Definition and Concept

Sacredness, in the biblical context, refers to the quality of being holy, set apart, or consecrated for divine purposes. It is a fundamental concept that permeates the Scriptures, reflecting the nature of God, His creation, and His relationship with humanity. The sacred is often contrasted with the profane, which denotes that which is common or unholy.

Sacredness of God

The Bible begins with the assertion of God's holiness and sacredness. In Isaiah 6:3, the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." This thrice-repeated declaration emphasizes the absolute holiness of God, setting Him apart from all creation. God's sacredness is intrinsic and foundational to His character, as seen in Leviticus 19:2, where He commands, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy."

Sacredness of Places

Certain locations are deemed sacred due to God's presence or divine intervention. The burning bush in Exodus 3:5 is a prime example, where God instructs Moses, "Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground." Similarly, the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem are considered sacred spaces where God's presence dwells among His people (Exodus 25:8).

Sacredness of Time

The concept of sacred time is introduced in the creation narrative, where God sanctifies the seventh day as a day of rest (Genesis 2:3). The Sabbath is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, serving as a sacred time for rest and worship, as commanded in Exodus 20:8-11. The sacredness of time is further exemplified in the observance of feasts and festivals, which are appointed times for communal worship and remembrance of God's mighty acts (Leviticus 23).

Sacredness of People

God's covenant with Israel establishes the nation as a holy people set apart for His purposes. In Deuteronomy 7:6, it is stated, "For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, out of all the peoples on the face of the earth." This sacred identity is extended to the Church in the New Testament, where believers are called "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation" (1 Peter 2:9).

Sacredness of Objects and Rituals

Objects and rituals associated with worship are often imbued with sacredness. The Ark of the Covenant, for instance, is a sacred object representing God's covenant and presence with Israel (Exodus 25:10-22). Sacrificial rituals, as outlined in Leviticus, are sacred acts of worship and atonement, symbolizing the people's devotion and God's provision for sin.

Sacredness in Daily Life

The call to holiness extends beyond specific times, places, or objects, permeating the daily lives of believers. In Romans 12:1, Paul urges, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship." This exhortation reflects the biblical principle that all aspects of life are to be lived in a manner that honors God's sacredness.

Sacredness and the New Covenant

Under the New Covenant, the sacredness of believers is rooted in their relationship with Christ. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus sanctifies and purifies His followers, making them holy. Hebrews 10:10 affirms, "And by that will, we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." The indwelling of the Holy Spirit further consecrates believers, empowering them to live holy lives (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

Conclusion

The concept of sacredness is integral to understanding the biblical narrative and God's interaction with His creation. It underscores the call to holiness and the transformative power of God's presence in the lives of His people.