Spiritual Life Research Articles

Theological analysis of women’s roles in black reformed churches of Soutpansberg

The prohibition on women leading worship services and serving as elders, deacons and reverends in many black reformed churches in the Synod Soutpansberg remains a major concern. Adherence to traditional gender standards not only perpetuates gender disparities but also limits women’s full participation and contributions inside the church. It is critical to address this issue in order to foster a more inclusive and egalitarian church culture. This scholarly inquiry tries to call into question the existing restrictions and redefine the roles given to genders within these religions by looking at the theological, cultural, and historical roots that support these gender-based exclusions. The inspiration for this research stems from the need to align church activities with current ideas about gender equality and justice. This study seeks to empower women and improve the spiritual and communal life of the church by thoroughly examining present gender roles and proposing alternative frameworks for inclusion, such as allowing women to lead worship services and serve as elders, deacons and reverends. The study employed a literary study, which comprised a thorough review of existing literature on gender roles in religious settings. This entailed examining church documents that define contemporary practices and beliefs, and theological writings that provide theological support for these practices. Contribution: This study has enormous implications as it has the ability to influence the gender dynamics in the black reformed churches of the Synod Soutpansberg. This work contributes significantly to the field of gender studies in religion by challenging established boundaries and pushing for more inclusive practices.

Approaches to Mental Health by US Catholic Dioceses: A Narrative Review and Commentary

Mental health is an increasing area of concern for the Catholic Church in the United States, as evidenced by the 2023 launch of a National Mental Health Campaign by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. Through an analysis of Catholic diocesan websites, this paper reviews how mental health is approached at the diocesan level in the US and then offers a commentary. Most diocesan websites display minimal information about mental health; several offer counseling services; some primarily provide resources; others have mental health ministries; a handful focus on spiritual healing; and two dioceses place information about mental health and demonic activity next to each other. While most dioceses conceptualize mental unhealth as mental illness, others emphasize disability, communal, or spiritual frameworks. Two pastoral letters by bishops emphasize the need for a distinctly Catholic framework. These varied approaches reflect the historical debate within American Catholicism about psychiatry and psychology. The review also reveals the need for further reflection upon the role of biology and the spiritual life in mental health, the relationship of the individual and communal dimensions of mental health, the potential overlap between mental disorders and disabilities, and the notion that mental health exists on a spectrum.

Fungsi Worldview Islam dalam Kehidupan Seorang Muslim

The Islamic worldview (worldview Islam) serves as a foundational framework shaping the perspective, life orientation, and behavior of a Muslim in all aspects of existence. A deep understanding and application of the Islamic worldview are essential to ensure that every dimension of spiritual, social, economic, and political life aligns with principles derived from the Qur’an and Sunnah. This article aims to elaborate on the fundamental functions of the Islamic worldview in character formation, behavioral guidance, and the direction of a Muslim’s life purpose. Utilizing a library research method, the study finds that the Islamic worldview plays a critical role in establishing firm ʿaqīdah (creed), guiding a holistic way of thinking, and serving as a reference for decision-making grounded in Divine values. Moreover, the Islamic worldview provides a strong moral foundation for confronting the challenges of modernity and globalization. Therefore, the proper internalization of the Islamic worldview functions as both an ideological and spiritual basis for realizing a meaningful life that earns the pleasure of Allah SWT.

JOURNEY FROM IMPRISONMENT TO REFORMATION OF PERSONS DEPRIVED OF LIBERTY: A MULTI-CASE STUDY

<p>This multi-case study investigated the lived experiences of transformation of the seven PDLs assigned at the Davao Prison and Penal Farm. Frequent, in-depth interviews chronicled participants' distinctive paths and formative experiences as they sought personal transformation while in prison. Four main themes were found through the analysis: lived experiences, personal difficulties, ways of coping, and significant insight. Participants described not being able to drink their worries away, of feeling sad, and that they could not move as they wished. In reaction, they utilized a variety of coping strategies, including coming to terms with their circumstances, praying, participating in leisure activities, abiding by the inner rules of the prison, engaging in rehabilitation activities, and enhancing their spiritual life. Over time, they came to important realizations: learning to accept their reality, using their time more purposefully, obeying the law, avoiding conflict, and showing respect to those around them. These realizations became instrumental in their ongoing reformation. The study underscored how deeply personal and multifaceted the rehabilitation process is within correctional environments. It called attention to the need for supportive, reform-focused settings that foster emotional strength, discipline, and moral growth. Ultimately, the findings offered meaningful insights into how incarceration can become a turning point for positive change—and how prison systems can better support that transformation.</p><p> </p><p><strong>SDG Indicator: 16 </strong>(Justice, Peace, and Strong Institutions)</p><p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0116/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Birds and People in Medieval Bulgaria—A Review of the Subfossil Record of Birds During the First and Second Bulgarian Empires

