Verdslig

Verdslig is an adjective used in Danish and Norwegian to describe things related to the secular world rather than to religion or spirituality. It denotes matters, life, or power that belong to everyday, non-religious society, such as politics, law, economy, education, and private life. The term is often contrasted with åndelig or hellig, which denote spiritual or sacred dimensions.

Common uses include verdslige myndigheter (secular authorities), verdslige goder (worldly goods), and verdslige interesser (worldly interests). In historical and theological contexts it describes the division between church and state, or the realm of the lay world as opposed to church authority.

Etymology: verdslig is formed from verd/verden meaning world, combined with the adjectival suffix -slig, producing a meaning along the lines of "world-related" or "worldly." In usage, it can also emphasize the non-religious or mundane aspects of life, or the concerns of civil society.

Notes: The term is commonly used in religious, philosophical, and political discourse to discuss the relationship between secular and sacred spheres. It remains a standard descriptor in everyday language for describing non-religious, lay, or worldly aspects of life and governance.