In the modern era, many have turned away from structured doctrines of religion toward a more fluid and individualised spirituality. This shift reflects profound cultural changes, particularly in the West, where a desire for personal connection with the divine has often supplanted collective worship. Many young people say that they are ‘spiritual but not religious’ today. Yet, this transition is not without complexity, as it reshapes how we understand and engage with the sacred.
The 1960s marked a watershed moment in this evolution. Eastern philosophies like Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Taoism captivated a generation disillusioned with the rigidity of organised religion. Concepts such as reincarnation, meditation, and the interconnectedness of all beings offered idealistic youth a fresh lens through which to explore spirituality.
A controversial but influential book, first published in 1956.
Writers like Cyril Henry Hoskin, an Englishman writing as Lapsang Rampa, figures like Alan Watts and the Beatles’ collaboration with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi brought Eastern teachings into Western consciousness, spurring movements that celebrated inner transformation over external conformity.
One enduring legacy is the rise of mindfulness, derived from Buddhist meditation but adapted to health and wellbeing in the West. This practice has become synonymous with spirituality for many, emphasising lucid awareness, presence and inner peace. Alongside it, yoga — an ancient discipline of mind, body, and spirit — has become a global phenomenon, often more focused on physical fitness than its spiritual origins. These developments underscore the modern focus on individual experience, yet they risk losing the depth of traditional frameworks that were their origin. Religion, for all its perceived rigidity, offers essential insights that complement this personal journey. Its rituals and myths are profound symbols, providing a map for the soul’s ascent. The Christian Eucharist, for instance, can be seen as a deeply symbolic act of spiritual unity. Similarly, Hinduism’s Dharma or Taoism’s Way highlights the importance of aligning one’s life with universal truths. While spiritual paths emphasise freedom, religion reminds us of community, shared rituals, and ethical frameworks.
Striking a balance is key. Individualised spirituality allows for personal exploration, fostering authenticity and freedom. Religion, when approached with openness, offers guidance, ethical grounding, and connection to something greater than oneself. Together, they remind us that the journey to the divine is not a solitary undertaking, but a collective endeavour, but one enriched by the wisdom of ages and the support of a shared path.
Illustration is AI-assisted
