Significance of Sacred place
In Jainism, a sacred place refers to locations of spiritual significance tied to religious practices, meditation, and pilgrimage. These sites are characterized by their holiness, often linked to teachings from the Blessed One or significant rituals. Sacred places can include temples, areas near water bodies, and sites that foster spiritual awakening, such as those visited by devotees and saints. The emphasis on purity and respect underscores the importance of maintaining these locations for spiritual practices and communal reverence.
Synonyms: Holy site, Consecrated ground, Shrine, Hallowed ground, Temple, Sanctuary, Place of worship, Sacred site, Holy place
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 place'
In Buddhism, a Sacred place encompasses locations sanctified by notable figures, significant pilgrimage sites, and areas for spiritual practices, revered for their historical, religious, and spiritual importance, often enhancing the Buddhist experience and teachings.
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Locations visited by ma gcig during her spiritual journey, significant for their importance in Buddhist practice and pilgrimage.[1] (2) A holy location where spiritual activities, such as rituals and prayers, are performed, often associated with acquiring merits.[2] (3) A spiritually significant location where divine or holy events occur, often associated with local deities.[3] (4) Locations visited by the pandita that are considered holy and significant in the Buddhist tradition.[4]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Locations regarded with reverence, notably Acala Cetiyatthana and Avijahitatthana, associated with the Buddha's steps.[5]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Locations regarded as holy or spiritually significant, potentially distracting from serious discussions.[6]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Locations sanctified by Vishvantara’s actions, as recounted by Chinese pilgrims, indicating the enduring legacy of his story.[7]
Hindu concept of 'Sacred place'
In Hinduism, a "Sacred place" is a revered site associated with spiritual significance, where rituals occur, spiritual benefits are sought, and protection from negativity is offered, often linked to deities and their narratives.
From: Padma Purana
(1) Locations of religious significance that are often mentioned in the context of auspicious practices.[8] (2) A location considered holy, associated with divine presence and worship, enhancing spiritual merit.[9] (3) Locations, including the Tulasi leaf, that are imbued with holiness and represent a convergence of divine presence, ensuring blessings for worshippers.[10] (4) Maulistana, a holy site where miraculous events occur and devotion to the deity can yield sanctity and blessings.[11] (5) Locations deemed holy or spiritually significant where divine presence is believed to be strong.[12]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Locations set apart for worship and reverence, particularly those associated with the Phallus in this text.[13] (2) Locations deemed holy and significant in Hindu tradition, where spiritual activities are performed.[14] (3) Locations that hold significance for spiritual practices and are considered beneficial for one’s spiritual growth.[15] (4) A location of spiritual significance, such as Yama Tirtha, where rituals and worship can lead to blessings and absolution of sins.[16] (5) A term used to denote Jvaleshvara, indicating its significance within the religious or spiritual context.[17]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) Refers to the holy sites visited by Vidura, indicating his spiritual journey and dedication to religious observances.[18] (2) Locations of religious significance where rituals, including donations, were performed.[19] (3) A location such as Haridvara where worship and spiritual practices allow an individual to concentrate and connect with the divine.[20] (4) Holy lands and sites that are considered auspicious for spiritual activities.[21] (5) Locations of spiritual significance within Hinduism, among which Kashi is regarded as unexcelled.[22]
From: Agni Purana
(1) Locations overseen by various goddesses, signifying their spiritual authority over the territory.[23] (2) Holy sites revered in Hinduism, believed to possess the power to erase sins through visitation or contemplation.[24] (3) Locations that are considered holy and are believed to provide spiritual benefits.[25] (4) Locations that hold spiritual significance, enhancing the effects of worship.[26] (5) A location deemed holy and significant, associated with spiritual practices and rituals, specifically referring to Varanasi in this context.[27]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) Locations considered holy, from which the King brought waters for the installation ceremonies.[28] (2) Locations from which waters were brought for the installation ceremony, highlighting their importance in religious practices.[29] (3) Locations considered holy and significant within spiritual traditions facilitating purification and spiritual growth.[30] (4) Locations revered in Hindu tradition where Munis gather, mentioned in the context of witnessing the conflict.[31] (5) Locations such as Naimisaranya, revered for their spiritual significance.[32]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A designated site believed to possess spiritual significance, where rituals are performed for cleansing.[33] (2) Locations deemed holy where it is considered virtuous for individuals to lay down their lives, reflecting the significance of such sites in spiritual practices.[34] (3) Locations of worship or spiritual significance where Yudhishthira obtained his boon during his travels.[35] (4) A location for retreat, indicating a place for reflection, mourning, or spiritual practices.[36] (5) Sacred places are locations deemed holy, but the text emphasizes that true sanctity comes from the soul, rendering physical pilgrimage unnecessary.[37]
From: Nilamata Purana
