Spiritüalist

Spiritüalist is a term used in German-speaking contexts to describe a practitioner or adherent of spiritualism, a belief system that consciousness survives physical death and that spirits of the deceased can communicate with the living, often through mediums and séances. The term is roughly equivalent to the English “spiritualist.” In some contexts it may overlap with “Spiritist” or “Spiritismus,” though Spiritism, as codified by Allan Kardec, emphasizes a more systematic philosophy and moral progression of souls.

Core beliefs of spiritülist thought center on the continuity of consciousness after death and the possibility of communication with spirits. Spirits are thought to provide guidance, comfort to the living, and information about the afterlife. Mediums or facilitators act as intermediaries, and phenomena such as trance speaking, automatic writing, or séance-based communications are cited as evidence of contact with the spirit world. Ethical and personal development themes frequently accompany these beliefs.

Practices vary widely but commonly include organized study groups, séances, and private readings or demonstrations of mediumship. Some communities emphasize ethical conduct, openness to evidence, and careful examination of phenomena, while others focus on spiritual guidance, psychical research, or religious feeling. Training or supervision for mediums exists in some circles, though standards differ by group.

Historically, spiritualism emerged in the 19th century in the United States and Britain and spread to parts of Europe, influencing psychical research and popular culture. In German-speaking areas, spiritülist ideas have interacted with local religious and cultural currents and persist in contemporary circles, often within small associations, churches, or online communities. The movement remains a niche tradition with ongoing debates about evidence and authenticity.