Adytum

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For the band, see Adytum (band)

Adytum is a Latinized form of Greek 'αδυτον = "not to be entered", the innermost sanctuary in ancient temples, access to which was forbidden to all but the officiating priests. The most famous adytum in Greece was in the temple of Apollo at Delphi.

Adytums were typically walled completely in, with no doors or windows. Unless one believes in the ability of the spirit or soul to exist independently of the body, or more succinctly, in astral travel, the reasons for doing this are a complete mystery.

If one takes into account the possibility of astral travel, then the adytum may be seen as a motivator towards spiritual development for those wishing to view the holy artifacts held within. Since the only way in is literally THROUGH the wall, one cannot enter in one's normal physical state.

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This article incorporates text from the Encyclopædia Britannica Eleventh Edition, a publication now in the public domain.