Douglas Pelenberg: Landscapes of the Sacred

Douglas Pelenberg: Landscapes of the Sacred. The first approach Lane points out is the ontological approach. This philosophical view believes that Sacred Place is radically set apart from everything profane; it is a site recognized as manifesting its own inherent, chthonic power, and numinosity. The second approach that Lane identifies is the cultural approach. This perspective holds that sacred places inherently possess an intentionality and power drawn from within beyond themselves. Sacred place is most readily defined as a site in which conflicting parties disagree. From the differences arises a new sacredness, full of diverse beliefs which all add to power. The last approach that Lane acknowledges is the phenomenological approach. This outlook believes that places themselves participate in the perception that is made of them. This perspective urges that we take into account the integrity of the place in interpreting the way in which any particular site is to be perceived as sacred. Material characteristics in nature give symbolic meaning, which enhances its sacredness. I believe all approaches are necessary for one to fully understand sacred place.