Hermeneutics Research Articles

A.S. PUSHKIN AND MIKHAILOVSKOYE IN CRITICAL ARTICLES BY V.YA. KURBATOV

The article is the first registered attempt to comprehend the perception of A.S. Pushkin and the role of Mikhailovskoye in Pushkin’s inner spiritual life by V.Ya. Kurbatov (1939–2021), the well-known literary critic. The material for research is the critic’s articles and notes from the period of 1990–2010 collected in his book “Pushkin for Every Day” that make up his myth about the national poet. In this article the author demonstrates that it is the national idea that becomes the background for the interpretative angle of Kurbatov’s critical reflection in the epoch of self-identification. Being the unconditional value reference point for the critic, Pushkin is perceived by him as the benchmark for integrity and completeness as well as Mikhailovskoye is seen as the place where the comprehensiveness of the Russian life can be found yet at the same time being the reproach to the contemporaries for their duality and spiritual “emigration”. The specifics of V.Ys. Kurbatov’s position is conditioned by his triune religious, philosophic and literary approach to the phenomena of the Russian culture, on one hand, and by his subjective method together with his personal, individual view and his search for self-identity, on the other hand. In this article the author makes the conclusion that the articles and notes of V.Ya. Kurbatov about A.S. Pushkin written in line with the religious and philosophic interpretations of the national poet in XIX–XX centuries, reveal the deep and unique personality, ethical standpoint and aesthetic views of our famous contemporary.

From Verses to Paragraphs: Macrostructure Shifts and Their Implications in English Translations of the Qur'an

This paper examines the macrostructural shift from verse to paragraph structure in English translations of the Qur'an, focusing on the transition from a running-text format to paragraph divisions. It addresses the Qur'an's unique linguistic and structural complexities and evaluates the impact of this shift on the fidelity to the source text and preservation of meaning. The paper also explores how this approach affects cross-cultural understanding and religious interpretation, assessing whether a paragraph format can adequately retain the original functions and meanings of Qur'anic suras in English. By analysing the strategies modern Qur'an translators use, the study demonstrates that the shift from verse to paragraph is a non-obligatory macrostructural change, reflecting considerations of the translator’s objectives and the target audience's cultural and linguistic context. This shift is a deliberate choice, not dictated by language, but by the translator's goals of accessibility and skopos in the target text.

Theories of constitutional interpretation in the United States of America

The article substantiates the judgment that in relation to that in relation to the theories of constitutional interpretation in the United States, paradigms constructed according to the type of binary opposition (originalism –the concept of natural law), are clearly insufficient. Therefore, private legal theories, which are theories of constitutional interpretation of the United States, should take into account the basic principles and institutions, doctrines of the branch of Constitutional Law of the United States: the concept of a “living constitution”, the theory of judicial precedent, procedural aspects of Constitutional Law, structuralist theories.

The Impact of a Dialogic Intervention on a Chinese Rural Teacher and Students' Stances Towards Texts

ABSTRACTIn language arts classrooms, dialogic teaching encourages diverse text interpretations, fostering discussions that enhance students' literacy skills like reasoning. However, adopting a dialogic stance poses challenges for both teachers and students. The study investigated the impact of a tailor‐made dialogic intervention on a Chinese rural teacher and students' stances towards texts. Chinese rural students shifted from efferent and instrumental stances to a more critical‐analytical stance, indicating a profound change in how rural students interacted with texts through exploratory talk, highlighting the potential of dialogic teaching practices to foster deep engagement with reading materials. However, after the intervention ended, the teacher reverted to a monologic approach due to limited dialogic texts and time constraints. The findings underscore the potential of dialogic teaching for engaging rural students, yet highlight the need for sustained teacher training and suitable texts. Future research should focus on cultivating and maintaining students' growth mindset effectively in rural settings.

