Spiritual Journey Research Articles

Olympism through the Eyes of Coaches: Metaphorical Texture and Colors of Sport

This study aims to explore coaches' metaphorical perceptions of the concept of “Olympism.” The research sample consists of 170 coaches (86 male, 84 female) from various sports disciplines, working in both public and private organizations in Turkey during the 2023-2024 academic year. Data were collected using a “metaphor form,” where participants were prompted to complete the sentence: “Olympism is like ...; because …”. Content analysis was employed to examine the responses, leading to the development of categories and themes. The metaphors were organized into five categories, each comprising eleven themes. The most prominent category was ‘values of sport,’ followed by ‘abstract concepts and spiritual development’ and ‘universal values.’. The most frequent metaphors included life, Olympiad, summit, success, harmony, spirit, and sport. These findings indicate that coaches view sport as both a physical and a spiritual journey, emphasizing that Olympism supports athletes' personal and professional development. In the category of “Sport and Ethical Competition,” coaches highlighted that Olympism encompasses ethical values and social contributions in addition to achieving success. In the “Abstract Concepts and Spiritual Development” category, coaches described Olympism as a spiritual journey and a philosophy of life. Meanwhile, in the “Universal Values” category, they conveyed that sport serves as a means of fostering global unity and understanding. Overall, the study highlights that metaphors are an effective means of expressing the complex and multifaceted nature of Olympism.

Finding the “way back”: Displacement and the imaginings of home in Niq Mhlongo’s Way Back Home

ABSTRACT This article explores the polysemy and ambivalence of “home” in Niq Mhlongo’s Way Back Home, identifying “home” as a place of belonging and origin, as well as a repository of history. It begins by situating the novel in a post-apartheid context, identifying the allegorical potential of its main characters. The article primarily focusses on the material and spiritual journeys of Kimathi, the novel’s protagonist, while also giving consideration to the journey of his victim, Senami (alias Lady Comrade Mkabayi). Informed by Homi Bhabha’s conception of the unhomely, this article argues that the loss of home constitutes a trauma of displacement for Kimathi and considers whether his return home suggests the possibility of closure for both him and South Africa as a nation. Finally, it observes how Way Back Home invokes Njabulo Ndebele’s assertion that South Africans are “yet to return home” to justice and the ideals of democracy.

Book Review: Path to Salvation: Temporal and Spiritual Journeys by the Mendicant Orders, c.1370–1740

Book Review: Path to Salvation: Temporal and Spiritual Journeys by the Mendicant Orders, c.1370–1740

The Digital Desert: The Spiritual Struggle In Virtual Reality

This article explores the spiritual challenges faced by individuals in virtual reality, drawing parallels to the temptations experienced by Jesus in the desert. In Orthodox theology, the desert symbolizes a place of testing and spiritual purification, a notion that is transferred to the modern "desert" of virtual environments. The essay examines how humans today, much like Christ in the desert, face temptations in the digital world—temptations that promise immediate gratification, power, and control but ultimately divert them from their spiritual journey and union with God. Central to this struggle is the concept of prospatheia, the passionate attachment to the material and digital world, which is countered by the cultivation of aprospatheia, or spiritual freedom from such attachments. The article emphasizes the need for spiritual vigilance and highlights the dangers of becoming overly immersed in the illusory experiences of virtual reality, urging a return to spiritual focus and self-restraint

Synodal Discernment on a Catechetical Drama called “Service of Light,” Its Impact on the Integral Education and Edification of Faith of the Laity

