Religious Rituals Research Articles

The Institution of Chaplains and Religious Rites in Parliaments

The paper analyzes the legal status of chaplains in the structure of parliaments of a number of foreign countries and the peculiarities of religious rites during parliamentary sessions. Several forms of religious presence in legislative activity are distinguished. Firstly, the practice of prayers at the beginning of plenary sessions and organizing other religious services; secondly, it is possible to have religious ministers — chaplains — constantly present during the work of the legislative body. It is noted that a full-fledged institution of chaplains exists only in the USA and Great Britain. The authors point out that chaplains do not have a significant influence on political decisions of members of parliament, since they perform more organizational functions, but they can influence public opinion during periods of important events in the country. The authors support their conclusions with examples from history and judicial practice devoted to the development of the institution of chaplains in the USA and Great Britain.

Meaning of Mystery as Process of Deification

“Mystery” is a term with divergent meanings in the religious and secular worlds. This term bears history in the philosophical and theological worlds. The meaning of the term includes concepts of secrecy, mysteriousness, incomprehensibility, and transcendence on the one hand and its connection with religious rituals on the other hand. This nature of the term recommends that we re-read its original meaning. This article tries to understand the connection of this term with archaic religious rituals based on mimetic theory. This article finds that the mysteriousness behind the archaic religious rituals is related to the scapegoat mechanism. The hidden process of deification in primitive religions and cultures is the reason behind the meaning of the term mystery. Using mimetic theory as a tool, this article asserts that only "revealed mysteries" remain in human history following the Christ-event and defines mystery as a process of deification.

3D Modelling for the Hajj and Umrah Pilgrims

A 3D simulation model is generated that can be used for a virtual representation of people who are performing Hajj and Umrah so that future travelers can gather the necessary information to perform religious ceremonies and be well prepared before arrival to the holy places. Traffic and pedestrian management in the areas is also presented. The purpose is to speed up the calculation of all events of interest to the authorities in a simulator, such as the behavior of vehicles, pedestrians on the streets, and worshippers. Two GPU solution alternatives and one CPU solution alternative are proposed, and the performance of the proposed solutions is also compared.

Social Criticism Da’wah Through Visual Works of @Terasdakwah During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study aims to analyze the preaching message containing social criticism on the Instagram account @terasdakwah through a semiotic approach. The @terasdakwah account is a digital platform that actively spreads preaching content in a creative style relevant to current social issues. This descriptive qualitative study analyzes the meaning of the preaching message of social criticism (Tafriq) in a Visual Communication Design (VCD) work. The dissection of meaning in visual works uses the semiotic analysis knife of Sumbo Tinarbuko's visual communication and Roland Barthes' semiotic analysis. The results of this study show that: First, the connotative meaning revealed is that these visual works are a form of criticism of the government and society in general for the phenomena that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. The connotative level of meaning also found myths contained in the visual works studied, including the death of elderly Hajj pilgrims, the death of expertise, and prolonged frustration threatening mental health. Second, the message of social criticism (Tafriq) preaching contained in the three visual works uploaded by the Instagram account @terasdakwah is included in the first and second points in Alamsyah's theory. The first point is preaching as a correction for the reconstruction of social order, and the second point is preaching as an effort to institutionalize critical attitudes in Islamic society. Third, this study also shows that preaching is not only limited to religious rituals and formalities but can also be done by conveying social criticism. This research is hoped to provide scientific contributions to the study of preaching and communication science so that it can be a reference for further research on similar topics and discussions according to different contexts and objects of study.

Embodied Wearing: clothing for Artemis in Ancient Athenian Religion1

This study examines the role of clothing in the worship of Artemis in ancient Athens and its surrounding region, focusing on the sensory and embodied experience of dress in religious practice. Using the framework of Haptic Religion, which foregrounds touch-based sensory engagement, the study analyzes two primary sources: the Brauron Clothing Catalogue, a series of inscriptions from the mid-fourth century BCE, and epigrams describing dedications of clothing to Artemis. The study considers the physical and sensory experience of clothes-wearing during religious rituals and the evocation of sense-memory through dedicated garments. It explores the link between clothing and coming-of-age rituals for young girls at Brauron, as well as the significance of clothing dedications for women marking transitions such as marriage and childbirth. By examining the intersection of materiality, embodiment, and religious experience, this study sheds new light on the religious practices of women and girls in ancient Athens, highlighting the central role of dress in their relationship with the goddess Artemis. The dedication of clothing in sanctuaries is shown to facilitate the creation of communal memory and the navigation of personal and social identities within the context of religious belief and practice.