For the first time, the numerous scattered data on birds (wild and domestic) have been collected based on their medieval bone remains discovered on the modern territory of the Republic of Bulgaria. The collected information is about a total of 37 medieval settlements from the time of the First and Second Bulgarian Empires. Among the settlements studied are both the two medieval Bulgarian capitals (Pliska and Veliki Preslav), as well as other cities, smaller settlements, military fortresses, monasteries, and inhabited caves. The data refer to a total of 48 species of wild birds and 6 forms of domestic birds of 11 avian orders: Accipitriformes, Anseriformes, Ciconiiformes, Columbiformes, Falconiformes, Galliformes, Gruiformes, Otidiformes, Passeriformes, Pelecaniformes, and Strigiformes. The established composition of wild birds amounts to over one tenth (to 11.5%) of the modern avifauna in the country. Five of the established species (10.4%) have disappeared from the modern nesting avifauna of the country—the bearded vulture, the great bustard, the little bustard, the gray crane, and the saker falcon (the latter two species have reappeared as nesters in the past few years). First Bulgarian Empire (681–1018): Investigated settlements—22. Period covered—five centuries (7th to 11th c.). Found in total: at least 44 species/forms of birds, of which 39 species of wild birds and 5 forms of poultry. Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396): Investigated settlements—15. Period covered—3 centuries (12th to 14th c.). Found in total: at least 39 species/forms of birds, of which 33 species of wild birds and 6 forms of poultry. The groups of raptors, water, woodland, openland, synanthropic and domestic birds were analyzed separately. The conclusion was made that during the two periods of the Middle Ages, birds had an important role in the material and spiritual life of the population of the Bulgarian lands. Birds were mainly used for food (domestic birds), although some were objects of hunting. No traces of processing were found on the bones. Birds were subjects of works of applied and monumental art. Their images decorated jewelry, tableware, walls of buildings and other structures.

TRANSFORMASI PENDIDIKAN AGAMA KRISTEN SEPANJANG SEJARAH GEREJA-GEREJA

Christian religious education has undergone significant transformations throughout church history. From the apostolic era to the modern age, Christian religious education has evolved and adapted to social, cultural, and theological changes. This article will examine the transformation of Christian religious education throughout church history, focusing on changes in the goals, methods, and content of Christian religious education. The transformation of Christian Religious Education (PAK) is a historical and theological process that takes place along with the church's journey in responding to the social, political, and cultural contexts throughout the ages. This study aims to trace significant changes in PAK from the Early Church era to the contemporary era. With a qualitative, historical, and theological approach, this study explores the dynamics of Christian faith education through a review of primary and secondary literature, as well as an analysis of church history documents. Each period in church history brings different educational models and approaches. The Early Church emphasized oral tradition and living communities, the Middle Ages emphasized church authority and clerical education, the Reformation opened access to Scripture and general literacy, while the modern and contemporary eras face the challenges of secularization and digitalization. From this journey, it can be seen that relevant PAK is one that is rooted in the Gospel and at the same time responsive to changes in the times. As stated by Dr. Jan S. Aritonang, "Church history is a reflection of how believers struggle to shape spiritual life, including in faith education in the midst of a changing world." Therefore, this study aims to Research Objectives, Analyze the development of PAK from the early church era to the modern church. Identifying internal and external factors that influence the transformation of PAK. Developing practical implications for the development of contemporary PAK based on church history.

