The correct answer is A. Dull.
A numinous experience is one that is characterized by a sense of awe, mystery, and wonder. It is often associated with religious or spiritual experiences, but it can also occur in other contexts, such as when one encounters a beautiful work of art or a natural wonder.
The word “numinous” comes from the Latin word numen, which means “divine power” or “spirit.” It was first used in English in the 19th century by the German theologian Rudolf Otto to describe the feeling of awe and mystery that he believed was at the heart of religious experience.
The word “numinous” is often used interchangeably with the word “sacred,” but there is a subtle difference between the two. The sacred is something that is set apart from the ordinary and is considered to be holy or divine. The numinous, on the other hand, is something that evokes a sense of awe and mystery, but it does not necessarily have to be associated with religion or spirituality.
Some examples of numinous experiences include:
- Standing on the edge of a cliff and looking out at the vast ocean
- Listening to a piece of music that moves you deeply
- Gazing at a starry sky
- Experiencing a natural wonder, such as a waterfall or a mountain
Numinous experiences can be powerful and transformative. They can help us to connect with something larger than ourselves and to feel a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and mystery of the world.
The other options are not synonyms of numinous.
- Option B, “Religious,” is not a synonym of numinous because not all numinous experiences are religious. For example, someone might have a numinous experience while listening to a piece of music or gazing at a starry sky, even if they are not religious.
- Option C, “Bright,” is not a synonym of numinous because numinous experiences are not always positive. They can also be associated with feelings of fear, awe, or mystery.
- Option D, “Dark,” is not a synonym of numinous because numinous experiences are not always negative. They can also be associated with feelings of light, hope, or love.