Clinical Reasoning Unveiled: Demystifying Heuristics and Hermeneutics in Neurological Clinical Practice

Introduction: Medical practice, particularly in Neurology, is often influenced by cognitive biases that can compromise diagnostic and therapeutic accuracy, leading to significant patient consequences. Clinical reasoning strategies are fundamental, yet the complexity of these processes is frequently underestimated. Understanding these strategies is crucial to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatments, thereby reducing clinical errors and optimizing patient outcomes. Despite extensive literature on cognitive biases, there is a need for a systematic synthesis addressing the peculiarities of neurological clinical reasoning, considering heuristics (mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that simplify decision-making) and hermeneutics (the theory and methodology of interpretation, especially of textual and symbolic content). Objectives: To review and systematize the main clinical reasoning strategies in Neurology, highlighting common biases and proposing methods to improve diagnostic and therapeutic accuracy. Methodology: A comprehensive literature review focusing on familiarity biases, Dual Process Theory, and heuristics (anchoring, availability, and representativeness). Additionally, the application of hermeneutics in hypothesis formulation and the importance of understanding the patient as a complex system were analyzed. Results: Specialized neurologists often rely on heuristics, which means a cognitive shortcut. Recognizing this process can mitigate anchoring and availability biases. The hermeneutic approach, on the other hand, is essential for interpreting variables in the patient’s context, integrating historical and social aspects. Conclusion: Understanding clinical reasoning processes and systematically teaching these strategies are crucial to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical decision-making, reducing diagnostic errors, and improving patient outcomes.

Two Interpretations of Nietzschean Concept of Nature: C. Alamariu and V. Lemm

Nietzsche criticises religious interpretations of nature (Natur) and advocates the ‘naturalisation of humanity’. The various usages of the term ‘nature’ (Natur) have no clear, systematic definition in Nietzsche’s works, which is why the interpretations of this concept in Nietzsche’s studies are controversial. Two opposing perspectives emerge: Vanessa Lemm interprets nature as a Dionysian chaos which promotes an emancipatory rejection of the prevailing ideas, while Costin Alamariu sees it as an aristocratic phusis that fosters higher human types. This article argues that these seemingly contradictory views are compatible. Nietzsche uses the concept of nature as chaos to criticize anthropocentric views, while presenting the possibility of an understanding of nature detached from the human perspective. This paper analyses and criticizes Lemm’s illustration of this concept through sex differences. Finally, it is argued that Alamariu’s interpretation is in line with Nietzsche’s later positive ethico-political aspirations, often ignored in Nietzschean scholarship, concerning the development of higher human types.

A descriptive and interpretive theory of ethical responsibility in public health nursing.

This article presents a descriptive, interpretive theory of ethical responsibility in public health nursing. The theory is based on qualitative empirical studies, a purposeful literature review and meta-ethnography of public health nurses' experiences of ethical responsibility, interpreted within a philosophical framework. Levianasian philosophy provides the main direction for the authors' interpretations. The path for theory development consists of three phases: an inspirational phase, an explorative phase and the third phase 'joining the dots'. The theory illustrates that ethical responsibility in public health nursing is related to the life existentials of temporality and human relationships. Due to blurred boundaries in these essential life structures, public health nurses can experience a sense of satisfaction but also worries, uncertainties and loneliness. The study reveals paradoxical connections between fear and courage, and between freedom, autonomy and a sense of entrapment in responsible relationships. The authors purport that the results of this study are relevant for education and practice and can provide direction for further studies on developing theories of ethical responsibility in other nursing specialities.

Purchasing Power as a Major Determinant of Food Security in Rural and Semi-Urban Areas: A South African Household Experience

This study examined the complex role religion plays in both promoting and ending sexual and gender-based violence against women in the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana. While major religious traditions emphasize equality and non-violence, certain interpretations of religious texts and cultural traditions have enabled patriarchal norms that subjugate women. Qualitative data from interviews with 18 respondents across Christian, Muslim, and traditional African religious communities revealed ongoing oppressive practices like forced marriage and early marriage of young girls, divorce, physical abuse such as wife battering, sexual abuse, and victim-blaming. However, religious institutions are increasingly initiating efforts to combat this violence through advocacy, education, counselling services, and partnerships with civil society groups. While these initiatives exist, significant challenges remain in transforming deeply entrenched sociocultural norms that enable violence against women. These initiatives demonstrate how religious institutions can leverage their moral authority to transform sociocultural norms enabling violence against women. The study highlights the need for sustained engagement with religious communities, reinterpretation of doctrine promoting gender equality, and collaborative efforts across sectors to eliminate this pervasive human rights issue. Harnessing the influential role of religion through a progressive, rights-based approach is crucial for addressing sexual and gender-based violence in the Tamale Metropolis and similar contexts. By delving into this intricate dynamic within the context of the Tamale Metropolis in Ghana, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of how religious beliefs, interpretations, and institutions can either perpetuate or combat this form of violence. Keywords: Sexual Violence, Gender, Religion, Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

Ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Against Women in the Tamale Metropolis: The Role of Religion

This study examined the complex role religion plays in both promoting and ending sexual and gender-based violence against women in the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana. While major religious traditions emphasize equality and non-violence, certain interpretations of religious texts and cultural traditions have enabled patriarchal norms that subjugate women. Qualitative data from interviews with 18 respondents across Christian, Muslim, and traditional African religious communities revealed ongoing oppressive practices like forced marriage and early marriage of young girls, divorce, physical abuse such as wife battering, sexual abuse, and victim-blaming. However, religious institutions are increasingly initiating efforts to combat this violence through advocacy, education, counselling services, and partnerships with civil society groups. While these initiatives exist, significant challenges remain in transforming deeply entrenched sociocultural norms that enable violence against women. These initiatives demonstrate how religious institutions can leverage their moral authority to transform sociocultural norms enabling violence against women. The study highlights the need for sustained engagement with religious communities, reinterpretation of doctrine promoting gender equality, and collaborative efforts across sectors to eliminate this pervasive human rights issue. Harnessing the influential role of religion through a progressive, rights-based approach is crucial for addressing sexual and gender-based violence in the Tamale Metropolis and similar contexts. By delving into this intricate dynamic within the context of the Tamale Metropolis in Ghana, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of how religious beliefs, interpretations, and institutions can either perpetuate or combat this form of violence. Keywords: Sexual Violence, Gender, Religion, Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

입법과 사법의 경계: 법률해석의 한계

What is the relationship between legislation and adjudication? Traditionally, it is believed that judges should simply apply the law to specific facts and render judgments accordingly. Montesquieu encapsulated this view by describing judges as "the mouthpieces of the law." In contrast, the Free Law Movement posits that judges are not strictly bound by the text of the law and have the freedom to discover or even create law as needed. Between these two extremes, there exists a range of perspectives on the relationship between legislative and judicial powers. This relationship is crucial because it defines the limits of legal interpretation, making it a central issue in judicial decision-making. This paper begins by exploring the objectives and methods of legal interpretation. It then examines how the Supreme Court of Korea, particularly through its en banc decisions, navigates the relationship between legislation and judicial precedent, or between legislative theory and interpretive theory. The Supreme Court cases discussed in this paper — covering topics such as the gender correction for transgender individuals, parental status of children born through artificial insemination, nominee trusts and unconscionable legal transactions, special limited approval for minor heirs, and judicial reduction of penalty clauses — all address challenging issues that sit at the intersection of legislation and adjudication. The judiciary is vested with the authority to interpret the law, determine its meaning, define its scope, and apply it to specific cases. However, this authority is not without limits. Judges must interpret laws in a manner that respects the legislative power to create laws and must avoid distorting, altering, or replacing the legislator' s decision that can be ascertained from relevant statutory text. This approach is consistent with the constitutional principles of separation of powers and the rule of law, which delineate the distinct roles of the legislative and judicial branches. A legislator's legislative decision cannot be overturned by a judge's judicial decision. Judges must also fulfill their constitutional duty to adjudicate independently according to their conscience (Article 103 of the Constitution of Republic of Korea). It is the judge's role to ascertain the just meaning of the law, grounded in the Constitution and statutes, and to apply it to individual cases. When interpreting and applying laws, judges must confront the critical question of whether to prioritize the intent of the legislature, adhere strictly to the text of the law, or pursue the broader objectives of the law. This question forms both the starting and ending points of legal interpretation and influences views on the boundary between legislative and judicial functions. Whether there has been a legislative decision is a question of the boundaries of statutory interpretation. Legislative solutions, within the constitutional framework, offer the advantage of providing comprehensive resolutions and selecting the best option among various alternatives. However, it is not always possible or appropriate to defer to legislative solutions. The judiciary must, therefore, seek the optimal resolution within the boundaries established by the Constitution and statutes, guided by judicial conscience.

