Religious Landscape Research Articles

The Interaction Between Japanese Buddhism and Christianity in the Meiji Period

Although initially fraught with tension, spanning roughly two decades, Buddhists employed various strategies to combat the spread of Christianity and uphold their traditional values. As the 1890s dawned, a new wave of Buddhists emerged, spearheading the reconstruction of Japanese Buddhism through processes of secularization and westernization in alignment with the currents of the Meiji Restoration. This paper delves into the intricate relationship between Buddhism and Christianity in Japan following the Perry Expedition. By scrutinizing the writings and orations of numerous Buddhist leaders spanning the period from the 1860s to the 1890s, this paper elucidates the multifaceted conflicts and interactions between Japanese Buddhism and Christianity. A nuanced analysis of their endeavors, reveals the evolving dynamics and strategies employed by both religions in navigating their coexistence in Japan's religious landscape, where both involuntarily made corresponding relative changes to be involved in social trends and Japanese traditions. This paper also discusses the cooperation and potential union between the two religions at the beginning of the 19th century, when New Buddhists received education in Western philosophy and examined Christianity. In short, the Buddhist-Christian relationship underwent a conversion from opponents to equal religion, even collaboratively enforcing social justice and care.

«А нашему-то брату еще лучше, пускай три, пять храмов будет!»: Никольские храмы Медногорска

The article is based on field material collected in Mednogorsk (Orenburg region) in December 2021. It is dedicated to the study of the interactions between the religious and cultural landscapes of the city. A distinctive feature of industrial Mednogorsk, founded during the era of industrialization, is its “church history” of the Soviet era. An constant element of this history was the life of the parish, which since 1943 took place in a prayer house later converted into the church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. The decades-long existence of the so-called “old St. Nicholas Church” in the city havs led to the enrichment and complication of the religious landscape, which includes hidden public practices of faith protection and places of prayer. The latter include an episode of collective protection of the church from destruction in 1961 and the book by Vera Popova, who became recognized in the city as the “historian of the temple” from among the oldest parishioners. The article provides a comparative analysis of the oral and written versions of the history of St. Nicholas Church. In 2007, the new Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker was consecrated in Mednogorsk. The authors analyze the distribution of functions between the two St. Nicholas churches in the small town in the post-Soviet period. The conclusion is drawn about the interpenetration of the historical, cultural and religious heritage of the city, which originated as a settlement near a copper-sulfur plant. Additionally, it is suggested that the church component of Mednogorsk’s history allows for the interpretation of its Soviet period as an alternative version of Soviet industrialization in a small factory town.

Turning Sour into Sweet, Darkness into Light

Abstract 9½ Mystics: The Kabbala Today by Rabbi Herbert Weiner introduced the idea of mystical search to a generation of American Jews who were turned off by traditional synagogue Judaism and unsure of how to relate to the emerging counterculture. He met with a number of mystics to find out if their life-secrets can have meaning even for those who do not share the full intensity of their experience. Weiner's search relied in large part on Gershom Scholem's idea that there was a dramatic contrast between rabbinic Judaism and Kabbalistic Judaism. Kabbalah was like an underground stream moving through the heart of Judaism, bringing with it transformative mythic ideas, providing inspiration and spiritual excitement. Weiner's book successfully popularised Scholem's theories of what Kabbalah was, as well as the mystical thought of previously unknown mystics such as Rav Kook. 9½ Mystics transformed the American Jewish religious landscape, especially in the Reform movement.

Framing Faith and Fear: Muslim Religious Scholars Perspectives on Media Representation of Terrorism in Kenya

This study investigated the perceptions of Muslim religious scholars on media representation of terrorism in Kenya. Kenya presents a unique context for the study because of its diverse religious landscape, its specific experiences with terrorism and upsurge of digital platforms for news dissemination. Muslim scholars in Kenya, therefore, play a critical role within Muslim communities as they look after their congregation. The phenomenological theory was used as a framework for the study. The study found that there was a general perception among Muslim religious scholars that media representation of terrorism was biased towards the Muslim population. The scholars are of the view that Muslims were labelled as terrorists, terrorism sponsors or sympathizers. As a result, the religious scholars had become reluctant to consume Kenyan media products, and some of them had disconnected from various media platforms. There is need for guidelines and policies that recognize the place and the sensitivities of the Muslim population in terrorism reporting in Kenya to improve media representation of terrorism, and as well as differentiating between Islam and terrorism, as part of the guidelines, and training journalists on their implementation