Synodality is a vital characteristic of the Catholic Church's life and mission, highlighting joint revitalization through listening, discernment, and active participation. Inspired by this concept, researchers started a study exploring the impact of the "Service of Light," a catechetical drama observed during Easter vigil, on local parishioners within the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia in the Philippines. Employing an exploratory and qualitative approach, the researchers examined the denotative and connotative meanings embedded in images and narratives surrounding this ritual, using Roland Barthes' semiotic model for analysis. The study involved visiting five local Catholic parishes within the archdiocese, conducting purposive sampling for survey interviews, and gathering visuals. Results uncovered meaningful impacts of the Service of Light on the integral Christian education and spiritual edification of the parishioners. The catechetical drama served as a powerful teaching tool that deepened the parishioners’ understanding of Christian doctrine. It helped develop a sense of belonging within their faith community. Moreover, the Service of Light generated spiritual renewal and strengthened individual faith. The ritual's symbolism aroused a deeper connection with God, empowering parishioners to live out their faith more fully in daily life. The Service of Light was acknowledged as a tool of faith that continues to inspire the parishioners to bear fruit for years to come. In conclusion, the study underscores the significance of the Service of Light in parishioners' Christian education and spiritual journey, emphasizing its role in fostering community, deepening understanding of faith, and inspiring personal and communal growth. As a recommendation, the researchers are suggesting future research to explore the perspectives of ordained clergy for a comprehensive understanding of its impact on Christian communities.

Eco–Tourism and its Development in Tribal Regions of Jharkhand

Jharkhand, a state nestled in the lap of nature and often called the land of forests, is a haven for those seeking solace and spiritual connection amidst natural beauty. Its rich and abundant natural splendour offers many opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world. Whether it's observing the diverse flora and fauna thriving in its verdant forests, marvelling at the numerous enchanting waterfalls, trekking through breathtaking hills, encountering the diverse wildlife in its renowned national parks, or embarking on a profound spiritual journey through its famous temples, Jharkhand promises an unforgettable and reflective experience. Therefore, exploring ecotourism in the state of Jharkhand has the potential for significant economic growth, offering hope to marginalised communities and fostering optimism in sustainable tourism and economic sustainability. The study delves into ecotourism by exploring the rich cultural practices and traditions of tribal communities in Jharkhand. It envisions ecotourism as a unifying force, aiming to unite people from all walks of life under the shared belief of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”— One Earth, One Family, One Future. The involvement of tribals in ecotourism has the potential to promote environmental sustainability and drive social, economic, and cultural development. Key Words: Tribal, Sustainable, Ecotourism, Flora and Fauna, Non-Timber Forest Products, Forest Bath.

IN PURSUIT OF TRUTH: D̲J̲ALĀL AL-DĪN RŪMĪ'S CONCEPTION OF HAPPINESS WITHIN THE MATHNAWĪ-I MA’NAWĪ

This article investigates the notion of happiness as presented in Mawlānā D̲j̲alāl al-Dīn Rūmī’s (d. 672/1273) Mathnawī-ī Ma’nawī, examining the intersection amid the scholarly discourse on the subject within the Sufi literature. Rather than a momentary sentiment, Rumi identifies happiness as the state of existence once experienced in the primordial realm. Having separated from the divine presence, the condition of human beings on earth would consist of pain and unhappiness. Since the worldly material is transitory, the happiness achieved through them is likewise. Therefore, Rumi encourages the individual to take a voluntary spiritual journey (sulūk) from the self (nafs) to the soul to be united with the divine (tawḥīd) to obtain celestial happiness once again, all while living in the terrestrial world (ʿālam al-s̲h̲ahāda)—the Mathnawī being a manual for the devotees on the path. This education provides an understanding for the individual of the nature of the objects, self-awareness, and divine enlightenment through the inner transformation of the self. Traversing through the stations and the states of the journey with the guidance of the spiritual master (murs̲h̲id), one purifies the ego (nafs) and eventually reaches the grade of contentment (riḍā). This stage signals the achievement of self-realization, wherein individuals grasp the divine spirit inherent in their existence and relish living in harmony with divine will, thereby, happiness. If the seeker reaches the state of self-annihilation (fanā‘), then the layers of nafs are completely unveiled (kas̲h̲f, leading to the gnosis (ma‘rifa). In this state, through celestial love, one begins to see Divine manifestations around them—placing true happiness as an intimate communion with the ultimate Truth (al-Ḥaḳḳ). This connection brings about a profound sense of genuine and celestial happiness. Through the Mathnawī’s elaborate narratives and poetic reflections, Rūmī encourages the reader to embark on a path of spiritual enlightenment. In contrast, happiness arises as the natural product of a life aligned with divine will, marked by a harmonious balance between the dual nature of human beings. This scholarly analysis highlights Rūmī’s significant contribution to the discourse on happiness within the Sufi tradition,h highlighting his contribution to the discourse within the Sufi literature and the enduring relevance of his teachings in our contemporary scholarly expedition for authentic gratification and the human condition.

