In religious ceremonies, what does the nave refer to?

The nave refers specifically to the main seating area of a church, where the congregation gathers during religious ceremonies. This area typically extends from the main entrance to the chancel and is designed to accommodate worshippers, making it central to the experience of attending church services. The architectural layout of churches often emphasizes the nave, allowing for light and space that enhance the communal aspect of worship. Understanding the function of the nave as the primary space for the congregation helps differentiate it from other areas within the church, such as the chancel, which is reserved for clergy and liturgical activities, or the entrance hall, which serves primarily as a transitional space.