Patriarch Kirill has described the punk performance as blasphemous and part of a broader attack on the church, which is considered by many Russians essential to their national identity and an intrinsic part of a powerful state.

FORBES: Tens of Thousands Protest in Moscow In Support of the Orthodox Church - Illiberalism is Alive and Well in Russia

This became the essential defining characteristic of American identity.

FORBES: What Rand Paul Should Have Said About Slavery

Law is essential to national sovereignty and even identity.

ECONOMIST: Charlemagne

Says he'll sort out illegal immigration, but opposes Identity Cards, the one thing essential to do it.

BBC: NEWS | UK | UK Politics | In full: Tony Blair's speech

That is why Identity Cards using biometric technology are not a breach of our basic rights, they are an essential part of responding to the reality of modern migration and protecting us against identity fraud.

BBC: NEWS | UK | UK Politics | In full: Tony Blair's speech

This living heritage, transmitted from generation to generation, gives communities and groups a feeling of identity and continuity, which is considered to be essential for respecting cultural diversity and human creativity.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES

Today, gingerbread makers are essential participants in local festivities, events and gatherings, providing the local people with a sense of identity and continuity.

UNESCO: Culture