Yogic Concept of Diet, Mindful Eating and Fasting

The importance of yogic diet is immensely significant for maintaining good health and spiritual upliftment. in Ayurveda, food is classified into 12 groups and The Bhagavadgita also classifies food as Sattvik, Rajasik and Tamasik. It has elucidated the three categories of food and its effect on human body and mind. All the foods are directly affected on Tridos has of our body if we are not following the path of yogic ahara. Mindful eating and fasting plays a significant role for spiritual journey. Nutritional status potentially influences immune responses; however, how nutritional signals regulate cellular dynamics and functionality remains obscure. The present review-based research article systemically discussed different concepts related with yogic diet, mindful eating and fasting in daily life of an individual

Leadership from the extreme periphery to the mainstream? A reflection on the critical journey and how traditioning might offer a Pentecostal denomination a rediscovery of ancient paths

ABSTRACT This paper was given as a keynote at the 2022 conference of the European Pentecostal Theological Association (EPTA). Drawing on a doctoral study 1 1 Foster, “Authority and Authenticity in the Leadership of the British Assemblies of God”. that explored the leadership and organizational culture of a Pentecostal denomination – British Assemblies of God (AoG) – an ecclesiological ethnography 2 2 Principles and techniques drawn from a long-term involvement with Ward and Scharen’s, Ecclesiology and Ethnography.; see also Ward, ed. Perspectives on Ecclesiology and Ethnography;Scharen, ed. Exporations in Ecclesiology and Ethnoggraphy. Healy, “Ecclesiology, Ethnography and God”.; Fiddes, “Ecclesiology and Ethnography”. approach is taken in this paper to combine resultant research insights with reflections from the author’s involvement in the leadership of a local Pentecostal church through two difficult leadership transitions and the consequent spiritual formation journey. The possible future implications for Pentecostal leaders of the adoption of Pete Scazzero’s 3 3 Scazerro, The Emotionally Healthy Leader. Emotionally Healthy Leadership (EHL) teachings in the first year of AoG’s Ministers in Training (MIT) programme are anticipated and Janet Hagberg and Robert Guelich’s 4 4 Hagberg and Guelich, The Critical Journey. Critical Journey framework applied to analyze likely issues for Pentecostal leaders when rediscovering ancient paths (Jer 6:16). By casting an ethnographic gaze in the direction of a key denomination in the UK charismatic movement 5 5 Vineyard Churches UK & Ireland, led by John and Debbie Wright. that is already journeying this path and by paying attention to the thought leadership with the rising popularity of mentees of Dallas Willard. 6 6 For example, John Mark Comer’s ministry Practicing the Way and Bill and Kristi Gaultiere's ministry Soul Shepherding. Underpinning the paper is Simon Chan’s 7 7 Chan, Pentecostal Theology. notion of Pentecostal Traditioning employed both to provide foundational context and possible future trajectories. Similar to Elijah’s servant, these insights and reflections may presently seem to be nothing or we may have to look seven times before we see them as small as a man’s hand (1 Kings 18:43–44). However, this paper seeks to offer a practical-prophetic voice 8 8 A Practical-Prophetic voice focuses theological attention on the state of the concrete seen church; engages with other traditions of enquiry and their embodiments that bear upon the concrete identity of the church namely history, sociology, cultural analysis and ethnography; and offers a critical voice into the present and possible future see Healy, Church, World and the Christian Life. proposing the possibilities for bringing practices rooted in contemplative and monastic traditions from the periphery to the mainstream of Pentecostalism spiritual development and leadership.

