The Hierotopic Space of Rodnover Ritual: Center and Boundaries

Abstract

This article examines the principles underlying the formation of sanctuaries among contemporary Russian pagans following the Slavic tradition (Rodnovers). The analysis draws on the concept of hierotopy, which examines the complex creation of sacred spaces. Despite their variability, both the sanctuaries studied and the informants’ responses point to the existence of a shared hierotopic matrix characteristic of this branch of contemporary paganism. A common ritual form developed through the spontaneous evolution of ritual practices, information exchange, and trial and error. The monistic worldview of Rodnovers leads to the creation of spaces in which the divine is represented in its diverse manifestations. Taken together, these hierophanies are intended to reflect the unity of the world in its diversity.Ritual space generally includes a central object. This object may change from one festival to another; for example, different calendar dates involve ritual engagement with different idols and natural objects. Moreover, the function of the center may shift from one object to another during the festival. The center may be an idol representing a deity, a venerated natural object, an altar, sacred fire, sacred bread, and so on. The space enclosed by the participants’ circle dance may itself be perceived as a center. In general, orientation toward the sacred center entails interaction with a divine hierophany manifested in sacred space during the sacred time of the festival.Rodnover ritual practice distinguishes between the sacred space of the sanctuary and the profane space beyond it. Sacred space is created, among other things, through the establishment of a boundary. Particular significance is attached to crossing this boundary through specially designated gates. Passing through the gates is accompanied by purification rites and constitutes a rite of passage.A hierotopic analysis of sacred space reveals the structure of contemporary Rodnover ritual as a complex unity of interconnected elements grounded in several principles of the contemporary pagan worldview: the idea of divine presence during the festival, a monistic understanding of the world, integration into the cyclical flow of divine time, and the divinization and veneration of nature.