Nee Sern is...

really really sleepy

Monday, May 05, 2008

Spiritual vs Religious

In the recently concluded 3rd INCOVAR Graduate Camp, Bro Tan Huat Chye mentioned the importance of having Spiritual Friends, as compared to Religious Friends. While the 2 words sound similar, the meaning of both are actually different.

What makes a person religious? If that person follows all the religious rituals and practices the form of the religious belief, then he is considered to be a religious person.

But a religious person is not automatically a spiritual person.

So what then makes a person spiritual?

It's the constant questioning of oneself. Am I doing the right thing? Am I doing enough? Am I thinking negative thoughts constantly? Would it be good if I helped the needy?

These questions trigger the thought process, and in the process of self reconciliation, he becomes a better person.

A spiritual person is not necessarily a religious person. He may not believe in any god or any religious teacher. But if he avoids evil, does good, and purifies his mind, then he is considered a spiritual person.

And it is these type of people that we should surround ourselves with.

Remember, @ INCOVAR, we can connect you to a network of spiritual friends, thus nurturing a Family in the Dharma :)

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