ODOUR OF SANCTITY Meaning and
Definition
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The term "odour of sanctity" refers to a highly symbolic phrase that conveys the idea of a distinctive and pleasant aroma associated with holiness or divine presence. It is primarily used in religious contexts to describe an alleged fragrance that emanates from the bodies of certain individuals who are regarded as exceptionally holy or spiritually pure. The phrase "odour of sanctity" is often linked to the concept of saintliness, suggesting that these individuals, often revered figures in religious traditions, emit a sacred scent that serves as a physical manifestation of their holiness or spiritual enlightenment.
The belief in the odour of sanctity has roots in ancient religious traditions and is particularly prevalent in Christianity, where it is considered a sign of saintliness or martyrdom. According to popular belief, this divine fragrance can be present during a person's lifetime or after their death, either in the form of a specific scent or a general aura of exquisite perfume. Devotees often perceive the odour as a sign of the individual's close connection to the divine realm or as a confirmation of their sanctified state.
While the odour of sanctity is primarily viewed as a spiritual phenomenon, it has also found its way into literary and artistic expressions. Writers and artists have utilized this term metaphorically to describe the perceived aura or impression of exceptional purity, nobility, or virtue in non-religious contexts. Thus, the odour of sanctity serves as a richly symbolic concept that carries deep religious significance and signifies a heightened level of spiritual devotion or moral goodness.
