Twelve - The Symbolism of Sacred Mountains

Summary

Now that we have looked at mountains of major significance in cultures around the world, what conclusions can we draw about the symbolism that makes them sacred? On the most general level, we can identify from our study three broad ways in which people hold mountains in special regard. Firstly, certain peaks are singled out by particular cultures and traditions as places of sanctity directly linked to their highest and deepest values and aspirations. These mountains – the ones traditionally known as sacred mountains – have well-established networks of myths, beliefs, and religious practices such as pilgrimage, meditation, and devotion. Primary examples include Mount Kailas in Tibet, associated with the spiritual goals of liberation and enlightenment, and Tai Shan in China, connected for millennia with the cult of emperors.