Metaphysical vs. Spiritual — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 9, 2024
"Metaphysical" relates to the philosophy that deals with understanding existence and reality beyond the physical world, while "spiritual" pertains to personal beliefs or practices involving the soul, spirit, or connection with higher powers.
Difference Between Metaphysical and Spiritual
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Metaphysical" is rooted in philosophy and refers to the study of existence beyond the physical realm, exploring topics like being, time, and the nature of reality. "Spiritual," on the other hand, often relates to individual beliefs or practices centered on connecting with one's spirit or transcendent elements.
Metaphysical concepts are typically theoretical, analyzing fundamental aspects of reality that aren't directly observable, such as the nature of the mind or the concept of identity. Spiritual beliefs focus more on personal growth, rituals, and finding meaning or purpose beyond material existence.
"Metaphysical" ideas are often debated in philosophical circles, focusing on logical or theoretical reasoning. "Spiritual" practices, however, vary widely across cultures and can include meditation, prayer, or rituals.
In literature and art, "metaphysical" often describes works dealing with abstract concepts, while "spiritual" can denote pieces exploring faith, transcendence, or enlightenment.
Metaphysical questions address what exists beyond the material world in a logical sense, while spiritual exploration aims to provide individuals with a sense of connection, inner peace, or guidance.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Philosophical study of reality beyond the physical
Personal beliefs and practices about spirit and higher powers
Focus
Fundamental nature of reality
Inner connection and transcendence
Approach
Logical, theoretical, conceptual
Personal, experiential, emotional
Cultural Influence
Philosophical movements and debates
Religious rituals, meditation practices
Usage Context
Abstract discussions in philosophy, literature
Personal growth, religious experiences
Compare with Definitions
Metaphysical
Characterized by theoretical reasoning rather than empirical evidence.
The scientist remained skeptical about metaphysical explanations without empirical support.
Spiritual
Relating to the spirit or soul, often in religious contexts.
She felt a deep spiritual connection with nature through meditation.
Metaphysical
Sometimes applied to abstract artistic works.
The poet was known for his metaphysical verses exploring love and mortality.
Spiritual
Pertaining to personal beliefs about transcendent or divine elements.
His spiritual journey led him to explore various religious traditions.
Metaphysical
Relating to the philosophical study of reality beyond the physical.
The philosopher's metaphysical inquiries examined the nature of consciousness.
Spiritual
Emphasizing inner growth and connection over material pursuits.
The retreat focused on spiritual development through mindful living.
Metaphysical
Dealing with abstract concepts like identity and being.
The novel explored metaphysical questions about time and existence.
Spiritual
Connected to finding deeper meaning or purpose.
She sought spiritual guidance to navigate difficult life changes.
Metaphysical
Pertaining to metaphysics as a branch of philosophy.
Metaphysical concepts often intersect with ethics and epistemology.
Spiritual
Incorporating practices like prayer, meditation, or rituals.
Spiritual practices like yoga can provide a sense of peace and fulfillment.
Metaphysical
Based on speculative or abstract reasoning.
Spiritual
Of, relating to, consisting of, or having the nature of spirit; not material; supernatural
Spiritual power.
Metaphysical
Immaterial or supernatural
Angels and other metaphysical beings.
Spiritual
Of, concerned with, or affecting the soul
Spiritual guidance.
Spiritual growth.
Metaphysical
Of or pertaining to metaphysics.
Spiritual
Not concerned with material or worldly things
Led a spiritual life.
Metaphysical
Being an adherent of the philosophy of metaphysics.
Spiritual
Of or belonging to a religion; sacred
Spiritual practices.
Spiritual music.
Metaphysical
Immaterial, supersensual, not physical (more properly, "beyond" that which is physical).
Spiritual
A religious folk song of African American origin.
Metaphysical
Of or pertaining to metaphysics.
Spiritual
A work composed in imitation of such a song.
Metaphysical
According to rules or principles of metaphysics; as, metaphysical reasoning.
Spiritual
Often spirituals Religious, spiritual, or ecclesiastical matters.
Metaphysical
Preternatural or supernatural.
The golden roundWhich fate and metaphysical aid doth seemTo have thee crowned withal.
Spiritual
Of or pertaining to the spirit or the soul.
Respect towards ancestors is an essential part of Thai spiritual practice.
