Understanding of the Word “Spirituality” by Theologians Compared to Lay People: An Empirical Study from a Secular Region

Abstract

Although widely used, we know very little of the meaning of the word spirituality in secular, non-English speaking societies, and different understandings might lead to misunderstandings and unclear communication. This empirical study compares a theologian and a lay group on their understandings of the term spirituality by analysis of a questionnaire consisting of 115 possible associations of the word spirituality. Analysis compares six understandings of spirituality: 1) positive dimensions in human life and well-being; 2) new Age-ideology; 3) integrated part of established religious life; 4) vague striving, opposed to religion; 5) selfishness; and 6) ordinary inspiration in human activities. Results show the theologians understand spirituality more as part of established religious life than the lay group, whereas the lay group understands spirituality more as a striving toward something transcendent, vaguely defined. In conclusion, it is suggested never to use the term spirituality without a notion or some keywords framing the meaning of the word in the specific context.