Spiritual Transformation Through Pilgrimage

What is it about?

This research examines the spiritual transformations experienced during pilgrimages by interviewing participants from the Mazu pilgrimage in Taiwan, the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Japan, and the Camino de Santiago in Spain. It establishes a framework centered on six interconnected factors shaping spiritual growth: yearning for change, the power of vulnerability, self-connection and flow state, upward and beyond, external connection and perception, and stability, belonging, and spiritual experience. Results indicate that pilgrimages enable individuals to step back, regain inner balance after exposure to new physical and mental stimuli, and often lead to spiritual awakening. The journey primarily relies on physical and sensory experiences that provoke psychological reflection and growth. Additionally, these journeys broaden perspectives and cultivate qualities such as surrender, gratitude, and compassion. These transformations support personal spiritual development and contribute to societal harmony.

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Photo by Jametlene Reskp on Unsplash

Photo by Jametlene Reskp on Unsplash