Everyday Lived Islam among Hazara Migrants in Scotland: Intersectionality, Agency, and Individualisation

The mainstream literature on the religiosity of Muslims in Europe often homogenises this diverse minority. This article diverges by focusing on a less visible ethno-religious minority within the Muslim population, specifically examining how Hazara Shia Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, resettled in the UK, live and organise Islam in everyday contexts. Addressing this gap, the research highlights the intersectionality of religion, ethnicity, and migration in reconfiguring religious practice. Grounded in the intersectional and lived religion approaches, this study contends that the religiosity of this Muslim minority undergoes a dynamic shift entwined with agency and adaptation in the new secular and plural context, becoming more individualised, privatised, and elective. Employing an ethnographic design, data are collected through semi-structured and key informant interviews, as well as participant observation, over 18 months of fieldwork across various council areas in Scotland. The findings illustrate reconfiguration, adaptation, and innovation in everyday Islam among this intersectional Muslim minority, identifying three main themes: the adaptation and reconfiguration of religious practices and rituals, the renegotiation of authoritative sources, and the navigation of intersectional identities and belonging since resettlement in the UK.

The Existence of Hyang Waringin Temple in Kubu Customary Village

A harmonious relationship with God can be realized by thanking, devotion (Bhakti), and belief (Sraddha). Human devotion to God is realized by building a sacred building or temple. There are several temples with unique and high religious values in Bali, especially Hyang Waringin Temple. This temple is located in Kubu Pakraman Village, Bangli District, Bangli Regency. The existence of this temple is unique, which has unique traditions, such as the Ngusabha ceremony during Sasih Kaenem, Nimbang Sanganan Kukus Injin tradition, and the implementation Yadnya tradition held at Hyang Waringin temple led by Jro Mangku because of the Siva Bhuda concept. This study used several methods: observation, interviews, documentation, and literature. All collected data were reduced, displayed, and verified. The results showed that (1) Hyang Waringin Temple was a public temple, and the existence of this temple was closely related to the Kehen Temple’s history in Bangli. (2) The procession of religious ceremony tradition in Hyang Waringin Temple was the community’s gratitude and joy for the abundance of His grace of traditions. (3) The meaning of the religious ceremony tradition at Hyang Waringin Temple from the perspective of Hindu religious education, namely the meaning of Tattwa, Ethical, ritual, Tri Hita Karana, Socio-religious, and Tattwamasi education. This study found that Hyang Waringin Temple in Kubu Pakraman Village still exists and has religious traditions nowadays. It became a reflection for the Kubu Pakraman Village community to increase the high religiosity aspect, which is expected to increase the community’s belief (Sradha) and devotion (Bhakti).

The Meaning And Function Of Rerajahan In The Religious Life Of The Balinese Hindu Community

This abstract provides an overview of rerajahan, a form of sacred symbolism prominent in Bali, often referred to as the Island of the Gods. Rerajahan consists of small cloth pieces adorned with intricate images and inscriptions, such as human figures, mythical creatures, and sacred motifs, displayed on structures like homes and shrines. These symbols, embodying both artistic and spiritual dimensions, serve to invoke blessings and protection, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual practices of the Balinese community. The term "rerajahan" originates from "rajah," indicating an inscription or image with mystical power. In Balinese Hinduism, rerajahan is classified into two types: "rerajahan pengiwa" (left-hand path) and "rerajahan penengen" (right-hand path), each with distinct spiritual roles. These symbols are not mere decorations but require specific rituals, known as "pasupati," to activate their spiritual efficacy. The process of creating and activating rerajahan integrates sacred scripts, such as Modré, with symbolic imagery to harness their magical properties. Rerajahan plays diverse roles in Balinese rituals and daily life, including protection, healing, and enhancing spiritual well-being. It features prominently in religious ceremonies like the Panca Yadnya rituals and is used in offerings and personal amulets. The complex Balinese script and careful selection of media for rerajahan highlight its cultural and religious significance. Whether depicted on cloth, metal, or other materials, rerajahan represents a profound connection to the divine, underscoring its importance in both sacred and everyday contexts within Balinese Hinduism.

