Semiotics of ‘Doors’ at the Entrances of Islamic Pilgrimage Shrines Based on the Peircean Model

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Document Type : Original Research Article

Author

Ph.D Candidate in Art Research, Faculty of Theoretical Sciences and Advanced Art Studies, Iran University of Art

Abstract

Human beings are meaning-generators, and their pursuit of meaning manifests through interpreting “signs.” Architectural elements can be perceived as signs capable of conveying valuable and significant messages. The more precise the semiotic interpretation of architectural elements, the deeper the understanding of their meaning. Since entry into any space necessitates passing through its door, the door functions as a connector between different realms, as an intermediary between a given place’s exterior and interior. Given the unique architectural significance of doors at entrances of Islamic pilgrimage shrines, they can be interpreted as meaningful signs. “Being at the shrine” can be understood as a form of human presence, which is materialized at entrances of Islamic pilgrimage shrines, particularly through the focal point of the door. The door marks the beginning of a transition into a sacred space, and numerous rituals are associated with this entry point. These rituals emphasize the commencement of the rites of entrance and initiation into a holy site. This study applies semiotic analysis based on Peirce’s model to examine the architectural element of the door as a meaningful sign. It seeks to answer the following questions: How can the physical characteristics of an entrance be interpreted both as a response to functional necessity and as a meaning-generating sign in the forms of index (namāya), symbol (namād), and icon (shamāyil)? Additionally, what concepts are semantically aligned with the door concerning the entrances of Islamic pilgrimage shrines? The research is based on a library study for data collection and employs a descriptive-analytical method to interpret the semiotics of doors. The findings indicate that the architectural element of the door, beyond its functional essence, encapsulates profound meanings. Semiotics offers a powerful tool for enhancing this architectural element’s understanding and deep analysis, allowing for a more precise interpretation. The primary function of the door as a sign is to establish a communicative space between the exterior and the interior. The door facilitates guidance and invitation into the sacred environment by dividing the spatial domain into inside and outside. Moreover, the first rites of initiation and presence commence here—placing the hand on the chest, expressing reverence, offering salutations, and seeking permission to enter. Therefore, the door is the gateway to the realm of presence and encounter. In the entrance of Islamic pilgrimage shrines, the door can be interpreted as a symbolic manifestation of the Divine Name al-Hādī (the Guide), the Imam’s guidance, the Perfect Man’s station, and the mediator of Divine Grace

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References

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