like prayer, meditation, and contemplation to achieve states of divine communion. This tradition offers a universal spiritual path that resonates with both theistic and non-theistic seekers who desire direct experience of the sacred, beyond the emphasis on dogma and rituals of traditional religions.
Indigenous Spirituality: Sacred Connection to the Land
Indigenous spirituality is deeply rooted in the connection between people, nature, and ancestors. For many indigenous cultures, the natural world is not merely a resource but a sacred entity to be revered and protected. Native American and Australian Aboriginal spiritualities, for example, emphasize the spiritual significance of the land and the role of rituals in maintaining harmony with nature.
In indigenous spirituality, healing is not merely a physical process but a spiritual and emotional journey. Many modern spiritual seekers are turning to alternative forms of medicine and healing, such as shamanism or energy healing, which find their roots in indigenous practices. This holistic approach aligns with the growing interest in integrative medicine and alternative therapies, appealing to those looking for more than conventional medical treatments. For example, Ayahuasca and other plant medicines used in Amazonian indigenous rituals have gained popularity among those seeking profound spiritual healing or transformation.
Indigenous spirituality thus aligns closely with eco-spirituality and environmentalism; it resonates with modern spiritual seekers because it provides a holistic, nature-centered, and community-based approach to life. In an era where many individuals feel disconnected from nature, overwhelmed by consumerism, and alienated from their communities, the teachings of indigenous traditions offer a grounding and sustainable spiritual practice that can help modern seekers reconnect with themselves, others, and the Earth.
Transpersonal Spirituality: Integration of Science, Ancient Spiritual Traditions and Psychology
Transpersonal spirituality emerges from the field of transpersonal psychology with pioneers like Stanislav Grof and Ken Wilber. They argue that human consciousness can transcend the ego and experience states of unity and interconnectedness, thereby getting profound insights into the nature of the self and reality.
One of the defining and attractive features of transpersonal spirituality is its integration of psychological growth with spiritual development. Unlike traditional religious approaches, which often prioritize devotion or ritual, transpersonal spirituality views the development of consciousness and emotional healing as integral to the spiritual path. Ken Wilber’s Integral Theory (2006) offers a comprehensive model that integrates spirituality with various domains of human life—psychology, science, and culture—allowing spiritual seekers to address their emotional and psychological growth alongside their pursuit of transcendence. His approach encourages individuals to develop along multiple lines—cognitive, emotional, and spiritual—leading to an integrated, holistic life.
The first reason why transpersonal spirituality resonates with modern seekers is its integration of scientific insights from psychology, neuroscience, and biology with spiritual practices. This appeals to individuals who are skeptical of traditional religious claims but are still interested in the transformative power of spiritual experiences. The growing body of scientific research on meditation, breathwork, and psychedelics provides empirical evidence for the positive effects of these practices on mental health and well-being, aligning with the transpersonal emphasis on healing and growth through expanded states of consciousness.
Secondly, transpersonal spirituality draws from a wide range of global spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Shamanism, and Taoism, while integrating modern psychological approaches. This cross-cultural inclusivity resonates with individuals who are interested in blending spiritual practices from various traditions into their personal spiritual path.
By blending insights from ancient spiritual traditions with modern psychology and neuroscience, transpersonal spirituality provides a pathway for seekers who want to explore their inner worlds, heal emotional wounds, and achieve personal and spiritual wholeness.
Humanistic and Existential Spirituality: The Search for Meaning
Humanistic and existential spirituality, as advocated by thinkers like Viktor Frankl and Abraham Maslow, focuses on the human quest for finding meaning and purpose, and achieving self-actualization.
Existential Spirituality
In existentialist philosophy, spirituality is closely tied to the search for meaning in a world that may not inherently offer it. in his famous work Man's Search for Meaning (2006), Viktor Frankl argues that individuals can find meaning through the choices they make and the values they adopt, even in the face of suffering and despair. This perspective emphasizes human freedom and responsibility, suggesting that individuals are tasked with creating their own sense of purpose and meaning.
