Holy Meaning
Holy Definition & Usage
Dedicated or consecrated to a deity or religious purpose; sacred.
Examples
- "The cathedral is a holy place for Christians around the world."
- "The holy book was placed on the altar with great reverence."
- "He was a holy man, always seeking to help others in need."
- "They embarked on a holy pilgrimage to the shrine."
- "Many ancient temples are still considered holy sites by modern worshippers."
Used to describe something or someone regarded with reverence or intense respect, often in a figurative sense.
Examples
- "She treated her grandmother's stories like holy scripture."
- "The team's victory was seen as a holy achievement in their city."
- "He spoke with holy conviction about his cause."
- "The ancient artifact was considered a holy relic by the museum."
- "The rules of the game were treated as holy and inviolable by the players."
Used informally to express surprise, awe, or disbelief.
Examples
- "Holy cow! I can’t believe we won!"
- "Holy moly, that was a huge explosion!"
- "Holy smokes, that car is amazing!"
- "Holy crap, you just ran a marathon?"
- "Holy mackerel, that’s a lot of food!"
Cultural Context
The word 'holy' has deep roots in religious contexts, stemming from the Old English word 'halig,' meaning 'sacred' or 'hallowed.' It is often used to describe people, places, objects, or events that are considered sacred or revered in various religious traditions, especially in Christianity. Over time, the term has also evolved into popular expressions that are non-religious but still carry connotations of awe or reverence.
The Sacred Path
Story
The Sacred Path
Once upon a time, in a small village nestled between the hills, there was a young man named Thomas who had long dreamed of seeing the Holy Mountain. His grandfather often told him stories of its holiness, recounting how those who climbed its steep paths would feel a deep connection to the divine. To Thomas, this place represented more than just a physical location; it was a symbol of his faith and determination. One bright morning, with the sun casting golden light across the valley, Thomas set off on his journey. The path was difficult, winding through dense forests and rocky slopes. As he climbed higher, his legs ached and his breath became shallow, but he pushed on, knowing the destination was worth every step. Along the way, he met an old woman sitting by the side of the trail. She looked up at him with piercing eyes, and without a word, she handed him a small bundle wrapped in cloth. "It’s a token of the holy mountain," she said, her voice barely a whisper. Thomas accepted it without hesitation, feeling as though the very air around him was charged with a sacred energy. After days of climbing, Thomas finally reached the summit. The view was beyond anything he could have imagined. The landscape stretched out before him in all its glory, and in that moment, Thomas felt a profound sense of peace. He knelt on the ground, acknowledging the holiness of the place. But as he prepared to leave, he realized something even more important. The journey, with all its struggles, had been holy in its own right. Each step taken in faith had made him stronger, more connected to the divine, and more aware of the sacred in everyday life. He smiled, understanding that holiness wasn’t just about the mountain—it was about how one lived with reverence, humility, and respect. As he made his way back down the mountain, Thomas reflected on his journey, carrying the holy token as a reminder of the path he had walked and the lessons he had learned.
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