Ancient Texts Research Articles

Geslachtsgemeenschap zonder huwelijk als een multidimensionale zonde

Bruce Malina’s views on sexuality continue to exercise a major influence on contemporary Biblical scholarship. His position was that the Bible in general, and the Torah specifically, approve of sexual intercourse without marriage, as long as it is a voluntary act and the parties are not engaged to or married to someone other and it is not a commercial act. An analysis of the primary sources, as well as the Rabbinic commentaries and the tradition of the Western Church, shows that this view fails to do justice to semantic use of ‘fornication’ [תוּנְז] in the Thora, as well as to related incidences of πορνεία in the Septuagint and the New Testament. This article argues, on the basis of a text-oriented philological reading of the ancient texts, that these condemn sexual intercourse without an established marriage as a multidimensional sin. Both historical Rabbinic and Apostolic traditions claim a continued validity for this moral evaluation.Contribution: This article seeks to understand the source-orientated nature of the historical evaluation of sexual intercourse outside marriage in the Jewish and Christian tradition. The results of this enquiry show that a text-oriented approach within the context of tradition allows no room for sexual intercourse without marriage but condemns this as a multidimensional sin. The implication of this is that liberal opinions such as those of Malina are fundamentally not an exegesis of the text in historical context, but a form of meaning assignment. The influence of the philosophy of existentialism and postmodernism on Biblical studies in this development requires further research.

An Ayurvedic Management of Bandhyatva Associated with Bilateral Tubal Blockage

In Ayurveda, infertility is addressed under the concept known as "Bandhyatava," which is described in ancient texts such as Charak Samhita, Sushrut Samhita, Ras Ratna Samuchya, and Harit Samhita. Acharya Sushrut described four crucial factors for fertility: Ritu (menstruation), Kshetra (functioning reproductive organs), Ambu (digestive juices) and Beej (healthy sperm and ovum). It occurs due to the vitiation of Vata dosha where Kapha dosha also contributes to the formation of blockage. Beeja Grahana is unable due to Sanga Strotodushti of Artavavaha i.e., tubal blockage which leads to failure of conception. Fallopian tube is an essential part of the Artavavaha Srotas as the Beej Samagam (ovum and sperm) takes place here. In the current case scenario, Bandhyatva is due to Tubal Blockage. A 37-year-old female patient was reported to PTSR OPD with the complaints of irregular menses with decreased duration and wants to conceive irrespective of unprotected sexual intercourse since 3 years. Her HSG scan suggestive of B/L fallopian tube cornual blockage. Aims and Objectives: To maintain the balance between the four factors to conceive through Sanshodhan therapy. Patients has been treated with Sanshodhan Karma followed by 3 consecutive cycles of Sahacharadi Taila Uttarbasti and 3 cycles of Phalghrita Uttarbasti along with Shaman Chikitsa. Results: After completion of treatment Bilateral Tubes were patent observed in Sonohysterosalpingography. Conclusion: This case study found that the treatment administered was highly effective in addressing infertility caused by tubal blockage.

Sketching the Tactical Position and Maritime Connectivity of Bengal with Malay Archipelago (321 BCE-750 CE)

This study examines the geographical and strategic proximity of Bengal and the interplay between the Bengal and Southeast Asian regions which two entities had a linkage and a great bonding from 321 BCE to 750 CE concerning maritime activities. At that time, Southeast Asia; mainly the Malay Archipelago was known as the Golden Chersonese. Despite having infinite reciprocal geographical and maritime significance, their tactical positions and strategic factors that impacted inter-linkages are seriously marginalised and infrequently looked at from the historical perspective. The study adopts historical research method in analysing the accounts of ancient Greek-Roman geographers and Chinese travellers, ancient texts, and archaeological documents qualitatively to unfold the contextual geographical factors between these two regions. The findings of this study show the strategic proximity of Bengal and its role in creating linkages with Southeast Asia through ports and maritime connectivity. It also demonstrates the socio-cultural impacts on the Southeast Asian regions created by the Bengal’s contacts during the ancient period. Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh (Hum.), Vol. 69(1), 2024, pp. 123-143

