Religious Institutions Research Articles

Torah as the Basis of Modern Ideas about the Judiciary: Introduction to the Topic

The diversity of relationships between people determines the multiplicity of types of social norms that regulate interactions in human society. Various systems of social regulation – such as customs, morality, religion, law – throughout the history of mankind are also in constant mutual influence. Their relative importance is fluid, social norms have a constant impact on each other, often experiencing transformations from one type to another. In light of this, the influence of religious institutions on the formation of secular law and the secular system of public, including judicial, power deserves serious study. The Torah, the main holy book of the Jewish people, the basis of Judaism (the oldest and most enduring monotheistic religion in history), which had a significant influence on the formation of Christianity and Islam, is the source of many well-known and established legal ideas. In particular, the Torah contains many provisions concerning the values of justice, the principles of organization and the exercise of judicial power. In fact, all the fundamental principles of justice that have become widespread in the modern world – the institutional organization of the judicial system, the staged nature of legal proceedings, the principles of fair justice, accessibility of court, impartiality of judges and many others – are enshrined in the Torah (and detailed in other sacred Jewish texts) as Divine commandments obligatory for people to fulfill. The article concludes that the study of the Jewish religious heritage can strengthen the significance of the values and principles of justice as the fundamental basis for the existence and functioning of human society.

The project of state transforma- tions by M.M. Speransky

The relevance of the research lies in the analysis of the transformation project of one of the outstanding reformers of the days of Alexander I, whose ideas were not duly appreciated, but could prevent serious upheavals in Russia during subsequent reigns. The problem is that changes proposed by Speransky’s would have laid the foundation for a deep reform of the country, however, not all projects were destined to be realized. The purpose of the research is to consider the transformation projects of Speransky M.M. and to analyze the degree of their implementation. The article used the retrospective and historical-genetic methods of historical research. The first allowed us to immerse ourselves in the events of the past, the second allowed us to analyze the degree of implementation of projects. The result of the research: many of Mikhail Mikhailovich’s proposals would subsequently be considered by the descendants of the winner of Napoleon Bonaparte, but then the Russian emperor considered the projects premature. Only the reform of religious educational institutions was one of the few that was implemented almost completely. The conclusion: Speransky’s proposals in the field of religious education were implemented more than all others examined in the research; among state reforms, only the State Council arose; as for tax reforms, only certain partial proposals of the reformer were implemented.

Donor memorialization practices at religious institutions in the United States.

Many institutions worldwide honor the gift of human body donors through memorial services, ceremonies, and various other means, such as guided reflection or art activities. Memorial services can vary when it comes to the name, who is involved in the planning, and who may attend. Within the United States, the role of religion in the planning and delivery of these ceremonies at religious institutions has yet to be actively explored. This study aimed to collect information about human body donor memorialization practices at religious institutions in the United States to help guide further suggestions for enhancing inclusivity in these practices. This study utilized a voluntary survey that was distributed to anatomy educators and human body donor programs to complete if they were from a religious institution that utilized human body donors. Based on the data collected in this study (n = 39), most religious institutions have some form of donor memorialization practices, which may or may not include a formal memorial service. In these practices described by survey participants, religion was commonly represented using an interfaith approach, in which campus ministry often assisted in planning and facilitating the memorialization. Those with masses/services refer to them by different names, and most occur in a religious-specific place on campus. In conclusion, among survey participants at religious institutions that utilize and memorialize human body donors, most take an inclusive interfaith approach to their memorialization practices, as this can be more representative of the body donors and students who learn from them.

Encouraging Religion and Sustainable Tourism as a Conception of Indonesian Halal Tourism Development

Objective: This study aims to explore and analyse the development of halal tourism in Indonesia, focusing on the synergy between religion and sustainable tourism. The aim is to understand how religion and sustainable tourism principles can support the growth of halal tourism and its potential economic and social benefits. Theoretical Framework: The study draws on halal tourism, religion, and sustainable tourism. It examines how religion can provide a moral and ethical foundation for halal tourism practices and how sustainable tourism principles, including nature and cultural conservation, can be integrated into the development of halal tourism. Method: Qualitative methods are employed in this study, including interviews and observations. Informants from religious institutions, tourism organisations, and local communities are selected to gather insights and perspectives on the development of halal tourism in Indonesia. Results and Conclusion: The study's findings highlight the importance of the synergy between religion and sustainable tourism in the development of halal tourism in Indonesia. Religion provides guidance and direction for halal practices. The development of halal tourism based on this concept can bring economic opportunities, improve the quality of tourism services, and strengthen Indonesia's position as a leading halal tourism destination. Implications: The study's findings affect policymakers, tourism organizations, and local communities. They emphasise the need for supportive policies and collaborations to promote and implement sustainable halal tourism practices. Novelty: This study contributes to the existing literature on halal tourism by examining the synergy between religion and sustainable tourism in the context of Indonesia.

