Being spiritual without religion?

Jump to Last Post 1-29 of 29 discussions (256 posts)
  1. profile image52
    little johnnyposted 13 years ago

    Can you be spiritual or be a believer of God apart from religion or the Church?

    1. kess profile image60
      kessposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      You cannot know the true God which is being spiritual except apart from religion or the church..

      1. Richieb799 profile image74
        Richieb799posted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Unless the church is wrong to some degree.

      2. Eaglekiwi profile image76
        Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        You do not need a man( any Church) to tell you who the true God is

        Just ask Him wink

        1. Cagsil profile image71
          Cagsilposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          Yet you follow Jesus, who was a man. lol

          1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
            Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            ..Not just a man ,shame on you

            Son of Man and Son of God

            1. Cagsil profile image71
              Cagsilposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              He was neither of those two you mentioned. But, I'm sure you'd love to use some sort of scripture to back up your mentioning of it, however, just like in Court, religion is useless.

              1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
                Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                He is both of those, and no I wont type words that you will deny.

                Choice is a good thing, wouldn't you agree?

                Or are you someone who says its a good thing ,but only if I agree with you lol

                1. Cagsil profile image71
                  Cagsilposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  BOTH your statements are incorrect.

                  Jesus was a man. He was the son(bastardized) of a man.

                  "Son of Man" claims he was the son of all humankind. That would be wrong.

                  "Son of God" claims there is a god. That would also be wrong, because it's based on a pure assumption that a god actually exists.

                  Yes, choice exists and yes it's a good thing. Just your statements are meaningless. lol

                  1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
                    Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    You are incorrect to say my statements are meaningless ,when what you really mean is they are meaningless to you ,much like your opinion are to me wink

                    Bothers you  Cags that I chose Christ  over humanism.

                    Get over it lol

                  2. profile image57
                    Aim to be healthyposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    Cagsil YOU have a problem!!  Good luck!

    2. Shinkicker profile image57
      Shinkickerposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Absolutely yes. Most churches are earthbound creations, socially, culturally and even politically motivated. That's why there's so many of them. True spirituality comes from something within yourself connecting with some other unknown force.

    3. Eaglekiwi profile image76
      Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      That is the best way to be Spiritual wink

      Jesus is not seeking a church but rather people who are humbly seeking Him. smile

      1. cindi h profile image61
        cindi hposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Amen to that!!  I left the church when I was in my 20's and have found I'm actually a better person since leaving.

        1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
          Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          ..Good for you smile

          Its often difficult to find a group of people (Christians) who will stand alongside you, in worship,learnng and simply to be encouraging and friendly.

          That to me is what Jesus meant by loving  and helping one another most of all.

          1. IntimatEvolution profile image74
            IntimatEvolutionposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            So true.

    4. profile image53
      ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I don't think one can believe in spirit or soul without religion; one who believes in spirits presupposes that one is following a religion.

    5. A Troubled Man profile image59
      A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      You wouldn't know about any gods without having first heard about them from some religion or church. Most probably believe in the god of which their families were raised.

      What is being spiritual? How's that defined?

      1. profile image0
        Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Spiritual is a belief that there's a grain of truth at the bottom of it all. Trying to connect and find it. No god required, but an assumption that consciousness is connected and eternal, at some level. Or, at least, that's the way I see it. smile

        1. A Troubled Man profile image59
          A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          I'm sorry, but that didn't help me understand it one bit.

          1. profile image0
            Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            I didn't think it would. I thought it was an odd question since I assumed everyone had a definition for spiritual.

            I decided I'd answer to see what type of response I got.

            1. A Troubled Man profile image59
              A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              If everyone had their own definition of spiritual, or any word for that matter, the term would be redundant.

              If the term was redundant, then we are back at square one dealing with gods and religions, again.

              1. profile image0
                Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                Now, I would have to disagree with you on that one.  Almost any word that doesn’t define something concrete has its nuances. And even if it does define something concrete, the images that come to each mind when the word is spoken vary. So, on that count you are wrong.

                As far as comparing spirituality with religion, that would be akin to saying that atheism is a religion.  Spirituality is an individual philosophy and an individual experience.  Not something one is looking to share with others, build a following around, or collect donations for.

                1. Cagsil profile image71
                  Cagsilposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  Hey Emile, you at it again. lol

                  Atheism IS a religion, it's just a disorganized religion. There are certain countries around the globe that recognize Atheism as a religion.

                  So, on that account. You are wrong.

                  1. profile image0
                    Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    I stand corrected. Atheism is a religion. I'll try to remember that. smile

                  2. A Troubled Man profile image59
                    A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    While trying to search for some examples of those countries that recognize atheism as a religion (found none), I ran across this article that says it's a myth. Would you disagree with the authors arguments? If so, what would be your response?

                    http://atheism.about.com/library/FAQs/a … ligion.htm

                2. A Troubled Man profile image59
                  A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  Can you give me any examples of words that don't define something? I can't just take your word for it.



                  What philosophy and what individual experience?

                  You still have not explained anything.

                  Let's use snow as an example. Many people have experienced snow, yet those who may have lived their lives in the tropics have not. We would then advise them to travel to a country where it snows all the time so they can experience it.

                  So, if I ask you to help me experience spirituality, you would advise me to ... ?

                  1. profile image0
                    Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    I would never expect you to take my word for anything. But, I’ll have to elaborate on the answer I gave, not your question.  I can’t imagine a word that doesn’t define anything. I think the exact statement was something concrete.

