Twelfth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

Experiences of awe are a universal human emotion. Two of the most common sources of awe are nature and religion. Experiences of nature awe are a key feature in some accounts of secular spirituality and are frequently an element of religious spirituality. This paper explores the experience of awe as a bridge between the increasing number of ‘nones’ [many of whom identify as ‘spiritual but not religious’] and those rooted in faith traditions. What the German theologian, Rudolph Otto, identified as the ‘numinous’ in religious experience has remarkable similarities with secular experiences of awe. Exploration of awe as bridge will be enriched by recent scientific studies of awe in positive psychology. The burgeoning scientific studies have identified a number of common characteristics in experiences of awe as well as a number of psychological benefits that overlap with spiritual values such as generosity, gratitude, and a sense of connectedness. Developing this bridge may help each group better understand and appreciate the other as well as cross fertilize the cultivation of awe as a psychological and spiritual benefit.