The 3 philosophies being explored here are spiritual, spiritualism and spirituality.
Let’s begin by first shining some light on the basis of the philosophies… the root word itself. The word spirit has been widely associated with supernatural beings. That which is supernatural is in fact energy, is it not? What are your thoughts? Definitions of spirit include it being a force or principle believed to animate living beings: a force or principle believed to animate humans and often to endure after departing from the body of a person at death; the soul: The Holy Spirit: a supernatural being as an angel or demon, a being inhabiting or embodying a particular place, object, or natural phenomenon: or a fairy or sprite. (source)
Spiritual
Spiritual, in general philosophy, pertains to the nature of spirit, nonmaterial things and the supernatural. This includes matters of the soul. A reference is also made linking it to the act of being unconcerned with material or worldly things. (source) Regarding this reference, at one time was it not interpreted literally? Is it still with the implication that you should not strive for such things? This interpretation may have been prior to the evolvement of human consciousness and it could be that a newer, different interpretation pertains to the concept of nothing and everything. (article link)
Spiritualism
It can be said that spiritualism is the philosophy of departed souls interacting with the living through mediumship (source). It can also be said that spiritualism is the philosophy that the world is made up of at least 2 fundamental substances, matter and spirit. (source) In other words, the physical and the nonphysical. It may be evident that the term spiritualism is used to represent any philosophy that affirms the existence of the spiritual world beyond the physical one while also coexisting with it.
Spirituality
From a traditional viewpoint, spirituality was a reference to a religious process of reformation. It was a philosophy aimed at recovering the original shape of man, oriented at the “image of God”, as described by religious founders and sacred text. (source) It seems that the reference it once made has been released from religious restraint.
A broadened definition encompasses that which is spiritual.
Words for Thought
I believe that all humans are spiritual. It may or may not resonate as truth with you because it is a matter of perception. There are those who do not see it, those who refuse to see it and those who deny seeing it. Being spiritual is not based in religion although many make that association. It is based in the belief of the nonphysical. Being spiritual includes numerous faiths and beliefs including spiritualism. An example of this is metaphysics. As I have stated before, I see each human being as an energetic one based on my belief regardless of their spiritual belief. Spiritual belief is a personal choice. Your belief is yours to discern and choose. A recent article visits 9 classifications of spiritual belief that may be of interest to you. (article link)
Within the 9 classifications, there are more breakdowns: categories and sub-categories. There are also specific beliefs, traditions, practices, methods and rites that exist within the different spiritual ideologies, groups and systems. It is important to recognize and acknowledge that not all of them are shared. Meaning what resonates with one person may not resonate with another. In other words, not everything resonates with everyone nor is everything resonated with at the same time. This is true among like-minded people… differences are important. The acceptance of this reinforces the concept of separate not divided which is a staple in life. (link)
It seems natural that as humans evolve, so do philosophies. Throughout time, meanings have developed and expanded. Evolution is not instantaneous. It does not happen at the snap of a finger. Philosophical evolution is no different. On one hand, the commonality of evolved philosophy within the masses can be perceived as hindered by the concept above, that is, each person evolving at their own rate. A rate based on a number of factors and filters. On the other hand, what is perceived as a “hindering” serves a purpose of protecting against philosophy pushed that is false or inaccurate. This accounts for people having differing meanings for the same thing and differing opinions.
Spirituality can be viewed as an ongoing quest for knowledge, insight and understanding into yourself, your life, the physical world, the spiritual world and the universe. As well as the communications and connections between them and the coexistence of the two worlds. Enlightenment may be gained from this if you allow yourself to gain it.
Your spirituality is your personal relationship with a higher power. A higher power that is known by many names. In your personal relationship the name that you use for the higher power is a matter of personal preference. Some used are God, Spirit, Source, Creator, Almighty, Divine and Father. You can learn the “how to” from others and the “possibilities” through the experiences of others, however, it is through your own experiences that your connection to the Divine deepens and strengthens.
Your belief system is yours to create, modify and change based on what you learn on your quest for knowledge. Remain open to learning throughout your experiences on life’s journey. Keep that which resonates as truth to you and discard that which does not. Discern and choose what you believe.
Blessings of Love & Light,
RKB


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