Symbolic Role Research Articles

Thomas/Twin in the Fourth Gospel and the Gospel of Thomas: The Mesopotamian Background of an Early Christian Motif

This study examines the Thomas/twin motif in the Gospels of John and Thomas, which plays a significant role in each. By analyzing the motif’s meaning, deployment, and development in the two Gospels against Mesopotamian models, this study brings a fresh perspective to the much-debated topic of the Gospel of Thomas’s place of origin. This study demonstrates that Thomas betrays a knowledge of cuneiform polyvalence and argues that this corroborates the historical tradition that it originated in Mesopotamia. The findings also support the claim that the work is theologically sophisticated despite its disarming surface appearance. Similarly, Mesopotamian hermeneutics shed light on some enigmas of the Fourth Gospel’s symbolism, esotericism, and theology conveyed in the rhetorical and symbolic role of Thomas called Didymos. This study concludes that, in both Gospels, the figure of Thomas/twin is paradigmatic for every adherent of Jesus, but the Gospels have drawn on Mesopotamian sources in different ways.

Mityzacja świata przedstawionego w powieści Kroniki Eksplozji Yan Lianke

This article discusses the function of mythologisation in the fictional universe of The Explosion Chronicles by the Chinese writer Yan Lianke. The novel contains numerous references to phenomena and situations of a phantasmagorical nature, which at the same time bear the hallmarks of myth. Knowledge of the constitutive features of myth makes possible a more complete understanding of the function of the literary devices employed by Yan Lianke in the above-mentioned novel, as well as an analysis of the myth-forming elements at various levels of the creation of the fi ctional world, including the narrative, characters, time, and place. The article describes two types of narrative used in the novel and how they complement each other to reveal the absurdities of the Chinese reality to which the novel refers. The next part introduces Joseph Campbell’s concept of “masks” enveloped in his theory of myth, and explains how characters in the novel create their own or other people’s perceptions. The article also touches on the aspect of mythological time, explaining why the plot does not follow a logical time sequence, while elaborating on the symbolic meaning of the different seasons and the function of time inconsistencies in the novel. The last part of the article focuses on the place and space described in The Explosion Chronicles. The author of the article explains the role of Chinese symbolism in describing space, as well as the directions taken by certain characters, and use the concept of imago mundi to explain the signifi cance of mythical creation in relation to the characters’ sense of confusion in the dynamically developing city of Explosion.

Face consciousness: the impact of gift packaging shape on consumer perception

PurposeThis study aims to shed new light on the effect of gift packaging shape, specifically the distinction between horizontal and vertical orientations, on the face consciousness of both gift givers and recipients. The underlying mechanism of the main effect is examined, focusing on the perception of social status symbols. In addition, downstream outcome variables were included in the study to explore the effects of gift package shape on willingness to buy (WTB) and word-of-mouth (WOM) in the giver and receiver contexts, respectively. Furthermore, these effects were repeatedly verified in both China and the USA, revealing the significance of cultural differences. The study also investigated the moderating effects of an individual’s power state (low or high power) on the giver’s face consciousness.Design/methodology/approachSix studies were conducted to address the research objectives. Study 1 compared the gift givers’ face consciousness of a gift when presented with vertical package shapes versus horizontal. Subsequently, Study 2 investigated whether consumers’ perception of social status symbols mediates the effect of gift package shape on gift givers’ face consciousness. Study 3a expanded the conceptual model to include the downstream outcome variable of WTB in the context of gift-giving. Study 3b was validated with American participants, revealing the influence of cultural background differences on face consciousness. Study 4 introduced a gift-receiving context to investigate the chain-mediated effects of gift package shapes on consumer WOM. Lastly, Study 5 critically examined the boundary effect of personal power states on the interaction between the gift givers’ face consciousness and WTB.FindingsThe results indicate that gift givers and recipients attribute higher face consciousness to gifts with vertical package shapes compared to horizontal ones. In addition, consumers’ perception of gifts as status symbols was the underlying mechanism driving the impact of gift packaging shape on face consciousness. Furthermore, the face consciousness for gift packages of vertical shape was enhanced when people were in lower-power states as opposed to higher-power states, subsequently leading to an increase in the WTB.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited to an online virtual brand study; future field studies could be conducted to enhance the authenticity of the participants’ gift-giving experience and the overall external validity of the studies. In addition, gender-based stereotypes and the relationship between the giver and the receiver (transactional or intimate) may also influence the relationship between gift package shapes and face consciousness.Practical implicationsThe practical implications of this research focus on three points. First, gift brand managers should strategically employ vertical package shapes to signal high-end attributes and evoke face consciousness among consumers, aligning with the psychology of both givers and recipients. Second, managers must consider consumers’ power states in gift-giving scenarios, tailoring packaging recommendations to the dynamics between givers and recipients to maximize market share. Last, cultural differences in face consciousness, particularly between Asian and Western cultures, necessitate that managers adapt packaging designs to respect and enhance the social status of both givers and recipients in culturally sensitive ways. These findings underscore the importance of understanding and integrating consumer psychology, power dynamics, and cultural nuances into gift packaging strategies to boost market share.Originality/valueThe research contributes to understanding the impact of gift packaging shape on the perception of face consciousness among both gift givers and recipients. It highlights the mediating role of social status symbols and extends its scope by examining downstream effects such as WTB and WOM. It explores individual power states as a moderating factor, revealing how personal dynamics influence perceptions of face-saving consciousness. Also, the cross-cultural validation of these effects in China and the USA underscores the importance of considering cultural differences.