Religious leaders’ nuanced views on birth spacing and contraceptives in Sierra Leone - qualitative insights

BackgroundSierra Leone is a religiously diverse country, with Christianity and Islam being the dominant faiths. This religious landscape plays a significant role in shaping attitudes towards family planning and contraceptives. We examined religious leaders’ knowledge of family planning and modern contraceptive methods.MethodsIn September 2021, data was collected from 116 religious leaders in Sierra Leone, including 32 Muslims and 84 Christians from nine different denominations from sixteen districts, through 16 focus group discussions. The data was subjected to a thematic analysis using NVIVO 12 software.ResultsThe study found a spectrum of opinions among religious leaders, both between religions (Christianity vs. Islam) and within denominations of Christianity. There was a general acceptance of natural birth spacing methods, like abstinence during fertile periods, across both Christian and Muslim leaders. Views on modern contraceptives were more divided. Catholics generally opposed them, citing religious doctrines against interfering with procreation. Pentecostals and some Muslims, however, found them permissible under certain circumstances, like promoting family well-being or spacing births for health reasons.ConclusionThe study reveals that religious leaders’ views on family planning in Sierra Leone are multifaceted. Understanding these nuances is crucial for designing effective family planning programs. By working with denominations that are more accepting of modern methods and leveraging the support for natural birth spacing methods across religions, there’s potential to improve reproductive health outcomes in Sierra Leone.

Defining ‘religious body’ under Irish marriage law

ABSTRACT Census 2022 shows an ever more diverse religious landscape in the Republic of Ireland. Recent marriage data published by the Central Statistics Office further speaks to the dramatic socio-religious shifts which have taken place in the jurisdiction, particularly over the past 20 years. Yet, although there has been a rapid proliferation of legislatively recognised religious bodies under Irish marriage law, specifically the Civil Registration Act 2004 (as amended), this development appears to have largely gone unnoticed, attracting little (if any) academic attention. This article therefore seeks to place the spotlight on how the definition of ‘religious body’ pursuant to the 2004 Act (as amended) has been interpreted by the Registrar General and highlights how the legislative machinery facilitating the legal recognition of such bodies is being utilised in practice as a result. It then considers the correctness of the Registrar General’s liberal understanding of the term ‘worship’ before turning to explore whether this interpretation is likely to have any broader implications for the understanding of ‘religion’ or ‘religious body’ in other legislative or constitutional contexts.

OLD BELIEVER COMMUNITIES OF VITEBSK REGION IN THE SECOND HALF OF 1980S – 2020S

The article characterizes the state of the Old Believer communities in the territory of Vitebsk region in the second half of the 1980s – 2020s. During this period the region was the absolute leader in the number of Old Believer religious associations in the country. In the confessional history of Belarus, the mid-1980s is marked by the revitalization of religious life, which was caused by perestroika measures. However, these processes had little impact on the activities of the Old Believers' associations of the region. The article reveals the regularities of functioning of the Old Believers' communities in the region in the second half of the 1980s. The peculiarities of state-confessional relations in this period are noted. More significant changes in the religious landscape of the region were caused by the independence of Belarus and the adoption of new legislation that regulated the activities of religious communities. The paper shows the process of formation (registration) of new Old Believer religious organizations in the 1990s, characterizes their situation in the 1990 – 2020s, and analyzes quantitative indicators.

The Sanctuaries of Iupiter Dolichenus in the Danubian Provinces. A functional interpretation

This article delves into the structure of Iupiter Dolichenus temples, focusing on its sanctuaries in the Danubian Provinces of Dacia, Pannonia Inferior, Pannonia Superior, Raetia, and Noricum. It emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of the cult's role in the religious landscape, cautioning against oversimplified theoretical approaches. Eight Dolichenus cult structures had archaeologically been identified in these provinces (Mehadia, Porolissum, Brigetio, Vetus Salina, Carnuntum I, Carnuntum II, Virunum, Vetoniana), showcasing the cult's manifestation on a broader scale. The study focuses on analyzing these temples' architectural features and functionalities, highlighting both differences and similarities. The article aims to provide a detailed examination of each sanctuary, considering phases of construction, alterations, and factors contributing to variations, through the analysis of archaeological finds and architectural characteristics related to the sanctuaries, it seeks to establish patterns and understand the role of specific chambers within these sacred precincts.

