Ukazanje

Ukazanje is a term used in several South Slavic languages to denote an appearance or manifestation, often of a sacred or supernatural character. The word derives from the verb ukazati, meaning to show or indicate, with the noun form ukazanje meaning the act of showing or an appearance. In religious contexts, ukazanje refers to a communication allegedly received by a person or group from a divine being, a saint, or another holy presence. It is typically distinguished from ordinary dreams or visions by its perceived external source and its social or spiritual consequences.

In Christian usage, ukazanje may denote private revelation—messages or signs believed to be from God, the Virgin Mary, or saints. Such events are not part of official doctrine, but they can influence devotion and practice for individuals or communities. The Church distinguishes between public revelation (Scripture and apostolic teaching) and private revelations like ukazanje, which may be approved, rejected, or remain under discernment.

Recognition or assessment of an ukazanje is usually conducted by local ecclesiastical authorities, sometimes with involvement of higher-level bodies. Evaluative criteria include consistency with existing faith, the moral character of the message, positive effects in the lives of believers, and the absence of harm. Many reported ukazanja remain undocumented or contested.

Culturally, alleged ukazanja have shaped piety, pilgrimage, and devotion in various South Slavic communities, sometimes leading to the establishment of shrines or renewed interest in liturgical practices connected to the apparition or its message.