(1) Significant locations associated with spiritual merit and pilgrimage across different regions.[38] (2) Refers to locations considered holy where rituals and worship are conducted, integral to the text's spiritual themes.[39] (3) Locations considered holy where specific acts lead to spiritual merit, such as bathing or sighting certain deities.[40] (4) A location regarded with reverence, often due to its historical or spiritual significance.[41] (5) Locations deemed holy or significant, especially in a spiritual context, such as rivers and mountains.[42]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Locations of religious importance where Lakshmana searched for Sita, underscoring the intertwining of spirituality and his quest.[43] (2) locations where Shri Rama observes sacrifices with sages, highlighting his piety and commitment to righteousness.[44] (3) Locations of spiritual significance that King Ambarisha visited in his quest for a horse or human victim.[45] (4) The revered locations within the narrative, including Prayaga and Kashi, that are significant in the cultural context.[46] (5) Locations that are spiritually significant, invoked for their protective qualities over Rama.[47]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Locations such as Prayaga and Gaya where charities are performed for attaining heaven and averting evils.[48] (2) Locations that hold significant spiritual value, believed to enhance the efficacy of religious ceremonies.[49] (3) Locations such as Gaya that hold religious significance and are visited for the purpose of performing atonements for sins.[50] (4) Locations deemed holy where Vedic recitations and sacrifices are celebrated, enhancing the significance of worship.[51] (5) Locations regarded as holy due to their association with deities and spiritual practices.[52]
From: Brahmanda Purana
(1) Locations deemed holy where rituals like Shraddha take on enhanced significance and yield greater benefits.[53] (2) A location regarded as holy or significant in spiritual practices.[54] (3) Locations deemed holy or of religious significance where rituals and cleansings are performed.[55] (4) Locations deemed spiritually valuable, with particular reference to Samantapancaka as being the most excellent among them.[56]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) A location deemed holy, where rituals and practices aimed at purifying sins are performed.[57] (2) Locations, such as Tirthas, where spiritual practices yield auspicious results.[58] (3) A location deemed holy and significant in spiritual practices.[59] (4) A location deemed holy, where spiritual activities and worship take place, and which is protected by powerful beings.[60]
From: Matsya Purana (critical study)
(1) The temple is described as the main sacred place of worship for Hindus.[61] (2) Locations revered as holy where worship and spiritual practices are conducted, particularly related to goddesses.[62] (3) Locations recognized as holy, typically associated with divine presence and fulfillment of spiritual desires.[63]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Locations that are dedicated to the sun mentioned within the Garuda Purana, highlighting its religious significance.[64] (2) The spiritual location, Shalagrama, where Bharata resides for devotion but experiences setbacks in achieving emancipation.[65]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) Key locations visited by Rama that hold significant religious and spiritual importance in his journey.[66]
From: Bhagavad-gita-mahatmya
(1) Holy sites that Sunanda visited for spiritual practice, including the site of his encounter with the villager and the rakshasa.[67]
From: Markandeya Purana (Study)
(1) Locations designated for worship that are believed to be imbued with divine presence when hymns are recited.[68]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Locations deemed holy and significant in Hindu practices, which are made sacred through the presence of deities like Shiva.[69]
From: Brahma Purana
(1) Locations that hold spiritual significance and are considered worthy of reverence, often associated with various deities.[70]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Locations mentioned within the Purana that hold religious significance and relate to the worship of various deities.[71]
From: Bhagavad-gita Mahatmya
(1) Locations regarded as holy where sacrifices are traditionally performed, emphasizing their significance in spiritual rituals.[72]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) The areas through which Ganga flows, recognized for their spiritual significance.[73]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A term referencing places of spiritual significance, such as Puskara-tirtha.[74] (2) Refers to places considered holy, among which Dvaraka is the most glorious.[75] (3) A location that is considered holy or deserving of respect, in this context referring to Cakra-tirtha by the Gomati.[76] (4) A term denoting locations like Vrindavana, Yamuna, and Govardhana that hold spiritual significance.[77] (5) A location deemed holy or significant in spiritual practices where liberation can be attained.[78]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A location that is considered holy or deserving of respect, especially due to its association with the divine.[79] (2) Refers to holy sites from where waters were sourced to create Bindu-sarovara, each holding unique spiritual significance.[80] (3) Locations like the Ganges that are associated with piety and spiritual significance across different yugas.[81] (4) A revered or holy location, specifically referring to the site dedicated to Shri Ranganatha.[82] (5) Refers to any location that gains a revered status due to its connection with Murari.[83]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A location imbued with spiritual significance, often serving as a site for pilgrimage or meditation.[84] (2) A location regarded as holy, significant for worship and spiritual activities.[85]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Holy locations that are revered in spiritual traditions, often needing purification to restore their sanctity.[86]
From: Haribhakti-sudhodaya
(1) Locations considered holy and worthy of pilgrimage, often associated with spiritual practices.[87]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A location deemed holy, used for performing rituals and making offerings.[88] (2) A location considered holy where the mutual union of a couple can take place, as described in the context of Gandharva marriage.[89] (3) Locations imbued with spiritual significance, where religious rituals are conducted.[90] (4) A location that is inherently clean or has been designated as holy, suitable for performing religious activities.[91] (5) Locations that hold spiritual significance, where acts of giving or charity may be performed to gain renown.[92]
From: Paraskara-grihya-sutra