Menelusuri Pemahaman Patriarki Dalam Tafsir Q.S. An-Nisa:34 dan Impikasinya Terhadap Tren Penurunan Pernikahan di Indonesia

This study explores the understanding of patriarchy in the interpretation of Q.S. An-Nisa:34 and examines its implications for the declining marriage trend in Indonesia. The interpretation of Q.S. An-Nisa:34 is often seen as supporting patriarchal values, which significantly impact social structures and gender perceptions. With social changes, Indonesia has experienced a decline in marriage trends, which may be influenced by more egalitarian religious interpretations. This study aims to understand how the verse is interpreted in society and how this understanding contributes to the declining marriage trend This research uses a qualitative approach with the maudhu'i method and a little touch of hermeneutics. It interprets Q.S an-Nisa':34 by putting forward the views of the mufassir. The findings show that the interpretation of Q.S. An-Nisa:34 is understood as a basis in the household where men are qawwam (leaders or protectors). This means that there is a big task that men must do, namely providing for their wives and children. If the task of earning a living is not done, then the nature of leadership is lost. The misunderstanding of Q.S. An-Nisa:34 contributes to the changing perception of marriage, which in turn affects marriage trends in Indonesia.

Aesthetic Ideas and Art Interpretation in Kant’s Third Critique and Schelling’s ‘System of Transcendental Idealism’

Abstract This paper argues for a metacognitive reading of Kant’s doctrine of ‘aesthetic ideas’, according to which they enjoy the functional role of licensing a theory of art interpretation. I begin by offering a textualist reading of Kant’s doctrine of ‘aesthetic ideas’ and contest the received ‘semantic paradigm’ according to which aesthetic ideas either approximate the form or content of a rational idea. After showing the relationship between aesthetic ideas and artistic interpretation, I assess whether Kant’s theory delivers what we want from a theory of artistic interpretation. I subsequently show how Schelling’s conception of artistic production and reception in the System of Transcendental Idealism (1800) draws from Kant’s doctrine of ‘aesthetic ideas’. After analyzing the relationship between Kant and Schelling’s accounts of art interpretation, I evaluate which account we ought to prefer.

Exploring Existentialist Design in Digital Humanities

This paper examines the application of existentialist philosophical and hermeneutic principles to user experience design within the Digital Humanities Laboratory at the National Library of Norway (NLN). Over the past decade, the NLN DH Lab has evolved from organizing workshops on Jupyter Notebook tools to developing user-friendly applications tailored to streamline computer-mediated research on cultural heritage materials. Drawing from existentialist and hermeneutic philosophy, the paper explores how one these applications. “Kollokasjoner” (“Collocations”) 1) accommodates subjectivity, 2) embraces fluidity and multiplicity of meanings, and 3) facilitates independent interpretation and engagement with cultural heritage artifacts, or epistemic objects, visualizing layers of meaning in a simple and easy-to-understand way.

To Construe a Constitution: Constitutional Pluralism

The article explores the methodology of constitutional interpretation proposed by constitutional pluralism as one of the forms of ‘living’ constitutionalism. The article analyzes the main arguments of constitutional pluralism, then goes on to examine the conceptual structure of the debate between ‘living’ constitutionalism and originalism, and proceeds to investigate the importance of the two approaches to constitutional interpretation for Lithuanian legal scholarship. The article does not propose to choose one or the other theory to be adopted to construe the meaning of the Lithuanian Constitution. The article supports the idea of creating new theories of constitutional interpretation, theories that would combine the main elements of the two approaches to constitutional interpretation.

