Z problematyki „duchowości”

Abstract

The article reviews spirituality, the term which recently has been widely used in the theology of spiritual life. The author begins with an analysis of the term spirituality and its meaning over the last centuries. He refers to spirituality in both the general sense as well as in the specific of an experience of God. The analysis of selected approaches leads to an attempt at a definition of the term. Spirituality is thus defined as an existential attitude which thanks to supernatural gifts as well as natural abilities resulting from active cooperation with God in the right choice of ascetic and religious means within the Church practice and by individual duties leads to a mystical unity in which one can experience God’s love. Scientificly, spirituality is defined as a doctrine of spiritual life with its stages of development, a doctrine of ways to mystical unity with God. The author follows those theologists who believe that the heart of spirituality is in the experience of spiritual state, in the experience of God which makes one a subject ready and able rather than in the direct external results often in spiritual life. The fact that the experience of God becomes an essential part of the understanding of spirituality points to the dynamic character of spiritual and personal growth. Originating in the existence of spiritual life in the soul, spirituality is then an expression of this existence with all means given both on the direct part of God and of those which result from concrete situations and contribute to spiritual life. Gradually, in the course of this evolution, the spirituality of each Christian is shaped into a certain from of perfection or a model of holiness.