Religious Transformation Research Articles

Renaissance humanism and Martin Luther: The birth of nation‐states

AbstractThis article explores the interaction between Renaissance humanism and Martin Luther's Reformation in fostering the emergence of nation‐states in Europe. It argues that the emphasis on individualism, critical thinking, and a return to classical ideals during the Renaissance provided a fertile ground for Luther's challenge to the Catholic Church's authority. Luther's Reformation, with its focus on Scripture and a direct relationship between believer and God, further eroded the Church's control and transnational influence. This convergence of intellectual and religious transformations created a space for the development of distinct national identities and the consolidation of power by European monarchs. The article will examine how these movements challenged the existing political and religious order, ultimately contributing to the rise of nation‐states as the dominant political entity in Europe.

Mabat, Yael. Sacrifice and Regeneration. Seventh-day Adventism and Religious Transformation in the Andes. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 2022, 289 pp.

Mabat, Yael. Sacrifice and Regeneration. Seventh-day Adventism and Religious Transformation in the Andes. Lincoln: University of Nebraska Press, 2022, 289 pp.

Development in Spirit: Religious Transformation and Everyday Politics in Vietnam’s Highlands. By Seb Rumsby

Development in Spirit: Religious Transformation and Everyday Politics in Vietnam’s Highlands. By Seb Rumsby

"I proto, že jsem nekopal roli srdce svého"

This article carries on from the analysis of the "religious culture" of Würtemberg Lutheran pietism offered by Ulrike Gleixner, and is based on the theoretical concepts of culture used in Anthropological History and New Cultural History. Gleixner´s study shows the central importance in religious culture that "rebirth in the Holy Spirit" had for the thematisation of the self among 18th-century pietists. The question is whether we might find similar cultural categories serving as instruments of thematisation of the self in the "religious culture" of 18th-century Czech non-Catholics, who were partially influenced by Lutheran pietism. The article is focused on the analysis of a number of selected sources (especially the letters of the Czech serf Matěj Němeček of 1732, in which he gives reasons for his departure into Protestant exile), and it considers how the categories of "rebirth", the "heart" and "conscience" are treated. While Němeček does not speak directly of "rebirth", in the way that he describes himself we can find equivalents to rebirth that in a certain sense show a sectarian character (he regards a secular promise as sinful, the religious transformation of the self needs to be affirmed by emigration to a non-Catholic country, and this is understood as a work of salvation).

Jains in Switzerland

Abstract There are 120 Jains living in Switzerland today. Desiring to exchange information about their religion and to expand their knowledge, they started to meet in 2008. This initiated a community-building process in which Jains of different branches took part. Such a process, as well as the diaspora situation itself, is always connected with negotiations and religious transformations, which is also evident in the Swiss context. Following the common meetings, a distinct form of Jainism was created in Switzerland. This new form is supradenominational and universal and based on aspects such as vegetarianism, environmentalism, and nonviolence. Additionally, the Swiss Jains developed new strategies of knowledge transfer. This article focuses on not only the formation of a Swiss Jain community but also its dissolution as no common gatherings have taken place since 2016. Therefore, factors are named that can lead to the dissolution of a community.

International Relations in the Conditions of Historical, Political and Religious Transformations in the Qajar State

The presented article examines the religious factor in the domestic policy of Catherine II and the Babid uprising in the socio-political life of the Qajar State. The influence of Russian foreign policy on the South Caucasus is explored; relations between Russia and the Azerbaijani khanates; foreign policy and diplomacy of Agha Mohammed Qajar and the Qajar princes. The historical, political and religious processes in the Qajar State from the late 18th to the mid-19th centuries are analyzed, echoing the modern situation in Iran, both in domestic and foreign policy. An objective study of these problems by an Azerbaijani scientist is a kind of contribution to the scientific thought of the Middle East. The history of the Qajar State in the context of the political interests of the state, interpreted with a religious factor, lifts the veil from the former theological experience of suppression of secular power by religious, which the Qajars had to reckon with in the late Middle Ages. The paradox is that this factor is present in modern Iran, which is why internal unrest occurs, which affects foreign policy relations with secular Azerbaijan, professing Shiism and other cultural countries. More recently, a series of events in the issue of the Azerbaijani-Armenian conflict and Iran’s support for Armenia sowed the seeds of hostility between Azerbaijan and Iran. But conceptual logic dictated an orientation towards peace and cooperation, the key factors of which were the strengthening of vector logical and economic ties under the North-South project along the western coast of the Caspian Sea and the launch of the Rasht-Astara railway line.

