Pilgrimage ritual in ancient Greece: historical and culturological aspect
https://doi.org/10.29235/2524-2369-2025-70-4-271-276
Abstract
The article examines pilgrimage in ancient Greece which was an important aspect of religious and social life combining faith, culture and politics. The article analyzes the origin and development of this phenomenon, describes visits to sacred places to perform rituals, receive revelations and heal. Numerous examples demonstrate the diversity and importance of pilgrimage, the system of rites and rituals in this pagan religion. It is noted that pilgrimage rituals reflected the synthesis of the rational and irrational in Greek culture. Particular attention is paid to the most visited pilgrimage centers: Delphi, Olympia, Eleusis, Epidaurus. The goals and motives of pilgrims are revealed. The most important rituals and practices are consi dered: purification, sacrifice, incubation, theatricalization of myths. The activities and legacy of pilgrims are significant material for the study of ancient culture. This work can be useful for understanding the religious consciousness of ancient society and its influence on the Mediterranean civilization.
Keywords
pilgrimage,
ritual,
rite,
ancient Greece,
religion,
paganism,
faith,
spirituality,
culture,
sacrifices
About the Author
D. M. Zaitsev
Institute of Philosophy of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus
Belarus
Belarus
Dmitry M. Zaitsev – Ph. D. (Philos.), Associate Professor.
1 Surganov Str., Bldg 2, Minsk 220072
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