Urinary incontinence and subjective well-being among Chinese old adults: the multiple mediation effect of social participation and sleep quality

BackgroundChina has become an aging country. The subjective well-being of the older people is one of the important indicators to measure the health and quality of life of the older people, and it is a concentrated reflection of the overall spiritual life of the older people. Therefore, to achieve successful aging, this study aimed to examine the sequential multiple mediating effects of social participation and sleep quality between urinary incontinence and subjective well-being in the Chinese older people population.MethodsBased on the 2018 China Longitudinal Health and Longevity Survey (CLHLS) dataset, a total of 10,068 Chinese seniors aged 65 and above were selected. First, the basic socio-demographic characteristics of the sample population were described. Second, Spearman correlation analysis was conducted to examine the associations among urinary incontinence, social participation, sleep quality, and subjective well-being in older adults. Finally, sequential multiple mediation analysis was performed using the SPSS macro PROCESS 4.0 to assess the potential mediating roles of social participation and sleep quality.ResultsUrinary incontinence, social participation, sleep quality, and subjective well-being were significantly correlated (P < 0.01). Urinary incontinence is not only directly associated with the subjective well-being of the older people (effect = 0.9195;) Standard error = 0.1572; 95%CI: LL = 0.6115, UL = 1.2276), and also through the independent mediating effect of social participation (effect = 0.1508; Standard error = 0.0180; 95%CI: LL = 0.1178, UL = 0.1880), the independent mediating effect of sleep quality (effect = 0.2046; Standard error = 0.0495; 95%CI: LL = 0.1067, UL = 0.3004), the chain mediating effect between social participation and sleep quality (effect = 0.3670; Standard error = 0.0531; 95%CI: LL = 0.2601, UL = 0.4720) was associated with subjective well-being.ConclusionsStudies have shown that the social participation and sleep quality of older people in China can mediate the connection between urinary incontinence and subjective well-being. Therefore, it is necessary to pay timely attention to and intervene in the social participation and sleep quality of older patients with urinary incontinence to improve their subjective well-being.

Tracing the Traces of Culture Acculturation and Islamic Values: Sacred Traditions of the Dukuh Dalam Traditional Village Community in Cikelet Garut

&lt;em&gt;This study aims to explore the Islamic values contained in the traditions of the people of Kampung Adat Dukuh Dalam in Cikelet District, Garut Regency. This study is important because the traditions of indigenous peoples are often considered mere cultural heritage, whereas in the context of Kampung Adat Dukuh Dalam, these traditions are a direct reflection of the Islamic value system integrated in social and spiritual life. Using a qualitative approach with a descriptive method, this research examines the history of Kampung Adat Dukuh Dalam, the variety of traditions that have developed, and the Islamic values contained in the traditions as a guide to life. The results show that the people of Kampung Adat Dukuh Dalam live within the framework of customs sourced from the teachings of Islam brought by Sheikh Abdul Jalil. Islamic values are reflected in the form of daily, monthly, and annual traditions that are full of aqidah, worship, and moral values. In the midst of the swift flow of modernization and external influences, the community is still able to maintain its cultural identity by filtering external influences based on the principles of Islamic teachings. They reject elements that contradict the Shari'ah, and adopt those that are in line through the preservation of traditions, faith-based non-formal education, and the strengthening of communities based on Islamic values.&lt;/em&gt;

The Tradition of Grave Pilgrimage Among the Sasak People as a Medium of Transcendental Communication (An Ethnographic Study of Loang Baloq, Ketak, and Pancor Graves)

This study was driven by the limited scholarly attention given to grave pilgrimage as a medium of transcendental communication, despite its vital role in preserving spiritual and cultural life. Focusing on the Sasak community of Lombok, the research explored how transcendental communication is conceptualized and enacted through grave pilgrimage at three sacred sites: Loang Baloq, Ketak, and Pancor. The study examined the spiritual, cultural, and social motivations behind these practices, as well as the role of ritual expressions and the Sasak language in facilitating a deeper divine connection. Employing a qualitative ethnographic design, data were collected from 25 informants, including grave custodians, long-term pilgrims, and religious leaders selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Data collection methods included participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation, with thematic analysis conducted using the Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña model. Triangulation and member checking ensured validity. Findings revealed that grave pilgrimage among the Sasak serves as a wasilah (spiritual medium) through which individuals seek proximity to Allah by invoking the presence of pious ancestors. The use of the Sasak language in ritual acts such as dhikr, du’a, Qur’anic recitation, and Hizib Nahdlatul Wathan enhanced emotional and spiritual engagement. Motivations for pilgrimage included hajat (spiritual petitions), contemplation of mortality, and the intergenerational transmission of religious and cultural values. The study concludes that Sasak grave pilgrimage represents a syncretic practice that integrates Islamic teachings with local cultural heritage. It offers theoretical contributions to the field of religious communication and practical insights for cultural preservation, spiritual tourism, and interfaith dialogue.

