Significance of Holy place
Synonyms: Sacred site, Religious site, Sanctuary, Shrine, Temple, Consecrated ground, Hallowed ground, Worship place, Church, Mosque, Synagogue, Altar, Chapel, Tabernacle, Cathedral
In Dutch: Heilige plaats; In Finnish: Pyhä paikka; In Spanish: Lugar santo; In Portugese: Lugar sagrado; In German: Heiliger Ort; In Swedish: Helig plats; In Malay: Tempat suci; In French: Lieu saint; In Italian: Luogo sacro; In Polish: Święte miejsce
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Holy place'
In Buddhism, a "Holy place" signifies locations viewed as sacred and vital for spiritual growth, such as Kusinara, where pivotal spiritual events took place, offering followers solitude and a profound connection to their beliefs.
Hindu concept of 'Holy place'
The keyphrase "Holy place in Hinduism" signifies sacred locations imbued with spiritual significance, fostering worship, purification, and pilgrimage. These sites, associated with divine events and figures, provide opportunities for spiritual benefits and personal transformation.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Locations where labor yields pains instead of success and happiness, akin to a cultivator whose crops are destroyed by locusts, rendering their efforts futile.[3] (2) Locations visited by those clouded by greed and delusion, but their visits bear no fruits, as if they have not gone there at all.[4] (3) Jaratkaru went on tour to the holy places after speaking to his forefathers about marriage.[5] (4) Locations where individuals may reside to potentially change their sufferings from past Karmas through penances and asceticism.[6] (5) Sacred sites of pilgrimage where religious merits are accrued by performing rituals or bathing.[7]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Areas of religious importance discussed in the Mahatmyas or legends within the Agni Purana, especially Gaya.[8] (2) Specifically refers to Shalagrama, where Bharata engaged in devout practices.[9] (3) Locations considered sacred where certain actions, like voiding impurities, should be avoided.[10] (4) Sites of worship that are illustrated in the Vamana Purana, highlighting their sanctity through various narratives.[11] (5) Locations deemed sacred in Hindu tradition, such as Mathura and Prayaga, where performing rituals is believed to yield spiritual merit.[12]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Holy places are mentioned as locations the wayfarer Manki has visited, indicating a journey of spiritual seeking and exploration of the world.[13] (2) Locations considered sacred, where Kumbha and Sikhidvaja worshipped gods and their ancestors, indicating their spiritual practices.[14] (3) Sacred sites where individuals perform acts of devotion and seek spiritual rewards.[15] (4) Sacred locations that are destinations for religious pilgrimages, associated with spiritual significance.[16] (5) A location regarded as sacred, where a person's death holds significant spiritual implications and potential rewards in the afterlife.[17]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) The text mentions the holy place called Kurukshetra, where the solar eclipse occurred, setting the stage for the giving of gifts and the events involving the brahmana and the candalas.[18] (2) A sacred area where spiritual activities take place; in the text, Mekhala is named as one where men can attain the position of Vishnu through bathing.[19] (3) A location where the enemies of king Khadgabahu were metaphorically 'baptized' or defeated.[20] (4) Various sacred sites that the charioteer visits, leading to spiritual emancipation and severance from sins.[21] (5) The location called Chinnapapa, known for imparting religious merit through spiritual practices, especially involving penance.[22]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) The text mentions numerous holy places that are present in the region of Kas'mira and were visited by sage Kasyapa during his pilgrimage, highlighting the spiritual significance of the region.[23] (2) Locations mentioned throughout the text, each with unique spiritual benefits linked to worship and purification.[24] (3) Places that are considered sacred and bestow spiritual merit upon those who visit or bathe in them.[25] (4) Locations that hold spiritual significance or are considered sacred.[26] (5) Locations renowned for their sanctity, especially in Kasmira.[27]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) This refers to the locations that a Brahmana should visit, and failure to do so is compared to the earth devouring them.[28] (2) Numerous sacred locations along the sea's coast that the king visited to fulfill his spiritual desires.[29] (3) Significant spiritual locations along the shores of the western ocean observed by Arjuna.[30]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) Sacred locations visited by Sunanda that hold religious significance and are often associated with spiritual practices.[31] (2) Significant locations that Maha visited while searching for the sage Raikva, including Kashipuri and Mathura.