Embers, Dust, and Ashes: The Temple


Brandon Helt
Ant 3600
Embers, Dust, and Ashes: The Temple
Introduction
                The Burning Man event is dedicated to community, art, self-expression, and self-reliance. All types of people are welcomed as well as all forms of expression. There are many traditions that have developed over the years, with the main event being the burning of the Man where the event gets its name. One other tradition is the building and burning of the temple.    

History of the Temple
                The first burning of the temple began in the year 2000, when David Best and Jack Haye brought the Temple of the Mind to the event. The temple became a memorial to their friend and fellow builder Michael Hefflin who died in a motorcycle accident. The temple is traditionally burned the evening after the burning of the Man [2]. Ever since 2000 there has been a temple built every year for the festival. [1]

Picture from Burningman.org
Significance of the Temple
                The original temple was created as a memorial to Michael Hefflin and ever since then the temple has been a place for “remembering the past, honoring or cursing the present, and pondering the future to come”. Many people leave mementos, inscriptions or pictures and some even leave the ashes of loved ones in the temple. [1]


Picture from Burningman.org
Works Cited
[1] “Black Rock City Temple Grant.” Burning Man, burningman.org/culture/burning-man-arts/grants/black-rock-city-temple-grant/.
[2] Mosbaugh, John. “Building the Temple.” Burning Man, burningman.org/event/art-performance/playa-art/building-the-temple/.

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