(1) A designated location where the offerings are meant to be conveyed for the deity to whom the sacrifice is directed.[93] (2) The designated area where the sacrifices and associated rituals are performed.[94]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) Locations that are considered spiritually significant and where certain rites and prayers can help in removing sins.[95]
From: Gautama Dharmasutra
(1) A location considered holy or particularly auspicious for performing rituals, especially when offering funeral oblations.[96]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Badarinatha is described as a sacred place devoted to Vishnu located in the Himalayas.[97] (2) A pilgrimage site where Lohajangha seeks solace after being cast out by Rupinika's mother.[98] (3) Refers to locations like Kedarnath that hold religious significance and are often visited for pilgrimage.[99]
From: Jarasandhavadha Mahakavyam
(1) The peaceful and respectable location that the Brahmins request for their discussions.[100] (2) The palace of Jarasandha, regarded as sanctified by the presence of a Brahmin.[101]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) Locations in India considered holy and significant for spiritual practices and pilgrimage.[102] (2) Holy locations from which the sacred water was collected for the consecration ceremony, symbolizing spirituality and reverence.[103]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) Locations deemed holy and significant in religious contexts, attracting individuals for pilgrimage and purification practices.[104] (2) Locations deemed holy or spiritually significant, often used for meditation and pilgrimage by ascetics.[105]
From: Naishadha-charita of Shriharsha
(1) Locations traditionally believed to cleanse sins, which are questioned in their efficacy in the narrative.[106]
From: Thirty minor Upanishads
(1) Physical locations considered holy or significant, which are transcended by those who achieve higher states of consciousness.[107] (2) A location deemed holy or significant, where an emancipated person may relinquish their physical body.[108]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A holy location where one can study scriptures and practice religious duties.[109]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A holy location considered most suitable for offering food, enhancing the act's significance.[110]
From: Shukra Niti by Shukracharya
(1) Locations considered holy and untouchable, which should be approached with respect.[111]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) Locations that hold religious significance, requiring the king's attention for preservation and honor.[112]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) Locations where gurus or realized souls meditate, creating positive energy fields that spread love and compassion.[113]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) A location where individuals may choose to refrain from causing injury.[114]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) Locations designated for worship and devotion in both Buddhism and Hinduism.[115]
From: Hanuman Nataka (critical study)
(1) The significant locations that Vishvamitra and Rama visit, which hold spiritual importance and historical value.[116]
Jain concept of 'Sacred place'
In Jainism, a Sacred place embodies locations of deep spiritual significance, such as temples and pilgrimage sites, often linked to rituals, moral teachings, and the presence of revered figures, emphasizing devotion and spiritual awakening.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) Locations considered holy and significant in the context of rituals and spiritual practices, which Coksha references in her teachings.[117] (2) A holy location that is significant for religious worship and pilgrimage, which leads to spiritual awakening for Viramati.[118] (3) A location imbued with spiritual significance and deemed holy due to events or teachings that promote moral values and enlightenment.[119] (4) Locations where Durva-grass is often found growing.[120] (5) Referring to the sites of worship and religious significance that the Vidyadharas journey to, highlighting their devotion.[121]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Locations that hold spiritual significance, often associated with religious practice, pilgrimage, or meditation.[122]
From: Acaranga-sutra
(1) Locations that hold spiritual significance, such as temples or areas near water bodies, which must not be polluted by discharges.[123]
The concept of Sacred place in local and regional sources
The keyphrase "Sacred place" refers to holy and spiritually significant locations within various religious contexts, especially in Hinduism, where devotees seek spiritual connection, ritual practices, and blessings, emphasizing respect and reverence for these sites.
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Refers to locations regarded as holy, where devotees seek spiritual connection or blessings.[124] (2) Locations where the divine presence is felt and where Shri Hari saves His devotees.[125] (3) Locations of religious significance; Pandhari is asserted to be superior to these in the text.[126] (4) Locations that hold spiritual significance, often visited by saints and bhaktas.[127] (5) Locations that are considered holy or spiritually significant, which Dnyandev wishes to visit with Namdev.[128]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Locations significant for spiritual practices and pilgrimage in Indian culture, often associated with enhanced religious experiences.[129] (2) Locations deemed holy or significant within a faith, which should be treated with respect and reverence.[130] (3) Locations that are revered and hold spiritual significance within a religious context.[131] (4) The location that holds religious significance, where the Peshwa went on pilgrimage.[132]
From: Diaspora of Bhuta (Daiva) worshipping cult—India and Indonesia
(1) Locations such as tall trees, stones, hills, and forests believed to be inhabited by spirits.[133] (2) Locations such as tall trees, stones, and forests that are considered holy and inhabited by spirits.[134]
From: Impact of Vedic Culture on Society
(1) Locations deemed to increase the merit or punya received from giving gifts, with particular emphasis on places like Varanasi and tirthas.[135]
From: Lord Jhulelal: An Analytical Study
(1) Uderolal in Sind, recognized as the holy site associated with Lord Jhulelal.[136]
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) Locations of deep spiritual significance for Buddhists, such as temples and shrines where important rituals are practiced.[137]