                    Words that define something concrete. One as simple as horse.  Yes, we both know it is a four legged creature.  We both would agree on many things that have to do with the animal.  But my perception of the horse can be radically different from yours.  You say horse and. you might see a Selle Francais and I might envision an Appaloosa. You could be thinking dressage whereas endurance riding comes to my mind.  We both said horse, but there’d be a drastic contrast in the images our minds brought up. So, if you were talking about how relaxing it was to ride, I’d be thinking you were either bragging, or lying.

                    Words that don’t define concrete things are even harder. Words that describe emotions, feelings or concepts. We would use the same words to describe them, but the way we perceive the definitions could be completely different. If you said you are starving because you haven’t had anything to eat in two hours and I am so poor that I frequently go days without eating, my definition of the word and yours would be radically different. Wouldn’t you agree?

                    As far as your questions on spirituality.  If I were to share my thoughts on an individual experience it ceases to be mine.  It becomes ours, in a way. But your example of snow is a good one.  I can tell you everything I know about snow. How it feels, the shape of a snowflake, what it looks like on the forest after a storm and how it tastes.  But that doesn’t give you the experience of snow.  You are right.  You’d have to be there.

                    So, if you ask me to help you experience spirituality, I have to respond; If it’s something you are interested in, you go it alone.  But, that’s just me.  There are a lot of people here wiser than I am so I’m sure if you hang out long enough you’ll get a lot of more helpful advice. smile

    6. Woman Of Courage profile image61
      Woman Of Courageposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I enjoy being spiritual.

      1. A Troubled Man profile image59
        A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        How does one go about being spiritual?

        1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
          Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          I wake up and think Hi God,looks like a beautiful day ,thankyou that I am here to enjoy it.

          I look at a new creature (new to me) and am simply amazed that God made such vigrant colours! Wow

          I had never seen lightening bugs (Fireflys) until I came to The United States.
          I stretched out my hand ,crooked my little finger and as he blinked his bright light on and off ,I whispered 'C'mere ,Oh C'mere' and he came!!
          I felt like E.T as half an inch from my finger this amazing glow beamed for a second.

          Wow moments are Spiritual moments (to me) and I have heaps and heaps everyday. smile

          So maybe being Spiritual is a state of mind ,which takes its direction from a grateful heart wink

          An y'know something...God looks at each one of us and thinks Wow everyday too!

          1. A Troubled Man profile image59
            A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            From your description, spiritual is living in an over-rated, Spielberg fantasy movie.

            Is there anything you can add that isn't based on fantasy?

            1. profile image57
              Aim to be healthyposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              You have a closed mind.  The world is better than S[pielberg fantasy, just have to open your eyes.  Try believing, meditating, and being thankful for the life you have and you will find your own spirituism.  "Ask and you shall receive" is no mythe. 
              Good Luck,. and may God be with you.

            2. cindi h profile image61
              cindi hposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              spiritual is being awed by the beautiful orange embers of the setting sun across the shimmering expanse of crystal blue ocean or being inspired by the sparkling flickers of starlight against a black velvet night sky or delighting in the soothing fragrance of a lilac or rose or being appreciative for every breadth, sight, taste and feel you experience or the unwavering belief in the goodness of mankind when it is not seen often enough.

              1. A Troubled Man profile image59
                A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                That's a very nice description, thank you.

          2. habee profile image91
            habeeposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            Eagle, I often feel the same way. The world fascinates me, and I just have to believe that all of it was created by intelligent design. I'm in awe every day because of something I witness, even though it might be something as simple as my grandchild learning to walk or a cardinal eating at our bird feeder. Can one be spiritual without being religious? Certainly! I don't care much for the trappings of religion, in general, but I do believe in God and in Jesus.

            The other day a young person said something interesting to me: "Jesus was cool. He was like the first hippie." Perhaps this teenager was inspired by the Doobie Brothers? (their Jesus is Just Alright with Me song) lol

            1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
              Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              I know the song ,back in the day lol ,loved it too.

              Thanks for the share time, seems like the older we get ,or the less years we may have less ,the more grateful and precious the memories too.

              By the way visited one of your blogs ,cuz I just had to have some Southern recipes :p Awessome!

              I bet that fish in ya avatar is history now too! yum, lol

      2. Woman Of Courage profile image61
        Woman Of Courageposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        I reached out to seek God first and became spiritual connected. smile

        1. Jerami profile image60
          Jeramiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          Is it not written that ? ....  that God gives faith to those that he gives it too ?    .....    Ssooo   











          everybody is exactly where they are supposed to be ??????



              So what is this about US supposed to be out there saving souls;   If God already gave it to those that he wanted to have it?

          1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
            Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            Do you mean this?

            For through the grace given to me I say to every one among you not to think more highly of himself than he ought to think; but to think so as to have sound judgement, as God has allotted to each a measure of faith.

    7. survivalfirstaidk profile image59
      survivalfirstaidkposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Deleted

      1. profile image53
        ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        I appreciate your being firm on your faith.

    8. deblipp profile image59
      deblippposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      A religion is a structure or system by which one has a relationship with divinity.

      Obviously, it is possible to have that relationship--be spiritual--without the structure. Millions of people do it.

      1. Jerami profile image60
        Jeramiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Well said.  Simple and true.

          A child can be born deaf, blind and paralized from the head down and maintain a level of spirituality.

