Sacred Ground

Sacred Ground was originally printed in the Prophecy expansion in 2000 and was later included in the Ninth Edition core set, released in July 2005. Ninth Edition marked a significant milestone as the first core set to feature the modern card frame, which was introduced to improve readability and aesthetic consistency across the game. As a rare enchantment, its design focuses on land-based resilience, reflecting the set's intent to provide players with tools to counter land destruction strategies during that period of the game's development.

The artwork for this version was commissioned from illustrator Gary Ruddell, known for his atmospheric and surrealist approach to fantasy art. Ruddell’s vision for the piece centers on a serene, mystical landscape that reinforces the card’s protective nature. In the context of the Ninth Edition, which functioned as a bridge between older design philosophies and the evolving modern era of Magic: The Gathering, Ruddell's illustration was well-received for providing a grounded, tranquil visual counterpoint to the more aggressive card designs prevalent in the expansion.