Risk-based management of international sporting events during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mass gatherings include a diverse range of events such as sporting competitions, religious ceremonies, entertainment activities, political rallies and cultural celebrations, which have important implications for population well-being. However, if not managed properly, these events can amplify health risks including those related to communicable diseases, and place undue strain on health systems in host countries and potentially in attendees' home countries, upon their return. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has provided a unique opportunity to evaluate the risk factors associated with mass gatherings and the effectiveness of applying mitigation measures during infectious disease emergencies. The pandemic has also allowed event organizers and health officials to identify best practices for mass gathering planning in host countries. To guide decisions about whether to hold, postpone, modify or cancel a mass gathering during the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization and its partners developed normative guidance and derivative tools promoting a risk-based approach to mass gathering planning. This approach involves three steps to guide decision-making around mass gatherings: risk evaluation, risk mitigation and risk communication. The approach was applied in the planning and execution of several mass gathering events, including the Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Lessons identified from these large-scale international events offer insights into the planning and implementation of mass gathering events during a pandemic, and the broader impacts of such events on society. These lessons may also further inform and refine planning for future mass gatherings.

The Performance of the Baris Goak Dance in the Pujawali Ceremony at Pura Puseh, Selulung indigenous village, Kintamani, Bangli Regency

This study explores the significance of religious ceremonies in Hindu communities, with a focus on the Pura Puseh temple and the Baris Goak dance in Selulung, Kintamani, Bali. Pura Puseh, an ancient temple of the Kahyangan Tiga, serves as a key site for rituals connected to prosperity and blessings. The Baris Goak dance, unique to Selulung, is a sacred performance that symbolically represents the battle between crows (seen as harbingers of death) and a spiritual hero, Mangku Pucangan. Rooted in cultural and historical narratives, this dance integrates traditional music, costumes, and rituals, reflecting the deep relationship between art, religion, and community identity in Balinese society. The historical development of Selulung village, driven by unity and leadership, further illustrates how these cultural practices have been preserved and continue to play a central role in maintaining spiritual and social harmony. The preservation of the Baris Goak dance, supported by village customs and regulations, highlights the enduring transmission of spiritual and cultural values across generations, ensuring the continuation of a rich heritage in the modern era.

Exploring the Role of Religious Rituals in Family Firm Identity Work: An Ethnographic Study

Exploring the Role of Religious Rituals in Family Firm Identity Work: An Ethnographic Study

THE ROLE OF KASHMIRI FOLK MUSIC IN PRESERVING CULTURAL IDENTITY AND FOSTERING SOCIAL COHESION

Kashmiri folk music, with its rich tapestry of melodic traditions and lyrical storytelling, plays a pivotal role in preserving the cultural heritage and identity of the Kashmir Valley. This research article explores the historical evolution, distinctive features, and socio-cultural significance of Kashmiri folk music. By examining traditional instruments, musical genres, and the narratives encapsulated in folk songs, the study underscores how this musical heritage reflects the region's diverse cultural influences and historical experiences. The research delves into the role of folk music in community gatherings, religious ceremonies, and seasonal festivals, highlighting its function in fostering social cohesion and communal harmony. Through qualitative analysis the article sheds light on the transmission of musical knowledge across generations and the adaptive strategies employed to sustain these traditions in the face of modern challenges. Furthermore, the study addresses the impact of political unrest and socio-economic changes on the folk music landscape, considering how musicians and communities navigate these dynamics to maintain their musical practices. The research concludes by advocating for the preservation and promotion of Kashmiri folk music as an integral part of the region's intangible cultural heritage, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts between local communities, cultural organizations, and policymakers.

THE RELIGIOUS FRESCOES IN KUNZANG CHODENS NOVEL THE CIRCLE OF KARMA

The paper examines the thematic exploration of religious identity in Kunzang Chodens novel The Circle of Karma. It takes a critical look at the transformation of the protagonist Tsomo from an ordinary village girl to a spiritual nun, elaborating on how religion played its role in this evolution. Choden has graphically portrayed the length and breadth of religious rites and rituals that prevailed in Bhutan. The novel follows, in the person of Tsomo, deep-rooted Bhutanese cultural and religious traditions, going to the depths pertaining to questions of karma, suffering, and peace considering lifes misfortunes on the journey to enlightenment.

