The Culture of Spirituality in Egypt and Developing Countries {Reflections Redeemed}

 

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Spirituality is deeply ingrained in many developing countries, including Egypt, where it often permeates everyday life. Unlike in the West, where individuals may embark on specific spiritual journeys or seek guidance from spiritual gurus, the experience of spirituality in the East is often more intrinsic and embedded in culture. This article focuses on understanding spirituality from a local perspective rather than on popularized spiritual practices imported through classes and sessions.

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Authenticity and Perceptions of Spirituality

In some cases, individuals may feign spirituality to appear more enlightened, but this tendency is often a reaction to the deep spiritual currents present in the Eastern world. By contrast, the West is frequently associated with materialistic preoccupation, which contributes to material advancement but may not offer the same sense of peace found in many Eastern spiritual events. These events, which may seem illogical or beyond human comprehension in developed countries, often leave people in the East feeling connected to something deeper.

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Spirituality as a Source of Resilience

This innate spirituality—grasped through language, cultural nuances, and religious backgrounds—helps explain the remarkable resilience of individuals facing extreme challenges. In situations of oppression or trauma, it can seem incomprehensible how people survive or thrive. Whether confronted by failing administrative systems or societal injustices beyond their control, the difficulty of these circumstances is immense.

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Benefits and Drawbacks of Spirituality

There are both pros and cons to embracing spirituality as a coping mechanism. For some, it provides a calming influence, helping to focus on life’s realities while reducing stress and overthinking. However, for others, spirituality can become an excuse for stagnation and inefficiency, allowing avoidance of harsh realities. Prolonged misfortune might lead some to fake or misinterpret spirituality, using it to numb their feelings instead of actively engaging with life.

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True Spirituality: Active Engagement

True spirituality enables individuals to navigate tragic events in an active and constructive manner. It is not about passivity or submission, but about finding peace amid life’s struggles—both external and internal. Spirituality involves striving for improvement despite chaos and challenges. It demands taking responsibility for what we can control and choosing to act with integrity, even in adversity.

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Cross-Cultural Exchange: A Way Forward

Perhaps there is a need for cross-cultural exchange, where the West shares insights into materialism and accountability, while the East offers spiritual wisdom and self-reflection. By sharing knowledge across cultures, we can enrich our collective understanding and experience of life.

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References

• Ammerman, N. T. (2013). Spirituality in Everyday Life: Experience and Practice.

• Hood Jr., R. W., Hill, P. C., & Spilka, B. (2009). The Psychology of Religion: An Empirical Approach.

• Pargament, K. I. (1997). The Psychology of Religion and Coping: Theory, Research, Practice.

• Zinnbauer, B. J., & Pargament, K. I. (2005). Religiousness and Spirituality.

• Kirmayer, L. J., & Gómez-Carrillo, A. (2019). Healing and Resilience in Cultural Context.