The Spiritual Journey of Chinese Americans Viewed from the Cultural Connotation of The Joy Luck Club

Chinese-American writers who live in both Chinese and American cultures are the most sensitive to cultural conflict and integration. Amy Tan is one of those writers who probe deeply into the relationship between the Chinese and American cultures. The Joy Luck Club, a novel that tells stories of four Chinese mothers and their American-born daughters, has caused a great sensation inside and outside the United States and made Tan a famous writer. From the perspective of intercultural communication, Cultural conflicts between four couples of mother and daughter, between husbands and wives arising from the difference in cultural background are looked into from the angles of Chinese obedience to parents and American independence and democracy, Chinese women’s submissiveness and American women’s independence, Chinese family’s honor and American individual achievement, Chinese high-context culture and American low- context culture, Chinese superstition and American science. The causes of the conflicts are also discussed in the aspects of Chinese culture and American culture. Chinese mothers are deeply influenced by the concept of "Three Obedience and Four Virtues", "Resign oneself to Adversity", Etc. However, American daughters are born in the culture that emphasizes "Individualism, Equality, Independence and Freedom." In this thesis, it is also put forward that despite the conflicts, mutual compatibility of two cultures is unavoidable and an inescapable tendency, which reflects the development from the clash to the coexistence of the two cultures in the context of globalization.

THE IMPOSSIBILITY OF A DUAL RELIGIOUS IDENTITY : CONFUCIAN CHRISTIAN IN JULIA CHINGS SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

This essay explores the spiritual journey of Julia Ching (1934-2001), a prominent sinologist who sought to reconcile her Catholic faith with Confucian philosophy. Raised in a Catholic tradition, Ching faced crises of faith that led her to abandon her nun identidy and engage deeply with Eastern spiritual practices. This essay examines the fundamental theological and philosophical differences between Confucianism and Christianity, highlighting the inherent contradictions in attempting to maintain a dual religious identity. While Confucianism emphasizes moral philosophy and social harmony without a central divine figure, Christianity is rooted in the worship of one God and adherence to the teachings of Jesus Christ. This essay argues that the exclusive doctrines of Christianity and the ritual practices of Confucianism are ultimately incompatible, making it impossible to fully integrate these two traditions into a single religious identity. Julia Chings experience thus illustrates the complexities and challenges of navigating multiple spiritual allegiances.

The Camino de Santiago as a 'Spiritual Journey': A Contemporary Challenge to Religion?

According to many surveys, the pilgrimage along the Way of St James (Camino de. Santiago) can lead to spiritual benefits, but there is some disagreement about this because these benefits can be associated with the pilgrim's motivation. This article presents a conceptual framework for understanding the phenomenon of pilgrimages to Compostela and their impact on human spiritual well-being. Many diaries mention various positive psychological effects from these trips, but they are presented in religious/spiritual dialectical tension. The article presents the classical concept of spirituality as related to the ability to transcend, and then classifies what is spiritual in the writings of some Polish pilgrims. In this way, conceptual precision will be offered, which is important for understanding the positive impact of pilgrimages on well-being and empowerment.

A Religio-Cultural Inquiry into the Spiritual Journey of a Fiasidi through Initiation Rites at the Trokosi Shrines in Klikor, Ghana

Initiation rites play a pivotal role in shaping cultural identity, reinforcing societal norms, and facilitating the transmission of cultural values from one generation to the next. Using a qualitative approach which was supported by interpretive philosophy, the study explored the initiation rites of a Fiasidi which involves a series of rituals, ceremonies, and teachings that are designed to prepare young girls or women for their ritual responsibilities in serving Torgbui Adzima shrines in Klikor, Ghana. A case study was used in the research. Observations, document analysis, semi-structured interviews, and audiovisual materials were used to gather data. The opinions and experiences of fifteen (15) participants, including high priests, priestesses, ritual functionaries, petitioners, and Fiasidiwo (initiates), were sampled using the purposive sampling approach. Thematic analysis was used to do an inductive study of the data. The study revealed that three main rituals feature in the initiation rites of a Fiasidi in Klikor. These are Godedegome (puberty rite), Gatete (Fiasidi’s homecoming), and Flaxoxo (purification rite). The study concluded that the Troxovi shrines are effective in ensuring social order and discipline and promoting African indigenous knowledge and spirituality among the Anlo-Ewe communities. It recommended that other ritual performances such as performing libation, wailing wall prayers, and traditional dance forms be explored by other researchers. The study has contributed to providing insights into cultural diversity, and spiritual identity and illuminating the significance of ritual practices in various fields including social anthropology, African aesthetics, and African traditional religion. Keywords: Initiation Rites, Fiasidi Tradition, Troxovi Shrines, Klikor, Deities