A Comparative Clinical Study on the Effect of Tagar (Valleriana Wallichii Dc.) and Aswagandha (Withania Somnifera) in the Management of Preoperative Anxiety

Preoperative anxiety is a clinical condition which requires medical management apart from reassurance. Surgical patients have the high incidence of anxiety. Relief from anxiety is accomplished by pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures, often there is no need of a therapeutic agents for control of preoperative anxiety. Various drugs are used for control of preoperative anxiety in the ward. Ayurveda has an age proved natural ways for the management of disease. Many Acharya have prescribed Rasayana and Aushadha for treatment of mental illness which is safe and effective under optimal doses. Method: Here is a study has been planned for Rogi Sambandhit Purva Karma in which administration of pre–operative medication and other measures are done to relieve the anxiety and other conditions. So, the present study is conducted to evolve an effective Ayurvedic drugs for management of preoperative anxiety. Here in this study Tagar Churna has been taken for study. Various ancient texts and online journals related to the topic have been reviewed. Result: Results were obtained by analysing the data using student’s t-test. Discussion: Discussions were done regarding entire clinical study and the results obtained with relative opinions and arguments.

Understanding Effect of Ayurvedic Treatment in Prameha (Diabetes Mellitus) and its Upadrava (Complications)

Prameha is a syndrome described in the ancient Ayurvedic texts that includes clinical conditions involving metabolic syndrome and is said to be a Santarapanajanya Vyadhi. Prameha literary means anomalies of urinary secretions. On the basis of clinical features of Prameha, it correlates with diabetes mellitus. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic cum vascular syndrome of multiple etiologies characterised by chronic hyperglycemia. The disease Prameha can be understood as having three stages based on the severity of Dhatudusti. With the Dushti of all Dhatus, Upadrava of Prameha are manifested. Case: Present case study deals with a female patient 49 years old suffering from increased frequency of micturition during night and Parshvashool with coughing from 3 years. On taking a detailed history it was found that, it was Upadrava of Prameha. Treatment protocol: Patient was given Pradhamana Nasyam with Pippali Churna after proper intervention of Snehana and Nadi Swedan on chest, supraclvicular region, and Kati Pradesh on empty stomach in the early morning. After that a freshly prepared Kwatha about 50ml of Kalmegh Churna, Punarnavamool, Giloy and Shunthi was given at BD dose. And the same drugs were used for Lepan on Kati Pradesh. Results: Parshvashool and coughing was completely cured, BSF and PPBS came to its normal range, creatinine level decreased and there was a significant reduction in fatty liver. Conclusion: With proper therapy, drug intervention, diet control and exercise Prameha and its Upadrava can be managed successfully.

Common Kaphaj Vyadhi in Children and its Treatment Principle and Management

Ayurvedic deals with the physical, biological, social, and spiritual well-being of every individual. Ayurveda has its principles for justification based on Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala, called Tridosha (the three basic principles) having quality and function. The Tridosha principle forms the foundation of Ayurveda. It has been postulated that whatever physiological and pathological processes occur in the body, they are under the influence of three basic elements known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Common Kapha dominant disorders in children are mainly breast milk-vitiated disorders. Aim and Objective- To collect and compile Kaphaja vyadhi in children and its treatment. Material and Methods- A literary study has been conducted through the various ancient texts of Ayurveda and contemporary textbooks. Various websites are also referred to in this context. Review method: literary research. Discussion and Conclusion: classical reference can be very well used to understand common Kaphaja vyadhi in children and its treatment.

Preventing Hysterectomy Through Ayurvedic Management-A Holistic Approach to Adenomyosis

Ayurvedic deals with the physical, biological, social, and spiritual well-being of every individual. Ayurveda has its principles for justification based on Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala, called Tridosha (the three basic principles) having quality and function. The Tridosha principle forms the foundation of Ayurveda. It has been postulated that whatever physiological and pathological processes occur in the body, they are under the influence of three basic elements known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Common Kapha dominant disorders in children are mainly breast milk-vitiated disorders. Aim and Objective- To collect and compile Kaphaja vyadhi in children and its treatment. Material and Methods- A literary study has been conducted through the various ancient texts of Ayurveda and contemporary textbooks. Various websites are also referred to in this context. Review method: literary research. Discussion and Conclusion: classical reference can be very well used to understand common Kaphaja vyadhi in children and its treatment.