Historical and Cultural Monuments of the City of Alatyr

Introduction. The study of the historical and cultural heritage of small towns in Russia, such as Alatyr, is of particular importance in the context of preserving national memory. The purpose of the research is to study the history of the founding of the city of Alatyr and carry out a comprehensive analysis of its historical and cultural monuments.Materials and Methods. The research is based on the principle of historicism and the narrative method. The source base of the research includes published scientific papers, archive materials and online resources.Results. The main stages of the history of Alatyr since 1552 have been reconstructed. Special attention is paid to the architectural monuments of the XVIII–XX centuries, with an emphasis on the Holy Trinity Monastery.Discussion and Conclusion. The historical and cultural monuments of Alatyr reflect the material and spiritual life of past generations. Their preservation and study are of critical importance for maintaining the cultural identity of the region. The study materials can be used in scientific research, as well as in the development of educational programs aimed at fostering respect for cultural heritage and its preservation.

Have a place to live? – study on the influence of the living environment on the subjective well-being of older adults

BackgroundAgainst the backdrop of accelerating global aging, China’s population aged 60 and above has exceeded 18% of the total population, making the quality of life of older adults a focal point of societal concern. As a core factor influencing the quality of home-based elderly care, the living environment encompasses natural, social, material, and spiritual dimensions, directly impacting older adults’ physical and mental health as well as subjective well-being. Existing research has acknowledged the influence of living environments on older adults’ subjective well-being but lacks in-depth analysis of environmental disparities across different regions and cultural contexts.MethodsDrawing on environmental adaptation theory, socio-emotional selectivity theory, and social support theory, this study utilized 4,298 valid samples from the 2020 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS). A linear regression model was constructed to analyze how differences in living environments—classified into physical, social, and spiritual dimensions—affect older adults’ subjective well-being. Heterogeneity tests were conducted through urban–rural subgroup analyses, and robustness was verified using a winsorization method.ResultsThe results show that Indoor air purification, public facility adequacy, surrounding environmental quality, and security all significantly and positively influenced subjective well-being. Neighborhood relationships, community belonging, economic status, and trust in neighbors were positively correlated with subjective well-being. Social support mitigated loneliness, acting as a mediating factor, with a more pronounced effect on older adults living alone.Satisfaction with interpersonal relationships, life confidence, and future expectations positively predicted subjective well-being, while family book collections had no significant impact.Rural older adults were more sensitive to economic security, whereas urban counterparts prioritized quality-of-life factors. Age and educational background showed divergent effects between urban and rural groups.ConclusionsDisparities in living environments are critical determinants of older adults’ subjective well-being. Enhancing physical infrastructure, strengthening community support, and enriching spiritual life can significantly boost their happiness.

Fenomena Konversi Agama dalam Perspektif Agama Hindu dan Agama Islam: Studi Komperatif Terhadap Kehidupan Beragama

The phenomenon of religious conversion is a complex social and spiritual phenomenon that is often discussed in the religious life of society. This study aims to examine the dynamics of conversion from the perspective of Hinduism and Islam by highlighting the causal factors and the accompanying social and theological implications. The method used is the phenomenology of religion approach and analysis of religious texts from both religions. The results of the study show that religious conversion is not only influenced by spiritual motivation, but also by internal factors such as personality and psychology, as well as external factors such as the environment, marriage, and social pressure. The external factor that most influences religious conversion is interfaith marriage. In the Hindu view, conversion is considered a form of denial of dharma and has an impact on spiritual life and social rights, such as inheritance. Meanwhile, in Islam, the act of apostasy is considered a form of rejection of the teachings of monotheism, with different theological and legal consequences depending on the context. These findings emphasize the importance of a wise and tolerant approach in responding to religious conversion, as well as the need for a space for dialogue between religious communities to build mutually respectful understanding.

