This entry explores the essence of spiritual leadership, arguing that its foundational core lies not merely in vision, altruistic love, or community—but in self-transcendence. While traditional leadership theories emphasize traits, behaviors, or situational dynamics, spiritual leadership introduces a holistic, values-based approach that integrates the mind, heart, body, and spirit. Drawing from Maslow’s revised hierarchy of needs, we position self-transcendence—the drive to serve a purpose beyond the self—as the missing dimension in current spiritual leadership models. Through a synthesis of leadership theory, organizational behavior research, and workplace spirituality literature, this entry contrasts ego-driven leadership styles, such as narcissistic leadership, with the selfless and integrative nature of spiritual leadership. We argue that self-transcendence enables leaders to foster ethical behavior, authentic relationships, and meaningful work, while transcending cultural, religious, and personal boundaries. By embedding self-transcendence into the spiritual leadership framework, we propose a more complete model that addresses the moral, emotional, and existential dimensions of leadership—one capable of transforming individuals, organizations, and society at large.