Sacred Space, Ritual, Ceremony, Holding Space & The Four Directions

Sacredness

The Definition of Sacred

Worthy of religious worship: very holy

Highly valued and important: deserving great respect

– Merriam-Webster Dictionary  

Let’s take a moment to consider what we mean when we endeavor to make anything—including space—sacred. How can we demonstrate that something is “highly valued” and “deserving great respect?” We do this by bringing forth these qualities:

• Intention
• Presence

Sacredness is not defined through particular rituals—like placing our palms together or bowing. While such actions may demonstrate a particular person’s sacred intention, it’s not the acts themselves that signal honor and devotion, but rather the intention behind them, and the presence while undertaking them.

If we intend, or choose, to treat something or someone with honor and respect, and we follow through with mindfully, then how we move and talk will demonstrate and hold our intention.

While these are challenging tasks that require us to continuously “begin again,” isn’t it comforting to see that we are all quite capable of setting sacred space? We needn’t be a religious authority or esteemed spiritual guru. We can make a practice or space sacred simply through a sincere devotion to intention and presence.

While the universal intention can be to demonstrate respect, in practice, this is a creative and unique expression that of course, tends to be different among various cultures, groups and individuals. Some may describe their practices as “making an offering” or expressing devotion, faith or surrender. But underneath the various expressions and words is the intention and presence, offered in honor of something highly valued and important.

See more in Ritual & Ceremony below and Teaching Points, Readings & Theme Plan: Sacredness, Devotion, Honor & Respect.