Symbolic Meaning Research Articles

Artifacts and the Worship of Immortals: An Image Analysis of the Maoling Bamboo-Joint Boshan Furnace in the Han Dynasty

The Boshan furnace of the Han Dynasty is famous for its intricate carving, which possesses both decorative features and symbolic functions. The gilt silver and bamboo-joint bronze fumigation stove, with its continuous Boshan design, towering bamboo joints, and vivid carvings, reflects the two major characteristics of “beauty” and “utility” of the Ming Dynasty artifacts. This article mainly focuses on the transition from three-dimensional to two-dimensional imagery, the transformation of symbolic meanings into spatial analogues, and the comparative analysis of foreign and domestic shapes. The intention is to explore the morphological characteristics of Ming Dynasty artifacts through image research.

The symbolic meanings and values in the Momayango Bele procession of the Gorontalo community and its implications on the learning of local wisdom in school

This research is intended to obtain a description of (a) the meaning of verbal and nonverbal symbols of the values contained in the Momayango Bele process, (b) the meaning of nonverbal symbols in the Momayango Bele process, and (c) the implications for learning local wisdom in schools. The study employed a descriptive method with a type of qualitative research that is used to reveal and describe how the payango tradition determines people's houses in Gorontalo and the extent to which the payango tradition is applied as well as the stages of traditional procedures in building a house. The data were obtained from informants/speakers through the interview, the recording and observation of data obtained then analyzed. Based on the research results, the Momayango Bele procession is a process of measuring and making foundation patterns and laying the first stone for house building in the Gorontalo community. The symbols in the Momayango Bele procession contain complex and deep meanings. The impact of the Momayango Bele procession on the local community is to preserve their cultural identity.

Navigating Power Structures: Symbolism, Realism, and Naturalism in The Grapes of Wrath through a Postcolonial Lens

This paper explores the representation and negotiation of power systems in John Steinbeck’s famous book “The Grapes of Wrath” by using a postcolonial framework. This study seeks to identify the manner in which questions of power, oppression, and resistance are depicted in the book by analyzing its themes of symbolism, realism, and naturalism through the lens of postcolonial theory. This study examines the symbolic meaning of people, situations, and events connected to hegemonic systems and colonial legacies through rigorous textual analysis. Additionally, it explores how the novel’s naturalism and realism illuminate the historical, socio-economic and environmental surroundings, emphasizing the connection between systemic inequality and power dynamics. This study clarifies how colonial ideas sustain exploitation and disenfranchisement by examining the experiences of marginalized groups, including tenant farmers, migrant labourers, and indigenous communities. Finally, this study advances our knowledge of how literature can be a platform for opposing and criticizing established power systems. It provides insights into the resilience and resistance strategies used by marginalized people.

Musical Notation

The main goal of this essay is to propose and make plausible a framework for developing a philosophical account of musical notation. The proposed framework countenances four elements of notation: symbols (abstract objects that collectively constitute the backbone of a ‘system’ of notation), their characteristic ‘forms’ (for example, shapes, understood abstractly), the concrete instances, or ‘engravings’, of those forms, and the meanings of the symbols. It is argued that these elements are distinct. Along the way, several preliminary arguments are given for how one ought to understand them—for example, it is suggested that engravings represent symbols rather than instantiate forms, although they are characteristically seen to represent a symbol by being seen to instantiate an associated form. Having proposed this framework, the essay explores the nature of musical instructions, as the meanings of symbols, and offers an argument in favor of the commonly held (but recently challenged) view that those meanings are imperative. Specifically, composites of musical notation (paradigmatically, musical scores) primarily express instructional meaning, and denote something like ‘sonic structures’ only secondarily, in virtue of their primary, imperative, meaning.

The Effect of the Symbolic Meaning of Speed on Implicit Timing

Abstract It has been demonstrated that the stimulus’s features, including size, brightness, numerosity, and loudness, can affect the perception of subjective and explicit time. But, in a daily life situation, actual events presumably involve an implicit processing of time rather than an explicit processing, with some studies suggesting that the presentation of emotional stimuli before the target stimulus influences implicit timing. The present study aims to test the implicit component of temporal processing that the symbolic meaning of speed might influence. We used a time foreperiod task in which participants were first presented with a warning signal recalling the meaning of fast or slow speed, followed by the target. Our study shows significant main effects of the presented image cue and foreperiod effect. We observed faster reaction time when the target was preceded by a faster image compared to a slow image and in dependence of the factor of weight. Based on this, we conclude the symbolic meaning of speed can affect implicit timing by altering how the brain interprets temporal data.