Barong Bulu Goak Dalam Kajian Teo Estetika Hindu

Barong Bulu Goak is a unique manifestation of culture and spirituality in Hindu society in Bali. Known for its rare and sacred presence, the Barong Bulu Goak attracts attention because it uses crow feather decoration, which is rarely used in other types of barong. This research aims to explore the theological and aesthetic depth surrounding Barong Bulu Goak in the context of Balinese culture. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach to explore the symbolic role, ritual and theological meaning of Barong Bulu Goak in Balinese society. The main focus of this research is to explore the Theo-Aesthetic aspects surrounding Barong Bulu Goak, relate it to Hindu theological concepts, and explore how the use of crow feathers as an aesthetic element influences aesthetic perception and experience. In the context of theo-aesthetics, this research explains how Hindu theological concepts related to Brahman and its manifestations in everyday life are combined with aesthetic experiences through performing arts. The results of the research present that Barong Bulu Goak shows a tendency in its appearance and rituals to exude beauty or Ramya Tattwa and also the Suwung Tattwa phase which reflects aspects of Balinese artistic aesthetics. The concept of ramya refers to the integrated beauty of make-up, movement, and rituals that attract attention and radiate feelings of joy and satisfaction in religious ceremonies. Suwung presents quiet moments that provide opportunities for spiritual reflection and deep appreciation of the presence of Barong Bulu Goak in the ritual until the peak of the experience is known as saktibhava, marking the moment where the ceremony participants feel connected spiritually which indicates the existence of Barong Bulu Goak is a creative expression which shows how spiritual and aesthetic life in the Hindu context can combine in a deep experience, giving rise to the power of spirituality in the perception of beauty.

Exploring the Role of symbolism in Reflecting the Social and Culture Values in M. Moustadraf's Blood Feast

Exploring the Role of symbolism in Reflecting the Social and Culture Values in M. Moustadraf's Blood Feast

Semiotic in Narrative of Video Games: A Case Study of Detention (2017)

The research studies the semiotic elements of video game narratives, with a particular emphasis on the critically acclaimed game Detention (2017). The game is renowned for its ability to intricately weave its narrative through a sophisticated interplay of signs and symbols. Semiotics, the study of signs and their meanings, provides a robust framework for understanding the layers of interpretation that enrich the interactive storytelling experience within video games. The study draws from the theoretical foundations established by influential semioticians such as Ferdinand de Saussure and Charles Sanders Peirce. By focusing on Detention, the research not only explores the game’s narrative but also delves into its historical and cultural context within Taiwan, offering a detailed analysis of its semiotic landscape. The central research questions address the narrative elements, the semiotic analysis of the game's settings, and the role of symbolism in video games, with a particular emphasis on how these elements enhance the depth and richness of the narrative. Adopting a qualitative methodology, the study utilizes Peirce's triadic model of sign classification to analyze the game. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to the understanding of how narrative, semiotics, and symbolism are intricately fused in video game design. The research is well-defined in its objectives and scope, acknowledging its limitations, and aims to bridge the gap between semiotic theory and the immersive world of video games.

