Sacred caves of the world
illuminating the darkness
pp. 503-522
in: Stanley , Stanley D. Brunn (eds), The changing world religion map, Berlin, Springer, 2015Abstract
Most religions of the world identify one or more caves as sacred using them as extraordinary sites for meditation, ritual, art, burial, and/or related purposes. These are extraordinary places as spaces at the interface between the natural and supernatural and also between geology and biology on the one hand and religion, culture, and history on the other. Sacred caves facilitate a holistic perspective and synthesis integrating the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, instead of the usual isolation or academic compartmentalization. This essay discusses a geographical comparison of a representative sample of sacred caves to reveal how different cultures and religions construct meaning for caves as sacred, the main similarities and differences among them and the distinctions between the sacred and the profane. It explores: what makes a cave sacred? Who uses sacred caves, where, when, how, and why? I draw on my field research on sacred caves in Thailand as well as an extensive literature survey. The anomalous and mysterious character of caves contributes to the sacredness of some, although historical, cultural, and/or religious factors may also be involved. Most are associated with Buddhism in Asia and the Maya in Central America. I also discuss prehistoric caves and sacred caves in indigenous, Abrahamic, and Asian religions. I conclude with comments on scientific research and conservation efforts and show caves which are also major tourist sites.