Introduction.

The process of sacralisation in Britain began in the early Christian period roughly from the 4th century AD, when Christianity first began to spread during the Roman occupation, but its most significant development came during the middle ages, the reformation and particularly the Victorian era. Great English figures like monarchs, saints, political leaders and reformers were seen not only as important historical figures but divinely appointed or protected individuals. The British people have often viewed great leaders and figures in their history through a biblical and providential lens seeing their actions as part of a larger, divinely guided plan. The first instances of sacralisation were seen in the treatment of kings such as King Arthur, whose legendary status became almost sacred and figures like Saint Augustine of Canterbury, who brought Christianity to Anglo Saxon England.

Biblical Interpretation.

Sacral is derived from the Latin word Sacrum which means sacred. Sacralisation means investing or treating something with religious significance, it is not explicitly a term used in the Bible itself, but it can be interpreted as a concept that has roots within biblical theology and practice. Sacralisation of great English figures reveals that the British have historically interpreted the Bible not only as scripture, but as a national script. This interpretation reveals a distinctive approach to the relationship between religion, national identity and cultural memory. By elevating historical figures to almost sacred status, they reflect a deeper, often implicit biblical framework that influences how the nation views its past, morality and leadership. Britain, particularly post reformation was seen as ” New Israel” chosen by God to uphold true religion ( Protestantism), this idea was derived from the Old testament which emphasises the land of Canaan as a sacred territory promised to God’s chosen people, Israel. The British hence interprets sacralisation as a divine designation which imbues their identity and history.

Self- Sacralisation ( Individuals or Institutions) in Britain.

Self sacralisation refers to the process by which a person or group claims or is perceived to claim a sacred or elevated status, often outside traditional religious authority. The British monarchs claimed that they were appointed by God, this in effect sacralised their political authority for colonialism and also in creating a theocratic aura around the monarchy. Their coronation rituals in Westminster Abbey reinforce their role as chosen by God. Politicians like Winston Churchill, Tony Blair etc adopted messianic tones to invoke moral authority in decisions to go to war. The National institutions like the NHS, during Covid-19 was elevated to near sacred status, making critiques to it seen as almost sacrilegious.