By the end of the 1990s, the topic of spirituality as distinguished from religion was being discussed in higher education conferences and publications. Using qualitative research methods, this study examines definitions of spirituality in higher education literature. The researcher argues that (1) the emerging discussion of spirituality can be understood as a new discourse because it separates the understanding of spirituality from its roots in religion and thus changes its meaning; (2) that no common definition of spirituality exists; but that 3) the definitions contain five recurring patterns that illuminate the parameters of the new discourse. Five recurring patterns are identified. These patterns are discussed, as are their implications for professionals working in higher education.