Changes in the Interpretation of the Criminal Law by the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation: Factors, Consequences, Risks

Problem statement. The problems of the evolutionary interpretation of the criminal law in the scientific literature are practically not given attention. At the same time, the practice of significantly correcting the interpretative positions of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation forces us to conceptualize this problem as an independent object of scientific analysis. Aims and objectives of the research. The purpose of the work is to develop the theory of interpretation of the criminal law by analyzing the factors influencing the change in the position of the highest court on the interpretation of the criminal law, as well as by investigating the mechanisms necessary to deter dynamic interpretation. Methods. The work is based primarily on the use of a documentary method of researching materials of judicial practice and a critical analysis of scientific literature. Results. Based on the study of the materials of the practice of the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, practice-forming documents of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation, current judicial practice and scientific sources, the following are presented: (a) factors influencing the dynamics of the position of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation on the interpretation of criminal law; (b) factors allowing to predict changes in the dynamics of the legal position; (c) risks arising in connection with changes in acts of interpretation. Brief conclusions. The dynamics of the legal interpretation positions of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation is influenced by at least four groups of factors: the constitutional and legal meaning of criminal law regulations identified by the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation; changes in the socio-political course implemented in the country; the needs of law enforcement practice changing under the influence of new criminal challenges; the development of scientific ideas about the content of criminal law. These factors, acting individually or together, may determine a change in the approach of the highest court to understanding the criminal law. However, such changes, no matter how necessary they are, must have an important quality of predictability so that the dynamics of the interpretation of the law does not undermine the beginning of stability of criminal law regulation. The risks of instability of legal regulation when changing the interpretation of the law must be overcome by a reliable monitoring and forecas­ting system so that these changes contribute to the development of law and the effective achievement of the objectives of the criminal law.

Polygamy among Muallaf in Manado: Islamic Legal Perspectives and Social Challenges

The practice of polygamy is often a controversial topic and raises questions about religious and cultural identity. Although Islamic law permits polygamy under certain conditions, how this is understood and applied by the convert community in a Christian setting is complex. This study explores the dynamics of polygamy among converts (Muallaf) in the multicultural environment of Manado, Indonesia, from the perspective of Islam and society. Using an empirical normative approach, the study involved 35 informants, consisting of 25 Muallaf who were married in Islam and ten who were engaged in polygamous marriages. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, and the analysis identified common patterns and significant findings, focusing on factors influencing attitudes towards polygamy. The results revealed differences in views among Muallaf regarding polygamy; some accept this practice as part of Islamic teachings, while others reject it as contrary to their previous values. Factors such as religious interpretation, pre-conversion values, and legal and social barriers affected their attitudes toward polygamy. The problematic legal hurdles of obtaining polygamy permits in court highlight additional challenges in implementing this practice in Manado. Nevertheless, polygamy remains a controversial issue in this predominantly Christian society, reflecting the complexity of the interaction between religion and culture. This research provides important insights into how polygamy is perceived and practiced in multicultural environments and the challenges Muallaf faces in understanding and applying Islamic law in their social contexts.

Balimau Tradition in the Wedding Procession in Nagari Koto Alam, Pangkalan Koto Baru District, Limapuluh Kota Regency, West Sumatra Province

This study examines the "Balimau Tradition in the Wedding Procession in Koto Alam Village, Pangkalan Koto Baru District, Lima Puluh Kota Regency, West Sumatra Province". The purpose of this study is to describe the implementation of the balimau tradition in the wedding procession in Koto Alam Village and to describe the meaning of the balimau tradition. The theory used in this study is the symbolic interpretative theory of Clifford Geertz. The method used in this study is a qualitative method. Data collection in this study was carried out using observation, interview, and documentation methods. The data analysis technique in this study uses steps including data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions and verification. The results of this study indicate that the balimau tradition is a bathing tradition carried out by the bride and groom after carrying out the marriage contract, this tradition is carried out during the village barolek event. The implementation of the balimau tradition is to prepare the tools and materials for balimau, the bride and groom are paraded to the river, read prayers, shave the bride's hair, rub the boreh kasai on the bride and groom, rub the bungo kiambai, the bride and groom dive, wash the bride and groom's hair, bathe, use pamanih oil, distribute kotan kuniang, and wash away the remaining materials from the balimau tradition. The meaning contained in the balimau tradition is to cleanse and purify the bride and groom. The tools and materials used in the balimau tradition have meanings that are intended for the good of the bride and groom.

