Faith vs Religion vs Spirituality: What Do They Mean?
The concept of religion vs faith vs spirituality can be confusing. These much-talked-about concepts are all different, and each provides us with a different set of beliefs that will help us with discovering our truth. But, what is religion vs spirituality? And what is the difference between spirituality vs religious beliefs?
If you’ve ever wondered, ‘How is spirituality different from religion?, ‘What is the difference between faith and spirituality?’, or ‘Are faith and religion the same thing?’, then read on to learn about these differing forms of spirituality and the differences between them.
What do we mean by ‘faith’?
We often associate faith with the word religion, so what is the difference between faith and religion? Very simply, when it comes to faith vs religion, you can have faith without following a religion.
The difference between religion and faith is that faith asks us to have trust, confidence, and belief in something that we hope for, but haven’t yet received. But for religious people, faith might look like following the Christian religion, or another religion that aligns with your religious beliefs.
Is there a difference between spirituality and faith? Many people wonder what the faith and spirituality differences are, and the 2 are indeed connected. If you’re wondering too what spirituality vs faith looks like, then it’s true that the spiritual path that a person follows requires faith, as a person explores their spirituality beliefs.
What is ‘spirituality’?
Spirituality focuses on tuning in to your inner voice and formulating your connection to a higher power. Spiritual people are free from restrictions, and the main system of belief is through individual experiences. Spiritual beliefs can vary throughout life and everyone’s experience is individual.
So what is the difference between spirituality and religion? When it comes to spirituality versus religion, many people consider themselves to be spiritual but not religious, as they follow their own beliefs and practices.
Spiritual practice can be life-changing and encourages people to realise their power and find a connection with something greater than the physical self.
What is ‘religion’?
Religion can be defined as a commitment to a set of attitudes and beliefs around our existence. A religious person is part of a group of people who worship a God or leader. For example, in the Christian religion, followers have faith in God and worship Jesus Christ.
Religion is a structured belief system, which lays the foundations for the way life should be led. Every member and follower commits to taking part in religious practices, which is a part of their religion’s belief system.
Religion gives inner strength and purpose to its followers and can be a great way to feel part of a community. If at this time religion is resonating for you, it could be something to explore.
What are the biggest differences?
There has been much research on the difference between religion and spirituality, and their interrelatedness. A paper written by L.L. Newman on ‘Faith, Spirituality and Religion: A Model For Understanding The Differences’, says that the terms faith, spirituality, and religion are often used interchangeably. The article presents a model for understanding the relationship between spirituality, faith, and religion differences, as a basis for further research.
When it comes to how to define spirituality vs religion, neither is right or wrong. But what are the differences when it comes to religion versus spirituality?
Here are 6 fundamental differences between spiritual vs religious beliefs:
Individual beliefs vs group beliefs
The way each is structured can help us to distinguish between religion vs. spirituality. Spiritual practice is very individual, with an emphasis on formulating your own beliefs based on your experiences. Whereas religion is based on being part of a group of people who follow the rules of an institution.
Fixed vs differing perspective
The religious perspective is fixed, based on the teachings of the institution you are a part of. The spiritual perspective is dependent on individual experience and has the flexibility to change during your life.
Present moment vs future
Spirituality is about living in the present moment and becoming open to insight coming in. Tools such as mindfulness can help bring our attention back to now. Whereas being part of religion means that you follow a set of rules and guidelines, which are designed to prepare you for a future moment.
Origin of beliefs
Religion is taught through leaders within that institution, whereas spirituality is led by the individual who is on their path of growth and is searching for answers.
Spirituality is inclusive, religion is exclusive
To take part in religion, you must agree to abide by the beliefs of the institution. But spirituality is inclusive; whoever you are and whatever you believe, the path you take is down to you.
Highly organised vs free-flowing
There is a certain freedom that comes with spirituality. Religion is organised and structured, with set beliefs and attitudes. Spirituality looks different for everyone and is personal to you.
Can religion and spirituality coexist?
Any belief system is possible and valid if it fits you. Both region and spirituality absolutely can coexist together, and have many similarities. Many people enjoy following a religion but using spirituality to deepen their faith, and vice versa. Both offer valid belief systems for different people.
Key takeaway
No matter the path you walk, there are many different ways to connect more deeply with yourself and your truth. Whether it’s exploring religion versus faith, or learning more about spirituality, then spiritual coaching provides the ideal space to be supported while you get to know yourself more deeply.
Get in touch today to book your free 30-minute consultation, and discover how living a more spiritual life can bring you more happiness and joy.