What does Karen Armstrong say about the essence of spirituality?

 Karen Armstrong, a prominent author and religious scholar, has written extensively on spirituality and the essence of religious experience. While I cannot provide direct quotes from her beyond my September 2021 knowledge cutoff, I can offer a general overview of her views on spirituality based on her previous works.

Karen Armstrong argues that spirituality is not limited to religious traditions but is a fundamental aspect of human existence. She emphasizes that the essence of spirituality lies in the cultivation of compassion, empathy, and a sense of interconnectedness with others. According to Armstrong, spirituality involves transcending the self-centered ego and developing a deep awareness of the suffering and needs of others.

In her book "The Spiral Staircase: My Climb Out of Darkness," Armstrong describes her own spiritual journey and the importance of compassion. She highlights the transformative power of empathy and how it can lead to a more compassionate and meaningful life.

Additionally, Armstrong has written extensively about the need for religious pluralism and the importance of understanding different religious traditions. She believes that spirituality should not be confined to a single religious framework but should be open to diverse paths and perspectives. For Armstrong, the essence of spirituality lies in the quest for transcendence, meaning, and the cultivation of a more compassionate and inclusive worldview.

It's worth noting that Karen Armstrong's ideas on spirituality may have evolved or been further elaborated since my knowledge cutoff. I would recommend referring to her latest works, interviews, or lectures for a more up-to-date and comprehensive understanding of her views on this topic.