Spiritual Education Research Articles

The feasibility and efficacy of a psychospiritual intervention with the insights from Bhagavad Gītā and Yin Yoga on a Turkish population: A mixed method approach

ABSTRACT This pilot study examines the feasibility of a psychospiritual intervention integrating Bhagavad Gītā and Yin Yoga to reduce anxiety and enhance meaning in life and resilience among 20 Turkish women. Amidst challenges like COVID-19 and earthquakes, this novel approach, using quasi-experimental single-group mixed-methods pre-test/post-test design, aimed to assess the intervention’s adaptability and effectiveness within a cultural context unfamiliar with such methods. The online intervention used the Beck Anxiety Inventory, Meaning in Life Questionnaire, and Brief Resilience Scale and semi-structured interviews. SPSS was used for quantitative data analysis, and thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses. Results showed a significant reduction in anxiety, with participants reporting improved coping strategies and a deeper sense of life’s meaning. While resilience scores showed only a slight, non-significant increase, qualitative feedback suggested subtle improvements in handling adversity. Additionally, the presence and search for meaning scores showed nuanced changes, with qualitative responses indicating a refined understanding of meaning in life post-intervention. This study underscores the value of mixed-methods research in psychospirituality, demonstrating the potential of integrating ancient spiritual teachings with modern psychological practices to support mental health and coping strategies in diverse cultural contexts.

Spiritual development of preschool children is the main task of the teacher

The research identifies the main spiritual values of a preschooler: attitude towards oneself, family, elders, folk traditions, work, nature, love for the Motherland, etc. These values help the child become a part of the society in which he or she is brought up. The very concept of spirituality has complex, multicomponent interpretations of philosophical, psychological, and pedagogical orientation, which is why teachers and parents do not clearly understand it, and therefore the practice of forming the spiritual potential of a preschooler's personality often results in a tendency to reduce the formation of spirituality to the introduction of children to religious traditions, which is a one-sided approach. The purpose of a teacher's work in spiritual education of preschoolers is to teach a child to live among people, following certain norms and rules, i.e. to promote the child's adaptation in modern society. Therefore, this study will help the teacher to understand whether the tasks of spiritual education are being realized through forms of work that are natural and accessible to preschool children: the formation of the concepts of “good”, “evil”, “beauty”, etc. The importance of at least periodically involving children in “live” communication with peers and adults is emphasized, especially during war or military conflicts, when distance or blended learning become the main forms of education, so that the teacher can develop the child's communication skills. At such times, communication with children comes to the fore. It is important for children that the teacher hears their thoughts, questions, and feelings. It is also important for children that adults share their thoughts, feelings, and questions with them. Various forms of educational work with children are proposed. These forms and methods will help educators to develop skills of creativity, communication, critical thinking, teamwork (4k) as the basis of spiritual and intellectual upbringing and teaching of a child. The use of these forms in upbringing work helps children gain confidence, understand, and comprehend (through the images of literary characters) the need for kindness and mercy, the ability to forgive and love. Indirectly, children learn the basic Christian commandments, which will become the basis for further spiritual and moral formation of the individual.

The Evolution and Characteristics of General Education in Taiwan

Taiwanese universities have embraced the spirit of general education from Europe and the United States, launching their own general education programs in the 1980s. Through various social and educational transformations, general education has come to play a critical role in Taiwan's higher education system. This paper outlines the evolution, principles, and key characteristics of general education in Taiwan. Additionally, it explores how universities have introduced diverse general education programs to bridge various gaps: between academic disciplines, between academia and societal issues, between passive and active learning, between the digital and physical worlds, and between local knowledge and global perspectives. The paper concludes by highlighting the potential of even larger gaps emerging in the future due to advancements in AI, suggesting that general education must evolve to address these challenges effectively.

Особливості організації навчального процесу в Київській духовній семінарії (друга половина 19 – початок 20 ст.)