Globalization Authority: Fragmentation of Self and Disturbance of Religious Identity from Distortion to Extremism in Amin Ben Batta’s “Overdrive”

Globalization stands as a pivotal reality deeply ingrained within diverse ideologies, exerting significant influence across political, social, and cultural dimensions. Central to its impact is the concept of religion, pivotal for its role in reshaping societal identity structures. This study seeks to investigate the implications and consequences of globalization on the religious landscape, employing a descriptive-analytical approach to the novel Overdrive by Amin Ben Battha. The research critically examines the narratives of Jewish and Christian believers before and after the alteration of sacred texts, explores the proliferation of discourses centered on violence, extremism, and the rejection of moderation within Muslim communities, and ultimately considers globalization’s objective of eroding religious distinctiveness in favor of a unified global identity ideology. Furthermore, the study critiques the condemnation of unfettered public freedoms by transforming monotheism into a mere ideological belief.Haut du formulaire

Exploratory Study: Forms of Animism and Dynamism in the Islamic Religious System and Culture in the Indigenous Community of Kampung Kuta, Ciamis District

This exploratory study delves into the intricate interplay between animism, dynamism, and the Islamic religious system within the indigenous community of Kampung Kuta in Ciamis District. Despite the predominant influence of Islam in the region, the inhabitants of Kampung Kuta have maintained a unique blend of traditional animistic beliefs and dynamic cultural practices, shaping a distinctive religious landscape. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing ethnographic methods such as participant observation and in-depth interviews to unravel the nuanced expressions of animism and dynamism within the community's religious framework. The results of this study indicate that Nyuguh is an inseparable part of the culture of the Kuta village community and collaborates with the values of Islamic religious ideology. The conclusions of this study can inform future research on the complex relationship between Indigenous spirituality and religious ideology, encouraging a more comprehensive understanding of religious dynamics in diverse cultural settings.

THE CHALLENGES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ISLAMIC COUNSELING IN MALAYSIA: A CONCEPTUAL PAPER

This study investigates the integration of Islamic principles into counseling services in Malaysia, addressing the complex challenges arising from the nation's diverse sociocultural and religious landscape. Employing a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research explores the lived experiences of seasoned registered counselors to identify and categorize challenges, assess the impact of cultural diversity, and propose culturally competent strategies for effective Islamic counseling. Preliminary findings indicate significant obstacles such as the diversity of beliefs within the Muslim community, integration with secular practices, and the need for specialized training and accreditation. Further issues include stigma around mental health, gender sensitivity, technological integration, community engagement, and legal and ethical considerations. The results underscore the need for collaborative efforts among policymakers, practitioners, and religious leaders to enhance the effectiveness and cultural sensitivity of Islamic counseling in Malaysia, aiming to foster more inclusive and comprehensive mental health care. By recognizing and addressing these obstacles, Malaysia can harness the potential of Islamic counseling to support the mental health and well-being of its diverse population while respecting cultural and religious sensitivities. Future research directions and implications for practice are also discussed to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of Islamic counseling initiatives in Malaysia and beyond.

The Religious Aspect of Confucianism During The Ly-Tran Dynasties, Vietnam

This article explores the religious dimensions of Confucianism during the Ly-Tran dynasties (1009-1400 AD) in Vietnam, a period marked by significant sociopolitical and cultural transitions. Initially introduced as a moral and ethical philosophy from China, Confucianism underwent a complex process of localization, blending with indigenous Vietnamese beliefs and practices as well as Buddhism and Taoism. Through historical records, literary works, and ritual practices documented in “The Complete Annals of Đại Việt” and other classical texts, this study delves into how Confucianism not only served as a guiding principle for governance, education, and social norms but also manifested religious aspects that influenced spiritual and religious life in Vietnam. The religious aspects of Confucianism during this era are evident in several key areas. Firstly, the concept of Heaven (Tian) and the Mandate of Heaven played a crucial role in legitimizing royal authority, with rulers and Confucian scholars frequently invoking divine will to justify political actions and social order. This sacralization of monarchy underpinned by Confucian ideals facilitated the integration of Confucianism into Vietnamese spiritual life. Secondly, the incorporation of Confucian rituals and practices, such as the Heaven Worship Ceremony (Tế Giao) and the veneration of Confucius and other sages at the Temple of Literature, highlights the religious dimensions of Confucian practice, emphasizing reverence, filial piety, and the moral obligations of rulers and subjects alike. Moreover, the article discusses how Confucianism interacted with and was influenced by Buddhism and Taoism, leading to a syncretic religious landscape in Vietnam. This interaction is illustrated through the blending of Confucian principles with Buddhist and Taoist ideals, affecting notions of kingship, governance, and the cosmological order. In conclusion, the religious aspect of Confucianism during the Ly-Tran dynasties significantly contributed to the shaping of Vietnamese identity, governance, and cultural heritage. By examining the religious dimensions of Confucianism, this article provides a more nuanced understanding of its role in Vietnamese society, highlighting the complex interplay between philosophy, religion, and politics in historical Vietnam.

