The Sacred Body: Materializing the Divine through Human Remains in Antiquity

The human body is a symbolic bridge between communities of the living and the divine, as demonstrated by mythological stories and the cult of human skulls and relics of Christian saints. This volume explores how the human body can be envisioned as part of a broader materialisation of religious beliefs that connects different realms of materiality in the perception of the supernatural.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2021
Publisher: Oxbow Books

The human body stands as a profound and symbolic connection between communities of the living and the divine, a truth vividly illustrated in mythological narratives that recount the divine creation of humans across ancient and contemporary societies spanning vast geographical landscapes. In certain exceptional instances, specific parts of human beings can serve as ideal intermediaries for establishing connections with the supernatural, as evidenced by the veneration of human skulls in Near Eastern Neolithic communities and the cult of relics associated with Christian saints from the early Christian era.

To delve deeper into this intricate subject, this volume embarks on a cross-cultural exploration of the role played by both humans and human remains in fostering forms of relationality with the divine in antiquity. Through this approach, we gain insight into how the human body can be perceived as an integral part of a broader materialization of religious beliefs, one that hinges on bridging diverse realms of materiality in the perception of the supernatural by living communities.

The human body, with its intricate physicality and symbolic significance, becomes a conduit for bridging the gap between the mortal and the divine. It serves as a tangible embodiment of religious beliefs, connecting individuals and communities to the supernatural realm. In ancient and contemporary societies, mythological stories and cultural practices illustrate how the human body is intertwined with the divine, often serving as a medium for communication and interaction.

One notable example is the cult of human skulls in Near Eastern Neolithic communities. These communities believed that the skull held the essence of a person's soul and could be used to communicate with the deceased or gain supernatural powers. The skulls were often adorned with elaborate decorations and placed in sacred spaces, symbolizing the power and authority of the divine.

Similarly, the cult of relics associated with Christian saints from the early Christian era showcases another instance of the human body being used as a proxy for connecting with the divine. These relics, such as pieces of clothing, bones, or other physical remnants, were believed to possess supernatural properties and could be used to invoke blessings, heal ailments, or protect against evil. The veneration of these relics was deeply ingrained in Christian communities and played a significant role in shaping their religious practices and beliefs.

Furthermore, the human body itself can be seen as a materialization of religious beliefs. The physicality of the body, with its organs, tissues, and cells, can be interpreted as a microcosm of the divine. The human body is capable of experiencing physical sensations, emotions, and thoughts, which can be linked to spiritual experiences and beliefs. By engaging with the body through practices such as meditation, prayer, or physical exercise, individuals can connect with their inner selves and the divine, fostering a sense of spirituality and transcendence.

In conclusion, the human body serves as a symbolic bridge between communities of the living and the divine, a connection that is evident in mythological stories, cultural practices, and religious beliefs across time and space. Through the veneration of human skulls, relics, and the physicality of the body itself, individuals and communities can establish connections with the supernatural, fostering a sense of spirituality, transcendence, and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 177 x 249 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789255188