Sacrilization
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Sacrilization is the process by which certain objects, symbols, or actions are invested with sacred or religious significance within a cultural or social context. It involves elevating elements beyond their everyday or utilitarian functions to imbue them with deeper meaning and spiritual importance.[1]
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Notes
Clifford Geertz, a prominent cultural anthropologist, discusses the concept of "sacrilization" in his work. Sacrilization refers to the process by which certain objects, symbols, or actions are endowed with sacred or religious significance within a cultural context.
In Geertz's analysis, he emphasizes that sacralization is a fundamental aspect of human culture. It is through sacralization that societies imbue certain elements with deep meaning, elevating them beyond their utilitarian or mundane aspects. This process not only influences religious practices but also shapes social norms, values, and behaviors.
One of Geertz's notable works that touches upon the topic of sacralization is his essay titled "Religion as a Cultural System" (1973). In this seminal piece, Geertz delves into the role of religion in shaping cultures and argues that understanding religious symbols and rituals is key to understanding a society's broader cultural context.
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Footnotes
- ↑ Clifford Geertz, “Religion as a Cultural System,” in Anthropological Approaches to the Study of Religion, ed. Michael Banton (Oxon: Routledge, 2004), 1–44.