[32] (3) A sacred site where religious and spiritual activities take place; in this context, Kolhapura is highlighted.[33]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The designated sacred site where Yajnas and rites are conducted, including Brahmagiri.[34] (2) The site associated with the efficacy that Meghahasa sought to get recognition and respect from the Devas.[35]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) The holy place is where the God Most High sate down, after the hermit greeted him well, and offered water and a seat.[36] (2) A sacred or revered area, especially one that is linked to spiritual or religious significance.[37]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Gokama, the location where Bhagiratha engaged in yogic penances.[38]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Locations revered for their divine significance, where pilgrims engage in worship and spiritual activities.[39]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) This refers to the location where the Sanihitas, covered with a silken cloth, should be placed and adored with garlands and scents, demonstrating respect for the sacredness of the text.[40]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Described as a holy place, Cakra-tirtha is considered sacred and offers a site for spiritual purification and connection with the divine.[41] (2) These are locations considered sacred or religiously significant, often attracting pilgrims and devotees seeking spiritual experiences or blessings.[42] (3) A sacred location, specifically Sankhoddhara-tirtha, where religious practices are believed to have enhanced effects.[43] (4) Refers to places of pilgrimage that Pulastya Muni was traveling to.[44] (5) A place that is ruled by a king, who is also referred to as tirtha-rajena.[45]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A location considered a favorite and significant destination, specifically any site where a particular type of profound affection is present, according to a statement.[46] (2) This refers to the locations the dari sannyasi had traveled to, which he believed made him more intelligent than Gaurasundara.[47] (3) These are the various locations visited by Shri Baladeva before arriving at the site of the sacrificial performance, as stated within the text provided.[48] (4) Locations of spiritual significance in Northern and Western India visited by figures like Shri Baladeva.[49] (5) Locations of significance in devotional practices where devotees gather to worship and connect with the divine.[50]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Holy places such as Shri Vaikuntha dhama do not have the same carefree pastimes as Shri Vrindavana, making the latter unique. In other holy places such as Shri Vaikuntha dhama such carefree pastimes are impossible.[51] (2) This term refers to the locations where religious practices and devotion are important, like Prayaga.[52] (3) A sacred location associated with worship and rituals, exemplified by Dashashvamedha in Prayaga.[53] (4) Refers to sacred locations discussed in scriptures, such as Prayaga, which highlight spiritual significance.[54] (5) Locations deemed sacred in spiritual traditions, often associated with divine events or teachings.[55]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) A holy place is a sacred location, like Tirukkoliur, from which it is considered extraordinary for anyone to depart once they have resided there.[56] (2) Locations where the Lords are enshrined, which Tirumankai Alvar is found calling on, as mentioned in the text.[57] (3) Refers to the revered site of ‘Tirumaliruncolai Malai’, which is considered a significant destination for pilgrims.[58] (4) A sacred location known for spiritual significance.[59] (5) Refers to a sacred or revered location, specifically where the divine presence is believed to dwell.[60]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) Liberation is the greatest result that can be obtained at other holy places, as mentioned in the provided text, in contrast to Mathura.[61] (2) Locations that are considered sacred and are often associated with religious devotion and pilgrimage.[62] (3) Locations revered due to their connection to the divine, where devotees visit to enhance their spiritual practices.[63] (4) Places designated as sacred or spiritually significant, including Dvarka.[64] (5) Locations considered sacred or spiritual, significant in the practice of devotion and worship.[65]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) Locations of great spiritual significance visited by Lord Mahaprabhu, such as Tamoluka and Remuna, where He engaged in devotional activities.[66] (2) A sacred location that requires specific fasts and observances to honor.[67] (3) Sacred locations associated with the divine, believed to bestow spiritual benefits, which are ultimately meaningful only through love for Lord Krishna.[68] (4) Sacred locations visited by Lord Gaura in His journey, which are significant in spiritual practice and pilgrimage.[69]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) Refers generally to the sacred nature of the site where the devotees gathered for the samadhi.