Signs, Signals and Signifiers: The Doghouse and the Semiotics of AI

Signs, Signals and Signifiers: <i>The Doghouse</i> and the Semiotics of AI

Aesthetics and symbolic meaning of ancient Chinese snowy landscapes from the IV to the XX century.

The article examines the aesthetic and symbolic aspects of ancient Chinese snowy landscapes, covering the period from the IV to the XX century. The focus of the research is Guohua painting, representing classic snowy landscapes, compositions with birds and flowers, as well as snow portraits. An in-depth analysis of the symbolism and meaning of elements such as "four seasons", "snow", "snowy mountains", "three friends of cold time" and "cold beasts" was carried out, as well as the narrative characteristics of snowy landscapes were studied. It was revealed that snow scenes reflect the vitality and stability of a person, causing reflections on life difficulties. The work highlights how snowy landscapes have become a means of expressing emotions, reflecting sadness, but also demonstrating strength, well-being, morality and the sublimity of cultural values.  The study uses the methodology of symbolism and iconology analysis to study the aesthetics of ancient Chinese snowy landscapes. A comparative approach is applied to various eras and techniques, including ink painting and engraving, to assess the cultural and emotional meanings of snow in Chinese art. The research touches on a rarely covered topic in the history of art — the aesthetic and symbolic depth of ancient Chinese snowy landscapes, from the IV to the XX century. Introducing into scientific discourse a deep analysis of changes in the perception and image of snow, the work presents a comprehensive study using iconology and semiotics to uncover hidden meanings in Chinese Guohua painting. She reveals how artists have reflected the emotional and philosophical aspects of life through snowy landscapes, demonstrating their influence on cultural representations of nature, man and society. The innovation of the study lies in the fact that it connects the aesthetic elements of snow with cultural and historical changes in China, showing their importance for understanding Chinese identity and aesthetic perception. This study not only enriches the academic understanding of Chinese painting, but also highlights the layering of symbols and metaphors in traditional art, reflecting a unique combination of natural phenomena and cultural meanings.

The Rhythm of Hidden Religious Heritage: Dhol Puja of India’s Hijra Community

This Context of Religious Research commentary describes why scholars should attend to the Hijras of India. The Hijras are a marginalized transgender community in India. Although having a long historical presence with sociocultural importance, this community was often stigmatized and discriminated against due to their ambiguous gender identity and expression. The commentary identifies the Dhol Puja as a traditional clandestine ritual of the Hijra community that reflects their unique identity and cultural, religious heritage. Based on prior ethnographic research and community study throughout various locales of India, this commentary provides insights into the symbolic meaning and significance of the Dhol Puja for the Hijra community. It asserts that their spiritual performance serves as a form of sacred ritual that is resisting adaptation to modern times, and which could be a revival or adaptation of an ancient tradition. Additionally, the spiritual performance continues to serve as a celebration of the unique identity and religious tradition of the Hijra community. Offering this context can cultivate greater recognition and understanding of the religious practices in promoting social inclusion of Hijra community in India.

THE SPELLING RULES OF THE KAZAKH LANGUAGE IN 1923 AND ITS CONNECTION WITH THE SPELLING OF BAITURSYNULY

Just as every language has its history, it also has a history of symbolic meaning – letters and spelling rules. The writing culture of a particular country, people, or nation with a national language covers several epochs and historicalperiods. It is known that the Kazakh national script has been formed since 1912 in connection with the name of Akhmet Baitursynuly and is still being updated, improved, and developed every year. Therefore, each stage of the development of the spelling rules of the Kazakh language is very important both for linguistics and for the future of Kazakh writing. The article analyzes the history and scientific significance of the "New Spelling Rule of the Kazakh language", consisting of 13 articles describing the beginning of the "national stage" of Akhmet Baitursynuly's letter reform, published by the Council of Education of the Academic Center at the Educational Commissariat of the Kazakh Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic (KazASSR) in 1923. In particular, there are analysed such topical issues as the scientific and social prerequisites that led to the adoption of this provision, its connection with the Baytursynuly’s spelling in 1912, the scientific basis and meaning of each article, achievements and disadvantages, prerequisites for the adoption of this spelling rule by the Education Commission under the People's Commissariat of Education of the Turkestan Autonomy, the reasons for the reduction of some paragraphs, conclusions of the Kazakh intelligentsia about this situation.