    9. Freegoldman profile image39
      Freegoldmanposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Yes surely can be a believer of god bt hardly didnt come across any1 who dsnt have a religion

    10. profile image0
      shazwellynposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Yes.

    11. profile image0
      SusieQ42posted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Yes, yes and yes!  Jesus is in the church, of course, but He is also in your heart.  Don't let anyone tell you can't love Him if you're not in the church.  Pulease!!!!

  2. thooghun profile image91
    thooghunposted 13 years ago

    I believe that there are various answers here depending on how you interpret the word itself.

    Personally, I find that Deism (as opposed to Theism) offers a deeply personal, but no less potent spiritual life (I am neither a deist, or a theist, but it makes sense to me). IF, we understand spirituality to be a personal experience, and not a social one. After all, being a "believer" or a spiritual person does actually necessitate a God at all (I'm aware that technically it does, but this is my opinion).

    The rise of Axial "religions" such as Buddhism and Confucianism do not necessitate a God at all, although there is a religious establishment of sorts. I doubt many would say that these followers are barred a spiritual existence.

    You could also add animism, ancestor worship or totem pole (self-worship) worship to the list of more examples of spiritual routines that do not explicitly require Gods.

    I find "true God" to be a little redundant and a little condescending. I have many friends who are deists and are more than happy to admit they do not know "absolute truth", but juggle experience and life in order to shape their own spirituality.  And they believe in God, or a God, as strongly as anyone else.

    1. profile image53
      ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I don't get you. How could one believe in spirit or soul without a  religion?

      Do such Axial religions receive Revelation from the Creator God.

      1. thooghun profile image91
        thooghunposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        To illustrate the point, let's look at ancestor worship. Many people around the globe worship their dead ancestors and believe they, like theists proclaim, manipulate the world around them through a spiritual plane.

        They pray to the souls of their dead ancestors.
        They believe in an intangible spiritual realm that surrounds them.
        The souls of the deceased are no more a God than than the person praying is.

        In a sense it IS a religion. I do not doub that, which is why I said, "there is a religious establishment of sorts". But  because of how personal the relationship is and how each "spirit" is different from the next, there is no formal structure. There are of course social traditions and practices.

        1. profile image53
          ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          Thank for your response.

          Religion is based on the Word of Revelation from the Creator God
          else it is no religion; it could be termed as is a social group though.

          1. profile image0
            jomineposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            And I think he directly gave you that revelation?

            1. profile image53
              ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              No; the Word of Revelation was received by the prophets messengers like Moses, Buddha, Krishna, Jesus, Muhammad from the Creator God for our benefit.

              1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
                Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                The Bible says:

                God reveals himself to ALL who seek him with a diligent and sincere heart wink

              2. profile image0
                jomineposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                Except muhammed all are mythology, and what muhammed did was copy the previous books. Now, even if they are live beings, how do you make out that they are THE prophets? Why didn't you include the ones like Sankara, Sai baba of india, Joseph Smith, Bahá'u'lláh, Hosain Mansoor al Halaj, ....

                1. profile image53
                  ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  They did not claim that the Creator God had made a Converse with them.

                  1. profile image0
                    jomineposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    So they wrote what they thought, not any creators revelation, then why do you call it, creators revelation?

          2. thooghun profile image91
            thooghunposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            It doesn't matter where or how the word is revealed. As long as there are a set of beliefs and practices then it IS a religion.

            1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
              Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              Or this perspective:

              Religion is man made.

              Spirituality is relationship between Gods Spirit and Mans spirit.

              1. thooghun profile image91
                thooghunposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                I certainly "dig" the second part, although I'm a little lost on the third smile

                1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
                  Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  lol ok
                  3rd part

                  You dont need a church to have a relationship with Jesus Christ,hence one can be very spiritual /spirit filled without being religious wink which  often includes man made traditions (uniforms, laws and creeds),heirachy, and ornate buildings.

                  Christian are encouaged to be born again ,meaning to be baptised (as Jesus was)..symbolicly was to show an outward sign of what God was doing on the inside- Spiritual birth

                  1. thooghun profile image91
                    thooghunposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    Yes, you are spot on. I remember having that particular debate before, regarding the establishment of religion in the new testament. Jesus' life seems to be strangely at odds with his supposed command to Paul to erect the foundations of the "modern" church.

                  2. mdcgardner profile image52
                    mdcgardnerposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    In my belief, one is not a true christain until he/she has been born again. While yes we are encouraged to be baptized, it is not what makes us "born again" (that is done through prayer - admittance of our sins, asking forgiveness, and admittance that God/Christ is the only Savior) it is simply a form of public profession meant to symbolize the dieing of ourselves and the rebirth of a new creature in God.  Baptism is just another thing that we are encouraged to do as we follow Christ's examples on how we should live ur lives.

            2. profile image53
              ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              Then they will have no concept of spirit and the spiritual. They will form a bad-religion or a myth.

          3. brett-hartnett profile image59
            brett-hartnettposted 12 years agoin reply to this

            I hate to be a stickler here ibneahmad, but religion is an attempt to relate to and symbolize spirituality. It is NOT spirituality. It is a collection of views provided by a group of people that wish to define a specific moral direction to life. Unfortunately, it is usually based on someones fears rather than love. I believe that this is one of the greatest causes of misinterpretation of scripture.

