Spiritualism

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Spiritualism

Spiritualism (/ˈspɪrɪtʃʊəlɪzəm/; from Latin spiritus meaning "spirit") is a religious movement based on the belief that the spirits of the dead exist and have both the ability and the inclination to communicate with the living. The afterlife, or the "spirit world", is seen by spiritualists, not as a static place, but as one in which spirits continue to evolve.

Etymology

The term "spiritualism" has been commonly used in the English language since the 18th century, referring to the belief that the spirits of the dead can interact with the living. The term was first used in this context in the mid-19th century, when spiritualism became a popular movement.

Beliefs

Spiritualists believe in the afterlife and that spirits are capable of growth and perfection, progressing through higher spheres or planes. The afterlife is not a static state, but one in which spirits evolve. The two beliefs—that contact with spirits is possible, and that spirits may dwell on a higher plane—lead to a third belief, that spirits can provide knowledge about moral and ethical issues, as well as about the nature of God and the afterlife.

Practices

Spiritualist practices can include mediumship, where a medium communicates with spirits, healing practices, and other practices believed to allow communication with the spirit world.

Related Terms

  • Mediumship: The practice of purportedly mediating communication between spirits of the dead and living human beings.
  • Afterlife: The belief in some form of life after death.
  • Healing: The process of the restoration of health from an unbalanced, diseased, damaged or unvitalized organism.

External links

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