Religious Institutions Research Articles

Bridging the Gap: Assessing and Addressing Training Needs in the Social Communication Ministry of a Religious Institution

Bridging the Gap: Assessing and Addressing Training Needs in the Social Communication Ministry of a Religious Institution

Delegation of Authority to Human Beings: A Late Safavid Theologian’s Account on the Legislative Meaning of Tafwīḍ

Abstract In this article, I intend to examine an account of human free will suggested by one of the most prominent figures in religious institutions during the Safavid reign, which had a long-term effect on subsequent discussions on the subject. Muḥammad Bāqir Majlisī (1627–1699), a renowned theologian, muḥaddith, and jurist who played a significant role in shaping Shīʿism in Iran, emphasized human free will (ikhtiyār) in his various works. While he considers it a self-evident truth, Majlisī attempts to justify human agency in voluntary activities through his arguments. However, it appears that his emphasis on human free will is primarily aimed at demonstrating that individuals are legally bound. Due to the limitations of human intellect, Majlisī argues that humans cannot be considered competent to create the legal rules they must follow. Consequently, individuals are not authorized to determine their own obligations even though they are responsible for their actions. Thus, while Majlisī was determined to establish that humans possess free will, he believed that individuals were not allowed to exercise this freedom in the realm of social and political affairs.

Psyche and spirit: the encounter between psychological science and theology

The long history of suspicion and opposition between depth psychology and religious institutions is well known. The coryphaei of psychoanalysis - Freud, Adler and Jung - believed that religion, especially in its institutional aspect, had a pathogenic effect on the psyche. The qualification of religion as an ‘obsessive neurosis’ was experienced by believers as a whipping in the face, which hindered the initiation of dialogue with those who so radically disqualified the experience of others.

Inclusive Communities Through Religious Moderation Villages: Study of Literature

Religious moderation is a concept that seeks to promote values of tolerance, affection, and inclusion among different believers in a society. This article aims to explain important aspects of modern society, as it encourages tolerance, respects diversity, and creates an environment that recognizes and respects religious diversity and provides equal opportunities for all individuals without any discrimination based on religion. The method used is the study of literature on the key topics of “religious moderation,” “inclusive society,” and “reliance freedom.” From regular studies, it has been found that inclusive societies, governments, religious institutions, educational institutions, and individuals have a responsibility to participate in efforts to promote religious moderation and build inclusive society. One of the steps that can be taken to form an inclusive society is the implementation of inclusive education approaches, interfaith dialogue, and cross-religious collaborative activities, which can help create societies that respect religious diversity, give equal opportunities to all individuals, and create a prosperous social order. In conclusion, the article emphasizes the need for cooperation to strengthen religious moderation and create an inclusive society based on the principles of solidarity, understanding, and mutual respect in order to disseminate moderate religious education by blending religious principles with universal human values. Keywords: religious moderation, inclusive society, religious education, government policy, digital literacy

Harmonization of The Role of Religious and State Justice Institutions in Handling Victims of Domestic Violence

Harmonization of The Role of Religious and State Justice Institutions in Handling Victims of Domestic Violence

Threads of control

Abstract This article delves into the intricate relationship between translation and censorship, unraveling the multifaceted tapestry woven by historical, societal, economic, and personal threads. Exploring the genealogy of censorship, the study identifies four distinct sources of censorial power — state and religious institutions, social structures, market forces, and individual idiosyncrasies. From the overt regulatory mechanisms of totalitarian regimes to the subtle influences of structural censorship and market-driven constraints, the article navigates the challenges posed to freedom of expression within the dynamic realm of translation. Drawing from historical examples and theoretical frameworks, the discussion highlights the impact of censorship on translators and translated works, illustrating how institutional, societal, economic, and personal forces shape communicative landscapes. By scrutinizing these diverse facets, this article offers a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding translation censorship, encouraging ongoing examination of the ever-evolving forces shaping the world of translation.

