The Nature of Holiness: Beyond Religion & Superstition

In summary, people have a natural inclination to view certain objects or circumstances as holy, even if they are not necessarily religious or spiritual. This tendency can also be seen in superstitions, where rationalization is used to justify the holiness of objects. The concept of holiness comes before religious or superstitious beliefs, as beliefs are used to rationalize the holiness. This perspective can bring a sense of peace when regarding a holy object. While some may argue that this tendency is based on an innate capacity to be awed, others may view it as simply valuing certain objects as special. This can extend to everyday objects such as cars, as well as traditionally holy objects like prayer beads and medicine bags. Ultimately, the idea of hol
  • #1
BicycleTree
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There is a human tendency to regard things as holy which is separate from religion or spirituality, though often associated. People have a tendency to in general value some objects or circumstances as special. Superstition involves holy objects + rationalization with a set of beliefs for their holy status. Holiness comes before religious or superstitious belief; belief rationalizes holiness. There is a special peace of mind that comes from regarding a holy object.
 
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  • #2
I would rather say we we have an innate capacity to be awed, but I get your meaning.
 
  • #3
It doesn't need to go as far as awe. People don't live in awe of cemetaries, but I think most people regard them as holy on a deep level whether they're religious or not. I think a lot of people regard their cars as holy. Prayer beads and medicine bags--historically holy, but not awe-inspiring. All awe-inspiring things are holy though.
 

Related to The Nature of Holiness: Beyond Religion & Superstition

1. What is the definition of holiness?

Holiness can be defined as the state of being holy, sacred, or morally pure. It is often associated with divinity and religious beliefs, but can also refer to a sense of awe and reverence towards something greater than oneself.

2. Is holiness limited to religion and superstition?

No, holiness can be experienced and understood outside of religious and superstitious beliefs. It can be seen as a universal concept that transcends cultural and personal beliefs, and can be experienced through acts of compassion, love, and selflessness.

3. Can holiness be measured or quantified?

As a scientific concept, holiness cannot be measured or quantified in a traditional sense. However, it can be studied and observed through psychological and sociological research on the effects of acts of holiness, such as altruism and morality, on individuals and communities.

4. Is there a biological basis for holiness?

While there is no clear biological basis for holiness, some studies have shown that acts of holiness, such as prayer and meditation, can have positive effects on brain function and overall well-being. However, the concept of holiness itself is more complex and cannot be reduced to a purely biological explanation.

5. Can individuals of different religions or beliefs experience holiness?

Yes, holiness is not limited to any specific religion or belief system. It can be experienced by individuals of different faiths, cultures, and backgrounds as a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. It is a universal concept that transcends specific beliefs.

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