What does a reliquary hold?

A reliquary is specifically designed to hold relics, which are important physical remains or personal effects of saints or other sacred figures in various religious traditions, particularly in Christianity. These relics are often believed to have healing properties or to serve as a connection to the divine, making reliquaries significant objects within the practice of devotion and worship.

Reliquaries themselves can be artistically crafted and often feature intricate designs and materials, enhancing their sacred nature. While musical instruments, religious texts, and artistic sculptures may have their own significance within a religious or cultural context, they do not serve the specific purpose of housing relics like a reliquary does. Thus, the definition and function of a reliquary are distinctly tied to the preservation and veneration of relics.