Supernal

Definition

Supernal means belonging to a higher, heavenly, or divine realm above the ordinary world. Spiritual, by contrast, refers to the human spirit, soul, or inner life, not necessarily to a heavenly place above. Supernal focuses on a celestial or divine origin, often external and above. Spiritual focuses on inner, personal experience of the sacred.

What it describes

A monk spends years in solitude, praying and fasting. One evening, while watching the sunset from a mountain peak, he feels a sudden overwhelming sense of light and peace. It seems to come from above, not from within. He believes he has touched a heavenly realm far beyond ordinary human experience. What kind of vision did the monk experience? He experienced a supernal vision.

Examples in context

• The choir’s voices had a supernal quality, as if angels were singing.
• Medieval paintings often depict supernal light descending from heaven onto saints.