SPIRITUALITY

Spirituality involves the recognition of a feeling or sense or belief that there is something greater than myself, something more to being human than sensory experience, and that the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic or divine in nature. Spirituality often involves looking for meaning, purpose, and a sense of interconnectedness with the universe, other people, or a higher power. The most important thing we have is this gift of Life. It then follows that if we have this amazing gift of Life, then we all have a way that it is being manifested in and through. Spirituality is about seeking a meaningful connection with something bigger than yourself, which can result in positive emotions, such as peace and awe.

The word "spirituality" comes from the Latin "Spiritus," which literally means "breath," representing life. The most important thing we have is this gift of Life. It then follows that if we have this amazing gift of life, then we all have a way that it is being displayed. Spirituality and science overlap in foundational ways to allow for the human experience to bond us in a collective experience. Interventions that value the unique worldview of each individual will be more impactful, as they allow for individual belief systems to be enhanced by science. Spirituality involves the recognition of a feeling or sense or belief that there is something greater than myself, something more to being human than sensory experience, and that the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic or divine in nature.

Spirituality and science overlap in foundational ways to allow for the human experience to bond us in a collective experience. Interventions that value the unique worldview of each individual will be more impactful, as they allow for individual belief systems to be enhanced by science. We are living in the dawn of a new beginning, and spiritual ways are in decline and new ways are replacing them. This is happening because people want inner peace, not just promises of inner peace. People want to experience what is sacred directly, not through the words of middlemen. People want lives filled with love and fellowship, not lives filled with stress and separation. People want communities that truly have their back, not communities that let the powerful prey on them. This website provides tools for this new beginning.

Spirituality is a very personal and individual journey into the inner terrain of one’s own soul. The person on such a spiritual journey may use all manner of external tools to facilitate that journey—including attendance at a church, temple, or mosque, reading certain sacred texts, joining and engaging with others in various spiritual practices, or spending time in one-on-one conversation or counseling with certain spiritual leaders. But the person on the journey is deciding on the direction of the journey; it is not being decided for him by external authorities or texts. Spirituality allows a person to come to terms with life on life’s terms. It allows one to process through difficult experiences and become stronger and wiser because one stayed conscious as one walked through the experience.

 Spirituality allows one to develop healthy self-esteem and to respect and appreciate the journey of others. Spirituality encourages one to walk through the deep recesses of the heart, mind, and soul and come to know oneself in deep communion with a Higher Power or philosophy of one’s choice. Spirituality enhances the quality of life of the individual practitioner. Spirituality and science overlap in foundational ways to allow for the human experience to bond us in a collective experience. Interventions that value the unique worldview of each individual will be more impactful, as they allow for individual belief systems to be enhanced by science. So, unless religion is leading to a deeper spiritual experience, it is likely not enhancing mental health. It is possible to be religious without being spiritual, but it is not possible to be truly spiritual without enhancing one’s mental health.

Relationship Between Spirituality and Science

The relationship between spirituality and science is not necessarily contentious,  but has certainly had its difficulties. Scientifically tracking emotions can be like searching for meaning in the shapes we see in the clouds. While the experience of emotions varies from person to person, the experience of transcendent emotions can be seen as more universal and is connected to spirituality. Self-transcendent emotions connect us all through prosocial behavior. Emotions like gratitude, compassion, and awe connect us all through their prosocial capacity. Transcendent emotions promote behaviors that connect human beings and stabilize prosocial connection.

Self-transcendent emotions include:

§  Kindness.

§  Amazement.

§  Gratitude.

§  Thankfulness.

§  Inspiration.

§  Approbation.

§  Promotion.

§  Love.

These sentiments have a particular capability of bonding individuals together. They are linked with higher levels of spirituality. As self-transcendent emotions are focused on others, more meaningful, purpose-filled interactions are possible.

Spiritual Health:

The physical and mental health of spirituality can be an important aspect of a person's well-being. Spiritual health often means discovering what makes you truly happy and fulfilled, whether it's spending time with friends and family, helping others, or exploring things you’re passionate about. Taking care of your spiritual health can help you live a more meaningful and satisfying life.