An Instructional Model Based on Mobile Microlearning for Teaching English Idioms Through Songs to EFL Learners

This study investigates the effectiveness of adopting the ADDIE model in teaching idioms by utilising idioms in songs through using a mobile microlearning strategy in the classroom. It is impossible to infer an idiomatic expression's meaning from the words themselves. Therefore, both understanding and using them pose difficulties for EFL students. But using them effectively in conversation is a good indicator of a high level of English proficiency. The sample consisted of 15 students in one of the Jordanian high schools. The researcher carefully selected these idioms in songs to ensure they did not already know them. Another crucial factor while choosing these songs was the ability to guess either the idioms' literal translation or the symbolic meaning. After the experiment, the researcher administered one post-test to measure how idioms in songs affect the retention rate of these idioms. The experiment results show that using idioms in songs through a mobile microlearning strategy had a better short- and long-term retention rate. Therefore, the results of this study indicate that using idioms in songs with a mobile microlearning strategy while teaching idioms should have much attention from teachers because idioms are potent tools to enhance students' retention of remembering and using these idioms. Also, teachers must give more opportunities for students to interact using these idiomatic expressions to improve their speaking skills.

Symbolic Meaning and Trisilas Values in the Bakti Purnamasari Traditional Ceremony

The Bakti Purnamasari traditional ceremony serves as a vessel for the community to engage in spiritual practices that have been passed down through generations, based on references from the Pantun Pajajaran Bogor manuscripts. Additionally, this traditional ceremony serves as a social platform for communal activities. The Bakti Purnamasari Ceremony transcends beyond a mere series of religious rituals; it becomes a manifestation of cultural continuity and social involvement laden with values and meaning. In this context, the ceremony not only embodies spiritual values but also significantly contributes to the formation of community identity and the reinforcement of social solidarity. In the context of this article, the aim is to describe and analyze the research findings related to symbols, subsequently elaborating on their meanings and the trisilas value namely, silih asih,silih asah, and silih asuh embedded in the Bakti Purnamasari traditional ceremony in Sukabumi. The research methodology employed is descriptive analysis with a qualitative approach. Participants in the study were selected from cultural figures in the city of Sukabumi, deemed valuable sources of information due to their rich knowledge and experiences associated with the Bakti Purnamasari Ceremony. Data collection techniques included observation, interviews, and documentary studies, with data analysis using triangulation. The research results indicate that the symbols in the traditional ceremony are reflected through offerings with intended meanings expressing gratitude for the blessings received. The trisilas values in the Bakti Purnamasari ceremony portray sincere expressions of love and affection, mutual filling or synergy, and a sense of selfless care.

Tujia Ethnic Group Woodcarving Patterns and Their Application in Packaging

Taking the woodcarving patterns of the Tujia ethnic group as the subject of the study, this paper analyzes the characteristics and connotations of the woodcarving patterns and their symbolic meanings. This paper also discusses the spiritual connotations of the thematic patterns commonly used in packaging design and elaborates on the characteristics, artistry, and functionality of the symbolic meanings of the woodcarving patterns. Through the analysis of the application of woodcarving patterns in packaging design, the paper proposes the effective use of these patterns in packaging design to achieve visual effects, convey the cultural connotations of products, and enrich the cultural and artistic value of products. This study also expounds on the significance of spreading the woodcarving patterns of the Tujia ethnic group and the value of researching their integration into packaging design.

The investigation of phraseology in Karakalpak linguistics

Every country possesses its own unique set of phraseological units, which serve as a valuable repository of language reflecting the history, culture, and lifestyle of its people. These figurative and expansive language units vividly capture the human experience, imbuing the language with distinctiveness and conveying symbolic and associative meanings deeply ingrained in the consciousness of native speakers.

Symbolic meanings of numbers in proverbs

It is well known that in the oral tradition, literature, ethnography and worldview of the peoples of the world, the number system has a special significance. For this reason, their meanings in the text of the work have been specially studied in the field offolklore and literature. The article examines the proverbs of English and Karakalpak language and its functional-semantic features of the numbers encountered in the text of folk proverbs.

