What IS spirituality?

[Maguru]

My understanding of spirituality is all from personal experience. I have no-one to quote, even though the concepts may not be new. What is new to me is that I have experienced my understanding.

This is what I believe. The purpose of spirituality is to realize that we are the creators and the created. We are forms of life, not a part of life or apart from life. The only difference is that we have a conscious awareness which can be negative, positive or both.

The process of spirituality is bringing the unconsciousness (both negative and positive) to consciousness. It is showing more of our humanity to ourselves and each other. It is forming a new, united consciousness. It is a process of change the likes of which we have never known before.

I don't believe this is just a concept. I believe it is the truth. Is anyone else as certain in an alternative belief of what 'spirituality is?

[magi13]

Powell's Books - Why We Believe What We Believe: Uncovering Our Biological Need for Meaning, Spirituality, and Truth by Andrew Newberg

this is a good book to check with respect to that subject. ^^,

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by magi13

Powell's Books - Why We Believe What We Believe: Uncovering Our Biological Need for Meaning, Spirituality, and Truth by Andrew Newberg

this is a good book to check with respect to that subject. ^^,

Thanks. I wasn't looking at why we believe but what we believe. I was really asking if anyone has a solid belief on what 'spirituality' is or what spirituality means to them personally. regards

[cylon]

Well most people can't help but want to learn about why things work. We are like sponges, we want to just know. So where does it come from? Is it some biological impulse we have because it's better for survival, or our 'souls' looking to become aware of themselves?

I think it's the latter. I think we have two selves, ego, and real self, and the real self wants to have more prominence in our lives so it leads us down paths that will make us pay it more attention.

[Judge]

Spirituality - Judge Definition: A word to describe the discovery of our true nature and how that can be accessed and used to create the physical reality we desire and require.

Works for me

Judge

[Arboretor]

For me it means to be convinced that our lives are governed by a higher force (call it 'God' or 'Consciousness' or 'Awareness' or whatever), and that our life has a meaning that goes beyond the simple physical and biological functions.

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by cylon

Well most people can't help but want to learn about why things work. We are like sponges, we want to just know. So where does it come from? Is it some biological impulse we have because it's better for survival, or our 'souls' looking to become aware of themselves?

Mmmm, thought provoking. Maybe spirituality is the driving force behind our 'need to know'? More of a 'spiritual revolution'.
However, it could be either and it seems we have more evidence for the 'survival' concept.

I think it's the latter. I think we have two selves, ego, and real self, and the real self wants to have more prominence in our lives so it leads us down paths that will make us pay it more attention.

This is in line with my belief of unconsciousness coming to consciousness. I think your term ego is representative of the 'unconsciousness'.

I personally don't think of us as having two selves. I think we have one whole self that we are not fully aware of. Looks exactly the same though. regards

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by Judge

Spirituality - Judge Definition: A word to describe the discovery of our true nature and how that can be accessed and used to create the physical reality we desire and require.

Works for me

Judge

Judge, I can't believe this! I truly can't. It is exactly the same belief I hold.

Of course, we have different ideas of the 'how', 'what's' and why's but our simplified versions are a match. I hope you can see it. I think it is amazing.

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by Arboretor

For me it means to be convinced that our lives are governed by a higher force (call it 'God' or 'Consciousness' or 'Awareness' or whatever), and that our life has a meaning that goes beyond the simple physical and biological functions.

I see you are looking at spirituality as a process also. I personally don't think in terms of being 'governed' but I pretty much go along with your definition. Have you any ideas on what that 'meaning' could be?

[Arboretor]

Originally Posted by Maguru

Have you any ideas on what that 'meaning' could be?

I think the ultimate meaning may be beyond our understanding. But as far as it is possible to express: It may be to 'become one with God (or whatever you call it)'.

That is at least my current understanding.

(And at the end of this journey you will meet Judge )

[Judge]

Originally Posted by Maguru

I hope you can see it. I think it is amazing.

I can't see you, my ego prevents it

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by Arboretor

I think the ultimate meaning may be beyond our understanding. But as far as it is possible to express: It may be to 'become one with God (or whatever you call it)'.

That is at least my current understanding.

I think the meaning of sprituality is within our understanding because we are experiencing it. We can only speculate the outcome of spirituality at this point because we are in the process. I think awareness and acceptance will lead to more understanding and this is already happening, although a bit chaotic.

(And at the end of this journey you will meet Judge )

No way. I'm going to hell!

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by Judge

I can't see you, my ego prevents it

C'mon Judge, don't cop out again. Have a look.

Spirituality - Judge Definition: A word to describe the discovery of our true nature..........
Marguru definition : to realize that we are the creators and the created.

Judge : and how that can be accessed
Marguru : bringing the unconsciousness (both negative and positive) to consciousness.

