Spiritual concept of the dark night of the soul explained

The concept of the ‘dark night of the soul’ refers to a period of profound spiritual emptiness, alienation, and loss of meaning. Rooted in 16th-century mysticism and associated with Saint John of the Cross, the term traditionally described a painful loss of connection with the divine. In a modern context, it is used to describe intense periods of existential questioning following major life upheavals such as loss, divorce, or illness.

Key indicators of this period include deep sadness or despair regarding one's life or the state of the world, and a strong sense of worthlessness. During such times, individuals may find that their previous sources of identity—such as career, relationships, or social status—no longer provide a sense of value or purpose. While distressing, this phase is often viewed as a precursor to significant internal transformation.