Islamic Educational Values ​​in the Patuq Tradition:a Local Culture of Kuta Village, Central Lombok

This study examines the values ​​of Islamic religious education in a tradition called Patuq which is carried out after the death ceremony. With a qualitative approach and case study type, this research was conducted. Data were obtained from primary sources in the form of community leaders and family members, while supporting data were obtained from experts who are familiar with Lombok culture and religious institutions. The data collection used observation, interview and documentation techniques. While the analysis used the Miles and Huberman model. For data validity, triangulation of sources and methods was used. The results of this study show the values ​​of Islamic education in the Patuq tradition including; Shadaqah values, cooperation and solidarity, respect for the deceased, holiness and purity. The moral lessons that can be learned from this tradition are Patience, Obedience, Togetherness, Gratitude, Simplicity, and Self-Control. Each of these values ​​contributes to the development of character and spiritual understanding of the community, in line with broader Islamic teachings. Research on the Patuq tradition highlights the integration of social and cultural values ​​in Islamic education. This approach emphasizes cooperation, community involvement, and the importance of charitable practices. By connecting religious teachings with local customs, educators can strengthen students’ cultural and religious identities while promoting empathy and social responsibility. This approach encourages collaborative learning, deepens understanding of the afterlife, and instills values ​​of cleanliness and purity, as well as fostering well-rounded individuals who embody Islamic ethics in their interactions.

Corpi sofferenti d’amore. L’Ingénu di Voltaire tra intêret e sensibilité

In his conte philosophique L’Ingénu (1767), Voltaire engages in his philosophical battle through an original analysis of the love affair between the naïve protagonist Huron and Mademoiselle de Saint-Yves, a young Breton girl with a strict Catholic upbringing. The conflict between their desire to marry and the religious and political institutions is represented here by means of stylistic grafts belonging to the tradition of the genre of the sentimental novel, which in the middle of the 18th century was on the rise in France and the rest of Europe. Making the most recent discoveries in the medical-psychological field his own, Voltaire thus aims to establish the empathic bond on which the moral background of sentimental rhetoric was based through the representation of the psychological and physical suffering of the young protagonists. Distancing himself from the traditional concept of moral ‘virtue’ that was at the basis of the English sentimental novel, Voltaire thus instituted a reflection on amorous sentiment, now conceived not only as the main expression of the passion of individuals, but as a critical device to try to elaborate in an alternative way that reunion between private and public virtues that was at the basis of the Enlightenment mission.

Sickle cell disease awareness and perception among Christian religious leaders in Accra Metropolis: a qualitative study.

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a severe hemoglobin gene mutation disorder inherited from both parents. 2% of Ghanaian newborns are affected by SCD; one in three Ghanaians has the hemoglobin S gene. Christian religious leaders may play a role in the prevention of SCD through the promotion of genetic counseling, genotype screening for premarital couples, and offering counseling to couples on prenatal screening and diagnosis for SCD. However, little is known about the awareness and perception of SCD among Christian religious leaders in Ghana, and this study aims to explore these. This study adopted a qualitative descriptive design to explore the awareness and perception of SCD among Christian religious leaders in the capital city of Ghana. A purposive sampling technique selected 16 participants from churches under the main Christian groups. The participants were chosen based on their roles and responsibilities within their respective churches. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview guide, which included open-ended questions to encourage participants to share their thoughts and experiences. The interviews were conducted in a private setting to ensure confidentiality. The data was then analyzed using a thematic analysis approach, which involved identifying recurring themes and patterns in the participants' responses. The study's findings are crucial. They reveal a high awareness of SCD among Christian religious leaders, but also some misconceptions. Most of the religious leaders knew SCD was a genetic disease, although a few associated SCD with superstitious beliefs, poor dietary intake, and lifestyle. Some also stated that SCD was a disease of the blood group instead of the defective haemoglobin gene. They perceived SCD to be burdensome, disruptive, and draining, and they associated the disease with burnout in Persons Living with SCD (PLWSCD) and their families. The religious leaders had a good social network with PLWSCD, including family, friends, colleagues, and congregants. These findings underscore the need for intense education about SCD, especially among Christian religious leaders. It is crucial to engage all stakeholders to intensify public awareness and education about SCD while improving the management and social support systems available to PLWSCD and families. This includes the religious institution's leadership, PLWSCD and families, the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, and the Ghana Education Service. As active stakeholders, religious leaders can play a vital role in supporting PLWSCD if they are equipped with the necessary knowledge about the condition. .

