If it were not for the sanctuaries of the Holy Places, which draw so many pilgrims and such considerable alms, its importance would be nil. All the superior clergy are Greek, and, in accordance with a rule made in early part of the eighteenth century, the clergy of Syrian birth and ...
In terms of function, sacred groves act as sacrosanct areas, which are at the same time temples, places for spiritual retreat and meditation, wildlife sanctuaries, and places where medicinal plants can grow in safety. This shows the social and spiritual significance of sacred groves. (Sibanda ...