incubation
Quick Summary
In ancient Greek religion, incubation was a ritual practice involving sleeping in a sacred place, often a temple or shrine, with the hope of receiving divine guidance or healing through dreams. This practice was particularly associated with oracular shrines like that of Asclepius at Epidaurus, where the sick would sleep to be advised by the deity in dreams.1
In a broader religious context, inculturation refers to the process by which the Christian faith is expressed in local cultural terms. As the gospel spreads, new conceptions and formulations of faith emerge, allowing converts to give their faith a more local expression. This can involve adapting theological concepts, such as presenting Christ as a warrior chieftain or a healer, and is often creatively achieved through liturgy and the arts.2
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
