Spiritual Wisdom Research Articles

PRAYER AND VIGILANCE: A BIBLICAL AND PHILOKALIAN APPROACH TO THE RENEWAL AND PROTECTION OF THE NOUS

This article examines the biblical and Philokalian approach to renewing and protecting the nous or intellect (Romans 12:2; 1 Corinthians 2:17), proposing that prayer and nepsis (vigilance) are essential strategies for mitigating the influence of logismoi and passions. Analysis reveals that these practices are vital in cultivating authentic Christian spirituality. The Philokalia invites a reevaluation of spiritual perspectives, offering a novel framework that integrates an investigative tool, therapeutic technique, and theoretical insights into the human mind. This study highlights how these ancient practices can be adapted to modern psychotherapeutic interventions, providing a transformative approach to revitalizing our nous faculties. The findings underscore the relevance of the Philokalia in contemporary spiritual and psychological contexts, introducing innovative methods for addressing spiritual and emotional challenges in today's world. This article aims to bridge ancient spiritual wisdom with contemporary therapeutic practices, offering new insights and practical applications for enhancing mental and spiritual well-being.

Bridging Experiential Learning and Spiritual Wisdom: Integrating Kolb’s Cycle with the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism

Purpose. This study aims to explore the potential integration of Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle with the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism to offer a comprehensive framework for personal growth and transformation. Methodology. A qualitative analysis was conducted, drawing on existing literature on Kolb's learning theory and Buddhist philosophy. The study focused on identifying parallels and synergies between Kolb's four-stage learning cycle and the Four Noble Truths, elucidating how their integration could enhance understanding and application of spiritual principles in daily life. Results. The analysis revealed significant alignment between Kolb's cycle and the Four Noble Truths. Reflective observation corresponds to the acknowledgment of suffering (First Noble Truth), the identification of its causes (Second Noble Truth). Abstract conceptualization mirrors the understanding of the cessation of suffering (Third Noble Truth) through wisdom and insight into the nature of existence. Active experimentation resonates with the Noble Eightfold Path (Fourth Noble Truth), emphasizing the practical application of ethical conduct, mental cultivation, and wisdom development to alleviate suffering. The integration of Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle with the Four Noble Truths offers a holistic approach to personal growth and transformation. By combining experiential learning with spiritual wisdom, individuals gain a deeper understanding of the causes of suffering and the path to liberation. This integrated framework provides a structured methodology for cultivating resilience, wisdom, and compassion in daily life, fostering holistic development and contributing to greater well-being and fulfillment. Conclusion. Further research and practical application of this framework holds promise for enhancing individual and collective flourishing in diverse cultural and educational contexts.

When the Self is Blue: A Journey through the Bhagavad Gita to Spiritual Healing

This paper examines how feelings of depression, characterized by a sense of inferiority and dejection, can be transformed into joy and contentment. The author proposes that by aligning oneself with the inherent cheerfulness of human nature, one can transition from despair to happiness. Drawing upon the metaphor of water's resilience, the paper contends that misery is a temporary state that can be overcome through devotion to the divine. This is exemplified by the natural joyousness exhibited by children. The ancient Indian text, the Bhagavad Gita, is explored as a profound source of wisdom that can guide individuals on the path to mental wellbeing. Depression is an increasingly prevalent mental health concern, characterized by feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and lack of purpose (Bhatia et al.). While modern psychotherapy has developed various techniques to address depression, the application of ancient spiritual wisdom can offer a complementary approach (Bhatia et al) (Dhillon). The Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture, presents a comprehensive philosophy for navigating the challenges of the human condition, including the experience of depression (Bhatia et al) (Dhillon). The Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture, is a part of the epic Mahabharata and depicts a dialogue between Prince Arjun and the Lord Krishna, who serves as his charioteer. The text explores the moral and philosophical challenges faced by Arjun as he prepares for battle. Arjun's depression stems from the anticipated loss of life and moral degradation, leading him to question the justification of the war.