An Archaeological Exploration on Religious Change in Liwa, West Lampung

Mountains, hills, and highlands have long been venerated in ancient beliefs as the dwelling places of deities. West Lampung, with its sacred sites, is a prime example of such places. These sites, evidenced by numerous archaeological findings, have recorded the evolution of religious significance over time. This study aims to explore the transformation of these sacred sites and their contemporary interpretations. The main objective of this research is to explore the progression of religious shift in Liwa, West Lampung. By examining archaeological records from 2011 to 2018, this study constructs chronological narrative of the region’s early religious history. The findings reveal four prevalent patterns that encapsulate the religious transformations from the 10th to the 19th centuries. These patterns, derived from archaeological data and supplemented by contextual and historical analysis, indicate a shift in religious practices in this region. This shift aligns with Lewis Rambo’s model of religious change in a macro context, characterized by encounter, interaction, communication and subsequent consequences. This study, therefore, provides valuable insights into the dynamic nature of religious practices and beliefs in Liwa over centuries.

Hester’s Private Religion of the Heart: Theocracy and Secularism in The Scarlet Letter (1851)

The Scarlet Letter, Hawthorne’s highly political magnum opus, is concerned with the struggle of its heroine against the overarching Puritan patriarchy, and relates her resistance, denial and finally her reconciliation with the society that had outcast and defamed her. This paper examines the religious transformation in The Scarlet Letter, particularly in its protagonist, Hester Prynne according to the dialectic of subversion and containment. While the Puritan society condemns her acts, Hester subverts aspects of this religious theocracy and contains them in a new light. These points of subversion and containment are the critical focus of this study, as espoused by new historicist Stephen Greenblatt and cultural materialist Jonathan Dollimore. Hester’s subversions include her resilience against the presumption that she has committed a sin, the consecration of her own actions, criticism of predestination and doctrine of grace. Alternatively, her containments present the reader with an alternative political vision that embraces freedom of conscience and individual religion of the heart. Ultimately, this essay argues that Hester, by the end of the tale, displaces the Puritan theocracy and envisions a secular society in which a privatized sphere of activity is granted to individuals to exercise their political and religious liberties.

Intuition, Rebellion and Tradition

Neopagans in Mexico City started to communitise only about 20 years ago. An initial analysis of related interview material shows that the narratives they develop about their first contact with neopagan content and their access to the field are framed as a conversion-like process, often connoted as a home-coming or a rebellion against predominant Catholicism. Both narratives are usually mixed with a notion of intuition that led to their further involvement in neopagan groups. Nevertheless, Mexican “folk magic” and vernacular healing traditions, Afro-American religions, and the flourishing esoteric scene in the Mexican capital are already offering links to beliefs and practices that are common in neopaganism, like ritualised ways to interact with transcendent entities, magic, and ideas of an “otherworld”. This raises various questions related to the underlying dynamics, in brief: how do heterogeneous sociohistorical situations influence emerging religious fields like the neopagan one in the Mexican capital, and how do these interactions shape personal religious transformation processes in the wider context of glocalisation, transcultural dynamics, digitalisation and the diversification of the religious field overall? In the light of Adler’s (1979) influential concept of home-coming and Luhrmann’s (1989) theory of the interpretative drift, it remains clear that becoming neopagan is rarely understood as a conversion, and therefore the two contested theoretical approaches are discussed critically and in relation to conversion. Using a grounded theory approach and thus emphasising the emic perspectives of my interviewees, I show how they construct their first encounter narratives and frame them as intuition, rebellion, or tradition, considering the underpinning sociocultural circumstances.

Development in Spirit: Religious Transformation and Everyday Politics in Vietnam’s Highlands, written by Seb Rumsby

Development in Spirit: Religious Transformation and Everyday Politics in Vietnam’s Highlands, written by Seb Rumsby

The Chilean Christians for Socialism Movement: Liberationist, Third Worldist, and Utopian

Abstract This article examines the emergence, consolidation, and influence of the Cristianos por el Socialismo (CpS, or Christians for Socialism) movement as part of the overlapping political and religious transformations of the 1960s. The election of self-declared Marxist Salvador Allende in 1970 inspired a sector of the clergy to creatively converge the tenets of Marxism and Christianity. The notion of transcendence and the construction of a “New Man” appealed to the utopian aspects of both religious and Marxist thinking. The Chilean CpS had a Latin American impact, as evidenced by the First Latin American Encounter of Christians for Socialism in Santiago in 1972, and a transnational impact, as seen in the formation of the Ecumenical Association of Third World Theologians in 1976. The analysis of CpS and its influence within and outside of Chile reveals an often-overlooked component of the Chilean road to socialism: the work of Catholics in Marxist-Christian rapprochement.