Canon Law Aspects of the Office of Provincial Superior in a Religious Institute: A Look at the Law of the Order of Preachers

The study presents the office of provincial superior, starting with ordinaries and major superiors of religious orders. The office of prior provincial is characterised here on the basis of the law of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans). The following topics are covered: the relationship between the prior provincial and the ordinary of the place, authority in the Dominican Order, the basic powers of the prior provincial, requirements for a prior provincial candidate, and the functioning of the provincial during the provincial chapter.

Strategi Kepala Madrasah dalam Meningkatkan Kompetensi Profesionalisme Guru Pendidikan Agama Islam di MA Al Amin Malang

<p><em>This research aims to reveal the strategies used by the pricipal of Madrasah in increasing the competency and professionalism of Islamic religious education teachers at MA Al Amin Malang. The research method used is qualitative with a case study approach. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with the principal, observations, and analysis of related documents. The research results show that the Principal of Madrasah use various strategies, including continuous training and development, providing support and recognition, as well as ongoing coaching and supervision. These strategies aim to improve the quality of teaching and learning, inspire teacher motivation, and strengthen commitment to the profession. The implications of this research are the important role of the Principal in creating a work environment that is conducive to developing teacher professionalism, as well as the need for investment in ongoing training and coaching. This research was conducted over a period of time from July to December 2023. It is epected that this research can provide valuable input for the development of more effective school management policies and practices in Islamic religious education institutions.</em></p>

The influence of halal fashion, lifestyle, and brand image on Gen Z's hijab fashion preferences in Indonesia

IntroductionThe hijab is an important part of the daily lives of Muslim women in Indonesia. Several studies have been conducted regarding hijab preferences. However, research focusing on Generation Z is still limited. ObjectivesThis research aims to explain how fashion trends, lifestyle, and brand image influence hijab fashion preferences.MethodThis research uses quantitative research methods. The data collection technique used was a questionnaire for 104 respondents, with the criteria being Muslim women who were hijab consumers aged 11-26. The collected data was analyzed using the SEM-PLS approach.ResultsThe results of this research show that halal fashion, lifestyle, and brand image have a significant influence on hijab fashion preferences. Lifestyle variables have the most dominant influence.ImplicationsThe theoretical implications of this research indicate the need for a holistic approach to understanding Generation Z consumer behavior in the context of hijab fashion.Originality/NoveltyThis research shows the importance of collaboration between the fashion industry, religious institutions, and the government to develop regulations that support the growth of a high-quality hijab fashion industry in accordance with religious values.

The role of Christian faith in the reintegration of female prisoners

Aim: This study delves into the correlation between religious faith and the process of reintegration among women in incarceration. In Hungary, this subject is relatively understudied; however, international insights underscore the prominent role of religious convictions in shaping an individual’s predisposition towards criminality and their influence on prosocial conduct. Yet, the extent and contentious nature of its role in reintegration persist due to a lack of emphasis by societal institutions associated with detainees, disregarding the intricate sociological prospects embedded within religion and faith. These prospects, meticulously scrutinised by sociologists, encompass the maintenance and fortification of social order, the regulation of human activities, and more. An additional challenge arises post-release, where organisations and religious institutions involved in the spiritual rehabilitation of detainees lose contact with these individuals, impeding subsequent investigative efforts.Methodology: The data for our pilot study were gathered among residents of Kalocsa Prison in 2024. Employing the Shortened Aspiration Index, augmented by interviews, our research methodology sought to enrich descriptive statistical analyses through the nuanced exploration of interview content. Sample selection followed a randomised and voluntary basis (N: 46 individuals). Importantly, the outcomes derived from our study are not intended for generalisation but rather apply specifically to our sampled cohort.Findings: Our discernments indicate that, for the female detainees under scrutiny, faith and religious practices wield a positive influence on delineating life objectives. They also play a pivotal role in sustaining mental equilibrium, with noteworthy psychoeducational ramifications. During catechesis, knowledge enrichment extends beyond cultural dimensions to encompass moral teachings, fostering an understanding of the ethical values and frameworks essential for normative living.Value: Determining the criteria for the success of post-release reintegration proves elusive, given the nuanced and idiosyncratic nature of success for everyone. Factors influencing an individual’s psychological dynamics and behavioural patterns intricately interweave within a complex socioeconomic system. Thus, it is reasonable to assert that the precepts of Christian teachings, faith, and the spiritual and organisational scaffolding of religious practices can form integral components of a supportive framework. Acknowledging the reinforcing role of Christian faith, particularly among women, aligns with the 2022 census data from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH), which underscores a prevailing proclivity towards religiosity among women in contemporary Hungary.

