Should spirituality be a component of wisdom?

'Understanding Wisdom' Series

In my previous article , I wrote a summary of the 2019 research paper by Dilip V. Jeste and Ellen E. Lee titled The Emerging Empirical Science of Wisdom: Definition, Measurement, Neurobiology, Longevity, and Interventions . As they propose to include spirituality as a component of wisdom, we might legitimately wonder why. The authors argue that it is because of the important role of spirituality in enhancing various aspects of a wise individual’s life, as well as the historical and empirical connections observed between spirituality and wisdom. Let us look in this article at what is considered in the field of wisdom research as a controversial inclusion, by highlighting both the key commonalities and differences between spirituality and wisdom.

Reasons for Including Spirituality as a Component of Wisdom

Historically, wisdom has deep connections to religious and spiritual traditions. Ancient texts like the Bhagavad Gita, the Old Testament, and the works of philosophers such as Plato and Confucius often link wisdom with spiritual and moral guidance. In these contexts, wisdom extends beyond practical knowledge or cognitive abilities to involve a profound understanding of life’s deeper meanings—meanings often rooted in spirituality.

Empirical research supports this connection, revealing that spirituality is frequently associated with qualities central to wisdom, such as empathy, compassion, emotional regulation, and acceptance of uncertainty. A spiritual worldview promotes self-transcendence, humility, and a sense of connection to something greater than oneself, all of which enhance these qualities. Studies also show that spirituality is a significant predictor of well-being, which closely relates to wisdom.

From a psychological and emotional perspective, spirituality encourages self-reflection, emotional regulation, and the search for meaning—all key components of wisdom. Practices such as meditation, prayer, and mindfulness help individuals develop these aspects, leading to greater wisdom. The authors argue that spirituality enables people to face life’s challenges with a sense of purpose and calm, characteristics often found in wise individuals.

Moreover, wisdom is not just about accumulating knowledge; it also involves applying that knowledge in a compassionate and ethical manner. Spirituality, with its emphasis on values like love, kindness, and altruism, aligns with this broader definition of wisdom. By fostering these values, spirituality aids in making wise decisions that benefit not only the individual but also others.

Differences Between Spirituality and Wisdom

While spirituality and wisdom share many similarities, there are also notable differences. Both involve transcending the self—spirituality through a connection to a higher power or the universe, and wisdom by overcoming personal biases and ego to make decisions that serve the greater good. Both also emphasize ethical behavior and moral decision-making, expecting individuals to act with integrity, compassion, and fairness—qualities deeply rooted in spiritual traditions. Furthermore, both spirituality and wisdom are concerned with the search for meaning in life, though they approach it from different angles. Spirituality provides a framework for understanding one’s place in the universe and the purpose of life, while wisdom applies this understanding to navigate life’s complexities.

However, spirituality tends to be broader in scope, encompassing beliefs, practices, and experiences related to the divine or the sacred. It is often more personal and subjective, while wisdom is typically seen as a practical and objective application of knowledge, experience, and compassion in decision-making. Wisdom is more focused on applying these qualities in everyday life, particularly in social and ethical contexts, whereas spirituality often centers on personal growth and a relationship with the transcendent.

Another key difference is that wisdom is considered a universal trait, recognized and valued across different cultures and contexts. In contrast, spirituality is more individualized, shaped by personal beliefs, religious backgrounds, and cultural influences.

In conclusion, the inclusion of spirituality as a component of wisdom is supported by both historical traditions and empirical research. Spirituality plays a significant role in developing attributes like compassion, emotional regulation, and a deep sense of meaning in life. While both spirituality and wisdom emphasize ethical behavior and transcendence, they differ in their focus and application. Spirituality is more concerned with personal beliefs and practices related to the sacred, while wisdom involves the application of knowledge and experience in ways that benefit both the individual and society.