Phenomenological Exploration of Spiritual Experiences in Daily Life: Lived Experiences of Religion and Culture in a Multicultural Society

Abstract

The intersection of religion, culture, and society plays a critical role in shaping individual and collective identities, particularly in multicultural settings. While much research has focused on the general dynamics of religious and cultural integration, less attention has been given to how individuals within these contexts personally experience and navigate these intersections. This study aims to address this gap by exploring how individuals in multicultural societies understand and integrate religious beliefs in their daily lives, particularly in urban settings where traditional values often collide with modern influences. Here, we use a phenomenological approach to capture the lived experiences of individuals from diverse religious backgrounds, focusing on their subjective interpretations of religious and cultural interactions. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the study reveals that individuals experience significant tension between maintaining religious practices and adapting to societal norms, often seeking a balance through personal and collective negotiation. Specifically, the findings indicate that 70% of participants report feeling conflicted about practicing their religion in public spaces, while 45% express a need for community support to maintain religious observance. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how religious identities are formed and transformed in dynamic social environments and suggest directions for future research on the role of religion in multicultural societies.