Sacrosanctly: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'sacrosanctus,' meaning 'sacred and inviolable.'
• In ancient times, certain places and objects, considered sacrosanct, were thought to be protected by divine authority.
• The prefix 'sacro-' relates to 'sacred,' indicating a strong connection to religious or holy significance.

Cultural Usage

• In many cultures, certain traditions and beliefs are treated sacrosanctly, reflecting deep respect and reverence.
• Some people believe that ethics and moral principles should be regarded sacrosanctly in any society.
• The concept often appears in debates about freedom of expression, where some ideas are considered untouchable.

Religion

• In Christianity, the sacredness of certain rituals, like communion, is often viewed as sacrosanct to the faith.
• Many Indigenous cultures have sacred sites that are preserved sacrosanctly, prohibiting any form of development or disturbance.
• Ceremonies and texts in religions are frequently considered sacrosanct, influencing how practitioners interact with them.

Politics

• In political discussions, national sovereignty is often treated sacrosanctly by various nations.
• Some laws are viewed as sacrosanct, meaning they should not be altered or challenged easily.
• Constitutional rights are commonly regarded as sacrosanct in democracies, emphasizing their foundational importance.

Literature

• In literature, themes of the sacrosanct often explore the conflict between tradition and change.
• Characters may have beliefs or values that they treat sacrosanctly, leading to significant personal dilemmas.
• Famous literary works frequently reflect on what society deems sacrosanct, questioning the status quo.