Verdenlig

Verdenlig is a Danish adjective meaning worldly or secular, relating to life on earth and ordinary, non-spiritual concerns. The term is formed from verden (world) and the suffix -lig, which creates adjectives describing a characteristic. In usage, verdenlig describes aspects, values, or conduct associated with earthly life rather than spiritual or sacred matters.

In practice, verdenlig is often contrasted with åndelig (spiritual) or religiøs (religious). It can refer to a person who prioritizes practical, material, or secular concerns, or to aspects of culture and society that are not oriented toward religious devotion. Depending on context, the word can carry neutral, descriptive tones or a mildly critical nuance when used in moral or theological discussion.

Common expressions include den verdenlige tilværelse (the worldly existence) and verdenlige værdier (worldly values). While verdslig is a closely related and more widely used synonym in Danish, verdenlig may appear in literary or formal registers.

Translations into English vary with nuance and can be rendered as worldly, secular, or mundane. The term is part of standard Danish vocabulary and appears in philosophical, cultural, and religious discourse when examining the balance or tension between secular life and spiritual ideals.