The aim of this article is to explore the features of the educational process in the Kyiv Theological Seminary during the second half of the 19th century and the early 20th century. The authors examine the fundamental principles of the functioning of a secondary educational institution of the Russian Orthodox Church. The research methodology is based on the principles of historicism, objectivity, and systematics. First of all, general scientific methods of historical knowledge—analysis, synthesis, and systematic analysis—are employed. Scientific novelty. The educational process at the Kyiv Theological Seminary during the late 19th and early 20th centuries is analyzed as an integral part of the spiritual education system of the Russian Empire on the Ukrainian lands. The study demonstrates the Russification-oriented nature of this process. Conclusions. The theological seminaries were a significant component of spiritual education in the Russian Empire, designed to train clergy as leaders of the imperial ideology within society. The Kyiv Theological Seminary was an integral part of this system, without any particular distinguishing features compared to other seminaries across the Empire. In the second half of the 19th century, a deliberate process of unification and centralization in the educational sphere was underway, with the 1867 and 1884 Seminary Statutes playing a crucial role. The educational process, as well as the overall activities of the Kyiv Theological Seminary, were strictly controlled by the Educational Committee of the Holy Synod. The curriculum was highly regulated and structured. Seminary students were under constant supervision by their instructors, ensuring their loyalty, if not devotion, to the Russian imperial regime. Graduation from the Kyiv Theological Seminary provided access to admission to the Kyiv Theological Academy, but only 1% of seminarians chose to continue their studies there.

John Hick’s Theodicy of Moral and Spiritual Development and a Critical Examination of Theodicy

John Hick is a significant philosopher known for his innovative ideas in religious thought and theology, particularly through his ‘theodicy of moral and spiritual development’. He redefines human existence as a spiritual education process orchestrated by God, suggesting that the world is created for humanity’s spiritual growth. Hick interprets pain and evil as integral parts of a divine plan, positing that these challenges allow individuals to develop through the exercise of free will. This perspective departs from traditional theistic views, framing evil as a necessary tool for spiritual advancement while maintaining the absolute goodness of God. However, Hick’s theories face criticism, particularly regarding the notion that all human pain serves an educational purpose. Critics argue that experiencing evil can result in trauma, and not all suffering fosters spiritual development. This contention highlights the limitations of Hick’s theodicy in addressing contemporary issues in religion, morality, and social trauma. Despite these criticisms, Hick’s ideas remain influential, sparking discussions among theologians and moral philosophers about the relationship between suffering, spiritual growth, and the dynamics within these fields. His work continues to inspire new approaches to understanding religion and spiritual development.

Childhood Education and Popular Islam: Islamic Psychology as a Pattern of Early Childhood Education in the Authoritative Affinity of Popular Islam

Purpose – This study examines how Islamic psychology contributes to early childhood education by integrating spirituality, emotional well-being, and intellectual development, while addressing the impact of globalization and popular Islam on the authenticity of Islamic teachings. Design/methods/approach – The study employs a qualitative methodology centered on conceptual analysis, utilizing systematic reviews of scholarly articles, books, and relevant media. This approach critically examines key concepts such as fitrah (innate nature), nafs (soul dynamics), and their applications in early childhood education, particularly in the context of media and cultural globalization. Findings – The findings reveal that Islamic psychology provides a robust foundation for addressing contemporary challenges in early childhood education. Key principles such as fitrah and tawhid support the development of children’s spiritual, cognitive, and emotional capacities. However, the increasing commercialization of Islamic values through popular media risks diluting these teachings into superficial symbols. The study emphasizes the need for parental and educator involvement to ensure the alignment of popular Islamic content with authentic religious values, providing a balanced approach to moral and spiritual education. Additionally, the research highlights the potential of Islamic psychological principles to offer innovative solutions to counteract identity crises in children, promoting resilience against the influences of globalization and consumer culture. Research implications/limitations – The study is limited to theoretical and conceptual analyses of Islamic psychology in early childhood education and does not include empirical data. Future research should focus on field-based studies to evaluate the practical application of these concepts in diverse cultural and educational settings. Additionally, the findings underscore the necessity for policy reforms to integrate Islamic psychological principles into early childhood education curricula. Practical implications – This research provides actionable insights for integrating Islamic psychology into early childhood education by combining spiritual, cognitive, and emotional development, leveraging media responsibly, and creating Islamic value-oriented environments to help children navigate sociocultural challenges while maintaining their religious identity. Originality/value – This study highlights the integration of Islamic psychological principles to address challenges in early childhood education amid popular Islam and globalization, offering a holistic paradigm that balances intellectual, spiritual, and emotional development to create resilient, morally grounded individuals. Paper type Conceptual paper

