If I was to ask a random person on the street, "Uhm, good sir, can you define Sacred Space for me?" he would probably say it is a location that evokes emotions of sacredness, and a place where a higher energy lets us recognize and appreciate our creation. I would then reply to the man, saying I agree full-heartedly. I would reply in such an agreeable manner because this is how I perceive Sacred Space, and its concept is one of great power. When I think of Sacred Space, I think of a place where I visit to appreciate what God has created around me. I agree with what most people think of Sacred Space, and I respect the concept and definition behind its meaning.
When I think of Sacred Space I think of places I can go to relax and take in my surroundings, knowing I'm in a favorable life and environment. The first place that comes to mind is the forest behind my house. This forest is filled with lush trees, wild animals, an assortment of different plants and bushes, and above all, a place to think. In my forest there is a big rock that I call Turtle Rock because it has a big, shell-like center and a tiny head-like end. When I was younger I would go to Turtle Rock to contemplate my existence, resulting in thanking God, my family, and my friends for the life I had been given. Turtle Rock was a sacred space for me, and if I ever want to reconnect to the spiritual awe of nature, I can return to the rock and find a window to God.
Because Turtle Rock meant so much to me when I was younger, I can comprehend and respond to the concept of Sacred Space. Though some may feel they have no places of comfort or sacredness, the concept of Sacred Space is not hard to follow and find, and anyone can discover their own means of connecting to the world around them. The theory of Sacred Space is one of great individualism, and I strongely welcome its effects on humans. Not only does it allow an individual to become one with his surroundings, but it lets him experience a holy power in current life, rather than just in death. The concept of Sacred Space is magical because anyone can find a way to appreciate their lives, and I suggest anyone reading this to find a sacred place of your own and acknowledge how lucky you are to be alive and well.
I would agree that most people would define sacred space as having to do with religion. I do however have a few questions about the rest of your points. The first is what is the higher energy of a sacred space? You mentioned that “a higher energy lets us recognize and appreciate our creation,” but then later say that each person has their own sacred space (1). Another question I have is, that you said that “Turtle rock” was sacred to you and that you could go back, but if it is not sacred to you anymore how do you know it can become sacred to you again? I am also wondering why one needs to be able to relax at a sacred space. For a religion such as Islam the Muslims go to the very crowded Kaaba. This is not a good place to relax but a place to worship. Although I do not disagree that a sacred space can be one of calm and quietness does it have to be?
ReplyDeleteGuyon, I see we have similar view points when it comes to the definition of sacred space. I do agree with the fact that most people do think of a 'sacred space' as having something to do with religion. It also seems like turtle rock and my loft share the same sort of 'sacred' if you will, quality. I also agree with you when you say "Not only does it allow an individual to become one with his surroundings, but it lets him experience a holy power in current life, rather than just in death." I think that is brilliantly worded, and has a powerful meaning behind it.
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