Mythic Thinking: J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and Sacred Space— Part 1 | Michael Heiser

Part 2: https://youtu.be/t7ZFn5H-JVc Michael Heiser, in his exploration of the concept of sacred space in biblical thought, emphasises the importance of mythic thinking—an awareness of divine and supernatural characters such as God, angels, and demons. Drawing on the insights of scholars and believers like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, who viewed the Bible as “the myth that was true,” Heiser explains that sacred space is not merely physical locations but places where God’s presence is encountered, distinctly set apart from ordinary space by divine association. This mythic perspective challenges conventional views, inviting readers to see sacred spaces as realms of transcendent meaning embedded with divine significance. The text further highlights key biblical examples of sacred spaces, including Eden (God’s original dwelling), Babel (where humans mistakenly attempted to bring God to them), mountains, gardens, and trees—each symbolising sites of divine encounter and cosmic order. The Tabernacle and later the Temple are described as microcosms of Eden and heaven on earth, incorporating natural motifs like trees and animals that symbolize God’s presence and covenant with His people. These sacred spaces underpin the theological principle that God dwells actively among His people, sustaining cosmic harmony and calling humanity to live in intimate relationship with this divine presence, a theme richly echoed in the mythic imagination that Tolkien and Lewis so deeply appreciated. 0:00 Intro & Definitions 1:11 Mythic Thinking Explained 3:11 Sea as Metaphor 5:06 Defining Sacred Space 7:27 Overview of Eden 10:26 Story of Babel 13:02 Meaning of Ziggurat 15:39 Symbolism of Jerusalem 17:08 Vertical Cosmic Order 18:41 Mountains and Gardens 21:02 Abraham’s Sacred Sites 23:04 Tabernacle Imagery 25:29 Gideon and Trees 26:01 Mount Sinai Significance 27:37 Sacred Covenant Feast 28:12 Tent as Dwelling 31:07 Tabernacle Blueprint 32:55 God’s Presence Share #tolkien #cslewis #michaelheiser #sacredspace #MythicThinking #biblicaltheology #DivinePresence #ChristianMythology #BibleAndMyth #MythThatIsTrue #MythicLiterature