РЕЛИГИОЗНЫЕ ВЕРОВАНИЯ В СОГДЕ В ЭПОХУ РАННЕГО СРЕДНЕВЕКОВЬЯ

This article examines the religious landscape of Sogdiana in the early Middle Ages, when this region of Central Asia served as a crossroads of cultures and religions along the Silk Road. By examining archaeological finds, written sources and historical data, the authors of the article analyze how Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islam coexisted and interacted in Sogd, contributing to the formation of the unique religious identity of the region.

Deciphering the Interaction between Daoism and Buddhism in the Wei-Jin Period Tale of “The Golden Pot of Futi”

The story of Futijinhu 浮提金壺 (“Golden Pot of Futi”) in Shiyiji 拾遺記 (Record of Gleanings), whose authorship is traditionally attributed to Wang Jia (王嘉) from the Eastern Jin Dynasty, appears to be a Daoist rendition at first glance, reimagining the legend of Laozi’s Daodejing. However, upon closer examination of the depiction of “Golden Pot of Futi”, the characters with “Shentong Shanshu” (神通善書, supranormal cognition and exceptional writing ability) and the narrative of writing and its outcomes, it becomes evident that this tale harbors a multifaceted Buddhist essence. In the tale, one can observe the changes and diversity in the early methods of translating Buddhist scriptures into Chinese, the references and adaptations of Buddhist imagery and narratives by Daoists, the understanding and imagination of materials used for writing Buddhist scriptures and early iconographic forms, and even the author’s insights and responses to the evolving religious landscape of their era. When placed in a broader historical context, exploring the Buddhist elements in this tale further aids in understanding the dynamic interactions between Buddhism and Daoism during the Wei and Jin periods.

Youth and Contemporary Cultures: Bible and African Youth’s Engagement with Technology

This research paper examines the intricate relationship between African youth, technology, and the Bible, highlighting the profound impact of contemporary digital cultures on the religious experiences and practices of young people in Africa. In an era characterized by unprecedented advancements in technology and rapid globalization, the intersection of faith and digital innovation emerged as a compelling subject of study. This research investigates the multifaceted ways in which African youth engage with the Bible through various technological mediums, such as smartphones, social media, and digital applications. The paper begins by contextualizing the religious landscape in Africa and the enduring significance of the Bible as a spiritual guide and cultural touchstone for diverse African communities. It then explores the evolving digital habits and preferences of African youth, showcasing the pivotal role of technology in shaping their daily lives. Through an extensive review of the literature, the study reveals how digital platforms have become dynamic spaces for religious expression, community building, and the dissemination of religious knowledge among African youth. Furthermore, the research examines the challenges and opportunities that arise from this intersection of faith and technology, including issues related to authenticity, interpretation, and religious authority. It also sheds light on the potential for digital technologies to bridge geographical and cultural divides, fostering a sense of global interconnectedness among African youth with shared religious beliefs. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of the intricate dynamics between youth, contemporary cultures, the Bible, and technology in Africa. It underscores the need for nuanced perspectives on the impact of digitalization on religious practices and offers insights into how African youth navigate the complexities of faith and technology in their pursuit of spiritual meaning and identity within an evolving globalized world

Religious Movements in Some Southeast Asian Countries at The Beginning of the 20th Century

Southeast Asia is an economic and culturally rich hub, one of the cradles of human history where diverse and vibrant cultures converge. Particularly, the religious landscape in Southeast Asian countries at the beginning of the 20th century vividly manifested in the movements against colonialism and imperialistic invasions by various nations. Class conflicts within society, coupled with unresolved contradictions, and the hardships of life in a tumultuous social context, led people to turn to religion. The study analyzes the characteristics of religious movements in some Southeast Asian countries in the early 20th century, thereby drawing some conclusions about religious movements in Southeast Asian countries in the early 20th century. In the process of approaching the problem, the author uses research methods such as text analysis, logic-history, unity between synchronic and diachronic perspectives, and analysis-synthesis... These research methods are applied by the author in a consistent dialectical manner to provide a comprehensive and specific research approach suitable to the current task. Developing humanistic values in religion will play an important role in preventing all personality corruption and helping people adjust their behavior and social relationships, contributing to stabilizing social order and safety. Religious movements in Southeast Asian countries in the early twentieth century contributed to spreading noble humanistic values in religion.