Judge : and used to create the physical reality we desire and require
Maguru : It is forming a new, united consciousness. It is a process of change the likes of which we have never known before.

They are just different words saying the same things. You know judge, words are only pointers!

[cylon]

Watch out, I'm gonna start re-defining stuff. I'm going to make day time night time, and mess up your commute.

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by cylon

re-defining stuff

Is that what you are seeing?

I see the connection of our definitions making a better common understanding of the definition. There is no point having a definition of anything if we can't come to a common understanding.

I believe 'spirituality' can unite us or divide us. Having a basic, common understanding of 'spirituality' could be the first step in unity. Ah, maybe I'm just dreaming but it's a nice dream. regards

[cylon]

I was just enjoying this discussion of definitions as an end unto itself.

[magi13]

Originally Posted by Maguru

Is that what you are seeing?

I see the connection of our definitions making a better common understanding of the definition. There is no point having a definition of anything if we can't come to a common understanding.

I believe 'spirituality' can unite us or divide us. Having a basic, common understanding of 'spirituality' could be the first step in unity. Ah, maybe I'm just dreaming but it's a nice dream. regards

This is a sign that you have matured in your understanding. You are leading a good example to the readers.

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by cylon

I was just enjoying this discussion of definitions as an end unto itself.

Do you mean you weren't really giving the topic much thought? Double No wonder my brain aches.

[mercuryrising]

I was reading the latest issue of Tricycle, a Buddhist magazine, recently and there was this article about the first American Zen Roshi. No one had heard of him. He started a small Zen group in New England. They ran a saw mill to support themselves.

It made me think about what attracted me to Zen in the first place. I think it's because I am always looking for the new spiritual tangent to complicate my life. And I spend a lot of time reflecting, reading, philosophizing and writing. Zen is the opposite of all that. You meditate, chop wood, carry water. No exterior purpose. No spectacular vision, no utopia to create, no mass awakening, no metaphysical meandering. Just life as it is.

I'm happier when I'm not trying to figure it all out and when I'm involved with some vigorous form of work.

[cylon]

Originally Posted by Maguru

Do you mean you weren't really giving the topic much thought? Double No wonder my brain aches.

I was injecting a humor sequence into the discussion, with the intention of observing how said humor introduction would affect the subsequent discussion of definitions, breakthroughs, and insights.

I now initiate humor sequence "pause and reflect" period. Subject (eg cylon) will achieve and maintain "serious contribution mode" in future posts and apologizes for any unwelcome levity.

//end transmission.

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by mercuryrising

I was reading the latest issue of Tricycle, a Buddhist magazine, recently and there was this article about the first American Zen Roshi. No one had heard of him. He started a small Zen group in New England. They ran a saw mill to support themselves.

It made me think about what attracted me to Zen in the first place. I think it's because I am always looking for the new spiritual tangent to complicate my life. And I spend a lot of time reflecting, reading, philosophizing and writing. Zen is the opposite of all that. You meditate, chop wood, carry water. No exterior purpose. No spectacular vision, no utopia to create, no mass awakening, no metaphysical meandering. Just life as it is.

I'm happier when I'm not trying to figure it all out and when I'm involved with some vigorous form of work.

BUt here you are. You still can't help yourself, can you? This thinking is a vigorous form of work for me and you personally sent me on this path through your observations in the 'concept of ego' thread. Thankyou and I hope you stay around.regards

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by cylon

I was injecting a humor sequence into the discussion, with the intention of observing how said humor introduction would affect the subsequent discussion of definitions, breakthroughs, and insights.

I now initiate humor sequence "pause and reflect" period. Subject (eg cylon) will achieve and maintain "serious contribution mode" in future posts and apologizes for any unwelcome levity.

//end transmission.

This is funny but the other wasn't quite so obvious.

[mercuryrising]

Originally Posted by Maguru

BUt here you are. You still can't help yourself, can you? This thinking is a vigorous form of work for me and you personally sent me on this path through your observations in the 'concept of ego' thread. Thankyou and I hope you stay around.regards

You're right, here I am... causing trouble mostly for me.

And thank you... if I can return the compliment, I admire your fearlessness at looking at yourself and reality. You have asked some of the best questions regarding spirituality on this forum (and that's a lot better than having the best answers, IMO). You take nothing for granted. I couldn't categorize you if I wanted to...

Each year for me has a theme. One year, it was just getting the basics of living down after homelessness and addiction. The next year, it was my relationships, especially with women. This year, it is demonstrating what I know as truth. Demonstrating because the words never do truth any justice, nor can they possibly "stand in" for the reality. I don't know where these themes come from... they just seem obvious somewhere around January 1st.

So I've been aware of how much I escape into a computer and away from my meditation cushion. And how important it is for me to walk my talk...

