Religious meaning

A charism is a power, generally of a spiritual nature, believed to be a freely given gift by the grace of God.

From the greek, charis - grace.

Well known Charismatic powers in Christian traditions:

• Discernment of spirits
• Laying on of hands
• Exorcism

Social meaning

The word is also used in social psychology in secular circumstances, and takes the meaning of personal influence on other people individually or as a group.

See also

• Charismatic authority
• Guruism
• Obedience