Phytochemical analysis and effect of short-term administration of aqueous seed extract of Aframomum melegueta on haematologic indices of female albino rats

Background and aims: Aframomum melegueta (Alligator pepper) is a dietary spice widely used for entertainment, religious rites, food flavor enhancer, possessing erythropoietic potentials, and many other medicinal uses. Women are included in eating this widely used spice. This experiment determined the health risk or benefit of short-term administration of aqueous seed extract of A. melegueta on haematologic indices of female albino rats. Methods: Thirty adult female albino rats weighing 160 to 200 g were used for the study. Male rats were introduced into the female rat cages of groups II-V within 12h at the expected estrous phase for mating and withdrawn afterward. Groups I, II, and III were orally administered distilled water only, while groups IV and V received oral doses of 5 µg/kg b.w. Cabergoline and 3000 mg/kg b.w. aqueous seed extract of A. melegueta respectively 24 hours postpartum and once daily by oral gavage for three days. Results: Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) identified twelve functional groups in the seed extracts, namely –OH, -NH2 , CH, -NH3 +, -CH3 , -OH, -N=C=O, -C≡N, -C=C=C, -NH, -CH3 and -1,3,5-trisubstituted benzenes, while gas chromatography with flame ionization detector (GCFID) determined 15 bioactive components namely kaempferol, naringenin, Sapogernin, flavanones, anthocyanin, flavan-3-ol, cyanogenic glycoside, ribalinidine, rutin, catechin, resveratrol, spartein, epicatechin, steroid and phytate. Non-significant alterations in hemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), and red blood cell count were observed. There was a significant (P<0.05) decrease in WBC during pregnancy, but it was improved postpartum. However, platelet count was significantly (P<0.05) reduced after extract administration. Conclusion: The results indicate no adverse anemic condition elicited during pregnancy and delivery on haematologic parameters, namely red blood cells, hemoglobin, and PCV, with a significant decrease in WBC during pregnancy as well as reduction in platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) of extract treated animals post-partum likely due to the flavonoid, resveratrol as well as rutin and (–)-epicatechin components of A. melegueta and thus may increase the risk of bleeding disorders but reflects a positive anti-atherogenic and cardioprotective effect.

Metropolitan Cathedral Choir. 100 Years Since Its Foundation

In 2022, the Choir of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Cluj-Napoca celebrated 100 years of uninterrupted activity in the field of church music. The centenary of the Cluj choir can be considered a particularly important event, both for the Transylvanian musical space and for the tradition of Romanian choral music. Founded in 1922, the Metropolitan Cathedral Choir has had an outstanding musical career, having performed countless religious concerts, cultural and missionary activities, and participated in religious and secular ceremonies. The recognition of the artistic contribution of the Metropolitan Choir is largely due to its prolific activity in the musical field, which has led to increased visibility, both locally and nationally. With a constant activity of 100 years, the Cathedral Choir has had at the conductor’s desk, but also among the choristers, outstanding personalities of Romanian music. Among those who have led its musical destiny we remember: Gheorghe Dima, Vasile Petrașcu, Augustin Bena, Sava Golumba, Ioan Brie, Vasile Stanciu. Through the prestige it has acquired over time, the Metropolitan Cathedral Choir has become a benchmark for church choirs in the Diocese of Vad, Feleac and Cluj, being a benchmark of mastery and virtuosity. Keywords: diocesan choir, choral music, church choir, conductors, cathedral, centenary

Gambaran Hematologi Darah Pasca Vaksinasi Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) pada Ternak Babi di Kabupaten Kupang

The potential for expanding pig farming, particularly with native pigs, in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Province is significant due to the predominant non-Muslim population in NTT who utilise pigs in traditional and religious ceremonies. However, the high number of pigs in Kupang Regency and conventional farming practices can elevate the likelihood of infections like Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, known as PRRS. Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), caused by the PRRS virus (PRRSV), is a significant disease in the pig farming sector. The porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus is highly contagious within pig herds. It can spread through direct contact or contaminated aerosols. Vaccines have been used to limit the disease’s transmission, despite often being considered ineffective. This study analyses the variations in blood haematological parameters before and after PRRS immunisation, including RBC, HGB, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, and WBC. Fifteen pigs were included in the sample. Sampling was conducted two times from the same pigs: before PRRS vaccination and one month post-immunization. SPSS was used for the data analysis. A statistical study using SPSS showed no significant difference in blood hematology following the PRRS vaccination.

