Sacred Space Must Be Founded

Week 2 Lecture 1 (1/11/11)

Today, we primarily discussed the sacred places within Jerusalem. An important concept, stressed in class and in Eliade, is that a "sacred space must be founded." For example, the building of new temples and places of worship are deemed sacred because they usually are of divine origin. It was founded by a person, but initiated by the will of a god. Jerusalem gains its reputation in two ways: (1) by continuous building and expansion, and (2) by associating itself with stories, specifically those that present itself as an axis mundi. The axis mundi is believed to be a place, or portal, that connects the three levels of heaven, earth, and hell. References drawn from the bible and other readings suggest that Jerusalem is this axis mundi. It is believed to be the Garden of Eden and the place to Underworld (Hinnom Valley). To futher support this, stories about the burial of Adam under the Holy Sepulcher and the incorporation of Canaanite myths about Mount Zaphon, make Jerusalem the center of many religions and a significant reference of all important texts.

Another issue, not relating to the class, was brought up today. On my way back to UCLA for winter quarter, I saw protest groups in Westwood with signs saying "Stop Killing Christians in Egypt!" I am very "out-of-the-loop" when it comes to current events, so I didn't bother to look up the story or ask friends. Today, I found out that Muslim terrorists have been killing Christians who go to pray in the Holy Sepulcher. Yes, I was outraged, but from this act of human corruption, we also see an act of kindness. Muslims put aside religion in order to protect their fellow brothers and sisters who were praying at the church. I'm sure not only Professor Cargill was moved by this act. In a world where the news always reflects some evil or crime, it is inspiring to see an act of justice. This, too, points out the importance of Jerusalem. Although religion is important, it does not distinguish one person from another. Hence, although these people are different, they still share the same city of worship, and that is Jerusalem.