Spirituality

Looking at a definition of spirituality is to expose first what is not spiritual. As such, dispositions such as happiness depend on what happens and is therefore not spiritual. However, I see spirituality defined many ways. Hussain (2011) provides a definition: "a way of being and experiencing that comes about through awareness of a transcendent dimension and that is characterized by certain identifiable values in regard to self, others, nature, life, and whatever one considers to be the ultimate" (pg 188).

The Hebrew language provides insight into spirituality's definition. Ruwach is the transliteration of spirituality meaning the seat of emotion, moral character, and rarely speaks of will. Therefore, one's disposition is not a definition of spirituality, rather a manifestation;  symptoms of spirituality/ruwach. Spirituality in the Greek is pneumatiko relating to the human spirit, or rational soul, as part of the man which is akin to God and serves as his instrument or organ. Essentially spirituality is not how we act, rather what sets us into action; God, self, or other spiritual influences.

Spirituality and religion, however, does influence mental health both positively and negatively. Spirituality through obligatory works causes a decrease in mental health and physical fatigue (Voltmer, Thomas, & Spahn, 2011), which is a sign of religion rather than relationship between God and self. However, spirituality founded on faith-which produces nonobligatory works increase mental health (Hussain, 2011). There is an advantage of understanding a person's spirituality (obligation or faith) cross-culturally.

Knowing whether one is spiritually alive by grace through faith or spiritually dead by religious obligation provides a point of reference when explaining mental health. Because spirituality transcends cultural boundaries, so too does the relationship between obligatory religion and relational spirituality. Therefore, it is important to understand the two are different when studying cross-cultural psychology because spirituality, or their lack of, is fundamental in all cultures.

Hussain, D. (2011). Spirituality, religion, and health: Reflections and issues. Europe's Journal Of Psychology, 187-197.

Voltmer, E., Thomas, C., & Spahn, C. (2011). PSYCHOSOCIAL HEALTH AND SPIRITUALITY OF THEOLOGY STUDENTS AND PASTORS OF THE GERMAN SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH. Review Of Religious Research, 3, 290-305.