Stakeholders’ Training Initiatives by Neo-Pentecostal Churches can Alleviate Domestic Water Scarcity in Tigania West Constituency

Church teachings and doctrines are expected to be all-inclusive. Therefore, Neo-Pentecostal Churches (NPCs) in Tigania West should incorporate water stakeholder training into their spiritual and community responsibilities. By partnering with NGOs, Bible schools, and technical institutions, NPCs can equip leaders with skills in sustainable water management to address domestic water scarcity, improve access, reduce diseases, and enhance livelihoods. This study explored the training initiatives for water stakeholders by Neo-Pentecostal churches on alleviation of domestic water scarcity in Tigania West constituency, where 97% of the population faces severe water challenges. Despite biblical mandates in Matthew 28:20 and Ezekiel 34:17-19, which call for addressing both spiritual and practical needs, NPCs however perceive water stakeholder training as outside their biblical mandate. This narrow focus on spiritual matters highlights a gap in their involvement in addressing water scarcity menace. Using the Theological Reflection Theory, the study adopted a qualitative approach and phenomenological research design. It targeted 22 registered NPCs in Tigania West, with a sample of 59 participants who were sampled using cluster sampling technique. Respondents were pastors and church members. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis, with pre-testing ensuring validity and reliability. Thematic analysis technique was applied to analyze the collected data. Findings revealed that NPCs lacked formal water management training programs, although some churches expressed interest in vocational initiatives like rainwater harvesting and infrastructure development. The study concluded that NPCs’ limited engagement with water scarcity represents a missed opportunity to align spiritual teachings with community development. The study recommends collaboration of NPCs, Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs), NGOs, and Bible schools, with technical institutions in organizing workshops, seminars, and other capacity-building initiatives regarding water management and access. These initiatives would provide practical knowledge on water catchment protection, rainwater harvesting, and infrastructure development, thus enhancing NPCs' role in bridging faith and social responsibility.

Política de educação física, esporte e lazer do IFRS: o lugar ocupado pela educação física escolar

The main objective of this article is to analyze Physical Education, Sport and Leisure Policy (PESLP) in terms of understanding the role played by school Physical Education (PE) at Federal Institute of Rio Grande do Sul (IFRS). The secondary objective is to understand how PESLP aligns with legal frameworks, the extent to which the proposal is suited to republican and democratic educational principles and the way in which it is linked to critical PE literature. For this reason, qualitative, documentary research was developed with hermeneutic analysis. The first part of the analysis reveals a school PE proposal strongly linked to critical educational models, with an innovative perspective and aligned with educational principles that are related to recent trends in this area of study. Another result is the institutional rupture with traditional teaching models, in which little to no educational spirit was presented in pedagogical practices. The results also indicate that PESLP is strongly linked to legal frameworks and critical literature in the area, in line with educational, republican and democratic principles. We conclude that the analyzed document demonstrates strong educational power and may serve as a model for other institutions with the same characteristics as IFRS to build their own legal frameworks. Keywords: Republican and Democratic Education. Physical Education Teaching. Educational politics.

Edu-Spirituality Building: Environmental Awareness Through Njogo Resan

This study aims to determine the implementation of planting and maintaining protective trees (Njogo Resan) as a means of conveying environmental messages that have an impact on students' spiritual education at MIS NU Abu Bakar Bancangan, Sambit, Ponorogo. This type of research is Qualitative with a case study approach at MIS NU Abu Bakar Bancangan, Sambit, Ponorogo. The subjects of this research are students, scout coaches, and teachers. Data collection methods through observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis was carried out by following the interactive model of Miles Huberman with several stages, namely data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. Based on the results of observations, interviews, and documentation, it shows that the implementation of Njogo Resan activities, namely scout coaches invite students to plant protective tree / Resan seeds with the characteristics of their roots that can absorb a lot of water on Widodaren hill because the location is a victim of burning to open agricultural land for residents, and maintain it by watering it regularly. The impact of Njogo Resan on the Spiritual education of students was successfully embedded, namely establishing good relations with fellow creatures created by Allah SWT (Hablu min al-Nās), which includes humans, animals, and plants in the surrounding environment.

