sanctum sanctorum

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Explanation of "Sanctum Sanctorum"

Definition: The term "sanctum sanctorum" is a Latin phrase that means "holy of holies." In religious contexts, it refers to the most sacred part of a temple or place of worship. Specifically, in Judaism, it refers to the innermost chamber of the Tabernacle in the Temple of Solomon, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This was a very special and private place, where only certain people could enter.

Examples:

1. Religious Context: "In ancient times, only the high priest could enter the sanctum sanctorum of the Temple."
2. Everyday Context: "She called her home office her sanctum sanctorum, a place where she could focus without distractions."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "sanctum sanctorum" can symbolize any place of deep personal significance or privacy. It can be used metaphorically to refer to someone’s sacred thoughts, ideas, or creative processes.

Word Variants:

• Sanctuary: A place of refuge or safety; can refer to a holy place but is broader in meaning.

Different Meanings:

While "sanctum sanctorum" specifically refers to a sacred space, the broader term "sanctuary" can mean any safe place or a refuge, not limited to religious contexts.

Synonyms:

• Holy of Holies: Used in a similar religious context.
• Sanctuary: A safe or sacred space.
• Refuge: A safe place, though less specifically sacred.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "sanctum sanctorum," but you can use phrases like: - "Keep (something) sacred": To treat something with great respect and not allow it to be disturbed. - "A place of refuge": A safe or peaceful space.

Summary:

"Sanctum sanctorum" is a term that refers to a very sacred and private place, especially within religious contexts.

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. a place of inviolable privacy
   • he withdrew to his sanctum sanctorum, where the children could never go

Synonyms

• holy of holies
• sanctum