ABSTRACT
The exploration of possible links between spirituality and second language pedagogy has been little discussed in Applied Linguistics circles. I hope in this chapter to provide a rationale for such an endeavor. To this end, I shall first attempt to distinguish between the terms “spirituality” and “religion.” After referring the reader to a few of the studies related to spirituality in the fields of medicine, psychology, mainstream education, and ELT, I’ll examine data from my case study of Julie,1 who until recently taught English in Japan. I conclude this chapter with thoughts on how a spirituality based upon compassion, such as that held by my interviewee, can help language educators gain fresh perspectives on teaching, learning, as well as cultural and linguistic imperialism.