[70] (2) Locations like New York, Hollywood, and London where Shrila Bhaktivedanta Svami Maharaja intended to place images of his spiritual mentors.[71]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) These are sacred locations that Balarama Ji visits during his pilgrimage, symbolizing purification and religious observance.[72] (2) The sacred locations that Balarama Ji intended to visit on his pilgrimage.[73]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Locations sanctified by divine presence, which are believed to provide spiritual benefits and purify the mind and heart.[74]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) These are where the sadhus are to be ordinarily met with.[75]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Discusses how one of the chief objects of the Nepalese was to connect the names of heroes with these of pilgrimage, allowing their actions to further sanctify those places.[76] (2) Holy places are where the brother of Dharmagiri's friend went on a pilgrimage before his reported death in a foreign land.[77] (3) A location where semi-nudity has always been regarded by Brahmans as a mark of respect.[78] (4) This phrase refers to the location where Ghata plans to scatter Karpara's bones, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling his promise.[79] (5) A holy place is a destination Lohajangha seeks to reach after being separated from his beloved, intending to end his life there.[80]
From: Parama Samhita (English translation)
(1) Sites regarded as sacred and significant for religious practices and pilgrimages.[81] (2) Locations considered sacred where earth can be obtained for the bathing process.[82] (3) Sacred geographical locations that hold spiritual significance and are often visited for worship.[83] (4) Sites regarded as sacred in religious traditions, where pilgrims seek spiritual merit and connection.[84] (5) Locations regarded as sacred in Hinduism, believed to enhance spiritual purity and merit through pilgrimage.[85]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A sacred location where specific religious or spiritual practices are performed.[86]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Holy places are considered as a condition, along with time, posture, direction, moral disciplines, and objects of meditation.[87]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Locations believed to have significant spiritual qualities, leading to positive invisible effects when interacted with.[88] (2) A sacred location that holds significance in the context of fasting.[89]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Locations deemed sacred, where pavilions are constructed for religious activities and worship.[90]
Jain concept of 'Holy place'
In Jainism, a Holy place signifies sacred destinations for pilgrimage, sites for cremation of revered abbots, worship locations like Nandishvara, and significant areas such as Sammed Shikharji, highlighting the spiritual journey's importance.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Holy place is compared to hospitality to fellow-pilgrims, which is described as even more purifying, emphasizing the importance of welcoming and caring for those on a religious journey.[91] (2) These are sacred sites. The Khecaras said that they had come from Mt. Ratna, having undertaken a tour of these, according to the narrative.[92] (3) A sacred site where the body of the pure-minded abbot was taken for cremation by the gods.[93] (4) Destinations considered sacred or spiritual, which the congregation aimed to visit during their pilgrimage.[94] (5) The sacred locations they visited for worship, such as Nandishvara, emphasizing the importance of pilgrimage in their spiritual lives.[95]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Significant religious sites, specifically Sammed Shikharji and Hastinapur, where gifts of the book will be made.[96]
The concept of Holy place in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Holy place" refers to sacred sites associated with spiritual activities, worship, and divine presence, offering comfort to devotees. These locations possess significance for rituals, reflection, and reverence, yet their necessity in religion is debated.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) Holy places gain their significance from holy people congregating there, and the text emphasizes that it is the people who make these places holy, not the buildings themselves.[97] (2) A location of spiritual significance that is visited ceremonially to receive blessings or purification.[98] (3) These are the places that are made holy by those who love God, and they are filled with the presence of the divine.[99] (4) Holy places are locations where the Eternal Atman manifests specially, either spontaneously or through the earnest longing of pure souls, and can lead to the development of the Self.[100] (5) These are locations considered sacred by Hindus, and they have become subjects of scrutiny and evaluation during the present era.