Transformation of the Spiritual Paradigm in Formal and Non Formal Religious Interaction in the Modern Era
Muhamad Ali Mas'ud, Moh. Nor Ichwan, Syariif Ahmad Ja'far Shoodiq, Dliya'uddin Achmad
Jurnal Sosiologi Agama dan Teologi Indonesia July 7, 2025 DOI: 10.24246/sami.vol3i1pp273-389 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative literature review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key findings | Argues that alternative spiritual practices such as yoga, meditation, and the New Age movement emerged in response to spiritual needs unmet by formal religion, and that this shift challenges religious institutions to become more adaptive. |
Abstract
This research critically explores the dynamics of alternative spirituality and its relationship with formal religion in the face of social changes due to modernization, individualization, and globalization. The shift in spiritual paradigms in the modern era reflects a dissatisfaction with dogmatism and the hierarchical structure of formal religions, which is pushing individuals to seek a more personal and flexible spiritual path. The study adopts a qualitative literature review method with thematic analysis of the literature on sociology, anthropology, religious studies, and psychology, obtained through a systematic selection of relevant academic journals, books, and research reports. The results of the analysis show that practices such as yoga, meditation, and the New Age movement developed in response to spiritual needs that were not fully met by formal religion. This shift not only changes individual identities and patterns of social cohesion but also challenges religious institutions to be more adaptive in the face of contemporary spiritual trends. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of innovation in religious practices as well as constructive dialogue between alternative spirituality and formal religion as an effort to maintain the relevance of religion in the ever-evolving spiritual landscape.