EFFECTIVENESS OF THE HOOK, BOOK, LOOK, AND TOOK (HBLT) TEACHING METHOD ON THE SPIRITUAL GROWTH OF EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDENTS AT PAUD RUMAH BELAJAR BABA

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Hook, Book, Look, And Took (HBLT) method on the spiritual growth of early childhood education (PAUD) students at Rumah Belajar Baba. The research employs a qualitative approach with a case study methodology, involving in-depth observation and document analysis. Data were collected through direct observation of learning activities, interactions between educators and students, and feedback from students and parents regarding the HBLT learning process. The results indicate that the HBLT method significantly contributes to the spiritual growth of students, as evidenced by an enhanced understanding of spiritual values, emotional engagement, and daily religious practices. The discussion reveals that the integration of technology in learning provides a more interactive and personalized experience, strengthening the connection between students and spiritual content. However, challenges in implementation, such as limitations in training, mentoring, and disparities in access, need to be addressed to improve the effectiveness of this method. The study recommends broader utilization of the Hook, Book, Look, And Took HBLT with adjustments to overcome existing obstacles and enhanced training for educators to maximize the potential of this method in the context of spiritual education.

Genealogi Pendidikan Riyadhah: Telaah Tafsir Pemikiran KH Hasyim Asy’ari

This article will elaborate on spiritual education riyadhah in the personal perspective of K.H Hasyim Asy'ari, which will be discussed based on the thoughts written in his classic works. To answer this question, the author uses primary and secondary sources. Primary sources used are taken from several book manuscripts by K.H. M. Hasyim Asy'ari. In describing them, historical interpretation techniques and meanings are needed in a deep and structured manner. In addition, secondary sources used in writing this article are books and manuscripts that support the discussion of the author's problem based on sources that have high validity. The author finds data that K.H Hasyim Asy'ari provides another dimension in discussing, applying and practicing spiritual education values including through riyadhah. Riyadhah education is presented with a simple concept that is in accordance with Islamic teachings based on thoughts in the form of implementation of narratives and writings of his works with implied or explicit messages.

Principal Canonical Issues In A Muslim Man - Catholic Woman Marriage

Marriage is a covenant, an irrevocable sacred bond which establishes the totality of conjugal love. In a marriage between a Muslim man and a Catholic woman, the differences of faith, the conflict of laws, and the spiritual education of children are canonical issues and sources of tension which could ultimately disrupt the totality of conjugal living. The pre marital period for the Muslim man and the Catholic woman offers them precious time to discern their marital decision and vocation for marriage. Some of these essential elements for discernment from a canonical viewpoint have been raised in this article.

Characteristic features of the activities of Muslim educational institutions in Kabardino-Balkaria between 1992 and 2005

The article is devoted to the study of specific features of the process of formation and development of the Islamic education system in the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic in the early 90s of the XX century and in the mid of the first decade of the XXI century. The author, based on a comprehensive analysis of scientifi c papers, studies the specifi cs of the emergence and development of the structure of Muslim educational institutions in the CBD in the early 1990s and in the mid of the 2000s. The paper considers the role of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the republic in the creation of a complex of higher and secondary educational Islamic institutions in the CBD between 1992 and 2005. The author examines the totality of theological, socio-economic and political problems that arose during the formation of Muslim spiritual education in Kabardino-Balkaria, and measures aimed at overcoming them.

Spiritual education and successful aging: A spiritual dialogue

Most people endeavor to prolong their lives and hope for a healthy old age, indicating that successful aging is extremely important for older adults. This article explored how spiritual education can enhance successful aging for older adults and develop a spiritual dialogue between them. The researchers used documentary analysis methods to analyze the successful aging methods for older adults. The successful aging methods outlined for older adults are as follows: (1) developing a sense of meaning and purpose; (2) making sense of life experiences; (3) emphasizing the importance of connection; (4) enhancing resilience; (5) enhancing life satisfaction; (6) encouraging a holistic view of well-being. The discussion in this article can expand approaches to successful aging methods for older adults.

