Abstract

This article discusses the impact of near-death experiences (NDEs) on the religious landscape, particularly on the religious “nones” population of people with no religious affiliation. NDEs, which are profound perceptions suggestive of an afterlife reality, challenge traditional understanding of spirituality and pose questions about the nature of the afterlife and human existence. Based on a review of the literature and empirical research, this article examines the ways in which NDEs affect religious nones, compelling some to seek membership in traditional religious organizations while others turn to adopt a personalized spirituality independent of institutionalized contexts. The spiritual but not religious category, a category that has seen growing numbers in recent years, mirrors a societal trend in general toward individual autonomy in religious affairs insofar as individuals create hybrid spiritualities that cut across conventional boundaries. The article also discusses the theological relevance of NDEs to religious organizations, noting the tensions between institutional authority and individual spirituality. Although some religious organizations are able to adapt their teachings to respond to the spiritual needs of their followers, others may reject support for NDEs due to theological inconsistencies or doctrine issues. This article sheds light on the shifting nature of spirituality in contemporary society and contributes to our understanding of the complex interplay between NDEs, religious nones, and institutional religion.