Model of Internalization of Religious Moderation Values ​in Salafiyah Boarding Schools

This study aims to analyze the process of internalizing religious moderation values at the Salafiyah Islamic Boarding School, Rubath Al Muhibbien, Palembang. Religious moderation is crucial for maintaining stability and avoiding excessive religious interpretations that may violate humanitarian values, social agreements, and public order. Salafiyah Islamic boarding schools were chosen as the focus due to their pivotal role in fostering a moderate understanding of Islam, particularly in instilling these values in their students. The research utilized a qualitative phenomenological approach. Key informants included school leaders, administrators, teachers, students, alumni, and the general community. Activities observed encompassed the internalization process of religious moderation values, with classical Islamic texts (kitab kuning) serving as supporting documents: data collection methods involved observations, in-depth interviews, and written and oral documentation. The Miles and Huberman data analysis method, known for its three primary activities, data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing or verification was employed. The findings reveal a model of internalizing religious moderation values at the Salafiyah Islamic Boarding School, consisting of three stages: value transformation, transaction, and internalization. The first stage involves value transformation through conceptual, institutional, operational, and architectural dimensions. The second stage consists of implementing advisory strategies and customary practices to instil values among students. The third stage incorporates role modelling, habituation, exemplification, advisory roles, promises, threats, and disciplinary measures. By focusing on one Islamic boarding school, the research results may not fully reflect the internalizing religious moderation values ​​in other Islamic boarding schools with different characteristics, cultures, and teaching methods. The originality lies in the model of internalizing religious moderation values ​​that have been developed. This holistic approach combines unique conceptual, institutional, operational, and architectural aspects and strategies relevant to the culture and traditions of Islamic boarding school education.

Fathers' transformative caring experiences of engaging in music and singing with their children

AbstractThis study explores the role of music and singing in fostering transformative caring relationships between fathers and their children. It aims to understand how these interactions contribute to fatherhood identity and relational dynamics, filling a significant gap in research on musical fatherhood. Employing a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach, the study conducted open‐ended interviews with eight fathers, analysing data through the lens of Paul Ricoeur's theory of interpretation. Findings reveal that musical activities enable fathers to engage intuitively and responsively with their children, facilitating a pre‐verbal form of communication that deepens emotional bonds and enhances paternal identity. Music and singing emerge as powerful tools that transcend traditional parenting roles, allowing fathers to experience and express a potentiated sense of fatherhood marked by empathy, connection and care. This study highlights the profound impact of musical engagement on father–child relationships and suggests broader implications for emotional intelligence and gender roles in parenting.

Challenges Encountered during the Interpretation and Translation of the Sermons in the Pentecostal Churches in Vihiga County

This study sought to analyse challenges encountered during interpreting and translating of sermons in the Pentecostal churches in Vihiga County. Interpretation and translation are a reflective professional undertaking fraught with linguistics challenges. The challenge is pronounced during sermon delivery in Pentecostal churches, where untrained volunteer interpreters and translators predominantly undertake interpretation and translation. Marianne’s Interpretive Theory of Translation guided the study. The descriptive research design was employed, and the target population consisted of the clergy, translators, interpreters and congregants drawn from the Pentecostal churches in Vihiga County. Purposive sampling was used to select five preachers, interpreters, translators and congregants from five Pentecostal churches in Vihiga County. Audio-video recording, guided interviews and structured observations were adopted to collect data. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic content. The results showed that the interpreters and translators faced numerous challenges during sermon interpretation and translation. The challenges included inadequate language and biblical knowledge, the use of complex terminologies, pronunciation problems and unpredictable preaching styles, insufficient preparation, cultural differences and inability to fulfil community language expectations, lengthy utterances and prolonged elicitations, the use of independent and non-contextual translation and lack of synonyms for different linguistic features. It is recommended that interpreters and translators undergo adequate training in interpretation and translation to enhance their ability to deal with the dynamics of translation and interpretation of the sermons in Pentecostal churches.