Ashwagandha under fire: A critical scientific analysis of regulatory decisions

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) is one of the most renowned Ayurvedic medicinal plants, extensively used in traditional Indian medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Sowa Rigpa for millennia. Its medicinal uses of the root are documented in ancient texts such as the Charaka samhita, Sushruta samhita, and various Nighantus. Recognized globally, Ashwagandha is included in numerous pharmacopoeias, including the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (API), British Pharmacopoeia, and United States Pharmacopoeia. Despite its extensive use and documented benefits, Ashwagandha faced scrutiny in Denmark. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration banned Ashwagandha based on a 2020 report by the Technical University of Denmark (DTU). This report has been criticized for its technical, scientific, and ethical flaws, including reliance on unverified sources and omission of significant data from authoritative compendiums such as the API. Notably, the report’s references often included studies that did not adhere to established standards for Ashwagandha extracts. Furthermore, the alleged abortifacient properties cited in the Danish report are not supported by extensive reviews of traditional texts and modern scientific literature, which indicates the safety of Ashwagandha when used appropriately. This article aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the Danish report, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to rigorous scientific standards and accurately representing historical and contemporary data on Ashwagandha.

The Textual Demiurge: Social Status and the Academic Discourse of Early Christian Forgery

AbstractThis article reconsiders the classed and gendered construction of the Author in the Roman Mediterranean, a construction that generates the intertwined notions of authorship and authenticity. Modern scholarly conversations about authorship and pseudepigraphy in the Roman Mediterranean often proceed from the uninterrogated assumptions that (a) ancient texts (including early Christian texts) were the monographic products of solitary authors and (b) everyone in antiquity, regardless of gender or class, had access to the status of being an ‘Author’. While conversations about (in)authentic textual production extend beyond the works that become part of the New Testament, these twin assumptions form the basis for modern debates about ‘forgery’ in New Testament literature. This article challenges both assumptions by first surveying the role of uncredited collaboration in Roman literary culture and then analysing ancient Christian discourses surrounding (a) illicit textual meddling and (b) inappropriate textual ascription. These two discursive categories reveal how the categories of class and gender are entangled with early Christian ideas of the Author. Ancient discourses of authenticity and authorship were not simply about who produced texts but about policing which acts of textual production count as ‘authoring’.

Ideal Time to Practice Yoga: Insights from Traditional Yoga Texts and Observations from Scientific Studies: A Narrative Review

Background: Those interested in practicing yoga often lack clarity on what would be the best time to practice yoga. This paper intends to review the ancient, scientific and contemporary literature to understand this. Ancient texts on yoga mention that the best time to practice yoga is early morning hours. Lack of information and standardization regarding timing of the yoga practice is a key indicator for us to explore current study on the influence of time on yoga practice which can set a direction for the future studies and possible outcomes that can be derived by choosing the best time to practice yoga. Methods: In this review article we searched the scientific and traditional literature to find an answer to this question. We searched Google Scholar and PubMed using the following criteria: 1) Research studies examining the influence of timing on practice of Yoga, exercise, meditation or mindfulness on various variables 2) Studies published in English language until March 1, 2024. Results: We found sixteen studies; most of them were surveys that tried to assess the influence of time of physical activity/mindfulness on various health parameters. We observed that there are studies that suggest that the best time to practice yoga could depend on the specific outcome that is attempted to be achieved. Awareness of the appropriate time to practice yoga is important for several reasons, including enhancing the effectiveness of the practice, to regulating the body's internal clock, reducing the chances of distractions and developing a consistent regimen for practice. Conclusion: Engaging in morning vigorous exercise or yoga is better than evening vigorous yoga or exercise for enhancing the state of mind/mood of the practitioner and improving sleep quality in the night. Evening yoga should be less intense, relaxing and more meditative. Intense exercise / yoga in the evening may reduce the sleep quality in night. Studies also suggest that the difference in chronotype of the individual could possibly play a role in determining the best time to practice yoga.