[101]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) This is where the narrator went to take a dip in the river.[102] (2) The contents of the book cover Shiva and his family, Vishnu and family, Brahman, Varona, Soma, Surya, Kubera, etc. and these.[103] (3) This phrase refers to locations that are considered sacred or religiously significant, which Vemana questioned the importance of visiting to gain merit.[104] (4) Shivaji engaged in a life-long struggle for the protection of the Vedas and the brahmins, and the defense of these, temples, and the honour of women.[105] (5) This describes the hermitage, where the Asuras sought refuge, implying a sacred and protected environment.[106]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A sacred location associated with spiritual activity or divine presence, which brings comfort and joy to devotees.[107]
The concept of Holy place in scientific sources
Holy places, as defined by regional sources, are sacred locations with spiritual significance. These sites often foster the nurturing and preservation of the surrounding plant life, highlighting a connection between spirituality and environmental conservation.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Mount Gerizim serves as this for the present-day Samaritan community, where they make pilgrimages during festivals such as Pesach, Shavuot, and Sukkot.[108] (2) The text quotes Maryam saying, ‘Even the French during the occupation did not destroy mosques when people took refuge in holy places . . . this is a crime against God.[109] (3) The superior quality of this and its affective residue can be harvested and carried away, as seen in the collection of water, earth, stones, or talismans by pilgrims.[110] (4) Locations where some postmortem rituals were performed, with priests keeping records of specific families, indicating their statuses.[111] (5) These were locations where attention was paid to St. Jacek, who had great power to “work miracles” and helped even when other saints were “powerless”.[112]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) These are locations in each religion where followers gather to perform religious rituals like supplications, and where clergies and preachers deliver sermons and messages.[113] (2) Emphasis on sincerity in jihad and not waging war during the Sacred Months and in holy places like the Holy Mosque and holy shrines signifies this important issue.[114]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) Places in Mecca and Medina and all mosques in KSA that were closed to avoid people gatherings, and afterward, there was a suspension of Taraweeh prayers during the month of Ramadan in 2020 (March 2020) and in 2021 (April 2021).[115]
Classical concept of 'Holy place'
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) Piankhi went into the great temple of Ptah and reinstated the priests, and they purified the "holy place" with natron and incense, and offered up many offerings.[116] (2) According to the Book of Traversing Eternity, the soul of the deceased can visit all of these, traveling from one end of Egypt to the other.[117] (3) Holy places are sacred locations where acts of impurity should not be committed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining reverence and purity in religious spaces.[118]
From: Development of Religion and Thought in Ancient Egypt
(1) The holy places were forsaken and had become overgrown tracts, while their sanctuaries were like that which has never been before the restoration.[119] (2) Everywhere whole communities, moved by instincts flowing from untold centuries of habit and custom, returned to their holy places to find them no more, and stood dumfounded before the closed doors of the ancient sanctuaries.[120] (3) An entity installed the gods in them, made their offerings to flourish, and equipped them.[121]
From: Egypt Through The Stereoscope
(1) The Holy place itself can be seen through the last door, where the distant figures of two of the four gods who occupy it can be discerned in the dim light.[122] (2) A sacred area within the temple where the High Priest would conduct religious practices before a deity on a regular basis.[123] (3) This is a building that a Moslem would not enter with shoes on, but instead would remain with bare feet until stepping outside.[124]
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) In the resurrection ceremony of Osiris he is divested of his funerary garment and receives a bandage of the finest linen from the hands of the attendant of Ra, the Father in heaven, and he eats of 'the meat which has been prepared by Ra in his holy place.'[125]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) A copy of this decree shall be inscribed upon a stele, which shall be set up in the holy place, according to the writing of the original document which is cut upon wood.[126]
From: The Book of Gates
(1) The holy place refers to the LAND OF SEKER, which contains the flesh, members, and body of the god in their divine form.[127]
From: The Egyptian Heaven and Hell
(1) It is a hidden chamber in the Fifth Division of the Tuat, containing secret ways and doors to the Land of a deity.[128]