  3. Dame Scribe profile image55
    Dame Scribeposted 13 years ago

    I'm a NA and don't bother too much with religions outside my own beliefs - but I do follow 'teachings' which consists of common sense and could be considered 'steps' to be a better human being - which is like the commandments I'd guess - to us the 'Creator' is everywhere and resides in our heart and soul, if that makes sense. hmm

    1. profile image53
      ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      What is NA please?

      1. Dame Scribe profile image55
        Dame Scribeposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Sorry for returning late tongue NA, Native American, Aboriginal, Indigenous to Canada lol smile and yes, I wrote about it in another article called Grandparent Teachings on another site.

  4. profile image0
    klevifushaposted 13 years ago

    Of course you can. The spiritual connection with God should be easily made anywhere and at any time if you are a true believer.

    1. carol3san profile image62
      carol3sanposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I absolutely agree.  I am my own best example.  I consider myself very spiritual, but I have lost faith in my religion along the way for many different reasons.  I'm comforable in reading my bible alone, and over the years I've learned many scriptures that I can recite without reading from the bible.

  5. profile image0
    Emile Rposted 13 years ago

    Yes and no. It is possible to be spiritual without belonging to a religion, but I think most spiritual people who fall into that category do draw many of their ideas from reading a broad range of religious texts, or the thoughts of others on the topic. I think spiritual people attempt to glean the good they can find within each philosophy.

    Conversely, I'm not sure I think it is possible to be truly spiritual within the confines of a particular religion. There appears to be no freedom of thought on the subject. You are almost required to accept certain tenets of faith without question.

  6. profile image0
    Sherlock221bposted 13 years ago

    Yes it is perfectly possible to be spiritual without being part of an organised religion, or even without a belief in God.  In fact the people, who I have found to be most "spiritual" in my own life have been atheists, and some of the most materialistic have been religious.  The term "spiritual" may in fact not be the correct one to describe atheists, who are also humanists and believe in giving back to their community, because such people do not believe in the existence of a spirit.  However, if "spiritual" is taken to describe someone who is at one with other people and with themselves, and who views life in a philosophically caring way, then religion need have nothing to do with it, in fact it has been my experience that religion often gets in the way of spirituality.

    1. HattieMattieMae profile image60
      HattieMattieMaeposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Religion is man made, where you can read the bible, and any other spiritual literature and have a relationship with God. Religion is traditions made by man and tells man how to worship, pray, and kneel, stand, what version of the bible, books to read etc. That is a religious spirit, not God.

    2. profile image0
      Motown2Chitownposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      What a GREAT answer, Sherlock.  Well said.

    3. profile image53
      ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I think it is a good joke that the Atheists are called spiritual while they don't believe in spirit.

  7. HattieMattieMae profile image60
    HattieMattieMaeposted 13 years ago

    For instance, the Catholic church used to have control over people reading the bible, wouldn't encourage it, and you were a heretic and killed for publishing it in english or other languages for allowing others to read it if you were not a priest.

  8. RooBee profile image81
    RooBeeposted 13 years ago

    For me, religious dogma & all the junk that comes with it muddies up a pure relationship between (wo)man and creator! Haven't we learned from history that religion is a tool of manipulation?

  9. mikeb72 profile image61
    mikeb72posted 13 years ago

    amen roobee you got it right but Ill take it further, religion and  God are contrary and in fact I will say it that religion is the devils greatest tool. More people "got o hell" 'as they say', because of religion than any other reason, Jesus for example was killed by the religious because he threatened to strip them of their power by exposing their hypocrisy. Jesus rocks I'll follow him every day, Love God Love your neighbor is the sum of all he said, what's not to agree with?

    1. RooBee profile image81
      RooBeeposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Yes, it seems a pure and simple message. I figure Jesus would make a terrible Christian. smile

      1. mikeb72 profile image61
        mikeb72posted 13 years agoin reply to this

        I think you did it again, the whole point are the terms 'Christian' ' religion' God didn't create either of them he created you and loves what he created all the rest of the bla is for people who don't feel lovable to argue about   smile  smile bye

    2. thooghun profile image91
      thooghunposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I have a few hiccups regarding Jesus, but in the main, I'm satisfied.

      Hiccup 1) I'm not sure how morally feasible or responsible I find the "take no care for the morrow" doctrine is.

      2) Placing God before anything else leads to scenarios such as the sacrifice of Isaac which I find deeply abhorrent.

      1. mdcgardner profile image52
        mdcgardnerposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        I have always felt that the "take no care for the morrow" doctrine applies to the fact that we are not promised tomorrow and everything we build here on earth will be left behind-it cannot go with us into eternity. 
        As far as placing God before all else- it's just that. God loved us enough to send His only son to die for us so that we may all be saved from hell (if we so choose) so why should we not be willing to sacrifice our children back to Him, after all they are only ours to borrow- a blessing from the God who gies and takes away to care for while we have them.  Not to say that all who have claimed "God told me to do it" are correct but in the case of Abraham and Issac, it was a test of faith. God told Abraham to show him how much he loved him by sacrificing Isaac, and when God realized the Abraham did love Him enough to truely do it- there appeared a lamb to be sacrificed and Isaac was spared. Through the whole walk to the alter Abraham kept telling Isaac that the sacrifice would be there for them and it was. Abraham had the kind of faith and love that we all should have. But of course with the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus' life on the cross, there is no need for anyone to make sacrifices like in the Old Testament anymore (notice there are none in the Bible after Jesus' death and resurrection).

