Legal Definitions - desecrate

Desecrate

To desecrate means to treat something that is considered holy, sacred, or deeply revered with such extreme disrespect or damage that it loses its special, sacred character or becomes impure in the eyes of those who hold it sacred.

• Example 1: A group of vandals breaks into an ancient temple, smashes religious statues, and paints offensive symbols on the walls.

  This illustrates desecration because the temple and its statues are considered sacred objects and places of worship by a community. The acts of smashing and defacing them demonstrate extreme disrespect, stripping them of their sacred character and making them impure.

• Example 2: During a public protest, an individual intentionally burns a national flag in a public square while shouting insults about the country it represents.

  Here, the national flag is often considered a sacred symbol representing the nation's values, history, and people. Burning it in a public, disrespectful manner is an act intended to profane or defile its sacred character and show contempt for what it represents.

• Example 3: A developer begins construction on a site known to be a historic burial ground for an indigenous community, despite protests, disturbing graves and artifacts without proper respect or consultation.

  This action constitutes desecration because the burial ground is a sacred site for the indigenous community, holding deep spiritual and historical significance. Disturbing the graves and artifacts without reverence or permission is an act that profoundly defiles the sacredness of the site.