Significance of Sacred ground
Sacred ground in Hinduism is a designated area for sacrificial rites and divine worship, integral for performing rituals and making offerings to the gods. According to Purana, it includes spaces for various rituals, interactions between divine figures, and is prepared for worship. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of a smooth, level land for ceremonies. Dharmashastra selects sites based on their suitability and symbolism, while Theravada highlights the significance of the area around the Assattha Bodhi tree, linked to the Buddha's Enlightenment.
Synonyms: Hallowed ground, Holy land, Sanctified land, Spiritual territory, Consecrated ground, Holy ground
In Dutch: Heilige grond; In Finnish: Pyhä maa; In Spanish: Tierra sagrada; In German: Heiliger Boden
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sacred ground'
Sacred ground in Buddhism signifies the area around the Assattha Bodhi tree, revered as a holy site linked to the Buddha's Enlightenment, representing spiritual significance and deep respect within the Buddhist tradition.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Refers to the area surrounding the Assattha Bodhi tree, viewed as highly significant and holy due to its connection with the Buddha's Enlightenment.[1]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) Eisai was a determined pilgrim intent on treading this as Shakyamuni Buddha, finding the truth he was seeking in the Chan teaching of the Hangzhou region.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Sacred ground'
In Hinduism, "Sacred ground" signifies a consecrated space specifically prepared for rituals, worship, and sacrificial rites, emphasizing its spiritual significance, cleanliness, and connection to the divine through ritualistic practices.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) This was trod by the saints who mused on God, indicating a place of religious practice and devotion, highlighting religious practices.[3] (2) Sacred ground is a location the king nears, after being addressed by the boy, indicating a place where religious ceremonies are to take place.[4] (3) Describes the blessed nature of the retreat where Rama and the sage interact.[5] (4) A consecrated area where rituals take place, underscoring its importance in spiritual and ceremonial contexts.[6] (5) A designated place considered holy and suitable for the performance of religious rites and ceremonies.[7]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The place where Karna's body lies after being slain.[8]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) The area designated for the sacrificial rites, which plays a vital role in the performance of the rituals.[9] (2) The consecrated space where offerings are made to the gods, intrinsically linked to the act of sacrifice.[10]
From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 1: Sutrasthana
(1) The level and smooth land designated for the initiation ceremony, meant to be auspicious and holy.[11]
From: Khadira-grihya-sutra
(1) A site selected for building, based on color symbolism and suitability for rituals.[12]
The concept of Sacred ground in scientific sources
Sacred ground, in the context of regional sources, signifies a location where war is present. This highlights the critical importance and strategic value attached to specific places during conflicts.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) It involves the study of pilgrims and politics in specific locations like Glastonbury and Sedona, hinting at the intersection of spirituality, power, and place.[13] (2) Sacred ground is the congruent space between disparate and diverse stances, within which embodied and theologically astute pedagogies can be rooted for the 21st century, promoting environmental and religious education.[14] (3) The sacred ground is located on a hill overlooking the Ch’ ˘ongp’y ˘ong area, which is also considered a pilgrimage site for Unificationists.[15] (4) The corners of kalari contain conical representations of the spiritual guardians of directions ( lokapala s) that delimit the sacred ground.[16] (5) It is where a war exists, indicating the importance of location in conflicts.[17]
Classical concept of 'Sacred ground'
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) The most sacred ceremonial object of the Arunta is called the kauaua, and this is erected at the close of the engwura mysteries in the middle of the sacred ground.[18]