resacralization

Resacralization refers to a process of reintroducing sacredness or spiritual significance into areas of life, culture, or thought that have become secularized or desacralized. It is often seen as a response to modernity and its perceived tendency to strip away the transcendent or mystical aspects of human experience. This can manifest in various ways, including renewed interest in religious or spiritual practices, the development of new spiritual movements, or the imbument of everyday objects or experiences with deeper meaning.

The concept is complex and can be interpreted differently depending on the context. In some instances, resacralization might involve a return to traditional religious beliefs and rituals. In others, it could be the creation of new forms of spirituality that draw from diverse sources, often outside of established religious institutions. It can also be observed in cultural trends, such as the appreciation of nature as a sacred space or the search for meaning in art, music, or personal relationships.

The driving forces behind resacralization are varied. They can include a sense of alienation or emptiness resulting from secularization, a desire for a more holistic and meaningful existence, or a reaction against perceived materialism and consumerism. Ultimately, resacralization suggests a human need to connect with something larger than oneself, to find wonder and awe in the world, and to imbue life with a sense of purpose and transcendence. It represents a re-evaluation of what is considered sacred in a contemporary, often secularized, world.