Spirituality and peace

Abstract

Spirituality and peace are tightly interlinked; the broader the definition of peace, the more intertwined it is with the concept of spirituality. This essay distinguishes between three stages, or levels, of peace: weak peace, strong peace, and holistic peace; and between inner and outer dimensions of spirituality in the non-materialistic realm. A discussion of the connection points brings the following insights: weak peace, defined as the absence of war or any kind of violence, represents the simplest form of peace and, thus, is a nonspiritual starting point of the discussion, albeit the absence of violent thoughts being a worthwhile spiritual goal. Strong peace is the presence of positive values or ideals; correspondingly, spiritual practices can lead to individual, interpersonal, and institutional virtue. Finally, holistic peace implies a transrational desire to follow a higher purpose, culminating in true passion, bliss, unconditional love, and a strong feeling of interconnectedness.