Acculturation of Religion and Local Culture in the Ashura Mandoa Tradition among the Jorong Lubuk Alung Community: A Study of Living Hadith

Mandoa Asyura is a tradition practiced by the community, passed down from generation to generation on the 10th of Muharram. This tradition is considered obligatory as a form of respect for the month of Muharram, especially on the day of Ashura. The community also believes that this tradition is directly based on the Prophet's hadith, which commands fasting. However, the implementation of this tradition is not limited to the Sunnah fast; the community also carries out various traditional rituals. This research is a study of Living Hadith using qualitative methods and a phenomenological approach. The findings indicate that Mandoa Asyura originated from the teachings of Syaikh Burhanuddin, a scholar who spread Islam in West Sumatra, and is practiced as a form of respect for the month of Muharram, which is rich in historical significance, religious values, and social aspects. The community also believes that this tradition holds spiritual wisdom for Muslims, such as the Apam cake, which is interpreted as the umbrella of Siti Fatimah and a protector for those who perform Mandoa Asyura on the Day of Judgment. The two boiled eggs symbolize the acceptance of the repentance of Prophet Adam and Hawa, and the stir-fried fern symbolizes simplicity. Other findings show that the practice of Mandoa Asyura by the community serves as a means of drawing closer to Allah SWT, reflecting on the events of Ashura, and as a form of self-introspection in leading a righteous life.

Imbuing Spirituality to Enhance the Effectiveness of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Conventional approaches of management researchers are based on economic rationality and human emotions, which are deficient in the spiritual aspects of humanity. Spirituality is an element of practical wisdom. Rationalist ethics and knowledge do not alone ensure virtues. The concept of spirituality places an ultimate or an apparent immaterial truth. It enables a person to discover the essence of their being. Spiritual practices, including prayer, meditation, and contemplation, are anticipated to enhance an individual’s inner space. They facilitate non-judgmental awareness, the ability to recover quickly from negative stimuli like stress or calmness, empathy, and increased flexibility in response. An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is an arrangement between a corporation, academic institution, or government agency and its employees that provides a variety of support programs for employees mainly dealing with work-related difficulties. The concept of the EAP originated in the 1970s to reduce substance abuse and intoxication in the workplace. Since then, EAPs have evolved to deal with various issues such as depression, marital problems, anger, anxiety, physical illness, etc. EAPs can provide daycare for employees' children and elder care for employees' parents. The relevance of spiritual wisdom in management is a widely accepted fact. This paper examines how Employee Assistance Programs can be made more effective by imbuing spiritual practices

A Pioneer in Revolutionizing Physiotherapy in India: Dr. M. G. Mokashi's Journey of Compassion, Innovation, and Dedication.

Dr. Madhav Gajanan Mokashi is a remarkable individual in physiotherapy, and he is celebrated for his exceptional blend of educational and clinical excellence. His innovative research and influential roles in prominent conferences have shaped the physiotherapy landscape in India. Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Mokashi has touched countless lives with his unique approach, integrating spiritual wisdom with practical expertise to foster an atmosphere of empathy and respect. His journey, marked by significant health challenges and an amputation, stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, resilience, and sense of humor. Dr. Mokashi's legacy extends beyond his professional milestones; it resonates deeply in the hearts of those he has mentored and inspired. This review honours his enduring impact and the profound inspiration he offers to the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Symbolism and Spiritual Wisdom: Bridging Nature, Culture, and Identity in Dayak Architectural Heritage

Symbolism and Spiritual Wisdom: Bridging Nature, Culture, and Identity in Dayak Architectural Heritage

The experience of ageing, spirituality, and health as a Muslim woman in Canada

ABSTRACT How does spirituality relate to ageing for Muslim women? The purpose of this study was to better understand the experience and intersections of ageing, spirituality, and health for Muslim women in Canada. This better understanding would be beneficial for care providers who may be unaware of the needs of ageing Muslim women. Four Muslim women, each in their fifties, participated in a qualitative, semi-structured interview. Seven themes were identified to be most relevant: Faith, identity, spiritual wisdom, accommodation, self-care, perceived judgement, and reconnecting the Muslim community. Recommendations are made not only for care providers, but for Muslim women and for the Muslim community in general.

Towards An Integrated Understanding of Art, Spirituality, and Well-Being

This paper explores how art and spirituality are connected and examines how art-based pedagogy, including art appreciation and art making, can facilitate not only developing emotional skills, but also cultivating spirituality and spiritual wisdom in management education. It further proposes that art appreciation is a virtuous activity, as it can facilitate the learning of spiritual values in a more personally meaningful way. By presenting an integrated model of art appreciation and sharing pedagogical examples of art appreciation, I propose that art appreciation can provide a more intuitive and immediate approach for developing spiritual values such as empathy and interpersonal care in management education. The primary purpose of this paper is therefore to explore the pedagogical potential of contemplative art-based practices in cultivating not only the students' emotional skills, but also their understanding of spirituality, thereby contributing to a heightened sense of their personal empowerment and overall well-being.