    3. earnestshub profile image73
      earnestshubposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Well for starters loving an OT psychopathic god who is supposed to be loving and is in truth a neurotic insecure little god who when not worshipped by his creation, wipes them out. smile

      1. mikeb72 profile image61
        mikeb72posted 13 years agoin reply to this

        why is it psychopathic or neurotic to destroy what you made if it doesn't work? If you make something and it is broken and you send your own son to fix it and it rebels from you anyway, you would do the same so you have judged yourself. God the creator has does everything to save you except force you and he has every right to destroy what he made, but don't worry the antichrist will force you soon enough and you can serve him, and probably will gladly. take implants and serve the one who lives to destroy you, that's not psychotic or neurotic is it?

        1. earnestshub profile image73
          earnestshubposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          The answer is in the text itself.
          The only people who write psychotic scripture are psychopaths.

          An all powerful god would not build humans with such a mangled DNA with faults you could drive a truck through. Hardly omniscient, when man has to repair obvious stuff ups.

          The rest of your post is just bizzare conspiracy theory that is about as far from reality as the rest of your beliefs.

          1. mdcgardner profile image52
            mdcgardnerposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            First of all, God did not create man, just so we could mess up. But He did create us with the freedom of choice- Do we love Him like he wants or do we turn our back on Him? It is my belief that if we turn our back on him, then in the end He will turn His back on us, just like He says. We have our entire lifetime, however long or short it may be, to make that choice-right up to our last minutes. The proof is in the crucifixtion. One man refused to acknowledge Jesus for who he is but the other asked Jesus to remember him- Jesus' reply was Today you will be with me in Heaven. 
            An all powerful God can do as He sees fit to do, that's what makes Him all powerful.

            1. earnestshub profile image73
              earnestshubposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              Bull twaddle!
              The more actual power one has, the less one needs to exert it or threaten.
              Psychotic text clearly shows the low mentality of the author, and it is hard to get lower down the chain than the bible or quoran. smile

              No god is likely to be a covertly hostile moron like the god depicted in religious tomes!

  10. profile image0
    Binaya.Ghimireposted 13 years ago

    Spirituality is universal thing. However, there are many religions and thus many Gods.

  11. earnestshub profile image73
    earnestshubposted 13 years ago

    The words have very different meanings depending on what one considers spirit or soul as well.

    Spirit to me is the size of the fight for survival in the man or woman, good or bad.

    The closest thing to soul I consider to be the essential essence of the persona, and would only be made available for me to see if I can embrace and accept the good and bad of the whole person.

  12. deerawan profile image58
    deerawanposted 13 years ago

    I think religion is still important to help us for being more spiritual. IMHO

    1. mdcgardner profile image52
      mdcgardnerposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Yes. As christians we are told to fellowship with other christians (church) and if God didn't want us going to church then He wouldn't have given Paul the directions and keys to setting up a Godly church.

  13. Eaglekiwi profile image76
    Eaglekiwiposted 13 years ago

    Sounds like you have some serious issues to be getting so worked up over a God that doesnt exist ,who obviously has an effect on someone you dont really know??...

    Now who do you think is acting irrational here?

    1. Cagsil profile image71
      Cagsilposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      And you apparently have a skewed view about me getting upset. But, what else is new.

    2. A Troubled Man profile image59
      A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      That's rather arrogant and condescending. Hoisted by your own petard?

      1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
        Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Not at all.

        Observation of ones behaviour.

  14. profile image53
    ibneahmadposted 13 years ago

    Being spiritual without religion?


    Unless one believes in spirit; one cannot be spiritual.

  15. Stacie L profile image88
    Stacie Lposted 13 years ago

    why do people who are spiritual need to belong to an organized religion?
    they can be two different entities;not related at all.
    there is a growing Pagen movement here and in the UK that predates the Jesus's Christianity and other organized religions of the world.

  16. profile image51
    whiteskylineposted 13 years ago

    Absolutely, some would say that for them, that is the only way.

    I love your title smile

  17. Enviroment101 profile image60
    Enviroment101posted 13 years ago

    Why not since when was there only one way to see the world

  18. profile image53
    ibneahmadposted 13 years ago

    It is religion which introduced the concept of spirit and spirituality; without religion one cannot be spiritual to the fullest extent of the concept.

    1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
      Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      No, it is the Holy Spirit who introduce Spirit...Christ

      And man who introduces Religion.

      Many thousand of people have worshipped God without ever needing Religion.

      1. Woman Of Courage profile image61
        Woman Of Courageposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Yes indeed. I worship God through spirit and truth.

        1. Evolution Guy profile image58
          Evolution Guyposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL

          1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
            Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            Inpirational stuff W.O.C ! smile

            Obediant under fire..oooo....

            To blessed to be stressed.

            1. Woman Of Courage profile image61
              Woman Of Courageposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              All the glory belongs to God big_smile

              1. earnestshub profile image73
                earnestshubposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                Gee that is a well reasoned response! Loads of logical thought behind that. lol

                1. Castlepaloma profile image77
                  Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  I thought so too, very very nice,  most obedient to salvation and to it’s core. People would kill to have that grand of knowledge, in fact they already do.

                2. Woman Of Courage profile image61
                  Woman Of Courageposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  Hey Earnest, You can't determine what is spiritual with logic. wink

                  1. Castlepaloma profile image77
                    Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    Too often Religion wants to separate too many things rather than connected them together

                  2. Evolution Guy profile image58
                    Evolution Guyposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    You certainly don't use logic or reason. You do realize that this is why you cause so much ill will and hatred. sad  Did Jesus tell you to fight and argue this much because I am having trouble finding that in the bible. Is that the 11th commandment?