Preocupări liturgice în corespondenţa edită a Episcopului Melchisedec Ștefănescu

In Romanian Orthodoxy, the 19th century was dominated by several figures of hierarchs with pregnant theological and scientific concerns, among which the personality of Bishop Melchisedec Stefanescu is outstanding. Much has been written about this hierarch of the Lower Danube and Roman in recent decades, with a predilection for his spiritual life, his liturgical, missionary, and pastoral ministry, and his theological and historical work. The present study is occasioned by the appearance of two volumes of correspondence of the great hierarch with personalities of his time, published by the Archdiocese of the Lower Danube. The liturgical aspects that I try to highlight in the following pages reveal a hierarch who was concerned with seminary theological education. The liturgical aspects that I try to highlight in the following pages reveal a hierarch who was concerned with seminary theological education (for which he personally and completely wrote or translated the first systematic manuals), fascinated by liturgical worship (to the enrichment of which he contributed with proposals for church books translated into Romanian and Latin) and attentive to the godliness of the people (to which he almost brought competent hagiographic research). To these must be added his brilliance in what is meant by “ecclesial polity”, that is, fidelity to universal Orthodoxy in general, and his tenacious struggle, with doctrinal, canonical, and traditional arguments, for the affirmation of Romanian Orthodoxy. From all of them one can see the scientific intuition and prophetic vision of this hierarch, to whom we of today are so indebted

Community Empowerment through Social Change Communication: Creating Environmental Transformation and Sustainability at Masjid Al-Ansor Bukit Kemiling Permai

Indonesia, home to one of the world’s largest Muslim communities, relies on mosques as central hubs for worship and religious gatherings. This community service initiative focuses on the Al-Ansor Mosque in Bukit Kemiling Permai, Bandar Lampung, aiming to address key challenges through hands-on engagement. The approach includes coordinating efforts, executing practical activities, empowering locals, distributing essential cleaning supplies, assessing outcomes, and compiling detailed reports. Several issues were identified: a lack of community involvement in maintaining the worship space, insufficient facilities, and concerns over safety. The team behind this project envisions the Al-Ansor Mosque not just as a place of prayer, but as a clean, secure, and vibrant center for religious and social activities. A well-kept mosque environment plays a vital role in uniting people through shared faith and devotion. By fostering open dialogue and encouraging social change, the team aims to inspire lasting community commitment to the mosque’s upkeep. The ultimate goal is to motivate residents to take greater responsibility for preserving this sacred space, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of spiritual and communal life.

Tumpeng: Cultural, historical, and nutritional analysis of Indonesia’s traditional rice dish

Tumpeng, a traditional Indonesian ceremonial dish characterized by its distinctive conical shape, accompanied by an array of side dishes. Tumpeng holds significant cultural, philosophical, and nutritional value within Indonesian society. Despite its prominence in Indonesian culinary traditions, there exists a notable gap in comprehensive literature addressing the multifaceted aspects of tumpeng. This review aims to fill this gap by providing a comprehensive examination of tumpeng, encompassing its historical evolution, philosophical underpinnings, varieties, and nutritional attributes. The historical evolution of tumpeng is rooted in ancient Hinduism in Indonesia which has evolved and adapted, reflecting the dynamic interplay between culture, religion, and tradition in Indonesian society. Philosophically, tumpeng embodies the concepts of gratitude, harmony, and community. It serves as a means of expressing gratitude to the divine and fostering communal unity through shared meals and ceremonies. Additionally, tumpeng holds symbolic significance in various cultural rituals and celebrations, reflecting the interconnectedness between spirituality, tradition, and everyday life. The review also explores the 15 varieties of tumpeng, ranging from traditional ceremonial dishes to modern adaptations for special occasions. Each variation of tumpeng carries its own unique cultural significance and culinary characteristics, highlighting the diversity of Indonesian cuisine and culinary traditions. Furthermore, a nutritional analysis reveals the potential health benefits of tumpeng, with its balanced combination of staple foods, proteins, vegetables, and other nutritious ingredients. Tumpeng offers a rich source of essential nutrients, contributing to overall health and well-being when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