French philosophers Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus also contribute to existential spirituality by highlighting the tension between the absurdity of life and the human desire for meaning. While existentialism is often seen as a secular or atheistic philosophy, it has a deeply spiritual dimension: the struggle to live authentically and meaningfully in the face of existential challenges.
Humanistic Spirituality
Abraham Maslow, a key figure in humanistic psychology, introduced the idea of self-actualization as the highest level of human development. In his work Toward a Psychology of Being (1962), Maslow described peak experiences—moments of intense joy, creativity, and transcendence—as essential to spiritual growth. These experiences, although not tied to religious belief, provide individuals with a sense of connection to something greater than themselves.
In humanistic spirituality, personal growth and authenticity are central. Spirituality is about living in alignment with one’s true self and values, achieving fulfillment through creativity, love, and compassion. This approach shares common ground with atheist spirituality, where the focus is on human relationships, ethics, and the beauty of life without the need for belief in a higher power.
领英推荐
Eco-Spirituality: The Sacredness of the Earth
In an age of environmental crises, eco-spirituality has emerged as a form of spirituality that emphasizes the sacredness of the Earth and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Thinkers like Arne Naess and Thomas Berry advocate for a spiritual transformation in how humans relate to nature. Eco-spirituality holds that protecting the environment is not just a practical or ethical obligation but a spiritual responsibility. Eco-spirituality presents itself as deep recognition that the Earth is not merely a resource but a living entity that deserves reverence and protection.
Eco-spirituality is closely aligned with deep ecology, a movement pioneered by philosopher Arne Naess, which calls for a profound spiritual and ethical transformation in how humans relate to nature. Naess argues that human beings must recognize their interconnectedness with the natural world and embrace an ethical responsibility toward all forms of life. This perspective is deeply spiritual, viewing the Earth as a sacred ecosystem where all beings have intrinsic value, regardless of their utility to humans. This form of spirituality encourages practices such as ecological activism, meditation in nature, and rituals that honor the Earth.
Similarly, the Gaia Hypothesis, proposed by James Lovelock, posits that the Earth is a self-regulating, living system where all organisms work together to maintain balance. This idea has inspired a form of eco-spirituality where the Earth itself is seen as a living entity deserving of spiritual respect and care.
Eco-spirituality draws from indigenous traditions, such as Native American spirituality, where the Earth is revered as a mother and protector. It also resonates with Taoist spirituality, which emphasizes living in harmony with the natural flow of the universe. In modern times, eco-spirituality has inspired movements for environmental activism, where the protection of the Earth becomes a spiritual imperative.
What about the ancient spiritual traditions of Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism and Taoism ?
Advaita Vedanta: One Non-Dual Ultimate Reality
Advaita Vedanta represents a form of non-dual spirituality in Indian philosophy, where the individual self (Atman) is understood to be identical with the ultimate reality (Brahman). Adi Shankaracharya, one of the key figures in the tradition of Advaita, teaches that freedom (moksha) involves realizing that the apparent separateness of things has its basis in one non-dual limitless whole which is also the essential nature of the individual.
The non-dualistic perspective of Advaita emphasizes spiritual practices like self-inquiry (atma-vichara), meditation, study of scriptures, and contemplation lead to the recognition of the oneness of all existence, where distinctions between self and other beings, self and universe, self and the cause of the universe, or between the material and spiritual, dissolve.
This form of spirituality bears similarities to philosophical spirituality like Platonism and Stoicism in its emphasis on rational reasoning, inner work such as transcending personal desires, living an ethical life and aligning with a higher reality, but it goes further in proposing that the self and the divine are one. Advaita’s focus on the inquiry of what constitutes individuality and the nature of the world has parallels in modern transpersonal spirituality, which also seeks to transcend the ego and relate to a higher, interconnected reality, beyond the visible universe. It also has similarities with humanistic and existential spirituality when it begins its inquiry by examining what is it that we are looking for to achieve in our lives, behind all our pursuits.
Finally, Advaita Vedanta finds kinship with the secular spirituality of thinkers like Thomas Metzinger, who also deconstructs the ego to reveal deeper truths about human consciousness, but from a naturalistic, non-metaphysical standpoint.