Exploring Drama Therapy for Adolescents: A Study of Local Practices and Actions for Adolescents with Depressive Moods

<p>本研究主要探究運用戲劇治療於憂鬱情緒青少年的本土實踐經驗，研究方法採行動研究，結合「行動」與「研究」，歸納整理2003年至2019年研究者執行憂鬱情緒青少年戲劇治療團體方案的實踐經驗，依據使用不同的戲劇治療理論，將行動過程分四個階段：（1）心理劇階段：深入青少年創傷議題的處理；（2）自傳劇階段：催化青少年於舞台上演出生命故事；（3）復原力階段：運用戲劇復原力觀點，強化青少年的正向能力；（4）完備四個工作方法階段：培訓專業志工，完備憂鬱情緒青少年戲劇治療團體方案「以物抒情」、「以角體情」、「以己理情」與「以群展情」的四大工作方法。從四個工作階段的調整經驗得知，該方案以多重真實的內在結構平衡客觀真實的問題，同時處理個人主觀真實經驗，以自我對話與增能解決修復創傷的阻抗，並藉由四個工作方法在隱喻中弄假成真，有助於憂鬱情緒青少年重新連結個人的生命經驗。</p> <p> </p><p>This study explores the local practical experiences of drama therapy among adolescents suffering from depression. This study not only adopts the action research method, combining "action" and "research,” but also summarizes the practical experience of the researcher and a domestic foundation in cooperating with a drama therapy group program for depressed adolescents from 2003 to 2019. The content was analyzed through the researcher’s notes, interviews and records from the social worker in the group, interview records of the case managers from the domestic foundation, and group termination report and annual working report. With seventeen years of practical experience in implementing drama therapy group programs for adolescents with depression, the process can be divided into four stages according to the different drama therapy theories used. First, at the psychodrama stage, we delve deeply into adolescent trauma issues and deal with their effects. Second, at the autobiographical drama stage, we catalyze young people to perform their life stories on stage. Third, at the resilience stage, we use the perspective of drama resilience to strengthen the positive abilities of adolescents. After the aforementioned steps, we complete the four working methods in the final stage. We train professional volunteers and complete the four major tasks of the drama therapy group program for adolescents with depression, comprising "relieving emotions with objects,” "experiencing emotions with roles,” "organizing emotions with self," and "expressing emotions in groups.” In the “relieving emotions with objects” period, the researchers found that adolescents with depression could gradually become involved in groups with less burden and low participation. In the next period of “experiencing emotions with roles,” the researchers further focused their work on helping adolescents with depression get closer to their emotional experiences through virtual characters and stories. After the first two stages, the researchers noticed that the group gradually entered the core of the work. Thus, adolescents with depression gradually become willing to talk about themselves and build trusting relationships with their peers rather than remaining relatively withdrawn, uninterested, and in a low-energy state. Meanwhile, they can be further helped to express their thoughts about their feelings. Moreover, the researcher found that adolescents with depression were better able to talk about the trauma and pain of their past life experiences in the final stage. When members share their traumatic and painful experiences in a group, a common sense of pain among group members is established, and the connection between members is strengthened. From the adjustment of the four working stages of the drama therapy group program for depressed adolescents, the program balances real problem-solving and personal experience with the internal structure of multiple realities. Besides solving the resistance of repairing trauma with self-conversation and empowerment, as well as making the metaphor come true through four working methods, they all benefit adolescents with depression by reconnecting with their personal life experiences. Finally, this study provides three practical suggestions for drama therapy practitioners and youth practitioners. The suggestions mentioned that workers should consider the traumatic status and psychological intensity of the parties involved, evaluate the available resources, conditions, and the time the group can devote to work, and flexibly use different orientations of drama therapy techniques when assisting adolescents with depression. Additionally, catalyzing life stories with nontherapeutic activities and integrating new scripts through symbolic and metaphorical roles might engender some positive effects when conducting the project for adolescents with depression. For example, it can establish a stable base for the follow-up treatment and inner exploration of adolescents experiencing depression and also help them project their personal psychological reality, as well as explore and identify different aspects of themselves in the virtual and real worlds.</p> <p> </p>

Perishable material choice indicates symbolic and representational capacities.

The absence of symbolic material cultural objects in the archaeological record does not prove absence of symbolic cognition. Sometimes perishable materials are selected for symbolic roles, for practical concerns or to indicate a temporary condition. Also some symbolic functions may predate the use of durable materials. Finally, child play and artisan experimentations usually involve cheap and perishable materials. These are symbolic and representational activities that do not leave a material trace.

