Tower of silence meaning

The tower of silence is a raised structure used by Zoroastrians for the decomposition of human bodies in order to avoid contamination of the earth.


Tower of silence definitions

Word backwards rewot fo ecnelis
Part of speech The part of speech of "tower of silence" is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division tow-er of si-lence
Plural The plural of the word "tower of silence" is "towers of silence".
Total letters 14
Vogais (3) o,e,i
Consonants (8) t,w,r,f,s,l,n,c

Tower of Silence: A Sacred Structure for the Zoroastrian Community

Background of Tower of Silence

The Tower of Silence, also known as Dakhma, is a sacred structure used by the Zoroastrian community for the disposal of the dead. This ancient tradition dates back to ancient Persia and is still practiced in some regions today. The concept behind the Tower of Silence is based on Zoroastrian beliefs about purity and the elements.

Structure and Function

The Tower of Silence is typically a circular, raised structure located on a hill or other elevated area. The top of the tower is open to the sky, allowing for exposure to the elements. Inside the tower, there are concentric rings where the bodies of the deceased are laid out to decompose. The belief is that this process allows the body to be purified by the elements before the remains are eventually collected and placed in a ossuary pit.

Significance in Zoroastrianism

In Zoroastrianism, the soul is seen as inherently pure and is therefore not to be contaminated by contact with dead matter. The Tower of Silence provides a way for the body to be returned to the elements while keeping the purity of the soul intact. This ritual process is seen as crucial for the journey of the deceased into the afterlife.

Contemporary Practices

While the practice of using Tower of Silence has diminished in some regions due to modern burial practices and environmental concerns, it still holds deep significance for many Zoroastrians. Efforts are being made to preserve these sacred structures and the traditions associated with them for future generations.

Conclusion

The Tower of Silence stands as a unique and sacred structure that reflects the deep spiritual beliefs of the Zoroastrian community. Its significance in the journey of the soul after death and the emphasis on purity and respect for the elements continue to make it a vital part of Zoroastrian religious practices.


Tower of silence Examples

  1. The ancient Zoroastrians believed in the concept of a tower of silence, where the dead were laid out to be exposed to the elements.
  2. Visiting a tower of silence can provide a unique perspective on different burial practices around the world.
  3. The eerie beauty of a tower of silence is often a subject of fascination for photographers and artists.
  4. Some cultures believe that the souls of the deceased depart from a tower of silence to begin their journey to the afterlife.
  5. Exploring the history and significance of a tower of silence can offer insights into ancient religious beliefs.
  6. The architecture of a tower of silence is designed to facilitate the decomposition of the deceased in an environmentally friendly manner.
  7. In some communities, maintaining a tower of silence is seen as a sacred duty that is passed down through generations.
  8. The enigmatic aura surrounding a tower of silence has inspired countless myths and legends throughout history.
  9. Scholars often study the rituals and traditions associated with a tower of silence to better understand cultural practices of the past.
  10. Preserving and protecting a tower of silence is essential for ensuring that future generations can learn from this important aspect of heritage.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 17/05/2024 - 14:19:10