The concept of Sacred thing in Christianity
The keyphrase "Sacred thing" encompasses various interpretations across different religious traditions. In Christianity, it refers to actions, artifacts, or concepts imbued with deep spiritual significance and dedicated to God. Eastern Orthodoxy and Catholic teachings emphasize the holiness and reverence required for these sacred items, often tied to divine worship or sacramental acts. Gnosticism highlights the hidden secrets contained in sacred items, while Early Christianity stresses the importance of respect and adherence to divine commands. Overall, "Sacred thing" signifies objects or practices regarded as holy across different faiths.
Synonyms: Holy object, Divine symbol, Consecrated thing
In Dutch: Heilig ding; In Finnish: Pyhä asia; In Spanish: Cosa sagrada; In German: Heilige Sache; In Malay: Perkara yang suci; In Swedish: Helig sak; In French: Chose sacrée; In Swedish: Heligt ting
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Sacred thing'
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) This phrase refers to an object that is considered holy or of religious significance, and its theft is specifically mentioned as an example of aggravated wrongdoing.[1] (2) Elements within the Law that encompass religious practices, including sacrifices and rituals dedicated to God.[2] (3) Holy elements or aspects referred to in supplications, often invoked when seeking to implore mercy from God.[3] (4) Items or concepts regarded as holy or deserving of reverence, often subject to specific regulations concerning their use in almsgiving.[4] (5) Items or spiritual capacities associated with the sacramental acts that require the character of an individual to give or receive.[5]
From: The city of God
(1) Metellus the priest, forgetful of his own safety, rushed in and rescued these, though he was half roasted in doing so, as stated in the text.[6] (2) The text mentions sacred things as the subject of the sacred rites and also as places where mutilated and effeminate men are numbered and live, as well as a recognized place among those sacred things.[7]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) The text mentions that Dionysius carried off their 'sacred things', indicating his disregard for religious objects and rituals.[8] (2) These are objects or practices related to religious worship, and Christians know the origins of them.[9] (3) Sacred things were part of new rites and ceremonies, representing objects or practices considered holy or deserving of reverence, as indicated by the text regarding Melisseus's actions.[10] (4) The writing highlights the importance of subjects requiring preliminary details and statements, preparing for the discussion of holy topics.[11] (5) The author needs the assistance of that excellent Spirit of wisdom, in order to understand such matters, as they should be understood by ministers of sacred things.[12]
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) Religious artifacts, teachings, or institutions that are considered holy, yet were treated as personal possessions by the council.[13] (2) The belief that all activities can be holy if performed with an attitude of reverence and purpose.[14] (3) An action or aspect that holds deep religious or spiritual significance.[15] (4) Immaterial values and ideals that transcend physical goods and are not recognized by Esaus' standards of utility and immediate gratification.[16]
From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature
(1) The religious jurisdiction of the Areopagus extended itself over the public creed, worship, and sacrifices, generally embracing everything that came under this term.[17] (2) Anything laid up in a temple, set apart as sacred, reflecting the concept of being devoted to God.[18]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) Sacred things are not all signs that have sacramental value, according to the Council of Trent, which laid down that visible forms are sacraments only when they represent invisible grace.[19] (2) This refers to the role of cherubim, where they are guardians, particularly in the Temple and Tabernacle, protecting the contents of the ark and symbolizing divine presence.[20]
From: The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite
(1) Sacred things are described as objects, practices, or concepts that are considered holy and deserving of reverence, playing a central role in religious or spiritual traditions.[21] (2) Objects, symbols, or practices that are regarded with reverence and are associated with the divine or spiritual significance.[22] (3) Items or concepts that are holy and protected, which must be respected and treated according to divine order.[23]
Gnostic concept of 'Sacred thing'
From: The Gnostics and Their Remains
(1) Items carried in a coffin during the procession, closely concealing the deep secrets of the holy religion.[24]