Temple

Temple

A temple (from the Latin word templum) is a structure reserved for religious or spiritual activities, such as prayer and sacrifice, or analogous rites. A templum constituted a sacred precinct as defined by a priest, or augur. It has the same root as the word "template," a plan in preparation of the building that was marked out on the ground by the augur. Templa also became associated with the dwelling places of a god or gods. Despite the specific set of meanings associated with the religion of the ancient Rome, the word has now become quite widely used to describe a house of worship for any number of religions and is even used for time periods prior to the Romans.

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Famous quotes containing the word temple:

    This flea is you and I, and this
    Our mariage bed, and mariage temple is;
    Though parents grudge, and you, w’are met,
    And cloystered in these living walls of Jet.
    John Donne (1572–1631)

    [T]he temple through which alone lies the road to that of Liberty.
    James Madison (1751–1836)

    Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, who rules all creation!
    O my soul, worship the source of thy health and salvation!
    All ye who hear, Now to God’s temple draw near;
    Join me in glad adoration!
    Joachim Neander (1650–1680)