Metaphysical
Pertaining to or of the nature of metaphysics;
Metaphysical philosophy
Spiritual
Of or pertaining to spirits; supernatural.
Metaphysical
Without material form or substance;
Metaphysical forces
Spiritual
Consisting of spirit; not material; incorporeal.
A spiritual substance or being
Metaphysical
Highly abstract and over-theoretical;
Metaphysical reasoning
Spiritual
Of or relating to the intellectual and higher endowments of the mind; mental; intellectual.
Metaphysical
Of or relating to metaphysics.
Spiritual
Not lay or temporal; relating to sacred things; ecclesiastical.
The spiritual functions of the clergy; lords spiritual and temporal; a spiritual corporation
Metaphysical
Often Metaphysical Of or relating to the poetry of a group of 17th-century English poets whose verse is characterized by an intellectually challenging style and extended metaphors comparing very dissimilar things.
Spiritual
A Christian religious song, especially one in an African-American style, or a similar non-religious song.
Spiritual
Any spiritual function, office, or affair.
He assigns supremacy to the pope in spirituals, and to the emperor in temporals. — Lowell.
Spiritual
Consisting of spirit; not material; incorporeal; as, a spiritual substance or being.
It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body.
Spiritual
Of or pertaining to the intellectual and higher endowments of the mind; mental; intellectual.
Spiritual
Of or pertaining to the moral feelings or states of the soul, as distinguished from the external actions; reaching and affecting the spirits.
God's law is spiritual; it is a transcript of the divine nature, and extends its authority to the acts of the soul of man.
Spiritual
Of or pertaining to the soul or its affections as influenced by the Spirit; controlled and inspired by the divine Spirit; proceeding from the Holy Spirit; pure; holy; divine; heavenly-minded; - opposed to carnal.
That I may impart unto you some spiritual gift.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings.
If a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one.
Spiritual
A spiritual function, office, or affair. See Spirituality, 2.
He assigns supremacy to the pope in spirituals, and to the emperor in temporals.
Spiritual
A kind of religious song originated by Blacks in the southern United States
Spiritual
Concerned with sacred matters or religion or the church;
Religious texts
A nenber if a religious order
Lords temporal and spiritual
Spiritual leaders
Spiritual songs
Spiritual
Concerned with or affecting the spirit or soul;
A spiritual approach to life
Spiritual fulfillment
Spiritual values
Unearthly love
Spiritual
Lacking material body or form or substance;
Spiritual beings
The vital transcendental soul belonging to the spiritual realm
Spiritual
Like or being a phantom;
A ghostly face at the window
A phantasmal presence in the room
Spectral emanations
Spiritual tappings at a seance
Spiritual
Of or pertaining to God or a place of worship; sacred, pure; inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Spiritual
Not lay or temporal; relating to sacred things; ecclesiastical; as, the spiritual functions of the clergy; lords spiritual and temporal; a spiritual corporation.
Common Curiosities
Can someone hold both metaphysical and spiritual beliefs?
Yes, many people explore both realms for a comprehensive understanding.
Do metaphysical ideas include spirituality?
They can overlap but often focus on broader philosophical questions.
Are metaphysical concepts provable?
Not directly, as they often address questions beyond empirical measurement.
Is "spiritual" only linked to religion?
Not exclusively; it can involve personal growth and non-religious practices.
Is "metaphysical" used in literature?
Yes, often to describe works that delve into abstract concepts and ideas.
Can spirituality help with mental health?
For some, spiritual practices can promote well-being and resilience.
Does "spiritual" imply specific practices?
Not necessarily; it varies widely based on individual beliefs and traditions.
Are spiritual practices backed by science?
Some practices, like meditation, have shown mental health benefits in studies.
What are common metaphysical questions?
They include the nature of existence, time, and the mind-body relationship.
Are spiritual practices always peaceful?
Many aim for peace, but some practices can involve intense emotions or challenges.
Is "metaphysical" limited to academic philosophy?
No, it's also used in literature, art, and spiritual contexts.
Are "metaphysical" and "spiritual" interchangeable?
No, "metaphysical" is philosophical, while "spiritual" pertains to personal beliefs.
Can metaphysical questions be answered definitively?
Often, no; many remain open to interpretation and debate.
Do metaphysical beliefs shape religions?
They can, as many religions have philosophical underpinnings involving existence.
Is "spiritual" the same as "religious"?
Not necessarily; spiritual can include but is not limited to religious beliefs.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