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

The Urgency of Stakeholder Roles and Environmental Politics in Achieving SDGs through Environmental Management in Malaumkarta Village, Sorong

This study examines the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the traditional egek/sasi practices in Malaumkarta Village, Sorong Regency, Indonesia. It explores the roles of various stakeholders in integrating indigenous ecological knowledge with modern conservation efforts to achieve sustainable development. Using a qualitative case study approach, it highlights the role of a multi-stakeholder collaboration, including local youth, NGOs, religious institutions, local government, and the customary council. The study reveals that the successful localization of SDGs in Malaumkarta is attributed to a robust multi-stakeholder collaborative framework, encompassing local youth, NGOs, religious institutions, local government, and the customary council. The inaugural Egek Festival in 2023 exemplifies this collaboration, symbolizing the Moi tribe's commitment to sustainable resource management and cultural preservation. The research highlights the potential of integrating traditional ecological knowledge into modern conservation efforts and the importance of adapting global sustainability goals to local contexts. While the study's geographical scope and timeframe present limitations, its findings have significant implications for policy, practice, and future research in sustainable development, particularly in indigenous contexts. The Malaumkarta case offers valuable insights for achieving SDGs while preserving cultural heritage and ecological integrity, potentially informing similar initiatives worldwide

Women’s participation in Nigeria’s 2023 elections: a micro-level analysis

This study investigates a micro-level dimension of women’s participation in Nigeria’s electoral politics. It focuses on a particular local government area: Ikere, in Ekiti state in southwestern Nigeria, during the 2023 general election. The paper uses a qualitative approach to analyse the contributions of women towards the successes of their political parties at the polls, although they have not had full opportunity to contest as candidates. Key informant and in-depth interviews were conducted with respondents who were purposively selected from the leadership of political parties, academia, market and religious institutions, as well as interested onlookers. Additionally, campaign and mobilisation processes were observed during the period of this election. The study concluded that the wait for cultural and socio¬economic development to turn in favour of women’s numerical increase might not offer any realistic hope. However, the adoption of discretionary affirmative action strategies by party leaders could have a reverse effect and also reinforce prejudice.

" Operationalizing Jitegemea Philosophy As A Model To Sustainable Development To Retirement Plan Among The Pulpit Workers

Purpose of the Study: This study aimed to investigate the operationalization of Jitegemea Philosophy as a model for the sustainable development of retirement plans among pulpit workers. Statement of the Problem Despite the importance of retirement planning, these workers face challenges such as low salaries, irregular income, and limited access to pension schemes, leading to financial insecurity in later life. The Jitegemea (self-reliance) philosophy, rooted in principles of self-sufficiency and sustainability, offers a potential model for addressing this gap. However, there is limited research and practical application of Jitegemea as a structured retirement planning model tailored to the specific needs of pulpit workers. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring the financial security and well-being of PCEA pulpit workers in retirement. Therefore, this study explores how operationalizing the Jitegemea philosophy could provide a sustainable solution for enhancing financial security and well-being for clergy during retirement. Methodology: This study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with PCEA pulpit workers to explore their perceptions, experiences, and challenges related to retirement planning. A purposive sampling technique was used to select participants from various PCEA churches in Nairobi. Data were analyzed thematically to identify key themes and patterns related to retirement planning among PCEA pulpit workers. Key Findings: The study revealed that while many clergy face socio-economic barriers, religious beliefs, community support, and proactive planning can foster resilience. Participants expressed mixed emotions about retirement, some feeling apprehensive and others viewing it as a period of spiritual renewal. The study highlights the need for tailored support mechanisms, including financial literacy programs, fair compensation, and expanded pension schemes. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among religious institutions, policymakers, and community organizations to improve retirement planning. Recommendation: Recommendations include financial education, compensation reform, and community support to ensure better retirement preparedness. Further research is suggested to evaluate the long-term effects of these interventions on clergy retirement outcomes.

