Significance of Sacred

The keyphrase "Sacred" is emphasized across various texts, highlighting its significance as something revered and deserving of reverence in spiritual contexts. In Vaishnavism, Sacred denotes elements such as holy stories, revered places like the Tulasi forest, and spiritually significant practices associated with locations like the shore of the Yamuna. The Purana reinforces this notion, illustrating the importance of sacred objects and acts. Overall, Sacred encapsulates a profound respect for divinity and spiritual purity within religious traditions.1
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Synonyms: Holy, Divine, Consecrated, Revered, Venerated, Hallowed, Spiritual, Blessed, Sanctified

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Sacred'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, "Sacred" encompasses elements regarded with reverence, associated with spirituality, holiness, and purity. It describes divine qualities in locations, objects, practices, and texts, highlighting their significance in spiritual pilgrimage and rituals.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Garga Samhita (English)

(1) Something considered holy or worthy of reverence, applicable to the Tulasi forest.[1] (2) Something that is considered holy or divine, in this context relating to the shore of the Yamuna.[2] (3) Something that is holy and worthy of respect.[3] (4) Refers to the divine or holy quality of Balabhadra-sarah, highlighting its religious significance.[4] (5) Describes something that is holy or worthy of spiritual respect, attributed to the dust and gopi-candana in the context of the text.[5]

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Something that is regarded with great respect and reverence, often associated with spirituality or divinity.[6]

From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu

(1) Something revered or holy, indicating the significance of the thread that is referenced in the text.[7]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Gautami Mahatmya

(1) Describes the nature of the water that is considered holy and worthy of worship.[8] (2) Describing places or acts that are considered holy and deserving of reverence.[9] (3) A term used to describe something holy and revered; the text identifies Yamatirtha as a sacred place.[10]

From: Mahabharata (English)

(1) Considered holy or divine, especially within the context of sacred texts such as the Mahabharata.[11]

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) Describes the divine and holy nature attributed to certain acts, objects, or practices within the text.[12]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Dharmashastra (religious law):
Dharmashastra Books

From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi

(1) Something that is holy or deserving of veneration, particularly food that has been offered in religious rituals.[13]

Dharmashastra contains the instructions (shastra) regarding religious conduct of livelihood (dharma), ceremonies, jurisprudence (study of law) and more. It is categorized as smriti, an important and authoritative selection of books dealing with the Hindu lifestyle.

The concept of Sacred in local and regional sources

History Books

The keyphrase "Sacred" embodies concepts of holiness and reverence, distinguishing it from secular elements, while also representing a pursuit of purity and integrity amidst challenges, highlighting spiritual growth and elevation.

Significance in India history and geography:

From: Triveni Journal

(1) Something regarded as holy or deserving of reverence, contrasting with secular or non-religious aspects.[14] (2) The pursuit of purity and integrity in the face of adversity, signifying spiritual elevation.[15]