The Role of the Mosque Institution in Promoting Mental Health and Achieving Behavioral Balance among Youth

This article explores the intersection of mental health practice and the mosque as spiritual and educational life. The aim is to find out how regular attendance at the mosque contributes to the development of personal behavior and the promotion of mental equilibrium—generally not requiring the help of expert psychological intervention. The study is based on the belief that Islamic teachings and principles have the ability to offer the foundation for the development of the entire person. Though the field of Islamic psychology remains in its nascent stage and much is unexploited, the potential for research here becomes increasingly obvious. It has a concrete application towards prevention and healing of various forms of deviant behavior. This is especially relevant in what has been termed the age of anxiety and psychic distress—a period of growing rates of depression, suicide, and affective disorders. The majority of these issues have their origin in spiritual bankruptcy and an inability to meet inner, spiritual needs within modern definitions of human development. Through its investigation, the article reaches the conclusion that the mosque plays a quiet but potent role in enhancing mental health. It supports attempts at treating deviant behavior by way of prevention, education, and spiritual guidance. Moreover, this role is not monolithic; it collaborates with educational and social institutions for the creation of a balanced and inclusive mental health care system.

Moderating Religion, Bridging Cultures: The Impact of Pesantren Riyadul 'Ulum Wadda'wah on Intercultural Harmony

This research explores the application of religious moderation in building intercultural harmony in the social dynamics of the Pesantren Riyadul 'Ulum Wadda'wah community in Tasikmalaya, Indonesia. Using a qualitative approach, this study examines the interactions among santri who come from various cultural backgrounds in a pesantren environment that integrates classical religious education, modern discipline, and pesantren values that uphold togetherness and tolerance. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis. The results showed that Pesantren Riyadul 'Ulum Wadda'wah actively promotes intercultural harmony through teaching religious moderation values that emphasize the balance between spiritual and social life, integrating religious moderation in pesantren learning, and creating spaces for intercultural dialogue. The findings show that pesantren can function as cultural bridges and agents of social cohesion in multicultural communities. The integration of religious moderation values with symbolic interaction confirms the relevance of pesantren as pioneers in promoting intercultural harmony in the modern era.

Sfântul Martir Antim Ivireanul în slujba spiritualității și a culturii românești .

Antim Ivireanul, also known as the Holy Martyr Hierarch Antim Ivireanul, was a remarkable Romanian author, typographer, engraver, theologian, bishop and metropolitan of Georgian origin. In his youth, he was captured by the Turks and taken to Constantinople, but was later released. Between the years 1689‑1690, the Holy Martyr Constantin Brâncoveanu brought him to Wallachia. His activity was essential for thepromotion of Orthodox spirituality in this region. Through his sermons and teachings, Antim Ivireanul provided the faithful with a deep understanding of Orthodox doctrine and an authentic model of spiritual life. By establishing and managing printing houses, he contributed significantly to the production and distribution of literary and religious works, thus consolidating the national cultural heritage.

The Spread of Forest Protection Awareness: An Anthropological Study on the Influence of Writer Nguyen Ngoc on the Central Highlands Community, Vietnam