Spiritual Nexus: The Interwoven Sacred Sites of the Kailash Region

This article investigates the complex network of sacred sites within the Kailash region, an axis of profound spiritual significance for a multitude of faiths. The central figure of this sacred web is Mount Kailash, surrounded by the mystical Lake Manasarovar and Rakshas Tal, the restorative springs of Tirthapuri, and the reflective sanctuary of the Bon Monastery. This study delves into the spiritual importance, historical connections, and intricate cultural practices maintained across these sites. Darchen, the starting point for the spiritually charged Kailash Kora, marks the pilgrims' journey towards potential enlightenment. Moreover, the paper investigates the ecocultural dynamics, emphasizing the monasteries around Manasarovar, including the Bon Monastery, as enduring custodians of spiritual wisdom despite historical tribulations. Harnessing a variety of interdisciplinary perspectives, the article portrays how these sites collectively constitute a spiritual heritage that continually shapes the socio-religious fabric of the region. It also addresses modern challenges due to increased pilgrimage, advocating for sustainable conservation efforts. By intertwining the cosmic symbolism and earthly presence of these sites, this article contributes a holistic view of the Kailash region's perpetual sacredness and its essential place within the global spiritual domain.

Hadith-Based Guidance Techniques to Raise the Psychological Intelligence of At-Risk Adolescents


 
 
 
 Some youths are more likely to become involved in delinquent situations because of strain and stress during the development process as well as the difficulties of the modern world. The poor level of intelligence among teenagers is among the elements that are certain to contribute to this occurrence of delinquency. Islamic psychology therefore places a strong emphasis on ways of approach that celebrate the psychological milieu of adolescents and foster the development of intellect so that the adopted approach influences good behavior changes and rational thought. Thus, the purpose of this essay is to explain the idea of the Prophet's instruction in dealing with criminals, particularly teens, psychologically using the scriptural technique of Hadith. This study employs a qualitative design with the help of the method of document analysis. Primary sources like books, articles, proceedings, and scientific studies related to the concept of guidance and the psychology of intelligence are also analyzed and studied. Secondary sources include Hadith books and related Hadith lectures. The study discovered that the Hadiths truly contain the element of intelligence used in the practice of guiding and counselling when dealing with problematic instances. The Prophet S.A.W strategy is a source of growing psychological well-being since it combines intellectual, emotional, moral, and spiritual wisdom. The outcomes of this study are anticipated to contribute to the development of the scriptural approach to Islamic psychology (Nabawi) as a preventative and recuperative strategy for adolescents with risky cases and to the development of the concept of Nabawi psychology as a model or module for future research.
 
 
 

AGAMA TRADISI DAN WACANA SPRITUALITAS ABAD 21; KEARIFAN MEWUJUDKAN RUANG PUBLIK YANG DIDOMINASI OLEH MODERASI

<em>This article comes as a response to the tragedy of intolerance in the name of religion and spiritual discourse of the 21st century, the focus of his study is to answer the problem of how to realize a public space dominated by moderation of all components of life. The data used in this article is sourced from library research and applies an interdisciplinary approach. The research findings are; Many religious researchers argue, religion will experience extinction in modern society, what happens is the repositioning of the epistemological building of religious traditions through spiritual discourse based on empirical research, namely; 3P + 2S (Personal Relationship, Psitivity, Passion + Sense of Progress, Spritual Blue Diamons). This spiritual discourse does not intend to replace religion. The aim is to encourage a more harmonious public life, without eliminating the role of religion for life, preserving relevant elements in religion, discarding obsolete religious ways. Meanwhile, efforts to realize public spaces dominated by moderation are; Every individual must understand the basic concepts of religion and religious relations, understand the principles of religion, humanity, and togetherness, revive ukhuwah Islamiyah for social networks, as well as actualize spiritual wisdom and religious rationality.</em>