中国古代绘画中的文人袒裸形象研究 - 基于皮尔斯符号三分法视角

The portrayal of nude scholars occupies a distinctive position within the annals of Chinese art history, functioning not only as a representation of the scholars' quotidian lifestyles but also as a manifestation of their spiritual aspirations and philosophical doctrines. Nonetheless, extant scholarship has predominantly emphasized the surface-level visual representations, thereby neglecting an in-depth exploration of the underlying symbolic significances inherent in this imagery. This study employs a semiotic framework to elucidate the intricacies of the nude scholar motif as a cultural signifier and its emblematic functions within historical contexts. The primary objective is to dissect the symbolic roles of nude scholars across multiple dimensions utilizing Charles Sanders Peirce’s triadic sign theory—comprising icons, indexes, and symbols—to unveil the cultural ideologies encapsulated within these representations. Methodologically, this research integrates semiotic theory with empirical analyses of selected cases from ancient Chinese paintings, facilitating a stratified examination of the sign structures associated with nude scholars and their interpretative meanings within their cultural milieus. The findings indicate that the depiction of nude scholars, through iconography, mirrors the authentic states of scholarly existence, thereby embodying notions of liberty and nonconformity; as indexes, their integration with natural landscapes signifies the profound interrelationship between scholars and the natural world, advocating a lifestyle liberated from mundane constraints; and as symbols, the nude scholar transcends mere physical depiction to encapsulate the intellectual and emotional ethos of the scholars. The significance of this study lies in its contribution to the expansion of the symbolic paradigms within ancient Chinese painting through a semiotic lens, offering novel perspectives for traditional art historical research. Furthermore, the semiotic methodology not only enriches the comprehension of the nude scholar archetype but also furnishes a robust methodological framework for the interdisciplinary study of art history and cultural symbolism, thereby illuminating the complex interplay between symbols and cultural narratives in ancient Chinese art.

The impact of subjective social class on green consumption: the moderating role of status symbols

The impact of subjective social class on green consumption: the moderating role of status symbols

Environmental degradation and its symbolic representation in Nnedi Okorafor’s Lagoon

This paper investigates how Lagoon critiques environmental neglect, employing speculative fiction to engage with pressing ecological issues. Through an ecocritical lens, it emphasizes the novel’s call for reimagining humanity’s relationship with nature, advocating for sustainable futures rooted in both cultural and ecological resilience. Nnedi Okorafor’s Lagoon stands out as a landmark in African speculative fiction, blending elements of science fiction with sharp ecological and socio-political commentary. Set in Lagos, Nigeria, the novel vividly depicts environmental degradation, symbolized by the polluted waters of Bar Beach, as a microcosm of broader ecological crises. Through richly detailed descriptions of oil spills, marine life disruption, and urban pollution, Okorafor critiques human exploitation of natural resources and its devastating socio-economic and cultural consequences. The arrival of extraterrestrial beings introduces a speculative framework that critiques human inaction while envisioning pathways for ecological restoration. These aliens, capable of purifying polluted waters and reviving marine ecosystems, serve as a metaphor for humanity’s potential to reverse environmental harm through collective action and innovation. The novel also explores the symbolic role of water and marine life, portraying them as sites of both destruction and renewal. By examining the intersections of environmental degradation, governance, and resilience, Lagoon situates itself within the emerging field of African ecocriticism.

The Construction of Celebrity Persona in Variety Shows from the Perspective of Nonverbal Communication: A Case Study of Back to Field

Nonverbal symbols are widely used in various social contexts in daily life. In the context of variety shows, nonverbal symbols play a role in constructing celebrity personas and driving plot development. In an era dominated by short videos, the use of nonverbal symbols by some content creators has become more evident for segmented communication. Due to the inherent authenticity of nonverbal symbols, inconsistencies in their use within variety shows can lead to "persona collapse." This paper analyzes the role of nonverbal symbols in constructing celebrity personas within variety shows through case studies. Furthermore, it explores how the public's trust in information is influenced by various factors amid the widespread dissemination of information on short video platforms. The findings offer insights for the planning and performance of variety shows and the analysis of public opinion on the internet.

