The Temple Concept

A temple is more than a building; it is the premier expression of sacred space. This book illuminates the concepts of sacred space and its ancillary doctrines, which form the foundation of the temple concept.

Sacred space defines the nature of the holiness there. These principles are reflected in ritual & architecture. Sacred space is distinguished from profane. As the wilderness is the image of the profane, the temple is the essence of sacred space. The temple is a model of the cosmos & is cosmic in nature. It's a place of revelation. It's the source of all blessings. It is the symbolic center of the earth and a meeting place between worlds. Construction is akin to creation itself. Creation brought about order in the cosmos and overcame chaos; building the temple brings order to earth.

Temple ritual includes the creation story which re-creates sacred time anew. The temple symbolizes sacred space and sacred the time of the first creation, the illud tempus. A deeper understanding of the temple concept will enhance temple worship.