Evolution of ancient techniques of reconstructive surgery from Sushruta to modern day: w(h)ere is the evidence?

Abstract The evolution of surgical procedures from the primeval period to modern day has acclimatized according to the contemporary sphere and needs, but acknowledgement to the original contributor is an ethical principle that should always be kept in mind. Sushruta, popularly known as the father of plastic surgery, has provided a noteworthy input in developing the concepts of reconstructive surgery, but a thorough comparative analysis is not found in the available literary evidences. An extensive literature search imbibing conventional and contemporary materials was performed for this comparative analysis, followed by a meticulous search for the available documented evidences in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Tremendous references regarding plastic, reconstructive, or cosmetic surgery including the procedural methodology are found in ancient classical Ayurvedic texts, which is typically followed by the modern era’s techniques. Sandhana Karma principles include traditional approaches to wound care, such as suturing, treating fractures and dislocations, applying bandages, controlling bleeding, using skin flaps and grafts, and performing anastomosis. The results are illustrated through comparative analysis in the article. Sushruta surely is the father of plastic surgery since the ancient techniques are no less than the contemporary ones, and thus its evolution can be claimed with the evidences mentioned herewith.

The Death of “Jewish Christianity” in the Afterlife of the Clementine Recognitions

AbstractThe editorial history of the two Pseudo-Clementine narratives known as the Recognitions and the Homilies is intricate, to say the least. From an ever-elusive “basic writing” spring two novelistic stories with extensive translation histories, subjected to significant editorial interventions, and anthologized alongside other late ancient and medieval texts. This article focuses on the addition of pseudonymous epistles as prefatory material for these Pseudo-Clementines and follows one of these letters in particular, the Epistula Clementis (Ep. Clem.). The Epistula Clementis accompanies the Latin Pseudo-Clementine Recognitions in a host of medieval anthologies concerned with Petrine hagiography and ecclesial succession, as well as histories, dialogues, and epistolary texts with anti-Judaic resonances. I argue that the Epistula Clementis, as a prefatory text, was integral to the success of the Recognitions in these later anthologies, highlighting the transformative power of the preface upon its associated text as well as the hermeneutical force of the anthology itself.

Analysis of Emotional Conflicts of Vāsavdatta in Svapnavāsavadattam of Bhāsa with Reference to Modern Theories of Emotions

Abstract This paper delves into the intricate emotional conflicts experienced by Vāsavdatta, the protagonist of Bhāsa’s classical Sanskrit play Svapnavāsavadattam, through the lens of modern theories of emotions. By employing contemporary psychological frameworks, such as the Cognitive Appraisal Theory, James-Lange Theory, and Schachter-Singer Theory, we aim to unravel the complex emotional tapestry that defines Vāsavdatta’s character. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches our understanding of her psychological landscape but also bridges the gap between ancient literary narratives and modern psychological insights. The analysis reveals how Vāsavdatta’s emotional experiences, shaped by love, separation, fear, and longing, align with and diverge from current emotional theories. Through this exploration, we highlight the timeless nature of human emotions and the enduring relevance of classical literature in illuminating contemporary psychological concepts. This study provides a nuanced perspective on Bhāsa’s work, demonstrating the profound psychological depth embedded in ancient texts and their potential to inform and enhance modern emotional theory.

Bhagavad Gita and Modern Management Practices- A Study

Integrating the lessons of the Bhagavad Gita with modern management practices is the focus of this study. A highly regarded ancient Indian text, the Bhagavad Gita delves deeply into topics like leadership, ethics, motivation, and decision-making. Studying the Gita's core ideas like Karma Yoga (Action), Bhakti Yoga (Devotion), Jnana Yoga (Knowledge), and Raja Yoga (Meditation), the research finds similarities with modern management practices. The leadership concepts, decision-making frameworks, and contemporary ideas outlined in the Gita are in harmony with one another, according to a comparison. The Gita's effects on stress, conflict, and corporate governance are also investigated in this research. Leaders may strengthen their moral compass, inspire their teams, and create winning strategies by incorporating these ageless lessons into modern practices. The findings highlight how the Gita may be applied to contemporary management issues, providing comprehensive guidance for both personal and professional development.

