SACRED TEXTS AND CIVILIZATIONAL MEMORY: THE PRESERVATION OF CULTURAL IDENTITY THROUGH RELIGION

Abstract

Sacred texts have long functioned as repositories of civilizational memory, encoding not only religious doctrine but also the cultural, ethical, and philosophical frameworks of societies. This paper explores how sacred scriptures contribute to the preservation of cultural identity by examining their historical roles in transmitting values, language, customs, and collective memory across generations. Drawing from case studies in Islamic, Hindu, and Jewish traditions, the paper highlights the mechanisms by which scriptures become anchors of cultural continuity, especially amidst colonization, migration, and globalization. The discussion further analyzes contemporary challenges to scriptural authority and offers insights into the importance of religious education in sustaining cultural heritage. Ultimately, the study argues that sacred texts act not only as religious guides but also as powerful cultural touchstones that shape civilizational identity and resilience.