                    11. Go forth and cause as much ill will and hatred as possible. lol

                  3. earnestshub profile image73
                    earnestshubposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    Even if that were true, one can still determine what is bulldust with logic. smile

              2. profile image0
                brotheryochananposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                Indeed the glory does belong to God.
                He does all the work
                He did all the work
                its all a gift
                a great giftology from God to His.
                an amazing parent

    2. profile image0
      Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Nope. The concept of  the spirit was around before religion. Religions are little more than group acceptance of different definitions of the concept. Their existence without proof to back up their beliefs is evidence that the things they follow are not the truth they seek.

      1. Eaglekiwi profile image76
        Eaglekiwiposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        True ,way before the printing press and ornate buildings even smile

  19. profile image53
    ibneahmadposted 13 years ago

    Religion was there as soon as man got evolved that he could be distinctively distinguised from the animals; man was taught how to speak and could expressed his inner thoughts in clear words to communicate with others; he was mature enough to receive Word of Revelation from the Creator God; an epoch making event in the life of humanity.

    1. profile image53
      ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      When man's physical evolution as destined by the Creator God was complete; his ethical, moral and spiritual evolution continued.

  20. profile image57
    Aim to be healthyposted 13 years ago

    I am a Christian, which mean I beleive in God, but I am not affiliated with the man made relegions which sometimes feel more like  clubs than  a place of worship. I am also spiritual which a state of mind not something dictated by another person or group of people.  Stick with you beliefs.

  21. earnestshub profile image73
    earnestshubposted 13 years ago

    Hi Habee! I don't often see you here these days. I hope you are well, I know you're happy so I won't ask, you always are. smile

    1. habee profile image91
      habeeposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Hi, Earnest! I've been in Florida on vaca, and it was awesome! My granddaughter took her first steps while we were on Anna Maria Island.

      1. earnestshub profile image73
        earnestshubposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Beautiful! Those first steps are a distant memory, as my youngest grandchildren are the twins who informed me yesterday that they are almost 6. smile
        Sounds like you had a grand old time! smile

  22. mimig025 profile image57
    mimig025posted 13 years ago

    People often fail to realize the difference between spirituality and religion. You can be religious and have no spirituality what so ever just doing it out of habit or for the sake of saying you did it (for other people), but that doesn't make you a spiritual person in heart. Some of the biggest hypocrite's are religious people who attend church every sunday hollering and hooting about GOD, judging other people, not even really knowing what a relationship with GOD truly means. People also fail to realize that a church here on earth is just a building, the "church" god refers to in the bible are mostly the body of christ...the people. If you follow him in heart you follow him in spirit, then you are spiritual and don't need to attend a building (church), and if you do it's just for your own personal want of fellowship. Your religion should not be in the church, it should be in your heart.

    1. profile image51
      whiteskylineposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I like that mimig025.

      1. mimig025 profile image57
        mimig025posted 13 years agoin reply to this

        thank you smile

  23. rebekahELLE profile image84
    rebekahELLEposted 13 years ago

    Each of us inevitable
    Each of us limitless . . .
    Each of us here as divinely as any is here.
    -- Walt Whitman

  24. profile image53
    ibneahmadposted 13 years ago

    Being spiritual without religion is not possible.

    1. profile image0
      Sherlock221bposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Being religious without religion is not possible, although there are many who are relgious without being spiritual.  Religion can be very materialisitc, and there is a lot of money to be made from it.  The Church did not become as rich as it is by giving everything away to the needy.

    2. Castlepaloma profile image77
      Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      ibneahmad
      Being spiritual without religion is not possible.

      Do you ever stop and think for a moment, that ancient spirituality religion maybe just getting in the way of true spirituality which is just the 99% unknowns?

  25. profile image53
    ibneahmadposted 13 years ago

    Being spiritual without religion?

    Just impossible.

    1. cindi h profile image61
      cindi hposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      the question posed was "can you be spiritual or a believer of God apart from religion or the church."

      I took that to mean do you need to go to church in order to be spiritual?  the answer is NO.

      Spirituality is based on a religious foundation. Had I not been introduced to any form of religion when I was a child, I do not know what kind of person I would be today. But--some of the most devoted church-going people I know are also some of the biggest hypocrites!! They think that all week long they can do what they want and all is forgiven in the church pew on Sunday!!

    2. Castlepaloma profile image77
      Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      ibneahmad

      Being spiritual without religion?

      Just impossible

      Almost everything is possible with imagination wail ancient Religion can only shrink in time

      We Human have not even 1% knowledge about our own mass of the earth which is the surface of the earth, we do not know about 99 % about the mass beneath the earth. Wail just one bible Book claims it knows the whole of the Universe. I cannot express how limited minded that is. It only contributes to our over ego world of limited thinking and thinkers as you are what you think.

      Spirituality is the 99% unknowns which did evolve from the med evil ancient spirituality time of religion/, Some that knowledge is part of our history, let’s not keep regretting the hardship of the pass, it’s better to work on not regretting things in our future, Love is work made visual and I am working on solving many of the grand conspiracy that face us today starting with many of the things that I have been brainwashed by and with the people within my circle.

    3. A Troubled Man profile image59
      A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Why is it impossible?

      1. profile image53
        ibneahmadposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        The Atheists don't believe that there is anything like Spirit in the human body; they cannot prove it scientifically. If they don't believe in the spirit; how could they be spiritual?