Background and objective: The Central Highlands (Tay Nguyen) is a region endowed with a rich and diverse forest ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and preserving the cultural identity of ethnic minorities in Vietnam. However, this area is currently facing severe environmental degradation due to excessive deforestation, land-use conversion, and the impacts of climate change. In this context, literature is not only of artistic value but also serves as an effective means to raise awareness and promote environmental protection efforts. Among the writers who have significantly influenced forest conservation awareness, Nguyen Ngoc stands out with literary works that deeply reflect the human-nature relationship and serve as a declaration of forest and cultural protection in the Tay Nguyen. This study focuses on analyzing the role of Nguyen Ngoc’s literature in raising awareness and promoting actions to protect Tay Nguyen forests. It explores how literature can contribute to spreading environmental consciousness within communities and supporting sustainable nature conservation policies.Methods: This study employs qualitative methods, combining textual analysis and in-depth interviews. Representative works of Nguyen Ngoc such as &lt;i&gt;Đất nước đứng lên&lt;/i&gt; (Nguyen, 1956), &lt;i&gt;Rừng xà nu&lt;/i&gt; (Nguyen, 1965), &lt;i&gt;Các bạn tôi ở trên ấy&lt;/i&gt; (Nguyen, 2021a), etc., are analyzed to clarify how the author uses natural imagery to convey environmental protection messages. In addition, interviews with literary scholars, environmental activists, and local residents were conducted to evaluate the impact of these works on forest conservation awareness and behavior. Based on the research findings, the study proposes a model for spreading forest conservation awareness through literature consisting of four stages: innovation, communication channels, time, and social systems.Results: The findings show that Nguyen Ngoc's works not only describe the majestic beauty of the Tay Nguyen mountains and forests but also deliver a powerful message of forest preservation. The image of the xa nu tree in &lt;i&gt;Rừng xà nu&lt;/i&gt; (Nguyen, 1965) symbolizes both the indomitable spirit of the Tay Nguyen people and the resilient strength of the forest against human destruction. His literature has contributed to changing public perception of the forest's importance, evoking a love for nature and a sense of environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the study highlights the role of literature as an effective tool for environmental education. Nguyen Ngoc's works not only reinforce public awareness of the forest's value but also inspire environmental protection movements. Through diverse communication channels—from books and newspapers to conferences and social media—the forest conservation messages in his works have been widely disseminated, influencing various social groups.Conclusion: Based on the research findings, several recommendations are proposed to leverage literature in environmental education and forest protection policies. First, Nguyen Ngoc's works should be integrated into educational curricula to help students gain deeper insight into the importance of forests in human life. Second, communication about forest conservation through literature should be enhanced, emphasizing the long-term impact of literature on social awareness. Finally, forest protection policies should incorporate cultural elements, recognizing forests not only as natural resources but also as an inseparable part of the spiritual life and cultural identity of local communities.

A Comparative Study on the Architectural and Symbolic Values of Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi

Throughout human history, places of worship, such as monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, have been regarded as sacred spaces. Central to this concept lies the idea of sacred space as a site where divinity manifests. For believers, such spaces serve as reminders of God's greatness and their own sense of belonging and humility. They foster devotion, sub-mission, gratitude, and reverence while also symbolizing purification and renewal. In Islamic belief, al-Masjid al-Haram and al-Masjid an-Nabawi are the two most significant mosques, collectively referred to as al-Masjidayn (the Two Mosques). Together, these two mosques served as spiritual centers shaping Muslim society and supporting the spread of Islam. Al-Masjid al-Haram distinguished Makkah, he Prophet Muhammad’s birthplace and the city where he began his prophetic mission; the Masjid an-Nabawi distingu-ished Medina, where he spent the second half of his mission, led the Muslim community as a head of state, and passed away. The aim of this study is to examine the religious, historical, and social functions, as well as the archi-tectural and symbolic depth of al-Masjid al-Haram and al-Masjid an-Nabawi through a comparative approach, thereby identifying the similari-ties and differences between the two mosques. In line with this objective, a qualitative method has been adopted; through thematic analysis of Islamic historical sources—particularly works on the urban histories of Makkah and Medina—the structural and functional characteristics of both mosques are addressed comparatively. Both the Kaaba and al-Masjid an-Nabawi were initially built as simple, roofless structures with only modest enclosures. Over time, various architectural elements such as roofs, columns, and cano-pies were added to meet the growing needs of the Muslim community. The columns within the Kaaba were originally made of wood and served only to support the roof. It is recorded that the Prophet Muḥammad prayed inside the Kaaba, standing between the two front pillars. However, he did not encourage praying within the Kaaba itself. In contrast, al-Masjid an-Nabawi holds a distinct feature: the Prophet encouraged believers to enter this area. Ultimately, this study argues that even though al-Masjid al-Haram and al-Masjid an-Nabawi differ in terms of architecture and func-tion, they form a complementary whole in the spiritual lives of Muslims. The historical and religious elements of these two mosques provide a sense of unity for believers, fostering a profound connection between them, their Lord, and their Prophet. This article aims to make an original academic contribution to the current literature by examining the architectural and symbolic dimensions of al-Masjid al-Haram and al-Masjid al-Nabawi thro-ugh a comparative approach, focusing on their place, meaning, and value within Islamic civilization.