Namaste, Paula...


Ned

[Angela]

Originally Posted by Maguru

I see the connection of our definitions making a better common understanding of the definition. There is no point having a definition of anything if we can't come to a common understanding.

I believe 'spirituality' can unite us or divide us. Having a basic, common understanding of 'spirituality' could be the first step in unity. Ah, maybe I'm just dreaming but it's a nice dream. regards

For me, unity itself is the first step -- there are no prerequisites, like common understanding or anything else. There is no uniting or dividing; we're already One.

Having common understanding of a word or concept isn't necessary, as even conflicting understandings are aligned and free and work really well together. And... if we look at what is the purpose of these words or understandings -- the higher intention of them -- it doesn't take too much looking to find commonality.

So, I wouldn't be so interested in knowing what spirituality is, that is: your definition of it, as I am to know what you think spirituality is for. That's something you stated right off the bat in your OP, and I find that purpose inspiring.

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by mercuryrising

You're right, here I am... causing trouble mostly for me.

And thank you... if I can return the compliment, I admire your fearlessness at looking at yourself and reality. You have asked some of the best questions regarding spirituality on this forum (and that's a lot better than having the best answers, IMO). You take nothing for granted. I couldn't categorize you if I wanted to...

That is the BEST compliment I have ever had. I have had to fight for my freedom from the pigeon hole and it's wonderful to know I have escaped.

Each year for me has a theme. One year, it was just getting the basics of living down after homelessness and addiction. The next year, it was my relationships, especially with women. This year, it is demonstrating what I know as truth. Demonstrating because the words never do truth any justice, nor can they possibly "stand in" for the reality. I don't know where these themes come from... they just seem obvious somewhere around January 1st.

So I've been aware of how much I escape into a computer and away from my meditation cushion. And how important it is for me to walk my talk...

Namaste, Paula...


Ned

I like your new theme. You got me on it too. I wish sometimes I would keep my big gob shut because I have to put my money where my mouth is and as you say 'walk the talk' and it isn't easy. But I couldn't settle for a peaceful existence chopping wood and carrying water either.

Most of my meditation is on this forum. I completely focus and go into deep thought. That's where all my questions and answers come from. However, more than anything else, I get to know myself, especially when someone pisses me off. It's then I know awareness of myself is coming to consciousness.

If spirituality exists, then on an individual level, I believe the purpose is to bring self-awareness. This knowledge and understanding of self then extends to others. I don't think we need to look any further because the snowball effect is guaranteed. regards

[Maguru]

Originally Posted by Angela

For me, unity itself is the first step -- there are no prerequisites, like common understanding or anything else. There is no uniting or dividing; we're already One.

Hello Angela, it's always great to catch up with you, my opposite. How else would I know who I am not?
Let's go back down to earth for a moment, in the real world don't you think it is possible that MIS-understandings cause division between us?

I understand you are coming from we are already there perspective, but it isn't playing out in real life. The concept that we are all one is just one side of the coin. I accept your belief as a possibility and I want it to be true. I truly hope it is a vision that we all share and that together we can make it happen.

Having common understanding of a word or concept isn't necessary, as even conflicting understandings are aligned and free and work really well together. And... if we look at what is the purpose of these words or understandings -- the higher intention of them -- it doesn't take too much looking to find commonality.

We only have words to understand each other and I believe it's vitally important to reach common understandings. However, on the other side of 'conflict' being aligned, I see that too. The best gifts are usually the ones that hurt but if you don't know it's a gift then it's war.

So, I wouldn't be so interested in knowing what spirituality is, that is: your definition of it, as I am to know what you think spirituality is for. That's something you stated right off the bat in your OP, and I find that purpose inspiring.

We are both looking at the same thing but from opposite ends of the spectrum. Your views have inspired me into deep thinking many times. regards

[Eno Thgirb]

I don't really know what spirituality is, at least to the point where I could put it into words... or my own words. Consciousness, perhaps, the pursuit of wisdom. Though there is wordly wisdom and wordly and spiritual are two different things, I think, even if they do interact or... merge.

[Anagogy]

To me, spirituality is the constant refinement of my conscious awareness of the oneness between all things. The refinement will go on till I am consciously at one with everything.

Then I'll probably do it all over again for fun.

[Andy4]

I think spirituality is accepting people for who they are.This life is at times very competive I was brought up on it.

When you can put yourself second and admire what others are striving for and be aware of their feelings and their hopes and dreams and not just your own I think you're getting there.

Regards,

Andy.

[Strem2]

Originally Posted by Maguru

We are both looking at the same thing but from opposite ends of the spectrum. Your views have inspired me into deep thinking many times. regards

Thinking is the ego. Being is spirituality. Try looking again from Angela's pov.

Love