Heidi A. Campbell. 2020. Digital Creatives and the Rethinking of Religious Authority. Routledge

AbstractThe book Digital Creatives and the Rethinking of Religious Authority makes a valuable contribution to the study of how religious authority is evolving in the digital age. The author synthesizes previous research and introduces a new framework for categorizing types of religious authority in digital spaces. Building upon Anderson's earlier typology, Campbell significantly advances this framework through her original empirical research, which is based on a series of qualitative interviews with Christian religious digital creatives (RDCs). Campbell identifies nine distinct manifestations of RDCs, demonstrating how each type, through their actions, enacts media‐making narratives and engages in technological apologetics. Her approach offers a systematic and more nuanced classification and conceptual understanding of diversifying religious authority, reflecting the current plastic religious landscape and setting her work apart from previous studies. The book serves as a useful resource for scholars, offering insights and inspiration for further studies on the transformation of religious authority in new, hybrid spaces.

Spiritual places: Spatial recognition of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual perception.

Tibetan Buddhism, as an indigenous religion, has a significant and far-reaching influence in the Tibetan areas of China. This study, focusing on Lhasa, explores the integration of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual perceptions within urban spaces. Employing a novel approach that combines street view data and deep learning technology, the research aims to identify and map the spatial distribution of Tibetan Buddhist spiritual sites against the backdrop of the urban landscape. Our analysis reveals a notable concentration of these spiritual places near urban architectural and cultural heritage areas, highlighting the profound connection between residents' cultural life and spiritual practices. Despite challenges posed by modern urbanisation, these spiritual sites demonstrate resilience and adaptability, continuing to serve as cultural and spiritual pillars of the Tibetan Buddhist community. This study contributes to the fields of urban planning, religious studies, and digital humanities by demonstrating the potential of technology in examining the impact of urban development on cultural and religious landscapes. The research underscores the importance of protecting and integrating spaces of spiritual perception in urban development planning. It shows that safeguarding these spaces is crucial not only for cultural heritage preservation but also for achieving sustainable urban development and social harmony. This study opens new avenues for interdisciplinary research, advocating for a deeper understanding of the dynamic relationship between urban development and spiritual spaces from psychological, sociological, and environmental science perspectives. As urban landscapes evolve, the study emphasises the need to maintain a balance between material sustainability and cultural and spiritual richness in urban planning.

Antinomianism as a way to God in nineteenth-century Java: the Suluk Lonthang between Islamic and pre-Islamic religious discourse

Abstract This article presents the first complete critical edition and annotated English translation of the nineteenth-century Javanese mystical poem Suluk Lonthang. Combining different disciplinary expertise in old and modern Javanese philology, Tantric Studies, and Islamic Studies, it interprets the protagonist of the poem as an expression of the multifaceted and multivocal Javanese religious landscape of the time, whose historical—and translocal—roots can be discerned in Sufi traditions from the Islamicate and Persianate worlds, as well as Tantric traditions from both pre-Islamic Java and the Indian subcontinent.

Apolitical Salafi: Between Religious And Citizenship Identity In Indonesia

The phase of Islamic resurgence in Indonesia since the 1980s and 1990s is characterized by the emergence of new dynamics within the Islamic movement, which have reshaped the religious landscape. One of these is Salafism, which was introduced through the Islamic movement originating from the Middle East. This group promotes the purification of Islamic teachings amid the various challenges faced in advancing the development of the movement. Therefore, this study focused on Apolitical Salafi group (political quietism), which has grown significantly in Indonesia. This qualitative study involved data collection through observation and in-depth interviews with key Salafi figures, followed by thorough data analysis. The results showed that Apolitical Salafi movement provided a new space for religious da’wah (preaching), specifically among the upper-middle-class and millennial generation in society. Conversely, this movement also avoided association with general elections, political parties, democratic practices, and resisted rulers because these activities are considered secular. In conclusion, Apolitical Salafi movement created a paradoxical ideological space for religion. This means that religious identity of Salafi Muslims should conform to its teachings, and as Indonesian citizens, they need to avoid interference in political affairs (political isolationism).