Spirituality Versus Religion:

Spirituality and religion can be hard to tell apart, but there are some pretty defined differences between the two. Religion is a specific set of organized beliefs and practices, usually shared by a community or group. Spirituality is more of an individual practice and has to do with having a sense of peace and purpose. Spirituality sometimes seems like a daunting concept, an overwhelming struggle, and even more difficult to acquire. However, it isn’t like that. Just like a blooming, colorful, and rich garden is created by a thoughtful gardener, similarly, we can make our hearts and minds ready for spirituality if we pay attention. Religion that teaches or encourages judgment of self and others is often very disturbing to the psyche. Spirituality, on the other hand, encourages compassion for self and others. Judgment of self not only diminishes self-esteem and a sense of well-being but also often causes us to repress aspects of self that we might deem unworthy of approval. Judgment of others causes us to cut off relationships with those we deem less worthy and to fear their judgment of us.

Spirituality is a very personal and individual journey into the inner terrain of one’s own soul. The person on such a spiritual journey may use all manner of external tools to facilitate that journey—including attendance at a church, temple, or mosque, reading certain sacred texts, joining and engaging with others in various spiritual practices, or spending time in one-on-one conversation or counseling with certain spiritual leaders. But the person on the journey is deciding on the direction of the journey; it is not being decided for him by external authorities or texts. Spirituality allows a person to come to terms with life on life’s terms. It allows one to process through difficult experiences and become stronger and wiser because one stayed conscious as one walked through the experience. Spirituality allows one to develop healthy self-esteem and to respect and appreciate the journey of others. Spirituality encourages one to walk through the deep recesses of the heart, mind, and soul and come to know oneself in deep communion with a Higher Power or philosophy of one’s choice. Spirituality enhances the quality of life of the individual practitioner.

Spirituality in Islam:

What is spirituality? —or rabbaniyat, to use the Quranic term. It is the elevation of the human condition to a plane on which the mind is focused on the higher, non-material realities of a godly existence. The opposite of spirituality is materialism, a course followed all too often in this world. One who takes this course, giving all attention to worldly things, or to put it another way, who centers attention on mere appearances, is regarded as being materialistic. Conversely, one who rises above material things or appearances, who finds a focus of interest in non-material things, is regarded as being spiritual or godly. The latter is one who obeys the injunction of the Quran: “Be devoted servants of God.”

Developing our connection to Allah is our true purpose in life. This can only be done through Islamic worship. We will aim to convey the teachings of Islamic spirituality as elucidated in Quran & Sunnah. We will study the inner dimensions of prayer, fasting, Zakat, Hajj, salutations upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), seeking forgiveness, and the night vigil prayer. This will lay the foundation to improve our worship and make our hearts focused in acts of devotion. Personal and social conduct are key elements to success on our spiritual journeys. On this course, students study the etiquettes of personal and social interaction.

We hope, not only to educate but to empower our students to lead confident lives as Muslims in their communities and be ambassadors of Islam. Studying the Quran and Hadith is also a key part of learning the meanings of life and our roles here on earth. We also face many challenges in today's society and desperately seek guidance and support regarding such matters. We look at the principles of raising successful children as well as discussing the challenges every Muslim faces in the 21st century. All the texts taught on this course have been distilled from the most authentic classical Islamic sources, as well as authoritative contemporary research. On successful attendance and participation, students will receive a certificate of completion.

 

Who is a Spiritual Person?

A spiritual person is always happy and kind to others. They do not like to damage or criticize people. Instead, they always offer motivating and kind words, hoping to make the world a better place and thinking positively. The person has four qualities: hope, gratitude, self-compassion, and forgiveness.

 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, spirituality offers a timeless pathway to inner peace, fulfillment, and transcendence—a sacred journey that transcends the boundaries of time and space. As we embark on this profound odyssey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment, let us embrace the richness of our inner landscapes and cultivate connections that nourish the soul. In doing so, we unlock the boundless potential of the human spirit, ushering in an era of harmony, compassion, and unity for all