Ritual Dynamics and Spiritual Practices in the Teaching of Tarekat Qadiriyah wa Naqsyabandiyah

This study explores the intricate dynamics of rituals and spiritual practices within the Tarekat Qadiriyah wa Naqsyabandiyah, a prominent Sufi order in Indonesia. Through a comprehensive literature analysis, in-depth interviews, and participant observation, the research delves into the historical evolution, theological foundations, and the multifaceted role of rituals and spiritual exercises in shaping the followers' spiritual journey. The findings reveal that the integration of Qadiriyah and Naqsyabandiyah traditions fosters a unique spiritual path that balances exoteric religious observance with esoteric contemplation. Key themes include the transformative impact of rituals, the pivotal role of the sheikh, the significance of communal practices, and the holistic pedagogical approaches employed within the Tarekat. The study concludes that these rituals and practices are central to individual and collective spirituality, providing a cohesive and supportive spiritual community. This research contributes to the broader understanding of Indonesian Sufism and the enduring relevance of Sufi practices in contemporary Islamic spirituality.

HARMONY OF DUALITIES IN HERMAN HESSESSTEPPENWOLF

The personal life of the German- Swiss Nobel Laureate Herman Hesse (1877 – 1962) can be regarded as a period of crises, aggression, depression, cultural pre-conditioning and dogmatism. Despite his pietistic upbringing, he suffered adversities, resulting into mental trauma, emotional turbulence and inconsolable disgrace. These unpleasant experiences caused extreme depression and he had to receive Jungian psychoanalysis from Dr. Lang and Dr. Jung. This refuge in psychoanalysis brought him solace. Pietism, once a pain, became a life-long support for his spiritual journey and literary yearnings. He was, however, diagnosed with bipolar-II disorder due to his intense mood shifts, the factors being ambivalence, guilt, aggression and sexual conflict. The current work is an attempt to exemplify the impact of this disorder in his novels with special reference to his cult classic Steppenwolf , wherein the protagonist Harry Haller portrays the dichotomy of the personality, being split between a human being and a wolf. This novel which was published in 1927 is a complex, philosophical novel and deals with the themes like identity crisis, duality of human nature and quest for a meaningful life, to ultimately attain spiritual transcendence and harmony of dualities.

HARMONY OF DUALITIES IN HERMAN HESSES STEPPENWOLF

The personal life of the German- Swiss Nobel Laureate Herman Hesse (1877 – 1962) can be regarded as a period of crises, aggression, depression, cultural pre-conditioning and dogmatism. Despite his pietistic upbringing, he suffered adversities, resulting into mental trauma, emotional turbulence and inconsolable disgrace. These unpleasant experiences caused extreme depression and he had to receive Jungian psychoanalysis from Dr. Lang and Dr. Jung. This refuge in psychoanalysis brought him solace. Pietism, once a pain, became a life-long support for his spiritual journey and literary yearnings. He was, however, diagnosed with bipolar-II disorder due to his intense mood shifts, the factors being ambivalence, guilt, aggression and sexual conflict. The current work is an attempt to exemplify the impact of this disorder in his novels with special reference to his cult classic Steppenwolf , wherein the protagonist Harry Haller portrays the dichotomy of the personality, being split between a human being and a wolf. This novel which was published in 1927 is a complex, philosophical novel and deals with the themes like identity crisis, duality of human nature and quest for a meaningful life, to ultimately attain spiritual transcendence and harmony of dualities.