Study of Shamanic Witchcraft (Santet) Culture in the Indonesian Archipelago

Various ethnic groups in Sumatra also possess shamanic traditions that involve traditional rites and the involvement of shamans or individuals with specialized skills in countering black magic. Each of these ethnic groups possesses distinct practices and beliefs. The Batak tribe has diverse ethnic subgroups, including Toba Batak, Karo, Mandailing, and others. Within Batak culture, there exist shamanistic rituals, and individuals who perform these rituals are referred to as "datu" or "Batak shamans." The shaman has a crucial function in upholding social and spiritual equilibrium within society. They possess the ability to retaliate against dark sorcery or provide healing for ailments through their expertise and spiritual wisdom. The Minangkabau tribe upholds robust traditional customs, which encompass shamanic rituals associated with the veneration of ancestors and nature deities. Within Minangkabau society, there exist individuals known as "bundo kanduang" who possess specialized expertise in countering the effects of black magic and healing ailments by traditional means. The Bukit Barisan tribe is an indigenous population dispersed over the Bukit Barisan region, encompassing a significant portion of Sumatra Island. Their religious system encompasses shamanic ideologies and rituals that revolve around the veneration of nature spirits and ancestral figures. Shamans, or spiritual leaders, play a crucial role in upholding social and spiritual equilibrium within their communities. It is crucial to bear in mind that these shamanic rituals exhibit variations among different ethnic groups and subgroups in Sumatra. Moreover, the impact of religions like Islam and Christianity has also had an influence on certain shamanic activities within these communities. Shamanic practices encompass a range of functions, including customary rituals and endeavors to address societal and metaphysical discord. Gaining insight into this cultural legacy and shamanistic customs enables us to value the cultural variety in Indonesia and the ongoing evolution and adjustment of various cultures in response to changing circumstances.

Tourism, Mountain, and ‘Mystic Fire’: A Study on Spiritual Journey of a Vedic Sadhak Living in Panchasee Mountain in Central Nepal

This paper is on spiritual tourism associates: tourism, ecology, and spirituality in the specific context of Panchasee mountain in the central Nepal. It presents spiritual experiences of a Vedic sadhak, born and raised in the west, lived in Sri Aurobindo Ashram in India for forty years from his young age and now has been living in Panchasee. Its key concern is to understand his spiritual quest in the Himalayan ecology. Focused on the stage of the spiritual transformation of the sadhak’s inner journey it reveals that the sadhak is highly energized to remain close with his spiritual wisdom that he experienced in Panchasee ecology and being active as a member of a family of the mountain society. It concludes with some insights in relation to spiritual tourism. This study has adopted a special research strategy called fursad ethnography to generate data on the sadhak’s life history and his spiritual quest in the Panchasee mountain.

Consciousness of Religion, Mythology and Spirituality: A Study of Prof. Vikas Sharma’s Novel I.A.S. Today

Literature expresses the perceptions, feelings and desires of a writer. Indian English writers have predominantly been culturally conscious of religion. Religion and literature give peace to suffering humanity. I.A.S. Today is a novel written by Prof. Vikas Sharma. This research article delves into the intricate layering of religious, mythological, and spiritual themes present in Prof. Vikas Sharma’s novel I.A.S. Today. Sharma, a prominent figure in contemporary literature, weaves a tale that juxtaposes the bureaucratic life of the Indian Administrative Service (I.A.S.) with profound reflections on India’s rich tapestry of religious and mythological narratives. At the heart of the study is an analysis of how Sharma’s characters navigate the complex moral and spiritual terrain, influenced by ancient tales and modern-day challenges. The narrative isn’t merely a portrayal of administrative life; it becomes a mirror to society, reflecting deeply rooted beliefs, cultural norms, and the internal conflicts individuals face when trying to reconcile their professional and personal aspirations with spiritual growth. Drawing from primary textual references and contextualizing them with classical Indian myths, the article underscores the ways in which the protagonist’s journey in the bureaucratic labyrinth is symbolic of a larger cosmic journey. Sharma’s work raises questions about dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation) in the face of modern challenges. Various characters of this novel are influenced by the teachings given in Indian scriptures like The Srimad Bhagvadgita, The Upanishads and The Ramayana. They try to shape themselves by following the teachings and look for the right aim of human life. This paper aims to study the spiritual wisdom given in this novel which will open the right path for present generation. Furthermore, the research highlights Sharma’s innovative approach to storytelling, melding the real with the mythical. Through meticulous character analysis and plot dissection, the article reveals how the novel acts as a conduit for introducing contemporary readers to age-old philosophical questions. By doing so, Sharma not only offers a commentary on the state of present-day bureaucracy but also delves into timeless existential queries. Through this analysis, the article establishes Sharma’s novel as a significant contribution to Indian literature, bridging the ancient and the modern, the mundane, and the spiritual.