Preparation And Evaluation Of Polyherbal Scented Candle Using Volatile Oils Extracted By Enfleurage Method

Background: Medicinal plants serve dual roles, offering remedies for various diseases and income-generation opportunities. Ancient Indian texts, including Ayurveda, extensively document plant use in healthcare. Globally, medicinal plants are vital resources in the fight against severe diseases. Essential oils in plants provide distinct aromas, flavors, and pathogen protection. Tithonia erecta flower oil boasts a complex composition with diverse beneficial properties. Exocarp extract from Citrus sinensis differs from juice or leaf extracts, containing more lipophilic compounds but fewer glycosylated compounds and lacking cyanidins and sterols. Eucalyptus globulus oil acts as an antiseptic and anti-spasmodic stimulant for respiratory issues. Scented candles are a popular relaxation method, promoting well-being through ambient lighting. This study aims to create practical scented candles using natural materials like soy wax, beeswax, and essential oils. Methods: The desired candle should offer a long burn time, be cost-effective, and pose no health risks to users. The candle composition includes gel wax, vegetable or animal fat, eucalyptus leaves, marigold petals, and orange peels. This study involves preparing and evaluating polyherbal scented candles using volatile oils extracted through the enfleurage method. Results: The phytochemical analysis of these extracts revealed the presence of volatile oils, alkaloids and proteins. The FTIR analysis reveals the presence of OH group in these extracts. Conclusion: This research successfully developed a natural polyherbal scented candle with extended burn time, cost-effectiveness, and user safety. Antioxidants prevent undesired changes during production and use. The candle contains gel wax, vegetable or animal fat, eucalyptus leaves, marigold petals, and orange peels. Evaluation tests confirmed safety and effectiveness. Among formulations, F1 is fragrance-minimal and allergy-free, while others may cause counter-irritation. This eco-friendly product provides a fresh herbal fragrance for stress relief and is competitively priced.

Environmental Wisdom Reflected in Uluan Pantun from a Symbolic Interactionism Perspective

Traditional oral literature has long served to preserve and pass down cultural values and wisdom. In the Uluan society of South Sumatra, pantun, a traditional Malay poetic form, plays a central role in communicating messages related to societal norms and environmental stewardship. This study explores the environmental wisdom embedded in Uluan pantun, using a symbolic interactionism perspective to examine how these oral traditions convey ecological messages. The research employs a qualitative methodology with an ethnographic communication approach. Data were collected through documentation of ancient pantun texts, in-depth interviews with cultural practitioners and local community members, participatory observation in key Uluan regions, and focus group discussions (FGD) to provide a comprehensive view of how pantun is actualized in contemporary environmental conservation efforts. The results show that pantun is an important medium for conveying explicit and implicit messages about the natural environment, reflecting the community’s deep connection with nature. However, modern challenges such as deforestation and land degradation have threatened the sustainability of these traditions. The novelty of this research lies in its examination of pantun as an instrument for ecological communication, an area that has received little attention in previous studies. The findings imply that revitalizing the ecological messages within pantun could significantly promote environmental awareness and community-driven conservation in Uluan society today.

The Syntax of the Genitive Case in Longus’ Novel Daphnis and Chloe

This study aims to explore the syntactic functions and characteristics of the genitive case in the ancient Greek novel “Daphnis and Chloe” by Longus, a text from the 2nd century AD, which exemplifies the “second sophistic” period of rhetorical development. The primary source for this research is the text of “Daphnis and Chloe”, which has been thoroughly analysed to ascertain the usage of the genitive case in various syntactic roles. The research employs descriptive and structural methods of linguistic analysis. The descriptive method identifies and explains instances of the genitive case within the text, while the structural method examines the relationships between these instances and other linguistic elements. The genitive case in the novel is found to perform multiple syntactic functions, including controlling verbs, nouns, adjectives, and expressing various semantic nuances. Detailed examples are provided to illustrate these functions and their impact on the text’s meaning. The findings offer a foundation for further studies of the genitive case in ancient Greek texts, providing significant insights for researchers and linguists interested in ancient Greek grammar and its syntactic constructions. The study enhances understanding of ancient rhetorical techniques and their application in literary texts during the “second sophistic” period.

