Spiritual Experience in Modern Religious Movements: A Phenomenological Subjective Exploration of New Community Members in Indonesia

Abstract

Religion and spirituality have been central to human experience, yet the understanding of how individuals perceive and engage with new religious movements remains underexplored. In particular, the lived experiences of individuals within new religious communities in Indonesia have not been sufficiently investigated, especially in the context of social and cultural shifts. This study addresses the gap in understanding how these individuals construct their spiritual identities and what meaning they derive from their involvement in contemporary religious movements. By adopting a phenomenological approach, this research explores the subjective experiences of members of new religious communities, focusing on how their spiritual practices shape their understanding of religion and personal identity. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and participant observations with members of new religious groups in Indonesia, revealing that these individuals often experience a more personal, flexible form of spirituality compared to traditional religious practices. The findings highlight key themes, including the role of personalized spiritual practices in fostering individual growth, the sense of belonging and community provided by new religious movements, and the contrast between spiritual fulfillment and the rigidity of traditional religious systems.. This study contributes to the broader understanding of how new religious movements influence spiritual experiences, offering valuable insights for future research on the evolving nature of religious identity in contemporary society.