Sparking a Feminine Organizational Culture: Insights from Spiritual Wisdom Traditions

Sparking a Feminine Organizational Culture: Insights from Spiritual Wisdom Traditions

Integrating Spiritual Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, Teacher, Link & Match Concept between the Educational and Bussiness and Effective Leadership for Enhanced Education Quality and Sporting Attainment

Integrating Spiritual Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, Teacher, Link & Match Concept between the Educational and Bussiness and Effective Leadership for Enhanced Education Quality and Sporting Attainment

Wonders and Healings at the Crossroads of Manichaeism, Buddhism and Zoroastrianism in Eastern Iran and Central Asia

The early Sasanian period witnessed a variety of religious beliefs in competition. The clash between Kirdīr and Mani represents just an episode of the triumph the Mazdean church over Manichaeism, as well as over the other religious formations listed in Kirdīr’s inscriptions. Persian Zoroastrianism constituted a stronghold of power and religious hegemony at the heart of the Sasanian Empire. Yet, the peripheral Zoroastrianism of Eastern Iran and Central Asia featured aspects of regional Mazdeism, such as a wide variety of interactions between the Iranian and Indian cultures, and overt religious exchanges with Manichaeism, Buddhism and Islam. This article first examines the connotations of the word indicating ‘wonder’ and ‘miracle’ (Middle Persian *warz*, Parthian *warž*), and explores its thematic correspondences both within the shared Iranian language heritage (Avestan, Pahlavi, Middle Persian, Sogdian) and religious contexts (Zoroastrianism, Manichaeism, Buddhism). Its second aim is to extend this investigation into different Central Asian contexts of Sogdian Buddhism, taking into account specific Buddhist features. A close textual analysis finds that the interest in miracles is connected to healing. Thus, in the religious literature under analysis, miracles represent the medium of persuasion and conversion *par excellence*, but are also regarded as medical means to cure and save those in need, often through redeeming knowledge. The connections between medical healing and spiritual wisdom were generally associated with important religious personalities of the larger Indo-Mediterranean area, such as Buddha, Jesus and Mani, and with their messages of redemption. This article advances that ‘wonders’ and ‘healings’ represented efficacious notions employed to meet both primary needs of solace against suffering and angst and ardent searches for salvation. The article also highlights the link between the above binomial relation of wonders/healing and the political role of prophetical leaders, allegedly endowed with supernatural powers. As a case-study of this perspective, the article reviews the ideological and social developments of revolts, such as the Khurramiya movements in Islamic times, which exploited precisely this cultural baggage of practices of amazement and trickery for their own messianic propaganda.

Revisiting the Relevance of Tagore’s Concept of Education and His Vision of Cosmopolitan Existence with Special Reference to “The Home and the World”

The cycle of violence, human suffering, and conflicts continues unabated. As we live in the 21st century, we witness an unprecedented systematic assault on human dignity and the cherished values of peaceful coexistence. The contemporary discourse in major parts of the world is shaped by the divisive politics of identity, racism, and pride of various forms. This perhaps explains the rejuvenated debates around the theories of cosmopolitanism and globalization. Tagore had visualized as early as 100 years before how nationalism and a false sense of supremacy posed a danger to the values of coexistence and humanity at large. Calling it an epidemic of evil and destructive enthusiasm, he offered through his philosophy of education a vision for cosmopolitan and harmonious coexistence. He redefined cosmopolitanism in ways that involve the local/national histories/identities and celebrates them as markers of the shared values of peaceful coexistence. The study offers insight into how his call for reconciliation of Western science with the spiritual wisdom of the East offers new avenues for peace, coexistence, and mutual understanding in times when mankind is confronted with myriad challenges on all fronts.
 
 Received: 17 October 2022 / Accepted: 27 December 2022 / Published: 5 January 2023

Múdrosť v listoch Antona Pustovníka

In his Letters Antony speaks of wisdom which takes on three meanings: practical, mental, and spiritual. Practical wisdom, reflected in the term ?????, covers both the craftsmen such as poets, musicians. Mental wisdom for Antony means a certain disdain of all too material preoccupations as to be able to know oneself but also to understand the time in which we live. Spiritual wisdom is the ability to see through the deceptions of the devil, while recognizing the goodness of the Father. These three types of wisdom in the letters of St. Anthony were addressed to his contemporaries, but they have not lost their actuality. They also have something to say to the man of today.