A keresztény hit szerepe a női fogvatartottak reintegrációjában

Aim: This study delves into the correlation between religious faith and the process of reintegration among women in incarceration. In Hungary, this subject is relatively understudied; however, international insights underscore the prominent role of religious convictions in shaping an individual’s predisposition towards criminality and their influence on prosocial conduct. Yet, the extent and contentious nature of its role in reintegration persist due to a lack of emphasis by societal institutions associated with detainees, disregarding the intricate sociological prospects embedded within religion and faith. These prospects, meticulously scrutinized by sociologists, encompass the maintenance and fortification of social order, the regulation of human activities, and more. An additional challenge arises post-release, where organisations and religious institutions involved in the spiritual rehabilitation of detainees lose contact with these individuals, impeding subsequent investigative efforts.Methodology: The data for our pilot study were gathered among residents of Kalocsa Prison in 2024. Employing the Shortened Aspiration Index, augmented by interviews, our research methodology sought to enrich descriptive statistical analyses through the nuanced exploration of interview content. Sample selection followed a randomised and voluntary basis (N: 46 individuals). Importantly, the outcomes derived from our study are not intended for generalisation but rather apply specifically to our sampled cohort.Findings: Our discernments indicate that, for the female detainees under scrutiny, faith and religious practices wield a positive influence on delineating life objectives. They also play a pivotal role in sustaining mental equilibrium, with noteworthy psychoeducational ramifications. During catechesis, knowledge enrichment extends beyond cultural dimensions to encompass moral teachings, fostering an understanding of the ethical values and frameworks essential for normative living.Value: Determining the criteria for the success of post-release reintegration proves elusive, given the nuanced and idiosyncratic nature of success for everyone. Factors influencing an individual’s psychological dynamics and behavioural patterns intricately interweave within a complex socioeconomic system. Thus, it is reasonable to assert that the precepts of Christian teachings, faith, and the spiritual and organisational scaffolding of religious practices can form integral components of a supportive framework. Acknowledging the reinforcing role of Christian faith, particularly among women, aligns with the 2022 census data from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH), which underscores a prevailing proclivity towards religiosity among women in contemporary Hungary.

The Analysis of Ukrainian Policy in the Field of State-Religious Education: Secondary School

The article provides an overview of approaches to the organization of religious education in secondary schools of Ukraine during the period of its independence, which complements the European experience of studying this issue. Attention is paid both to the historical circumstances of the beginning of school religious education in the interaction of religious, state and educational institutions, and to modern issues related to the policy of introducing subjects of religious and moral orientation in Ukrainian schools. The current legislation in the field of religious education in a secular school, the real practice of its implementation, and the challenges that give an idea of ​​the specifics of Ukraine in this matter in the European space, are analyzed. The legislative work of Ukraine on ­resolving the issue of legal regulation of the possibility of establishing educational institutions of different levels of accreditation by religious organizations is generalized. Statistical data on the state of teaching religious and moral subjects in schools of Ukraine are analyzed. Prospects and possibilities of further teaching of religious education in the Ukrainian public school are considered.

Technoference and the Power of Family in Using Cell-Phones by College Students in Medan, Indonesia

Objective: Technoference towards devices can change interactions within the family. Parents play a significant role in balancing technological advances in the family. This study examines how interference with using devices (technoference) at home affects family attachment. Methods: The method used in this study uses a quantitative descriptive method. Respondents are students who act as students who actively use devices. The selection of research samples used purposive sampling with a total of 347 respondents. There are three points of technoference between parents and children: frequency, duration and content. Results: Based on the study's results, it was found that the most dominant technoference in family strength ties was the duration of gadget use by family members, with the most significant indication being that they often ignore calls from their family when playing gadgets. After that, it is followed by the frequency of using gadgets, and the most significant indication is to prioritize gadgets even at ongoing family events. The lowest indicator of technoference to contend with the most significant indicator is judging what family members do on their devices. Conclusion: Using cell phones should be heeded by various stakeholders such as the government, parents, educational institutions, religious institutions, community members, and peers. It means they should not ignore the facts by transferring the problems to other parties more responsible for interrupting cell phone use, especially the parents and the other family members. The impact of technoference is significant enough, especially on the students’ power of family.