        1. A Troubled Man profile image59
          A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          That doesn't answer the question, why can't someone be spiritual without religion? I wasn't asking about atheists.

          1. Castlepaloma profile image77
            Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            That is partly true Atheist are lame when it come to confronting spiritual conversation yet they are only 3% of the world population.

            Although I would be within the 11% non religious spiritual groups

            1. A Troubled Man profile image59
              A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              Why is that I wonder?

              The best answer I got so far was from cindi h, and she gave up on religion.

              1. Castlepaloma profile image77
                Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                I think both atheists and religion would limit your thinking, good for cindi h.

    4. A Troubled Man profile image59
      A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Hey Paarsurrey, you continue to toss sweeping statements onto the forums but can't seem to explain them. Are you trolling?

      Why is it impossible to be spiritual without religion?

      1. Castlepaloma profile image77
        Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        Is Paar now ibneahmad, well their styles are the same ,he sure climbed the charts fast.

        Trolls must actual live in the pass.

  26. profile image0
    Sherlock221bposted 13 years ago

    Science is one of the best ways to develop a wonder of the universe, which can be so moving as to be described as "spiritual."  Religion is such a small-minded way of viewing the beauty of the universe.  It is religion that has taught that the Earth is flat, that the universe consisted of  a dome, which covered the flat earth, and which was only a few miles high.  It is religion that taught that the Sun orbits the Earth.  Compare this to the discoveries of science, that our solar system is only one of billions within our galaxy, and that our galaxy is only one of billions or even trillions in our universe.  Recent developments in cosmological understanding suggest, that everything we call the universe, may be only one universe among any number, making up a multiverse.  Christians now for the most part accept that the universe is bigger than a small dome, and that the Earth orbits the Sun, yet, it is science which made these discoveries, not religion.  Religion tried everthing it could to prevent the understanding of the universe, even at pain of death.  How anyone would choose this narrow view of existence, instead of the wonder created by the discoveries of science makes little sense to me. 

    To quote Richard Dawkins, 'Science flies you to the Moon, religion flies you into buildings.'

  27. Stone Gifts profile image60
    Stone Giftsposted 13 years ago

    I thins that God lives in hearts, you don't need churches to be be spiritual.

  28. Divinemusings profile image60
    Divinemusingsposted 13 years ago

    We all are spiritual as we are spirits who have a body and mind.  But when we are too engrossed in the body and mind, we forget this. When we are aware, awake, we are connected with who you are, that is the spirit that weare.  If your religion helps you to feel this, then you are spiritual. But religion is not necessary for experiencing spirituality. I have known people who pray, visit temples or churches, but who have no connect with their spirituality. I also know others who do not follow any rituals or talk of god, but who are in rhythm with the universe, with their own selves.
    So, you can be religious, yet not spiritual . You can be spiritual and yet not religious. Or you can be both . The bottom line is you are vibrating to the rhythm of the universe, you know that each of us is like waves from the ocean, each wave carries the ocean in it. Some waves are slow, some fast, some rise high, some not so high, but ultimately each dissolves into the ocean.

    1. Castlepaloma profile image77
      Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      I like that

    2. profile image0
      Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Very well stated.

    3. A Troubled Man profile image59
      A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Isn't that just being conscious and aware? Why bother calling it something else that has never been discovered in the human body? If we are spirits, where are these spirits? How do they work? What parts of the human body are they connected to?

      1. Castlepaloma profile image77
        Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        The little fish asked the big fish? Where is the Ocean

        The big fish replied your in the ocean, it totally surround you

        The little fish was not please with big fish anwser, so he kept on serching
        Provide that the little fish was not on the big fish menue that day

        1. A Troubled Man profile image59
          A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          I can see fish and I can see the ocean, what is your point?

        2. profile image0
          Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          Hey castle. I love this response.

          1. Castlepaloma profile image77
            Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            Swim 200 feet pass the land sharks on your left, there is a killer whale cave, Entrée there and you will find your answer to utopia in there

            1. profile image0
              Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              That's cute. Entree there. You aren't telling me utopia is in the belly of the whale are you?

              1. Castlepaloma profile image77
                Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                Hey, your right too religious. How can you live in a belly of a whale.

      2. profile image0
        Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

        roll  In the beginning, the gods were young and foolish. They blindfolded one another and played the game of pin the soul on the humans. Now, where your soul is pinned reflects your personality type reflects to the world. Those who are perceived as having a big heart have their soul near their heart. Those who are perceived as generous have their souls pinned to their hands. You need only imagine what body part closely resembles  how your personality style is perceived.

        1. A Troubled Man profile image59
          A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

          What's a soul? Where is it? Does it sit next to the spirit? Do they get along, play cards or just sit and act dopey all day?

          1. profile image0
            Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

            Having climbed the mountain and touched the sky, so to speak: I can only reply for my soul and spirit. I'm sorry to say the answer is dopey. You must embark on your own spirit quest to find the answer for yours.

            1. A Troubled Man profile image59
              A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

              Here we go again, chasing tails that have no body. Seriously, shuffling people off like little children when you can't explain why the sky is blue doesn't work very well on an adult forum.

              1. profile image0
                Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                Asking foolish questions doesn't either. There is no proof of a soul or spirit. No one can answer that question with any authority and you full well know that. Why would you ask it?

                1. A Troubled Man profile image59
                  A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  LOL! The question is foolish? You talk about souls and spirits as if they were piled knee high on the ground all around us but can't even describe or define them in the least.

