Sweat lodge
Sweat lodge
A sweat lodge is a low profile hut, typically dome-shaped or oblong, and made with natural materials. The structure is the theater for a sacred ceremony practiced by indigenous cultures worldwide for the purpose of purification, healing, and obtaining spiritual guidance.
Pronunciation
- English: /ˈswɛt ˈlɒdʒ/
Etymology
The term "sweat lodge" is a direct translation of the Native American term. "Sweat" comes from the Old English swat, meaning "to perspire", and "lodge" comes from the Old French loge, meaning "a shelter".
Description
The sweat lodge is a place where indigenous peoples conduct spiritual ceremonies that involve sweating. The structure is often made of pliable branches, covered in hides or blankets. It is usually built near a water source for practical and symbolic reasons. The interior is heated by stones that have been heated in a fire pit outside the lodge. Participants enter the lodge, and water is poured over the stones to create steam.
Related Terms
- Inipi: This is the Lakota term for their version of the sweat lodge ceremony.
- Temazcal: This is the Nahuatl term for the sweat lodge used by the indigenous peoples of Mexico.
- Banya: This is a term for a traditional Russian steam bath that has similarities to a sweat lodge.
- Sauna: This is a term for a small room or building designed as a place to experience dry or wet heat sessions.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sweat lodge
- Wikipedia's article - Sweat lodge
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