Food offerings and firewood: Integrated archaeobotanical analyses of seed/fruit and wood charcoal remains from a Hellenistic-Roman Cemetery on Tinos Island, Cyclades

Archaeobotanical studies have already been widely and successfully used in Greece for the Neolithic to Iron Age periods, yet they were mostly omitted in Classical archaeology. This was justified by the existence of ancient texts, that provide information on plant use in Antiquity. However, not every aspect of life and plant use is described in ancient texts, and additionally, research of past vegetation relies solely on the studies of plant remains. A rescue excavation of a Hellenistic-Roman cemetery with pyres and graves on Tinos Island in the Cyclades provided not only charred seeds/fruits and leaves, but also large amounts of charcoal. The material enabled the study of food offerings / grave goods of plant origin, as well as the choice and availability of fuel wood for cremations. The olive (Olea europaea) seems to have been an important food crop on the island, as it was found in high quantities, accompanied by barley (Hordeum vulgare) and other cereals (Cerealia), as well as cereal products (ACO = amorphous charred objects), figs (Ficus carica) and grapes (Vitis vinifera). Fuel wood for the cremations was mainly based on evergreen oak (Quercus sect. Ilex) and olive wood (Olea europaea), the latter probably deriving from prunings produced in olive groves. Other macroremains, such as a leaf of kermes oak (Quercus coccifera), myrtle charcoal (Myrtus communis) and heather leaves (Erica manipuliflora) point to fuel harvest in Phrygana shrubland, which is the main vegetation form found on the island today.

Machine translation of Chinese classical poetry: a comparison among ChatGPT, Google Translate, and DeepL Translator

Recent studies have highlighted ChatGPT’s remarkable capabilities in machine translation. However, little attention has been paid to its application in literary translation, particularly within the realm of Chinese classical poetry. To explore the potential of ChatGPT’s abilities in poetry translation, we conducted a comparative analysis of poetry translation quality, contrasting ChatGPT (with two different prompts) with Google Translate and DeepL Translator regarding fidelity, fluency, language style, and machine translation style. The results revealed that ChatGPT outperformed Google Translate and DeepL Translator in all evaluation criteria, suggesting its exceptional ability in poetry translation. Furthermore, when employing a prompt that instructs ChatGPT to preserve the rhythm and rhyme of poems, ChatGPT demonstrated a remarkable ability to retain the beauty of the original poetic language, setting itself apart from conventional machine translation systems. Our analysis further elucidated ChatGPT’s proficiency in comprehending and translating some common symbols, imagery, and underlined semantic components which contributes to coherent and fluent translations. Our research opens up ChatGPT’s new possibilities in translating ancient literary texts into foreign languages.

Manaz’s City: The Narrative of Manzikert in Ancient Armenian Texts

Manzikert, located in the southern regions of Armenia, has consistently held a significant place in the literature of various communities from ancient times to the medieval period. This importance is attributed to the multidimensional nature of Manzikert from geographical, political, and religious perspectives, as well as its comprehensive influence on the surrounding historical trajectory. The geographical analysis of the region encompasses the etymological extensions of names, revealing the linguistic complexity that has influenced the various ways Manzikert is named in Armenian texts, primarily as Taron. From a political standpoint, the history of Manzikert unfolds through the region’s feudal structure and the power balance between dominant forces such as Rome and Iran. The rise and fall of powerful feudal families, especially the Manawazean and Mamikonean dynasties, have shaped the political landscape of Manzikert. Undoubtedly, the significance of the city transcends the political realm; Manzikert embodies a centre for cultural and religious interactions between Armenian and Syriac traditions. This region emerges as a crucial centre for the south-to-north spread of Christianity in Armenia. Therefore, the aim of this study is not only to understand the political importance of Manzikert but also to explore its religious significance and discuss its relationship with Armenian Christianity.