Buddhist Spirituality: The Middle Way to Liberation
Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), emphasizes overcoming suffering (Dukkha) through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. Buddhist spirituality is centered on mindfulness, ethical conduct, and wisdom, with the ultimate goal of attaining Nirvana—the cessation of suffering and the end of the cycle of birth and death (Samsara).
In Theravada Buddhism, spiritual practice is deeply personal and focuses on Vipassana meditation, which fosters insight into the impermanent and interconnected nature of reality. This path emphasizes self-discipline, mindfulness, and the direct experience of reality as it is, rather than relying on intellectual or metaphysical frameworks.
In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism, especially in the Zen tradition, emphasizes the concept of emptiness (Sunyata) and the interconnectedness of all beings. The Bodhisattva ideal, where individuals dedicate themselves to the enlightenment of all beings, reflects a form of spirituality that is deeply relational and altruistic.
Buddhist spirituality shares common ground with modern secular and transpersonal spiritualities, which often draw on mindfulness and meditation as tools for self-transcendence and personal transformation. It also resonates with atheist spirituality, where the focus is on inner peace and ethical living without reliance on a higher power.
Taoist Spirituality: Harmony with the Tao
Taoism, rooted in the teachings of Laozi and the Tao Te Ching, offers a distinct form of spirituality that centers on aligning oneself with the Tao—the ineffable principle that governs the universe. The Tao is not a deity but a way of being that reflects the natural flow of life. Spiritual fulfillment comes from wu wei (non-action)—not by striving or controlling, but the practice of aligning with the natural flow of the universe and acting in harmony with the natural world.
Taoist spirituality emphasizes simplicity, humility, and quietude, fostering a deep connection with nature. Practices such as qigong and meditation help individuals attune themselves to the natural rhythms of the universe. This spirituality finds resonance with eco-spirituality, which views Earth and nature as sacred and promotes living in balance with the environment.
Taoist ideas of flow and non-attachment also parallel the practices of Buddhist mindfulness and Stoic acceptance, offering a path to inner peace through harmonious living.
Conclusion: A diverse tapestry of spiritual pathways
This brief exploration of the many faces of spirituality, from ancient traditions like Stoicism, Epicureanism, Advaita Vedanta, Buddhism, and Taoism to modern forms of spirituality reveals the profound diversity of human spiritual experience. Whether through philosophical reflection, self-transcendence, or connection with nature, spirituality continues to evolve, offering individuals various paths.
For example, in philosophical spirituality, the quest for wisdom and ethical living takes precedence, while secular spirituality and atheist spirituality focus on personal growth, meaning, and ethical relationships without reliance on metaphysical beliefs. Humanistic and existential spirituality emphasize the quest of meaning and purpose, authenticity and self-actualisation while transpersonal spirituality and eco-spirituality highlight the integration of consciousness, psychology, and the natural world, offering ways to transcend the ego and live in harmony with the Earth.
Each of these spiritual paths reflects the universal human search for transcendence of ordinary experience, connection with something greater, and living with meaning and purpose. Whether grounded in ancient traditions or emerging from modern philosophical discourse, spirituality remains a vital aspect of human life. It offers pathways to ethical living, personal growth, and profound experiences of oneness, whether with the cosmos, nature, or fellow human beings.
In a world that is increasingly pluralistic and interconnected, spirituality in its many forms provides individuals with insights and practices for reflection, transformation, and connection. From Hadot’s contemplative exercises to Comte-Sponville’s atheist spirituality of love and ethics, each form of spirituality addresses the universal human desire to live with freedom, engagement, compassion and joy.
References
Berry, T. (2009). The Sacred Universe: Earth, Spirituality, and Religion in the 21st Century. Columbia University Press.
Bopp, J., Bopp, M., Brown, L., & Lane, P. (1989). The Sacred Tree: Reflections on Native American Spirituality. Lotus Press.