Public advocates, private advisors: the autonomy, function, and influence of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

US national expert advisory bodies related to science, technology, and innovation (STI) policy have a wide range of missions, governing structures, operational practices, cultures, and impact on federal policymaking. This paper offers an analytical framework for assessing the autonomy, function, and influence of of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), a federal advisory committee consisting of 30 elite scientists, engineers, and industry leaders appointed by and advising the president. We demonstrate that PCAST carries both a strong instrumental advisory role, providing substantive advice to White House STI policy development, and a significant symbolic advisory role, offering visible public support to presidential decisions and initiatives related to STI. However, we find that the council's engagement with either or both roles has shifted depending on its available resources, the policy agenda of the administration it serves, the level of presidential attention, and the priorities of council leadership. The paper concludes with recommendations to guide future PCASTs in fulfilling their mission and appropriately influencing US national STI policy.

THE ROLE OF MYTHOLOGICAL CREATURES IN THE C.S LEWIS’ THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE: EXPLORING SYMBOLISM AND THEMES

Literary works have always been influenced by mythological traditions, which offer a wealth of symbolism and thematic complexity. The research aims to analyse the novel's characters, themes, and symbols. With an emphasis on how the incorporation of mythological themes enriches the novel's moral and spiritual aspects, this research explores the function of literary tradition and mythology in C.S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The research uses a descriptive qualitative method. The steps for collecting and analysing data are reading the novel, categorizing and identifying the characters, and then analyse them. The study identifies eleven mythological characters and analyse their symbolic roles. The characters are Mr. Tumnus, The White Witch, Ginnarbrik, Mr. and Mrs Beavers, Maugrim, Santa Claus, Aslan, Centaurs, Giants, Dryads and Naiads, and Werewolf. The benefit of the research is to provide a greater knowledge of how mythology continues to impact modern literature and our understanding of human nature by evaluating the ways in which Lewis creates the characters and shapes the plot by drawing on mythical traditions.

Reflections of the Human Psyche: Analysing Animal Symbolism in Eugene O’Neill’s ‘The Hairy Ape’

This study critically examines Eugene O’Neill’s use of animal symbolism in his play The Hairy Ape, revealing its significance in understanding the complex themes of identity, power, and the dehumanizing effects of modern society. By analysing key scenes and characters, we demonstrate how animalistic imagery serves as a potent metaphor for human experience, enriching the play’s artistic and thematic depth. Our findings contribute to on-going discussions about the role of animal symbolism in literature, highlighting its capacity to address pressing social and existential questions. This study aims to inspire further research into animal symbolism in dramatic literature, reinforcing the enduring relevance of O’Neill’s work.

A theory of the symbolic role of disarmament during peace processes: The laying down of FARC-EP’s weapons in Colombia

Disarmament of non-state groups during peace processes is rarely comprehensive and weapons usually continue to circulate. Nevertheless, disarmament is a normal component of final peace agreements and its modalities are often intensely negotiated by all parties. We unpack the puzzle of why disarmament is seemingly both crucial and not completed by building a novel theory of its role as a symbol of the transformation from war to peace. In doing so, we build upon findings from conflict studies, social psychology, anthropology, and feminist research in order to explore what weapons and disarmament mean for combatants, their armed group, and communities impacted by conflict. We posit that after joining an armed group combatants are socially fused through ritual behavior which often features weapons, and disarmament functions as a symbolic inversion process in which the weapon is transformed into a symbol of peace. This inversion process is observable through language and acts, such as public destruction of arms or turning weapons into works of art. We empirically illustrate our propositions by examining the case of FARC-EP’s 2016–2017 disarmament in Colombia. Our theoretical framework pushes existing academic boundaries of war-to-peace transitions in general, and research on disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration in particular.

Application of Communication in The Metatah Traditional Ceremony in Bali

Traditional ceremonies in Bali are an important part of the culture and identity of its people. Communication in this traditional ceremony involves various elements such as symbols, movements, music, and ritual language rich in meaning. This research explores the dynamics of communication in Balinese traditional ceremonies, focusing on the role of symbols and rituals in transmitting values, norms, and cultural identity to future generations. This research uses a literature study method with a qualitative approach to explore communication in Balinese traditional ceremonies. Through the analysis of various literature sources, including books, articles, and related publications, this research gains deep insights into the role of communication in the context of Balinese culture. By integrating communication theory, cultural anthropology, and traditional ceremony studies, this research aims to depict the complexity of ritual and symbolic communication in Balinese traditional ceremonies and its impact on the sustainability of local culture. The ultimate goal is to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how communication plays a key role in preserving and strengthening cultural heritage.