Penerapan ISAK 35 terhadap Laporan Keuangan Masjid Studi Kasus di Masjid An Nuur Tulungagung

This research aims to analyze the application of ISAK 35 to the financial reports of the An Nuur Mosque in Tulungagung. ISAK 35, as part of sharia-based Financial Accounting Standards, has the aim of ensuring compliance with sharia accounting practices in the management of funds and assets. The An Nuur Mosque was chosen as a case study because of its central role in providing religious and social services in the Tulungagung community. This research involves an in-depth analysis of the An Nuur Mosque's financial reports, focusing on elements related to ISAK 35, such as recording sharia-based transactions, separating amil and zakat funds, as well as disclosing information in accordance with sharia principles. The case study method is used to understand the implementation of ISAK 35 in a practical context and gain a holistic understanding of mosque financial management. The research results are expected to provide a deeper understanding of the extent to which the An Nuur Mosque has complied with ISAK 35 and its impact on transparency, accountability and public trust. The implications of this research can also provide insight for financial managers of mosques and sharia financial institutions to increase efficiency and compliance in managing religious funds. Through this research, it is hoped that practical recommendations will emerge to improve the application of ISAK 35 in mosque financial reports, with the ultimate aim of strengthening the financial integrity and sustainability of mosques as religious institutions. Thus, this research makes a positive contribution to the development of sharia accounting practices in the context of mosque finances in Indonesia

Voices from the Other Side: Exploring Nonhuman Agents and Their Narrative Function in the Zhuangzi

In the history of Chinese literature, the Zhuangzi authors were the first to grant a voice to diverse forms of life, among them a snake, a tree, a dead man, a divine turtle, and even the wind. What exactly is the interest of incorporating nonhuman protagonists in brief literary fictions? Was there something at stake when trying out this pioneering narrative technique, or was it just for the sake of literary innovation and entertainment? Through a detailed analysis of a set of concise narratives, this study uncovers a consistent critique of the religious institutions (chiefly divination and sacrifice), as well as the economic practices prevalent during the Warring States period. It aims to demonstrate that the Zhuangzi's comprehensive critique of the Zhou cultural order achieves its “hearability” through a recurrent use of striking dualities, including day and night, dream and wakefulness, and humans and nonhumans. A heretofore silent and passive community of living beings raises its voice and is able to challenge the well-established discourse proclaiming human sovereignty over the natural world. These voices and the themes they raise serve, among other things, as a literary strategy intended to illuminate the universality of violence and the criminal essence of human culture (wen 文).

Have We Lost the “Soul” of the Black Church: Returning to Our Roots

This article critically analyzes the distinctive role and evolution of the Black church, with an emphasis on its preaching traditions and its impact on social and political activism within the Black community. The focus is on the shift from collectivism to individualism within the Black church, exploring its implications for community activism and the perpetuation of structural inequities. By delving into traditions of Black preaching and the historical context of the Black church's activism, the article strives to illustrate the benefits of a more collectivistic approach. Finally, it outlines potential strategies to encourage a return to collectivism, as well as means to counter the persistent structural inequities within the Black community. This examination adds to the discourse on the prevailing influence of religious institutions on societal change and equity.

Religious Institutional Environment and Executive Pay Dispersion

AbstractThis study extends the extant literature on executive pay dispersion by exploring the cultural-cognitive social determinants. We investigate how religious institutional environments, including Buddhism- and Confucianism-based institutions, shape vertical executive pay dispersion. We theorize that a Buddhism-based institutional environment is negatively related to vertical executive pay dispersion. In contrast, we propose competing hypotheses regarding how a Confucianism-based institutional environment affects vertical executive pay dispersion. With a sample of Chinese public firms, we find that both Buddhism- and Confucianism-based institutional environments are negatively associated with a firm's vertical executive pay dispersion. Supplementary analyses show that the aforementioned main effects are attenuated when a firm is embedded by a communist party branch and has a younger CEO.

Conservation of Buddhist Heritage in Afghanistan, 2016–2022

This article describes activity at two Buddhist sites, Topdara (Parwan province) and Shewaki (south-east of Kabul) in Afghanistan undertaken by the Afghan Cultural Heritage Consulting Organisation (ACHCO) between 2016 and 2022. It entailed documentation, excavation, conservation and partial reconstruction of stupas and other structures associated with Buddhist monastic orders. The sites are part of a string of religious institutions situated along trade and pilgrimage routes that traversed the region, some of which have been the focus of previous surveys, archaeological excavation and analysis. The primary objective of this work was to document and conserve the surviving physical fabric of the stupas and adjacent buildings, while examining their siting and similarities in form and architectural style with other Buddhist monuments in the region. The interventions also provided an opportunity to observe the attitudes of both the Afghan work-force and members of the Afghan public towards their Buddhist heritage, for which there seems to be a degree of curiosity and respect that tends to be lacking in recent accounts of such sites being “endangered.”