Fiscal and Tax Policy of Bogd Khanate of Mongolia (1911–1919)

Abstract As a result of the prolonged struggle for national independence, the Mongolian people, who endured over two centuries of oppression under Manchurian rule, regained sovereignty in 1911 and established the Republic of Mongolia. During this period, significant economic, social, and political reforms were initiated, laying the groundwork for the national financial system. This article examines the social, political, and economic landscape during the Bogd Khanate of Mongolia. Research into the tax and financial policies implemented during this period was conducted using historical documents and sources. Within the framework of Mongolian governmental financial policies, five ministries were established, accompanied by the enactment and implementation of various regulations about finance, taxation, and customs. Efforts were made to enhance state revenue; however, the accumulation of debt owed to foreign moneylenders and merchants, coupled with the taxation burden on Mongolian citizens, including payments to domestic nobles and religious institutions, exacerbated poverty and economic hardship among the populace. In June 1915, the autonomy of Mongolia, as stipulated in the treaty between Russia, Mongolia, and China, was abolished in 1919, resulting in the reassertion of foreign control over Mongolian governance.

Management of Moral Development for Students

The research in this thesis descriptively explains the management of moral development at Dayah Nurul Islam in Southeast Aceh. The research method used in this study is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. Based on the research findings, it was found that Dayah Nurul Islam in Aceh was established in 1960 by Tengku Abuya Ja’far Sidik bin H. Hasan bin H. Abbas. In its subsequent development, the dayah has expanded in several aspects, including institutional development, curriculum, and facilities. The existence of Dayah Nurul Islam and its role in society is to foster the Muslim community. Therefore, the role of Dayah Nurul Islam in society is as a religious educational institution, a preaching institution, and a social institution. To realize these roles, the management of moral development for students is implemented by integrating modern management systems, including planning, implementation, supervision, and evaluation of moral development for students at Dayah Nurul Islam. The education and teaching system at Dayah Nurul Islam Southeast Aceh follows the modern pesantren system. This is evident from the planning of work programs for each section, the creation of an annual education and teaching calendar according to the work programs that have been prepared, the determination of consultation, coordination, and instruction methods for each section, and the determination of the form, method, and time of reporting for each section. The planning is carried out under the Deputy Director of the Dayah in collaboration with the heads of SMP and MA Nurul Islam Southeast Aceh.

A Study of Influential Groups in South Tapanuli's Islamic Education Policy Process

Education policy in South Tapanuli Regency (Tapsel) is not solely determined by the local government. Behind the scenes, a complex interplay of influential groups shapes the direction and focus of educational initiatives. This study aims to identify and analyze these key actors, examining their interactions, negotiations, and impact on education policy formulation and implementation. By delving into the political and social dynamics of Tapsel, this research seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the factors influencing educational outcomes. The study will explore how various stakeholders, including religious authorities, community organizations, educational institutions, and political parties, interact and exert their influence. The research methodology involves a comprehensive library research approach, utilizing primary data from scholarly journals, government documents, and electronic media. Through this analysis, the study will identify the most influential groups, their strategies, and their impact on specific policy areas, such as curriculum development, teacher training, and resource allocation.The findings of this research are expected to contribute to a more informed and evidence-based approach to education policy in Tapsel. By understanding the complex interplay of actors and their motivations, policymakers, educators, and community members can work together to improve educational quality, equity, and accessibility for all residents..

