Unpacking the Spiritual Self PDF

GE2405 UNPACKING THE SPIRITUAL SELF The spiritual self is the part of a person that seeks purpose, meaning, and connection beyond the material world. It involves beliefs, values, and inner experiences that guide one’s sense of peace, purpose, and connection to something...

GE2405 UNPACKING THE SPIRITUAL SELF The spiritual self is the part of a person that seeks purpose, meaning, and connection beyond the material world. It involves beliefs, values, and inner experiences that guide one’s sense of peace, purpose, and connection to something greater. The Practice of Religion: Belief in Supernatural Being and Power Religion has been a fundamental component of human culture throughout history. It influences our beliefs, values, and understanding of the world. At the core of many religions is the belief in supernatural beings or powers. These might include gods, spirits, or other entities beyond the physical world. In Christianity, God is viewed as omnipotent who guides and protects believers. In many Indigenous cultures, spirits of ancestors or nature are recognized and considered to be a factor in daily life. The Concept of “Dungan” – Spirit or Soul In the Philippines, particularly among Visayan-speaking communities, "dungan" refers to a person's spiritual or life force. It can be understood as a person’s inner strength or spiritual energy. It is like an invisible force within everyone that affects their vitality, emotions, and how they handle challenges. A strong “dungan” is believed to provide protection. People with strong "dungan" are seen as confident, resilient, and protected from negative influences, while those with a weak "dungan" are considered more vulnerable to problems or illness. Essentially, it represents someone’s spirit or inner power that plays a big role in their well-being and relationships. The concept also extends to life after death, as some believe that the "dungan" transitions to another realm or continues to impact the living. This concept reflects numerous communities' perceptions of spirituality, morality, and well-being. Rituals and Ceremonies Rituals and ceremonies are vital religious practices, serving as expressions of faith and community. They allow individuals to connect with the divine, commemorate significant events, and reinforce shared beliefs. Types of Rituals 1. Life Cycle Rituals – These mark important life events like birth, marriage, and death. For instance, weddings in many cultures involve specific rituals that symbolize the union between two individuals and their families. 2. Seasonal Rituals – These are often aligned with harvest times, solstices, equinoxes, and lunar cycles, symbolizing renewal, growth, or gratitude. For instance, the Hindu festival of Diwali symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and involves lighting lamps and sharing sweets. Ramadan in Islam often occurs during significant agricultural periods, tying physical strength to spiritual development. 3. Healing Rituals – These aim to restore health and wellness, combining physical and spiritual elements. 08 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 1 of 2  GE2405 Religion, Magic, and Witchcraft The boundaries between religion, magic, and witchcraft can be complex and often overlap. Understanding this distinction can help us appreciate the complexities of religious beliefs. Religion – It involves collective beliefs, practices, and institutions to connect with the divine. Magic refers to the use of specific rituals or spells to influence events or outcomes. Many cultures have traditions of healing through magical practices. Witchcraft – In various societies, witchcraft can be viewed negatively. Historical witch hunts illustrate how fear of witchcraft led to persecution despite many practitioners simply being healers or wise individuals in their communities. Finding and Creating Meaning Religion provides a framework for individuals to find and create meaning in their lives. Through beliefs, rituals, and community, people can navigate life's challenges, face mortality, and seek purpose. Engaging with religious beliefs allows individuals to explore their values and identities. It encourages self-reflection and critical thinking about one's beliefs, resulting in personal growth and transformation. Religion also promotes a sense of belonging and community. Participating in religious practices connects individuals with others who share similar beliefs, providing support and encouragement. In summary, the practice of religion encompasses numerous beliefs and practices that shape individual and collective identities. Reflecting on these aspects helps individuals understand their beliefs and discover meaning in their experiences. References: Corpuz, R., et al. (2019). Understanding the Self. C & E Publishing, Inc. Hof-Wp. (2020, May 11). Your Spiritual self - Hoffman Institute UK. Hoffman Institute UK. https://www.hoffmaninstitute.co.uk/your-spiritual- self/#:~:text=Your%20Spiritual%20Self%20is%20you,caught%20up%20on%20the%20language. Spiritually Healthy You. What is the Spiritual Self? https://www.spirituallyhealthyyou.com/spiritualself/. Zunner-Keating, A., Avetyan, M., & Shepard, B. (n.d.). Welcome to the anthropology of magic, witchcraft, and religion. Pressbooks. https://oer.pressbooks.pub/beliefs/chapter/chapter-1/. 08 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 2 of 2