Out of Time: Malfunctioning and Neglected Clocks and Watches in Dickens's Fiction

Abstract: Clocks and watches abound in Dickens's fiction and, oddly, a substantial number either malfunction or are abandoned. What is the significance of these ailing or discarded timepieces? Against a background of the increasing importance of objectively measured time in Victorian lives and business, this paper considers their symbolic roles in relation to the characters with which they are connected. Dickens's malfunctioning or disregarded clocks and watches are usually indicative of mental, physical or financial breakdown and often reveal the psychological state of their owners. Overwhelmingly, they are associated with impending ill fate and frequently with death. Invariably, they represent a challenge to or a disruption of the regular progress of life, whatever that might be. The paper explores in detail how Dickens uses the symbolic potential of these objects through textual analysis of a wide range of instances from the novels.

The Creativity of Ildar Abuzarov Through the Lens of Literary Criticism in the Context of Contemporary Russian-Language Literature

Abstract. This article examines the work of contemporary Russian writer Ildar Abuzarov through the lens of literary criticism. Ildar Abuzarov's writing is distinguished by its originality in narrative strategies, deep philosophical undertones, and symbolism, which allows for an analysis of his works from various literary approaches, such as structuralism, postmodernism, and intertextuality. Special attention is paid to issues of national and cultural identity, which are reflected in the plots and images created by the author. Drawing on the rich cultural traditions of Tatar and Russian literature, Ildar Abuzarov creates a unique literary world where mythological and modern motifs are seamlessly intertwined. The role of symbolism and mythology in his works is explored, along with the distinctive features of his poetics, expressed through the use of archetypes, allusions, and metaphors. The article analyzes key studies on Abuzarov's work, focusing on the genre and stylistic characteristics of his texts. Researchers demonstrate how Abuzarov, through formal experimentation, expands the boundaries of traditional storytelling, creating texts that can be interpreted as postmodern, with their characteristic multiplicity of meanings and openness to interpretation. In addition, the article explores the philosophical and existential aspects of Abuzarov's prose, which are manifested through his characters' search for the meaning of life, self-identification, and confrontation with the metaphysical uncertainty of the world. Based on the analysis conducted, it is concluded that Ildar Abuzarov’s work occupies an important place in contemporary literature due to its multilayered nature and richness of interpretations, making it of significant interest to literary scholars.

Forests, woods and saké: Analysis of constructing premium with terroir

This study focused mainly on the micro-organisms that affect quality in the sake production process and the wooden barrels (Ki-Oke) in which they live, and analysed their potential to achieve economic differentiation, like terroir in wine. The French term terroir is a concept in the world of alcoholic beverages, enabling products to differentiate themselves from mass-products and rise above price competition. High-end French wines leverage terroir for economic differentiation, encouraging competition avoidance. In this paper, historical development of Saké and forests or wood are elucidated. Conventionally, Saké production involves unique elements to local or contexts including ingredients of water, micro-organism of Koji or modus of productions such as Kimoto. Furthermore, forests as surrounding environment and woods in forms of barrels serve both functional and symbolic roles. Frequently, narratives and storytelling of the Saké encompass soil, location, and climate, which parallels wine. The Japanese saké industry, mirroring high-end wine culture, relies on storytelling, distinguishing itself through rice, water, and microorganisms. Water's role, especially the transition from soft to hard water in Nada, holds historical significance. Wooden barrels (Ki-Oke) are vital, emphasizing "microorganism terroir" and region-specific differentiation, aligning saké with wine in understanding terroir. Historically, saké relied on vertical differentiation based on rice polishing ratios, akin to New World wine. Balancing scientific control with tradition presents challenges, risking homogenization of specific names. The future trajectory diverges between luxury, emphasizing microbial terroir, and potential commoditization, questioning strategic utilization of high-quality sectors and the balance between tradition and innovation. The dichotomy lies in emphasizing microbial terroir through wooden barrels or potential homogenization of specific names, raising questions about strategic utilization, balance between tradition and innovation, and unique challenges faced by the saké industry Ongoing research explores contemporary scientific techniques, fermenting wood cellulose into alcohol, potentially introducing new premium sakés celebrating the essence of forests and creating new dimension of terrior. . Such linkages to culture in ancient brewing practices provide authority and legitimacy for the to the sake.