maallisesti

Maallisesti is a Finnish adverb derived from the adjective maallinen, meaning worldly, secular, or temporal. The word describes actions, views, or considerations that pertain to the earthly realm rather than to religion or spirituality. In English, it is often rendered as “worldly,” “secularly,” or “in worldly terms.”

Formation and usage: Maallisesti is formed by adding the adverbial suffix -sti to maallinen. It is commonly used to contrast with hengellisesti (spiritually) or other non-worldly dimensions. For example, the phrase maallisesti ajatellen means “from a worldly perspective,” and maallisesti tärkeät seikat refers to “matters of worldly importance.” The term can appear in religious, philosophical, or everyday discourse to emphasize a non-spiritual frame of reference.

Nuances: The term does not inherently carry moral judgment; it indicates orientation toward the material or earthly sphere. In religious or ethical contexts, maallisesti signals a distinction between earthly concerns and spiritual values. In social or political analysis, it can denote secular, non-religious, or practical considerations in contrast to idealized or transcendent viewpoints.

Related terms: maallinen (adjective), maallisuus (worldliness, secularism), maallistuminen (secularization). These related forms expand the same semantic field, spanning everyday language to academic discussion about the role of religion, culture, and the secular state in society.