Syncretism and Cultural Resilience: The Coexistence and Evolution of Traditional Itolimin and Christian Burial Practices in Esanland, Nigeria

Purpose of the Study: This research aims to uncover how traditional second burial rites coexist with and have adapted to Christian funeral norms, reflecting the socio-religious negotiation in a postcolonial context. Methodology: Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study gathered data through semi-structured interviews with local chiefs, elders, and adults, alongside observations and an extensive review of related literature. Participants were selected based on their deep knowledge of Esan customs and involvement in the Itolimin practice. Main Findings: The study revealed that Itolimin, while embracing certain Christian elements, remains a vital cultural practice that reinforces the community's moral and social order. The rite's evolution showcases the Esan people's ability to blend traditional and Christian values, thereby preserving their cultural identity amidst religious changes. This syncretism illustrates the community's broader cultural resilience and adaptation approach in a rapidly changing religious landscape. Applications of this Study: Insights from this study apply to the broader discourse on funeral practices in postcolonial societies, providing a framework for cultural preservation amidst religious transformation. It is relevant for policymakers and public health officials regarding community health and burial practices. The findings also offer a basis for developing contextual theological education that respects indigenous beliefs within Christian teachings. Novelty/Originality: This study provides a unique contribution to the understanding of funeral rituals within African postcolonial societies by documenting the living tradition of Itolimin. It highlights how syncretism acts as a dynamic cultural force, shaping the way communities like the Esan negotiate identity and religious practice in a contemporary Christian-dominated context.

Religious Transformations in New Communities of Interpretation in Europe (1350–1570): Bridging the Historiographical Divides ed. by Élise Boillet, and Ian Johnson (review)

Religious Transformations in New Communities of Interpretation in Europe (1350–1570): Bridging the Historiographical Divides ed. by Élise Boillet, and Ian Johnson (review)

Christianization, Islamization, and Judaization in Jerusalem

Throughout its history, the region of the Middle East has been marked by significant religious transformations, including the processes of Christianization, Islamization, and Judaization. Jerusalem, as a city sacred to the main religions of the Abrahamic faiths, stands as a compelling case study for examining these processes, given its unique holiness and the historical confrontations among these religions in the region. This study introduces Jerusalem as a focal point for analyzing the dynamics of each of these processes, tracing the emergence of the first communities of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam within this city. Through this examination, the study underscores both the similarities and differences among these transformative processes that unfolded in Jerusalem. The historical timeline of these processes in Jerusalem reveals that Christianization was the earliest to be implemented during Roman rule, followed by Islamization in the Medieval age, and, finally, Judaization in the modern era, which continues to the present day. Each of these processes can be distinguished by two distinct stages of application in Jerusalem, each leaving its impact on the city's demographics, resulting in the dominance of the majority population associated with the respective religion. Moreover, these transformations were accompanied by significant shifts in language, reflecting the cultural changes that took place. In addition to demographic and linguistic shifts, this study delves into other similarities and differences, shedding light on the evolution of Jerusalem's religious identity. Jerusalem serves as an illustrative example for other cities in the Middle East that have experienced religious shifts primarily linked to the Abrahamic faiths, showcasing the complex interplay of history, religion, and culture in shaping the identity of these cities over time.

Emerging Architectural Paradigms in South Indian Temples: A Chronological Analysis

This research delves into the intricate evolution of Indian temple architecture, spanning centuries of cultural and religious transformations. Originating in the Vedic/Aryan civilization, worship centered on natural elements with a simple square altar. A pivotal shift occurred with the introduction of idol worship, marking the genesis of temple architecture evolution. Initially, rock-cut structures featured a garbagriha and semi-open portico, retaining the windowless garbagriha from rock-cut temples. The Chalukya era saw experimentation, notably at Durga in Aihole and Pattadakal, earning the latter the title "Cradle of temple architecture" due to Nagara and Dravida style exploration. Pallavas contributed to the Dravidian vimana prototype, as seen in Mahabalipuram's monolithic rathas. Cholas refined the vimana, erecting the Brihadeshwara temple in Tanjore with a mortar-less construction. Pandyas added Gopurams, reflecting emotional ties. Hoysalas introduced star temples with intricate carvings, featuring single to multiple garbagrihas in various styles. The Vijayanagara era introduced Amman temples and Kalyana mantapas. Nayakas refined Dravidian architecture with concentric prakaras and tall gopurams. In the 20th century, transformative shifts like the Isha Center in Coimbatore embody inclusivity, challenging traditions, and fostering diverse spiritual environments. Key Words: Indian temple architecture, Cultural transformations, religious evolution, vedic/Aryan civilization, rock-cut structures.

