Question

The term sacred refers to components of religion that are considered extraordinary and supernatural. In contrast, if something is labeled profane, it would be considered commonplace or secular. Rituals are often a sacred component of religion and involve specific, predetermined actions. No matter the religion, a ritual is something that involves a set of behaviors and actions that must be completed in a certain way and in a specific sequence. What does the term sacred refer to in relation to religion?

1) Extraordinary and supernatural components of religion
2) Commonplace or secular components of religion
3) Specific, predetermined actions in religious rituals
4) Behaviors and actions that must be completed in a certain way and in a specific sequence

Answer 1

The term sacred within the context of religion refers to the extraordinary and supernatural aspects that differentiate the divine from the ordinary or profane. Émile Durkheim described these elements as central to the cohesion and identity of religious communities, typically enacted through various rituals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term sacred refers to components of religion that are considered extraordinary and supernatural. According to the pioneering sociologist Émile Durkheim, religion is a "unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things." He emphasized that the sacred is something that inspires wonder and appears connected to the divine, thereby setting it apart from the ordinary or profane elements of life. Durkheim’s work highlights how sacred elements within religions serve to unite individuals into a single moral community through shared beliefs and practices, often celebrated and reinforced through rituals.

In contrast to the sacred, the term profane pertains to anything that is considered commonplace or secular, not associated with religious or spiritual significance. Rituals are integral to religion as they are performative acts involving specific, predetermined actions and are completed in a particular sequence to embody or express religious beliefs both publicly and privately, thus fostering social solidarity and shared identity within a faith community.