Religious Traditions in Balun-Turi Village, Lamongan: Representation of Religious and Cultural Harmony in Indonesia

This study aims to understand how the diversity of local religions and cultures in Balun-Turi Village, Lamongan, is reflected in religious traditions. Balun-Turi Village was chosen as a case study because it is a good representation of the religious and cultural diversity in Indonesia. The research methods used included data collection through direct observation, interviews, and analysis of related documents. The results of the study revealed that Balun-Turi Village has various rich and diverse religious traditions. These traditions include religious celebrations, rituals, and other religious practices carried out by various religious communities in the village. In these religious traditions, it is clear how the diversity of local religions and cultures is reflected. Data analysis showed that the religious traditions in Balun-Turi Village reflect harmony and tolerance among religions, which are characteristic of Indonesian society. Despite differences in beliefs and religious practices, the people of Balun-Turi Village live together peacefully and respect each other. This illustrates the cultural richness and religious tolerance that are integral parts of Indonesian society. These findings are important for localizing the study of religion in the Indonesian context, as they strengthen the understanding of the importance of religious and cultural diversity in building an inclusive and harmonious society. Additionally, this study emphasizes the importance of understanding and preserving local religious traditions in a broader context as part of efforts to preserve the cultural heritage of the nation. In conclusion, this study makes an important contribution to supporting local religious and cultural diversity and localizing the study of religion in the Indonesian context

A Directed Content Analysis: What are the spiritual needs for Muslim patients’ ongoing haemodialysis treatment?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly impacts patients' mental health, with dialysis often leading to psychological distress and depression. This qualitative study explored the spiritual needs of Muslim patients undergoing hemodialysis, utilizing semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis. Findings highlight the importance of religious rituals, practices, and spiritual support from healthcare professionals, family, and community in providing solace and optimism during medical treatment. The study emphasizes the significance of addressing spiritual needs in patient care to enhance health outcomes and quality of life for Muslim patients with CKD. This research contributes to the growing field of spirituality in healthcare.

İSLAM DƏYƏRLƏRİ VƏ MƏHƏMMƏD PEYĞƏMBƏRİN TƏRBİYƏ HAQQINDA KƏLAMLARI

Sayings From the Koran-Karim Related to Islamic Values, Teaching and Upbringing Summary The study once again proved that the Holy Quran is a source of education that schoolchildren, youth and adults will always turn to. In the physical, aesthetic, labor, moral and mental education of youth, Islamic values and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) can be widely used. The sayings of the Prophet are a powerful tool for shaping young schoolchildren into perfect individuals. Key words: Islamic values, religious ceremonies, sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, moral education, educational motives

«СЕФЕРНАМЕ» ИСМАИЛ БЕКА КУТКАШЕНЛЫ КАК ПЕРВОЕ В АЗЕРБАЙДЖАНСКОЙ ЛИТЕРАТУРЕ ПРОИЗВЕДЕНИЕ, НАПИСАННОЕ В ЖАНРЕ «ПУТЕВЫХ ЗАМЕТОК»

Ismail bey Kutkashenli's "Sefername" as the First Work in Azerbaijani Literature Written in the Genre of "Travel Notes" Summary In the article the creative work by outstanding Azerbaijani writer and publicist Ismayil bek Kutkashenli is spoken about. The author of article studied the work “Sefername” by I. Kutkashenli, analysed the main aspects of this work and points out that “Sefername” is the first work , written in genre of travelogue and it can be considered as source of very interesting information about the Hadj and all peculiarities of this pilgrimage, religious rituals and Arabian mode of life. Its also pointed out that all parts of “Sefername” are dedicated to different cities in Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and Arabian countries. The author also points out that “Sefername” wasn’t paid serious attention by researchers and should be studied from different aspects. Key words: I.Kutkashenli, “Sefername”, travelogue, pilgrimage, genre, Hadj, Middle East