Glossary of spirituality terms
Open-knowledge reference entry
This is a glossary of spirituality-related terms. Spirituality is closely linked to religion.
A
Afterlife: (or life after death) A generic term referring to a purported continuation of existence, typically spiritual and experiential, beyond this world, or a personal reputation that is so strong as to be capable of persistent social influence long after death. (see also soul)
Agnosticism: the view that the existence of God or the supernatural is unknown or unknowable.
Ahimsa: A religious principle of non-violence and respect for all life. Ahimsa (अहिंसा ahiṁsā) is Sanskrit for avoidance of himsa, or injury. It is interpreted most often as meaning peace and reverence toward all sentient beings. Ahimsa is the core of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Its first mention in Indian philosophy is found in the Hindu scriptures called the Upanishads, the oldest dating about 800 BC. Those who practice Ahimsa are often vegetarians or vegans.
Aikido: (合気道 Aikidō, also 合氣道 using an older style of kanji) Literally meaning "harmony energy way", or with some poetic license, "way of the harmonious spirit", aikido is a gendai budo – a modern Japanese martial art.
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