Inter- and intra-religious appropriation

Moluccan people arrived in the Netherlands in 1951, as a result of the complicated process of the decolonization of Indonesia. A situation of permanent waiting and political disappointment resulted in this growing Moluccan community remaining. The Moluccan Protestant church reflects the migration experience and generational developments. The Moluccan churches face a decrease in membership and a lack of youth. The Malay language, the adherence to strict, liturgical rules and the unchanging, ‘old-fashioned’ character are possible causes. The challenges result in transformations of the Moluccan Protestant landscape. Moluccan Christians move to evangelical denominations. Here, they appreciate another style of worship against the background of traditional religious roots that cross into the ethnic-cultural domain. In turn, Moluccan Protestant churches experiment with bi- or tri-lingual services and hymns, with a broader range of instruments that accompany congregational singing (including trad-itional Moluccan instruments) and with different styles of song and service. This article discusses the appropriation or borrowing of practices within the Moluccan Protestant landscape. I aim to shed light on generational differences, relations and conflicts. I argue that both inter- and intra-religious borrowing as appropriation is a helpful perspective for analysing religious transformation and embodied religiosity.

Reconstructing Postcolonial Identity: A Comparative Analysis of Cultural Hybridity in Salman Rushdie’s Novels with a Focus on the South Asian Context

Salman Rushdie’s novels, including Midnight’s Children, The Satanic Verses, and The Ground Beneath Her Feet, offer profound insights into postcolonial identity in South Asia. This analysis explores the themes of cultural hybridity, religious transformation, and globalization, revealing the complex nature of identity negotiation in a postcolonial context. Beginning with an overview of postcolonial identity and the significance of cultural hybridity, the analysis focuses on Midnight’s Children, illustrating characters navigating the synthesis of diverse cultural elements in post-independence India. The theme of cultural hybridity becomes a lens for understanding the shifting nature of identities in the wake of historical changes. The Satanic Verses extends the examination to religious hybridity, revealing the transformative impact of religious experiences on individual and societal identities. The novel becomes a profound exploration of the intersections between religion, identity, and cultural conflict within the South Asian context. In The Ground Beneath Her Feet, the analysis delves into globalization and cultural fusion as transformative forces shaping South Asian identity. Characters navigate the tension between local traditions and global influences, offering a nuanced representation of South Asian identity in a transnational world. Within the South Asian context, the analysis scrutinizes cultural diversity, the impact of colonialism, and Rushdie’s nuanced representation of identity. The novels become a literary mirror reflecting the kaleidoscope of cultures, languages, and histories that define South Asia, challenging stereotypes and embracing the fluid, hybrid nature of postcolonial identities. Salman Rushdie’s novels contribute significantly to the discourse on postcolonial identity. Themes of cultural hybridity, religious transformation, and globalization collectively offer a profound exploration of the complexities inherent in identity formation in the postcolonial era. This comparative analysis invites readers to navigate the intricate terrain of postcolonial identities, transcending boundaries and embracing the richness of a world shaped by diverse cultural influences.

Exploring Religious Transformations Amidst the Russia–Ukraine Conflict: Insights from Theory and Practice

Exploring Religious Transformations Amidst the Russia–Ukraine Conflict: Insights from Theory and Practice

Humanist marriage ceremonies in Poland: re-enchantment and four social constructions of the sacred

ABSTRACT The article is based on empirical research on humanist (individualized and mostly secular) weddings conducted in Poland between the years 2016 and 2020. As an emerging new form of civic rituality, humanist marriage ceremonies affect the ritual landscape of Poland, and by doing so they change the status quo. One can perceive their appearance as a sign of secularization and detachment from the institutionalized religion of the dominant Catholic Church, but also other religious transformations encompassed by the term of re-enchantment, such as the emergence of less formalized, alternative spiritualities, and changes in the field of institutionalized religion, namely its privatization. In my analysis, I go beyond such binaries as religious/secular, sacred/profane, sacred/secular and demonstrate that humanist wedding ceremonies deploy four different kinds of the sacred (the character of these categories is analytical rather than substantial): religious-sacred; nonreligious-sacred; spiritual-sacred and secular-sacred.

Yael Mabat, Sacrifice and Regeneration: Seventh-Day Adventism and Religious Transformation in the Andes Nebraska University Press, 2022, xxv + 289 pp.

Yael Mabat, Sacrifice and Regeneration: Seventh-Day Adventism and Religious Transformation in the Andes Nebraska University Press, 2022, xxv + 289 pp.