Many questions have risen recently over the differences between spirituality and religion and it is time to set the record straight. Let us first review the differences of the two. This will help to better define the meanings of these terms and give a better understanding to everyone.
Spirituality- 1. The quality or fact of being spiritual. 2. Incorpreal or immaterial nature.
Religious- 1. Of pertaining to religion or concerned with religion.
By looking at the above simple definitions you can already see a difference in the two words. When one is religious, that means the person has a faith in a particular religion. For example a person that practices the Catholic religion or any other form of religion. Thus, this person will attend church, church functions, pray regularly, etc. But, if a person says they are spiritual, they may not claim a set religion, they may simply have faith in certain beliefs, for example explanations in the bible, what is written and how it is presented. This, however, is only one form of spirituality. There are many practioners today who feel that spirituality is not only about God and the words that have been shared with us for many years; but more, it is nature and grasping what nature has to offer with all of her fine gifts that she shares with us as well.
Most people who are spiritual are typically more open-minded about all religions. They believe that each person has a way that they believe and this is fine with them. They do not put down other religions but rather try to gather an understanding of how the different religions practice and are maintained. Through having an open mind and being "spiritual", the person tends to be less stressed and does not hold to a set religion. Of course, there are specific celebrations that a person who is spiritual will follow, for example Christmas; this is a common practice among many people and not just of set religions. The time of year is shared by all in devoting time to family and friends.
For those who say they are religious or follow a religion, there is are more strict guidelines that they will follow, for example certain prayers that are said or shared among those of the same religion, certain structures of the church, for example attending a service every Sunday at a particular time and following basic guidelines that that particular church may require everyone to follow. it is true that there are people who follow specific religions that may be critical of other religions for the way they are practiced. In many cases, this has led to wars. Yes, it is true; however, even those following a set relgion will claim to be spiritual and open minded, if they sit and look at what values they follow, how they view not only their religion but others around them, they may find that they are truly more "religious" than "spiritual.
In either case it is a state of mind and how each of us has learned to accept our beliefs, from what our parents have taught us, what society constantly teaches us, how our peers view it and then talk to us about it. We are all overwhelmed with many dfferent aspects of religion.