ДУХОВНА ОСВІТА В ЧЕСЬКІЙ ТА НІМЕЦЬКІЙ СПІЛЬНОТАХ ВОЛИНІ У ХІХ – НА ПОЧАТКУ ХХ СТОЛІТТЯ

The paper characterizes the peculiarities of the spiritual education of children and youth of the Czech and German communities of Volyn in the 19th – at the beginning of the 20th century. It was established that in these communities only the primary and non-institutional (religion education in families and thanks to the activities of public educational societies) level of spiritual educational institutions was represented. It was determined that the most important feature of the German community in Volyn was its socio-cultural isolation, as a result of which the model of German schooling (primary and secondary level) developed by the colonists was based on the Lutheran or Roman Catholic religion followed by the Germans of Volyn. Throughout the entire period of their stay in the Volyn region, the German colonists relied on religion and the church in the education and upbringing of children, therefore the entire process of education was characterized by a spiritual and religious character. In German parochial schools, children studied, in addition to purely religious disciplines, Latin and German, arithmetic, writing, geography, history, music and singing. However, the imperial authorities made sure that secular subjects were taught in russian; it was also one of the main subjects in colonial schools. It has been proven that religious practices played an important role in the schooling of German colonists: the whole Sabbath day was devoted to the so-called «confirmation instructions», i.e. reading and discussing religious texts; Sunday, in addition, included «reading services» and various religious rites - christenings, visits to the elderly and the sick, confession and communion. It was established that spiritual education in the primary schools of the Czech community in Volyn consisted of the study of russian-czech writing, reading in russian and Czech, russian history, arithmetic, sacred history, and prayers. During the 19th century, most Czech schools were transformed into russian parochial schools, and Czech churches became Orthodox churches.

СТАНОВЛЕННЯ ТА РОЗВИТОК ЦЕРКОВНО-ПАРАФІЯЛЬНОГО ШКІЛЬНИЦТВА НА ВОЛИНІ У ХІХ – НА ПОЧАТКУ ХХ СТОЛІТТЯ

The article analyzes the process of formation and development of church parish schooling in Volyn from the 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century. It has been proven that two-thirds of the children of the Orthodox faith in the villages and towns of Volyn remained outside the spiritual education of the lower – parish level. The prominent place of law teachers in the educational process of parish schools and their functional connections with local priests are substantiated. The conclusion about the requirement of loyalty, beneficence and religiosity towards legislators from the Russian church and the imperial government is formulated. It was established that diocesan school councils were created to organize and control the activities of parish schools, which, in turn, managed the corresponding county councils, which were responsible for the organization of parish schools in the respective Orthodox parish. It was noted that in order to ensure the educational process in church and parish schools, books in Russian or Church Slavonic were selected for them; historical documents proved that children had a hard time perceiving both educational and literary literature in Russian, did not understand the content of books in Church Slavonic, therefore they did not achieve much success. The opinion is substantiated that the basis of educational activities in parish schools in Volyn were prayer, attendance by students of church schools in the parish and participation in traditional church needs (confession, communion). The main methods of education (encouragement and punishment) were described – praise, awarding books, as well as remarks, instruction, shaming, standing in the classroom during the lesson on your feet, prohibition to participate in children's games during breaks, detention in the classroom after lessons for more than an hour, etc.

WORKPLACE SPIRITUALITY: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF THE MODERN ORGANISATIONS

Creating and maintaining a healthy organization has become a significant challenge for leaders in today’s volatile and competitive business landscape. A crucial component of a healthy organization is the mental well-being of employees. In particular, teaching is a highly stressful profession that exposes educators to the risk of burnout. To mitigate this, techniques that engage higher mental functions—such as transcendental meditation and prayer—have been incorporated into stress and burnout prevention programs. Spirituality in education plays a key role in enhancing the quality of teaching and learning, though it is influenced by various personal, social, religious, and cultural factors. This study explores the relationship between workplace spirituality, meditation, and teacher performance. It evaluates the impact of wellness and spirituality on teachers' work performance. Data were collected from 375 teachers in the Hubli-Dharwad region, revealing that spirituality has a positive influence on work performance. A workplace that supports both wellness and spirituality fosters a more conducive environment for effective work.