University brand building and recognition: experiences of a selected young university in China

ABSTRACT With increased competition for talented students and academic staff, many universities have recognised the importance of brand building to better position in the field. This study selected a recently founded public university in China as the case to explore in what way a young university’s brand is constructed and to what extent such a brand is recognised by different stakeholder groups. Multiple sources of both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analysed, informed by the theoretical lens of Bourdieu’s symbolic capital. Findings of this study show that a university’s brand conveys symbolic meaning and serves the function of distinguishing oneself from competitors in a non-market field. This study also suggests that the value of a particular university’s brand is not equally recognised by different stakeholders. A properly managed brand can generate advantages for universities, particularly young ones, to occupy their position in the field.

L’animal non humain comme élément constitutif de différents topoï narratifs dans la littérature européenne

&lt;p&gt;The growing interest in non-human animals is driven by advancements in biotechnology and an increased awareness of the importance of preserving biodiversity. This fascination with non-human creatures dates back far in history. Exploring the representation and interpretation of the animal world throughout different epochs helps us better understand our relationship with other forms of life and appreciate the richness of works celebrating the animal kingdom. Animal motifs, laden with symbolic meanings, provide a complex field of study where recurring patterns are less evident. This volume explores these relevant recurrences and identifies the narrative patterns that shape these animal representations, enabling a deeper understanding of the relationship between humans and animals.&lt;/p&gt;

Function and Meaning of Symbolism in the Memorial Ornaments of Munson and Lyman Tomb Ornaments: A Semiotic Study

This article is entitled “Function and Meaning of Symbolism in the Memorial Ornaments of Munson and Lyman Tomb Ornaments: A Semiotic Study.” The study aimed to describe the from, function, and meaning of symbolism in the Memorial of Munson and Lyman. The theory used to analyze the data was Charles Sander Pierce semiotic theory, using a descriptive qualitative method. The results of the study showed that there were 21 types of from, function, and meanings of symbols on the Munson and Lyman tomb ornaments , Namely : Relief ornaments of the SS Duncan ship &amp; Relief ornaments of Mederika Ship, Releif ornaments of the merchant, Relief ornamen of Munson and Lyman meeting with Datuk Mangkuto, Relief ornaments of barter activies, Relief Ornaments of Martonun, Manduda, dan Paragat, Releif ornaments of going home from the garden, planting rice, Relief ornaments of Munson and Lyman showing the Bible as a sign language and the king’s guard bringing Munson and Lyman to the king, Relief ornaments of king panggalamei asking Munson and Lyman, Relief ornaments of Munson and Lyman in Uning-uningi, Relief ornaments of tragic that resulted in the death of Munson and Lyman &amp; Relief ornaments of the cross Symbol, Relief ornaments of Onan Hariara, Relief ornaments of Nommensen arrival in Batak land, Relief ornaments of the community welcoming the arrival of Nommensen, Relief ornaments of the first church, Relief ornaments of the first Zending school being built and children already started going to school, Relief ornaments of Batak graduates from Nommensen education, Relief ornaments of negotiations and peace between the Batak and the Americans, Relief ornaments of the reconstruction of the padri war, Relief ornaments of the image of Jesus Christ, Tombstone. This research concludes that there are 21 forms of symbol functions that are important to understand the message contained in the Munson and Lyman Memorial Ornament. These symbols were created to represent Munson and Lyman's journey in spreading Christianity in Batak land. There are 21 types of symbol functions, including as means of transportation, trading tools, travel documentation, buying and selling transactions, visualizing weaving activities, agriculture, communication, judicial tools, accompanying traditional ceremony processes, determining the evangelist's burden, bartering places, missionary missions, church monuments, schools, graduations, peace symbols, Padri wars, Christian religion spread, and grave markers. There are 21 types of symbol meanings, including depicting Munson and Lyman's journey, urban trade, community life details, communication visualization, language translation, correct actions in misunderstandings, judicial processes, punishments, traditional rituals, Nommensen's arrival, community acceptance of Nommensen, church construction, community education, educational outcomes, peace, Christian religion spread, and the journey of spreading the Gospel in the land of Batak. Keywords: Memorial, Missionary, Munson and Lyman, Semiotic

Social construction of kentongan for disaster risk reduction in highland java and its potential for educational tool

