Sacred Spaces and Holy Places
David C. Devonis
August 21, 2023 DOI: 10.4324/9781003300380-13 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that sacredness and holiness are brain-deep, fusing emotion and reason, and that sacred spaces anchor cultures to their physical and social surroundings and to family and ancestry. Contends that sacredness may emerge in any deep emotional connection, so wherever one stands may be someone's sacred space, and that public sacred spaces are usually within walking distance of any classroom or meeting place and can be explored. |
Abstract
Sacred spaces and holy places anchor cultures to their surroundings, physical and social, and to family and ancestry besides. Sacredness and holiness are brain-deep and fuse emotion and reason, earthiness and heavenliness. Sacred sites are usually associated with religion: cathedrals, temples, pagodas, roadside shrines, and mosques are always high on the list of places to visit for new arrivals to a culture—at least for those who have the liberty and leisure to appreciate them. The experience of sacredness and holiness connects to a range of self-transcendent experiences, which include awe and mystical experiences. It is entirely possible that, if sacredness may emerge in any deep emotional connection anywhere, wherever one currently stands may be someone’s sacred space or place. Usually, too, there is some kind of public sacred space within walking distance of any classroom or meeting place, and this can be explored.