Comte-Sponville, A. (2008). The Book of Atheist Spirituality: An Elegant Argument for Spirituality Without God. Bantam Press.
Deloria, V. (2003). God is Red: A Native View of Religion. Fulcrum Publishing.
Frankl, V. E. (2006). Man's Search for Meaning. Beacon Press.
Grof, S. (2000). The Psychology of the Future: Lessons from Modern Consciousness Research. SUNY Press.
Hadot, P. (1995). Philosophy as a Way of Life: Spiritual Exercises from Socrates to Foucault. Blackwell Publishing.
Laozi. (1993). Tao Te Ching (S. Addiss & S. Lombardo, Trans.). Hackett Publishing Company.
Lovelock, J. (2000). The Ages of Gaia: A Biography of Our Living Earth. Oxford University Press.
Maslow, A. H. (1962). Toward a Psychology of Being. Wiley.
Metzinger, T. (2009). The Ego Tunnel: The Science of the Mind and the Myth of the Self. Basic Books.
Naess, A. (2008). The Ecology of Wisdom: Writings by Arne Naess. Counterpoint Press.
Nouwen, H. (1981). The way of the heart: Connecting with God through prayer, wisdom, and silence. Ballantine Books.
Plato. (1997). Complete Works (J. M. Cooper, Ed.). Hackett Publishing.
Rumi. (2004). The Essential Rumi (C. Barks, Trans.). HarperOne.
Shankaracharya, A. (1982). The Crest-Jewel of Wisdom (Vivekachudamani) (C. Isherwood & S. Prabhavananda, Trans.). Vedanta Press.
St. Teresa of Avila. (2004). Interior Castle (E. A. Peers, Trans.). Dover Publications.
Wilber, K. (2006). Integral Spirituality: A Startling New Role for Religion in the Modern and Postmodern World. Shambhala Publications.
References for the definitions of spirituality (in the introduction of the article)
Emmons, R. A. (1999). The psychology of ultimate concerns: Motivation and spirituality in personality. Guilford Press.
Emmons, R. A., & Paloutzian, R. F. (2003). The psychology of religion. Annual Review of Psychology, 54(1), 377-402.
Frankl, V. E. (1959). Man's search for meaning. Beacon Press.
Hill, P. C., & Hood, R. W. (1999). Measures of religiosity. Religious Education Press.
Koenig, H. G. (2001). Religion, spirituality, and health: The research and clinical implications. ISRN Psychiatry, 1-4.
Merton, T. (2007). New seeds of contemplation. New Directions Publishing.
Nouwen, H. (1981). The way of the heart: Connecting with God through prayer, wisdom, and silence. Ballantine Books.
Pargament, K. I. (1997). The psychology of religion and coping: Theory, research, practice. Guilford Press.
Ryff, C. D., & Singer, B. (2008). Know thyself and become what you are: A eudaimonic approach to psychological well-being. Journal of Happiness Studies, 9(1), 13-39.
Schleiermacher, F. (1996). On religion: Speeches to its cultured despisers (R. Crouter, Trans.). Cambridge University Press.
Zohar, D., & Marshall, I. (2000). SQ: Spiritual intelligence, the ultimate intelligence. Bloomsbury Publishing.
Leadership & Life Coach (ICF/PCC) | Mentor | Business Consultant | Practitioner and student of Meditation,Spiritual Study,and Vedic Chanting
1 个月What a brilliant piece Surya Tahora . Your article should be an essential read for every student of every shade and school of spirituality. Relishing it’s simplicity and expanse ??
Network Marketing
1 个月our life is permanently scarred by Mystical Spirituality Great ideas
Professor at S. P.Jain Institute of Management & Research (SPJIMR)
1 个月A superb enumeration of the various paths of udnerstanding spirituality. Congratulations. Ultimately, spirituality must lead to peace and prosperity, a reduciton of unncessary suffering, mental growth and the realisation of self. The realisation that we are all one in spirit will lead to the avoidance fo war, ill-feelings between people, hate and the Abrahamic thought that my guru is the only guru', and that by increasing the adherents to a particular way of thinking is the path of life.