Definition and Significance
Sacred space in the biblical context refers to locations that are set apart for divine purposes and encounters with God. These spaces are often marked by God's presence, holiness, and the activities of worship, sacrifice, and revelation. Sacred spaces serve as focal points for the community of believers to engage with the divine, offering a tangible connection to the spiritual realm.

Old Testament Sacred Spaces
In the Old Testament, sacred spaces are prominently featured, beginning with the Garden of Eden, which is depicted as the original sacred space where God walked with Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:8). Following humanity's expulsion from Eden, sacred spaces are established through altars, tabernacles, and temples.

1. Altars: Altars were among the earliest forms of sacred space, serving as sites for sacrifice and worship. Noah built an altar to the Lord after the flood (Genesis 8:20), and Abraham constructed altars at various locations where God appeared to him (Genesis 12:7-8; 13:18).

2. The Tabernacle: The tabernacle, described in detail in Exodus, was a portable sanctuary that accompanied the Israelites during their wilderness journey. It was the dwelling place of God's presence, where He met with Moses and the priests. Exodus 25:8 states, "Then have them make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them."

3. The Temple: Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem became the central sacred space for Israel. It was a permanent structure that housed the Ark of the Covenant and served as the primary location for sacrifices and festivals. The dedication of the temple is recorded in 1 Kings 8, where Solomon prays, "But will God indeed dwell on earth? Even heaven, the highest heaven, cannot contain You, much less this temple I have built" (1 Kings 8:27).

New Testament Sacred Spaces
With the coming of Christ, the concept of sacred space undergoes a transformation. Jesus Himself is seen as the ultimate sacred space, the Word made flesh who dwelt among humanity (John 1:14). His presence redefines sacred space, emphasizing the spiritual over the physical.

1. Jesus as Sacred Space: Jesus' ministry often involved redefining sacred spaces, such as when He cleansed the temple, declaring, "My house will be called a house of prayer" (Matthew 21:13). His death and resurrection opened the way for believers to access God's presence directly.

2. The Church as Sacred Space: The New Testament church becomes a living temple, with believers collectively forming the body of Christ. Paul writes, "Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16). This indicates that sacred space is no longer confined to a physical location but is present wherever believers gather in Christ's name.

3. Heavenly Sacred Space: The book of Revelation provides a vision of the ultimate sacred space, the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell with His people eternally. Revelation 21:3 states, "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'"

Theological Implications
Sacred space in the Bible underscores the holiness of God and the importance of approaching Him with reverence and awe. It highlights the transition from physical locations to a more profound spiritual reality, where God's presence is accessible to all believers through faith in Christ. Sacred spaces, whether physical or spiritual, serve as reminders of God's desire to dwell among His people and the call for believers to live in holiness and communion with Him.