The Arts as Portals for Understanding "The Other"

Anthropological studies show the polarization of "sacred and profane" has emerged autonomously in all human societies. It follows that all religious traditions have identified special portals through which adherents may delve into what they have set apart as sacred. These portals include inspiring natural locations, sacred texts, architecture, and the fine arts. When encountered, these portals elicit powerful emotions ? they speak to us and foster dialogue. This paper will encourage introducing students to the study of other religious traditions by way of sacred portals, and in particular, the use of the arts to empathetically understand and engage "the other." Even though what is held to be sacred to one person may be a source of trepidation to another we must take the time to instill the value of, and the respect due, all that is considered sacred, especially that which is held sacred by "the other."