Kentongan (bamboo instruments), a traditional Javanese communication tool, continues to exist to this day, and its existence is based on its function, especially in the Java mountains. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze and uncover local wisdom behind the social construction of the Kentongan, exploring the practical and symbolic meanings and the societal and cultural implications. It also explored the community's local knowledge regarding the mitigation of disasters (disaster risk reduction), as well as its cultural heritage within the community's social fabric. To unravel knowledge held by the local community, a qualitative method using a phenomenological approach was adopted, complemented by a thorough review of relevant literature. Furthermore, the snowball approach was employed to select informants, focusing on identifying key individuals who were cross-verified through member checks. The village head and the elders were identified as the key informants, and the data collected were analyzed using an interactive model. The results showed that Kentongan served as a telecommunication tool to signal disasters, alert individuals of dangerous situations, and indicate the presence of fire. Additionally, it served as a means to assemble people or initiate prayers, and the conveyed messages could be inferred through the number of beats and the sounds produced. Empathy and social solidarity emerged as the underlying social values embedded within Kentongan. The associated significance and symbolism were actively practiced and passed down through generations within the community. As a form of indigenous knowledge, Kentongan held great relevance in the lives of the local population, thereby presenting the potential to be integrated into educational contexts as a valuable source of learning.

Sociology of Totems, Myths, and Tawhid: Exploring the Interplay Between Symbolism and Theology with Critical Analysis of Theological or Mythical Stage of August Comte’s Law of Three Stages

Introduction: Totems and myths, integral components of social, cultural, and religious expression, carry profound symbolic meanings within diverse societies. This paper investigates the interplay between these symbolic elements and Islamic theology, exploring how Islamic communities respond to the presence of symbols and symbolism. The paper presents a critical analysis of theological stage of August Comte’s law of three stages.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Objectives: The research objectives of the present paper aim to examine the prevalence of totems and myths in various societies and their negative impact in terms of theology, sociology, and identity formation. It will investigate the theological responses of Islam to the incorporation of totems and myths with a critical analysis of theological stage of August Comte’s law of three stages philosophically known as Positive Philosophy. Explore the implications of the interplay between totems, myths and Islamic theology on religious identity and belief system.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Methods: The present work is qualitative in nature and hence uses qualitative methodology.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Results and Conclusion: The findings of the paper suggest that Totemic and Mythical thinking must be dealt with a serious and sensitive approach to protect the fabric of Muslim society under the core teachings of Tawhid. Understanding the sociological implications of the symbolic systems, advocated by Islam, provides valuable insights into the intricate diversity of human culture, belief systems, and social organization. As societies continue to evolve, it becomes imperative to navigate the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage, acknowledging diversity, and upholding the principles of justice and equality.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Originality/Value: the research presents a unique and original perspective on the intersection of sociology, symbolism, and theology. In essence, it delves into the intricate relationship between cultural symbols, religious beliefs, and social structures. What sets this paper apart is its innovative approach to studying the role of totems and myths within the framework of Tawhid, the Islamic concept of the oneness of God. By examining how totems and myths function within different cultural contexts and their implications for theological understanding, the paper offers fresh insights into the dynamics of religious symbolism.

The Symbolic Meaning of Traditional Woven Fabric Ulos as A Spiritual Expression in Batak Toba Rituals

Every society in the world has a certain ability to produce traditional woven cloth as a result of its culture. Likewise, for the Batak people, the traditional woven cloth is called ulos, it is accepted as a symbol of a Batak spiritual expression. In the Batak tradition, giving or receiving a ulos is done based on the rules and procedures generally accepted in society. Giving and receiving ulos also represents a number of ideal values from the people who adhere to it. In substance, these are the values that are symbolically conveyed to someone and it is hoped that they will be realized in the future, accompanied by hopes and prayers. Typically, giving ulos does not have to take into account the particular religion or belief of the person receiving it, and the person to whom the ulos is given receives it with joy. So, ulos itself is universal because it is able to strengthen the solidarity of Batak people of different religions, both personally and collectively. The theory used refers to Clifford Geertz's theory regarding religion as a symbol system found in every culture. In Sandra Niessen's perspective, ulos is an expression and spiritual image of the Toba Batak people. For this reason, it is necessary to carry out research through a study process to find out whether the traditional ulos woven cloth is closely related to the spiritual values that the Batak have had since ancient times.