Pronunciation: [hˈa͡ɪ͡əɹəfəni] (IPA) 
The word "hierophany" is spelled as h-aɪˈrɒfəni, according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). In this phonetic spelling, the "h" is pronounced as "hai", the "i" as "ai", and "e" as "ə". The "o" is pronounced as "ɒ", the "ph" as "f", and the "n" as "ni". The word hierophany refers to the manifestation of the holy or the divine in the world, which is a key concept in the study of religion and spirituality.
Hierophany is a term derived from the combination of the Greek words "hieros" meaning "sacred" and "phainein" meaning "to reveal." It refers to the manifestation or revelation of the sacred or divine in the tangible world, wherein the invisible or supernatural becomes visible and comprehensible to humans.
In the religious and anthropological context, hierophany describes the occurrence of any event, object, or act that holds profound religious significance or represents a connection between the material and spiritual realms. It is the embodiment of the transcendental in a form that can be perceived and experienced by individuals. Hierophanies aim to bridge the gap between humans and the divine, allowing believers to grasp and interact with the sacred aspects of their belief system.
This concept was widely explored by the French philosopher and anthropologist Mircea Eliade in his work "The Sacred and the Profane," where he argues that hierophanies form the basis of religious experiences across various cultures throughout history. Examples of hierophanies include rituals, sacred places, religious symbols, and extraordinary events that convey a spiritual message or presence, such as miracles or visions.
The term also encompasses the idea that the sacred can reveal itself in ordinary and everyday experiences. From this perspective, hierophanies can be found in nature, art, music, and even personal encounters, where individuals can perceive the presence of the divine or experience a profound sense of awe and meaning.
The word "hierophany" is derived from Greek roots.
The first part of the word, "hiero-", comes from the Greek word "hieros", meaning "sacred" or "holy". This root is commonly used in words related to religious or sacred concepts, such as "hieroglyphics" (sacred carvings) or "hierarch" (a religious leader).
The second part of the word, "-phany", is derived from the Greek word "phanos", which means "appearance" or "manifestation". This root is seen in various words relating to the act of showing or revealing something, such as "epiphany" (a sudden realization or understanding) or "theophany" (a visible manifestation of a god).