Religion and the Legal Institutional Combat against Corruption in Nigeria

Religion is man’s belief in the super abundant reality that controls the cosmic environs, propels humans’ worship and demand appeasement for pardon and favour. Corruption is the act of corrupting or the state of being corrupt, moral perversion; depravity, and perversion of integrity. The battle between religion and corruption in Nigeria is a moral one and calls for sanity and renewing of the mind. It has eaten deep into the fabrics of the nation with adverse effect on the poor masses. The perpetrating actors of corruption are found in all sectors of our nation but copiously amongst the elite and those in leadership. The objective of this research is to view the place of religious and legal institutions in combating corruptions in Nigerian. This research utilized historical approach as well as books, journals; internet materials etc as sources. It was able to examine corruption in Nigeria, holistic definition of corruption, nature and characteristics of corruption, evil of corruption, and the causes of corruption, legal and institutional fight against corruption in Nigeria, how religion aids corruption and the role of religion in combating corruption as a social responsibility/intervention in Nigeria. It recommends that religious institution should as a matter of urgency be the watchdog and the conscience of the common man in nation with respect to combating corruption in Nigeria. Keywords: Religion, Legal, Institutional, corruption, Combat, Nigeria.

Exploring the Influence of Religious Institutions on the Implementation of Technology for Stunting Understanding

Exploring the Influence of Religious Institutions on the Implementation of Technology for Stunting Understanding

Western indicators in the thought of Dr. Ali Shariati

Dr. Ali Shariati is rightfully considered one of the most prominent pioneers of the Islamic movement and its thinkers. His tremendous efforts had a significant impact on various social groups of the Iranian people, including the youth. His intellectual and political mobilization paved the way for the Islamic Revolution in 1979, earning him the title “Teacher of the Revolution” among the Iranian popular circles of that time. Shariati focused his efforts on awakening consciousness and returning to the self, opposing forms of alienation, imitation, and submission to foreign domination. He fought for human welfare, freedom, democracy, criticism of history and self, revolution against traditional institutions and structures, debunking of old and contemporary superstitions, and combating backwardness and tyranny… All these terms and expressions are what filled Shariati’s writings, which became his concern, the focus of his short life, and the goal of his vast intellectual effort. Shariati presented bold and profound treatments for certain phenomena, such as sectarian fanaticism, which he considered a product of periods of fragmentation and decline in Islamic history. He believed that Muslims must overcome it if they wanted renaissance and unity. He also fought against backwardness and superstition, which he criticized sarcastically, holding the clergy responsible for spreading and entrenching them. He also attempted to revive nationalism as an antithesis to Islamic belonging, the traditional and rigid religious institution, and many other issues he criticized and addressed with Western remedies based on his social studies in Western Europe, which lasted for more than five years. Alongside his intellectual struggle against Western intellectual currents and ideologies, Shariati worked on purifying and sifting cultural sources, reviving Islam as a vibrant and pulsating ideology in contrast to other ideologies, cleansing the religion from impurities, and separating the clear truths from the habits and illusions that were prevalent among the simple people. Thus, he worked on clarifying and polishing the face of Islam, showing its true image.

Representations of Christianity in Chinese Independent Cinema: Gan Xiao’er’s Postsocialist Religious Critique

Representations of Christianity in contemporary Chinese cinema are very limited, making the scholarship of this subject underexplored. Filmmaker Gan Xiao’er has made three feature-length independent films focusing on Christianity in China. These films, The Only Sons (2003), Raised from Dust (2007), and Waiting for God (2012), are used for case studies, with close analyses of their narratives and formal elements. They are also examined in the social and cultural contexts of postsocialist China. This article argues that Gan’s religious features are significant in the context of postsocialist Chinese cinema. They not only depict the religious experience of Chinese Christians, which has been under-represented cinematically, but also provide a religious critique rarely seen in Chinese films. On the one hand, these films critically engage with the experience of underprivileged people during the Reform period, when economic development and materialism became dominant, while the socialist political system remained. Gan’s religious features provide an alternative perspective that cares for people’s spiritual needs. On the other hand, Gan’s later films interrogate the local religious institution in China, questioning the arbitrary separation of the ‘holy’ and the ‘unholy’, proposing a more inclusive approach to the religious concept of love.