                  If no one can answer the question, why do people insist they exist?

                  1. profile image0
                    Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    Other than my post sniggering at your question, where have I piled souls up knee high?  If I have ever said soul, I'd be interested in being pointed in that direction. I would certainly be more than willing to clear up the miscommunication.

                2. Castlepaloma profile image77
                  Castlepalomaposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                  A Troubled Man
                  A soul for me, is made up of millions of things related or connected to you

                  A Christian soul is a salvation through Jesus
                  Kinda like a cross between a Funny farm and a Hot night club

                  Emile R
                  I like the sound of generous souls have it pinned on their hands.
                  Can I used that if I write a book Titled: The Heavenly Sins of Masturbation

                  1. profile image0
                    Emile Rposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    lol Only if you promise me a signed copy.

                  2. A Troubled Man profile image59
                    A Troubled Manposted 13 years agoin reply to this

                    Millions, but you can't describe or define one single thing or how it's connected out of those millions. Gee, that's helpful.

                    You say a Christian soul is something different, too? Is it different in a way you can't explain compared to the other millions of connected things you also can't explain.

                    This is so helpful. I feel like I'm standing in a scene from the Wizard of Oz talking with munchkins.

  29. profile image0
    mikeq107posted 13 years ago

    Yes yes yes!!!! Right On Susie..morning Have a great day ..love in Jesus Mike ;0)

    1. profile image0
      SusieQ42posted 13 years agoin reply to this

      Thanks Mike!  How could anyone think they couldn't have Jesus without church?  Lordy days!

 
working

This website uses cookies

As a user in the EEA, your approval is needed on a few things. To provide a better website experience, hubpages.com uses cookies (and other similar technologies) and may collect, process, and share personal data. Please choose which areas of our service you consent to our doing so.

For more information on managing or withdrawing consents and how we handle data, visit our Privacy Policy at: https://corp.maven.io/privacy-policy

Show Details
Necessary
HubPages Device IDThis is used to identify particular browsers or devices when the access the service, and is used for security reasons.
LoginThis is necessary to sign in to the HubPages Service.
Google RecaptchaThis is used to prevent bots and spam. (Privacy Policy)
AkismetThis is used to detect comment spam. (Privacy Policy)
HubPages Google AnalyticsThis is used to provide data on traffic to our website, all personally identifyable data is anonymized. (Privacy Policy)
HubPages Traffic PixelThis is used to collect data on traffic to articles and other pages on our site. Unless you are signed in to a HubPages account, all personally identifiable information is anonymized.
Amazon Web ServicesThis is a cloud services platform that we used to host our service. (Privacy Policy)
CloudflareThis is a cloud CDN service that we use to efficiently deliver files required for our service to operate such as javascript, cascading style sheets, images, and videos. (Privacy Policy)
Google Hosted LibrariesJavascript software libraries such as jQuery are loaded at endpoints on the googleapis.com or gstatic.com domains, for performance and efficiency reasons. (Privacy Policy)
Features
Google Custom SearchThis is feature allows you to search the site. (Privacy Policy)
Google MapsSome articles have Google Maps embedded in them. (Privacy Policy)
Google ChartsThis is used to display charts and graphs on articles and the author center. (Privacy Policy)
Google AdSense Host APIThis service allows you to sign up for or associate a Google AdSense account with HubPages, so that you can earn money from ads on your articles. No data is shared unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)
Google YouTubeSome articles have YouTube videos embedded in them. (Privacy Policy)
VimeoSome articles have Vimeo videos embedded in them. (Privacy Policy)
PaypalThis is used for a registered author who enrolls in the HubPages Earnings program and requests to be paid via PayPal. No data is shared with Paypal unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)
Facebook LoginYou can use this to streamline signing up for, or signing in to your Hubpages account. No data is shared with Facebook unless you engage with this feature. (Privacy Policy)
MavenThis supports the Maven widget and search functionality. (Privacy Policy)
Marketing
Google AdSenseThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
Google DoubleClickGoogle provides ad serving technology and runs an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
Index ExchangeThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
SovrnThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
Facebook AdsThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
Amazon Unified Ad MarketplaceThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
AppNexusThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
OpenxThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
Rubicon ProjectThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
TripleLiftThis is an ad network. (Privacy Policy)
Say MediaWe partner with Say Media to deliver ad campaigns on our sites. (Privacy Policy)
Remarketing PixelsWe may use remarketing pixels from advertising networks such as Google AdWords, Bing Ads, and Facebook in order to advertise the HubPages Service to people that have visited our sites.
Conversion Tracking PixelsWe may use conversion tracking pixels from advertising networks such as Google AdWords, Bing Ads, and Facebook in order to identify when an advertisement has successfully resulted in the desired action, such as signing up for the HubPages Service or publishing an article on the HubPages Service.
Statistics
Author Google AnalyticsThis is used to provide traffic data and reports to the authors of articles on the HubPages Service. (Privacy Policy)
ComscoreComScore is a media measurement and analytics company providing marketing data and analytics to enterprises, media and advertising agencies, and publishers. Non-consent will result in ComScore only processing obfuscated personal data. (Privacy Policy)
Amazon Tracking PixelSome articles display amazon products as part of the Amazon Affiliate program, this pixel provides traffic statistics for those products (Privacy Policy)
ClickscoThis is a data management platform studying reader behavior (Privacy Policy)