The Role of Multimedia in Popularizing Lal Ded’s Mysticism among Youth

Lal Ded, or Lalleshwari, was a mystic poetess from Kashmir, her poetry and spiritual legacy has been revived and made famous among contemporary youth via multimedia platforms. In order to make Lal Ded's mysticism understandable and acceptable to newer generations, this research article looks at how several multimedia channels, such as print (newspaper, magazine), electronic (TV, radio), and digital medium, have been necessary. Various videos, textual materials, and documentaries that delve into Lal Ded's life, poetry, and spiritual teachings may be found on various multimedia platforms. Based on secondary data, this study takes qualitative approach including Content analysis and case study. This methodology offers a thorough examination of the ways in which multimedia platforms impact young people's knowledge and interest in Lal Ded's mysticism. The results of this study demonstrate that multimedia platforms, which make Lal Ded's teachings approachable, interesting, and pertinent to modern audiences, have been crucial in helping to popularize her mysticism among youth. These platforms adapt her timeless thoughts to contemporary digital contexts, so they not only preserve her legacy but also guarantee its continued relevance. Future initiatives have to keep utilizing multimedia advancements to expand the audience and significance of Lal Ded's poetry and spiritual legacy.

Parenting, family guidance and spiritual education: Proverbs 1:8–9 and its wisdom ethos for children’s moral development

This article seeks to provide a wisdom domain moral analysis of Proverbs 1:8–9 on the role of parents in conveying the significance of parental instruction and the development of wisdom in children. As a process through which young individuals acquire and cultivate essential qualities and values that shape their behavior and moral outlook, children character development encompasses various aspects, including moral, social, emotional, and cognitive dimensions, and it is influenced by a range of factors, including familial upbringing, social interactions, cultural influences, education, and personal experiences. Whilst the origin of parents as agents of moral guardian is not explicitly stated in the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament (HB/OT), Proverbs 1:8–9 is one of those key passages whose themes underscore the profound significance of family structure and system, and parental responsibility. The verses highlight the spiritual and moral dimensions of family life, promoting a sense of dignity, submission, and personal development within the context of a supportive family structure. The incisive prescriptions of the text offer a journey into self-understanding, self-development, and self-actualization, by reaffirming the family as a pivotal social institution while balancing the roles and responsibilities of parents and children.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article brings together biblical and theological insights from the parental rhetoric of Proverbs 1:8–9 to bear on and help shape the oversight function of parents as agents of children moral development and healthy family life. The verses bridge spiritual wisdom with scientific understanding, presenting a holistic view of how a child grows intellectually, emotionally, and morally.

SPIRITUAL ENHANCEMENT THROUGH PRENATAL GENTLE YOGA WITHIN ISLAMIC CULTURAL CONTEXTS

<p><em>Prenatal education is an important aspect in preparing pregnant women holistically to face the process of pregnancy and childbirth. This study aims to examine the integration of gentle yoga with Islamic spiritual values as an approach in Islamic prenatal education. Gentle yoga, with a focus on gentle physical exercise, breathing techniques, meditation, and relaxation, offers various benefits for the physical and emotional health of pregnant women. On the other hand, Islamic spiritual values emphasize the importance of maintaining physical and mental health and getting closer to Allah SWT. This study used a qualitative method with a literature study approach and in-depth interviews with pregnant women and Islamic scholars. Data were analyzed to understand the views and practices related to the integration of gentle yoga and spiritual education in the context of pregnancy. The results showed that gentle yoga integrated with Islamic spiritual values can improve the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of pregnant women. This practice helps pregnant women feel calm, patient, and close to Allah SWT, as well as strengthen gratitude and inner peace. The conclusion of this study confirms that Islamic prenatal education that combines gentle yoga and Islamic spiritual values offers an effective holistic approach to preparing pregnant women. The implementation of such prenatal education can provide comprehensive support for pregnant women, both physically, mentally, and spiritually. This study provides a significant contribution to the development of a prenatal education approach that is in accordance with Islamic teachings and beneficial for the health of pregnant women.</em></p>