According to the passage, how does spirituality differ from religion?

Concept

A passage-based comparison must be answered from the contrast explicitly stated by the author, not from outside assumptions.

The relevant comparison axis here is whether the passage presents organized beliefs and rituals or an individual’s inward reflection.

Application

The passage says that religion often involves specific beliefs and rituals, whereas spirituality is more personal and introspective. Therefore, the distinction stated in the passage is that spirituality is more personal and introspective.

Contrast

• “Religion is less comforting” introduces a comparison of comfort that the passage does not make.

• “Religion is more about common rituals” emphasizes rituals shared broadly by a community, while the passage only says that religion often involves specific beliefs and rituals.

• “Religion is primarily a social practice” makes social practice the main distinction, which is not the wording used in the passage.

Cross-check

Reading the contrast sentence on both sides of “in contrast to” confirms the same pair: religion—specific beliefs and rituals; spirituality—personal and introspective.

Result

Spirituality is more personal and introspective.