The Spiritual Odyssey of Pi Patel in Yann Martel's Life of Pi

Yann Martel's novel, "Life of Pi," intricately weaves the spiritual journey of its protagonist, Pi Patel. This narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Pi's exploration and growth in religious understanding, marking a compelling odyssey through Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam. This essay examines Pi's encounters with these faiths, the conflicts arising from his multifaceted beliefs, and the overarching theme of spirituality that binds his remarkable tale.

The spiritual journey of Robinson Crusoe through the lens of the Qur’an

The spiritual journey of Robinson Crusoe through the lens of the Qur’an

The Concept of the Soul (Nafs) in the Philosophical-Thesavvuf Discourse

At the very beginning of the paper, the historicity of the human desire for the Truth was pointed out, with a special reference to the concept of tasawwuf as a way of searching for the Truth within the Muslim religious tradition. An explanation of the concept of Tasawwuf, as well as its historical development and certain teachings that are practiced within the twelve present Tasawwuf (Dervish-Sufi) orders, was presented. On that occasion, it was pointed out that in the Tasawwuf tradition, the path to knowledge is as important as the knowledge itself (Truth), and according to that, in this paper we especially tried to clarify the organs of cognition: ruh (spirit), aql (mind), qalb (illuminated heart), fu’ad (spiritual heart), hiyal (spiritual imagination) and nafs (soul). Special attention was paid to the concept of the soul (soul) as an organ of cognition, where the existence of seven levels of mental cognition was highlighted. Namely, in the Tasawwuf tradition, seven levels of the soul are mentioned, and those are: “the soul that is inclined to evil” (an-nafs al-Ammara), above which is the “soul that chastises itself” (an-nafs al-Lawwama), which is below the “inspired soul” (an-nafs al-Mulhimma). After the third stage, the spiritual journey moves along paths from “calm” (an-nafs al-Mutmainna), through “satisfied” (an-nafsar-Radiyya) and “one with whom God is pleased” (an-nafs al-Mardiyya) to “pure souls” (an-nafs as-Safiyya, or an-nafs al-Kemaliyya). At the very end of the work, the significance of the spiritual journey (as-sayr as-suluq) is emphasized, during which the dervish, through the spiritual struggle (muyahed) with himself and his personal passions, rises to the cognitive horizons where nothing exists but the Almighty God.

Spiritual Journey of Santiago in Coelho’s ‘The Alchemist’

Paulo Coelho's ‘The Alchemist’ entails Santiago's journey from a young shepherd in Andalusia, Spain, to a seeker of hidden treasure. The plot is deeply intertwined with a spiritual quest for self-discovery and enlightenment. Through a rich tapestry of symbols such as alchemy, omens, and dreams, Coelho illustrates Santiago's physical and spiritual growth. Santiago's recurring dream about finding treasure at the Egyptian pyramids and different encounters, along with the omens and signs he observes, guide him through numerous challenges through his spiritual journey. Santiago's journey is a metaphor for an inner alchemical process, symbolizing the transformation of his consciousness from a lower to a higher state. The novel suggests that true success is not a mere destination but a transformative journey filled with learning and personal growth. Coelho emphasizes the importance of faith, perseverance, and resilience in the face of adversity. By following his dreams and remaining attuned to the guidance provided by omens, Santiago undergoes a profound spiritual transformation, discovering the deeper interconnectedness and inherent order of human existence. The narrative underscores the significance of embracing the signs and omens encountered along the way, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things. Coelho conveys that the pursuit of one's goals should be accompanied by a broader acquisition of knowledge and personal growth. Santiago's perseverance and resilience, even amidst challenges and monotony, are crucial to reaching his ultimate destination and experiencing the joy of achievement. His story is a testament to the profound spiritual transformation that occurs when one pursues their dreams with faith and determination. It underscores the inherent order and interconnectedness of life, ultimately portraying Santiago's journey as a spiritual odyssey that reveals the deeper meaning of life and the spiritual enlightenment that comes from embracing one's personal legend.