FUSING FAITH AND FINANCE VIA FATWA: THE FUTURE OF WAQF-TAKAFUL DEATH COMPENSATION PRODUCT AT FWD TAKAFUL BERHAD

The waqf-takaful concept involves channeling death compensation benefits from deceased takaful participants to selected religious institutions, thereby generating perpetual and sustainable waqf contributions. Despite recent challenges such as inconsistent implementation standards and management issues, some takaful operators in Malaysia have started to incorporate death compensation waqf into their offerings. Key players in this field, such as FWD Takaful Berhad, Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad (WanCorp) and Yayasan Waqaf Malaysia (YWM), have significant potential for collaboration in advancing this product. This study aims to develop a waqf-takaful death compensation product for FWD Takaful Berhad, known as FATWA. This product integrates elements of death compensation waqf and takaful, combining the efforts of FWD Takaful with WanCorp and YWM to optimize takaful benefits. The study uses a qualitative approach, with data collected through focus group discussions involving academics in Islamic finance, waqf, law and marketing, as well as industry players from selected takaful companies in Malaysia, YWM and the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA). The data were analysed using thematic analysis via ATLAS.ti software. The study found that waqf-takaful death compensation products, FATWA developed by FWD Takaful Berhad through WanCorp or YWM, have unique strengths. Both are competitive and capable of making significant contributions to the takaful and waqf industries, offering substantial benefits to the Muslim community as a whole.

Dynamics of everyday practices of urban parents

In order to further improve family policy, the article aims to analyze the dynamics of everyday practices of parents. The empirical basis is the databases on individuals of the Comprehensive monitoring of living conditions (GKS-KOUZH — 2011,2016, 2018, 2020, 2022 years), which is conducted by the Federal State Statistics Service. Subsamples of urban fathers and mothers living with children under the age of 15 have been formed. The daily practices of parents are analyzed based on the indicators of work, leisure, sports, health, smoking and alcohol consumption contained in the database, depending on gender, educational level and number of children. The article presents an analysis of studies on the transmission of constructive and destructive parenting practices to children. It is shown that during the analyzed period, the proportion of parents who work in their specialty, attend various leisure facilities, participate in the activities of political and public organizations, engage in sports and drink alcohol is stable. The proportion of mothers attending religious institutions and meetings of believers has decreased. There are positive trends in a significant increase in the proportion of both fathers and mothers who are satisfied with their profession and salary, who make tourist trips, who positively assess their health and a decrease in the proportion of fathers who smoke. According to the analysis of the KOUZH-2022, more parents with higher education work in their specialty, are satisfied with wages, have the opportunity to work distantly via the Internet, practice buying food and goods over the Internet, make tourist trips, visit the theater, museums, exhibitions, restaurants, participate in social activities, do not smoke, play sports or active recreation compared to parents without higher education. Parents with many children are similar in terms of types of professional activities and level of education to one- and two-child parents. The absolute advantage of parents with many children is a significant proportion of religious fathers and the lowest level of alcohol consumption by fathers and mothers. Positive trends in the daily activities of parents inspire optimism about the prospects for fertility and the quality of parenthood.

Mosque Construction as Nation-Building: The case of Turkey

ABSTRACT This article analyzes the question of mosque construction and its interrelationship vis-à-vis nation-building in contemporary Turkey. The dynamics of a secular state ruling over a conservative society have always been conflictual in republican Turkey, and this ever since the modern state began initiating a number of radical secular reforms in the 1920s and the 1930s. Among those reforms, disruptive in a previously conservative society, were the dissolution of the caliphate and dismemberment of religious institutions, coupled with widespread Westernizing policies including the adoption of Western sartorial habits, emphasis on science and technology, and changing the alphabet from the traditional Arabic to the current modern (romanized) Turkish script. On the other hand, the advent of democracy and changeover of government in 1950 brought with it the emergence of a renewed religious discourse and a desire for more mosque construction in order to accentuate the Islamic facet of Turkish culture. Therefore, the religious dimension of Turkish identity has increasingly been buttressed by mosque construction by right-wing governments, reaching its zenith with the current Justice and Development Party (JDP) government (beginning in 2002). Coupled with the emergence of an illiberal democracy bolstered by Turkish populism, this article proposes to analyze the linkage between mosque construction and the building of an Islamic conservative Turkish nation contrasting the secular Turkish identity of the ancien régime.