0 | AIM and OBJECTIVE

Specific words and their interpretation in this study.

word: SACRED SPACE meaning: (noun) Sacred Spaces are structures or spaces designed and built with the function of worship or to have a sacred intention.

Sacred architecture refers to any structure or space that facilitates spirituality. This can be with reference to any religion or belief and allows its users to find an area of worship and to introspect. Additionally these spaces also act as centres for SocioCultural activities.

word: TRANSCENDENCE meaning: (noun) Existence or experience beyond the normal or physical level. (verb) The ability to go beyond the range of limits of a field (of act or conceptual sphere).

Sacred Architecture allows and facilitates Transcendence. In the context of this thesis Transcendence is the emotion that is felt by the users of the space. It is this emotion that allows the user to evolve from the physical to the metaphysical. It allows the user to feel and connect to the power and energy that surrounds them.

word: TANGIBLE DURABILITY meaning: (tangible) That can be clearly seen to exist. (durability) the ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage.

With reference to this study, Tangible Durability refers to the survival of the structure with respect to its physicality. The sacred structures of the world have survived the tests of time, be it natural or man made destruction. This refers to the survival of the built form over time.

word: INTANGIBLE DURABILITY meaning: (intangible) A feeling, concept or object that is difficult to describe, understand or measure. (durability) the ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage.

With reference to this study, Intangible Durability refers to the survival of the structure through the minds of the people and their memories. It is the memory of the space continuing to live on in the minds of its users and visitors. Hence, survival of the space in the intangible.