holy of holies

Friendly

Explanation of "Holy of Holies"

Definition: - The term "holy of holies" originally comes from Judaism. It refers to the most sacred part of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. The Ark contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments and was considered the most holy object in the Jewish faith. - Figuratively, it can mean something that is extremely sacred or protected, an area or topic that is considered untouchable or very sensitive.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "holy of holies" when referring to something that is deeply respected or considered very important. It's often used in discussions where certain topics are sensitive or controversial.

Example Sentences:

1. Literal: In ancient times, only the high priest could enter the holy of holies once a year on Yom Kippur.
2. Figurative: The company's financial records are their holy of holies; only a few trusted employees are allowed access.

Advanced Usage:

• You might encounter the term in literature, religious texts, or discussions about traditions and beliefs. It can also be used in a more metaphorical sense in various contexts, such as politics, culture, or personal beliefs.

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of "holy of holies," but you might come across related phrases like "sacred space" or "sanctum."

Different Meanings:

• While the primary meaning relates to a religious context, it can also apply to any area of life where something is considered too important to be criticized or changed.

Synonyms:

• Sacred place
• Sanctum
• Inner sanctum
• Shrine
• Sanctuary

Idioms:

• There aren't specific idioms that use "holy of holies," but you can use similar expressions such as "sacred cow" to refer to something that is considered immune from criticism or change.

Academic

Noun

1. (Judaism) sanctuary comprised of the innermost chamber of the Tabernacle in the temple of Solomon where the Ark of the Covenant was kept
2. (figurative) something regarded as sacred or inviolable
   • every politician fears to touch that holy of holies, the Social Security System

Synonyms

• sanctum sanctorum