Symbolic Significance Research Articles

Linguistic Landscape in the Tourist Area, Lembang Bandung, Indonesia

This study investigates the linguistic landscape of Lembang, Bandung, Indonesia. The field site is situated in a region distinguished by the longstanding presence of diverse cultures and a high degree of multilingualism. This study employed photographs as the primary data source to gather samples from the tourist area of Lembang. The research methodology employed in this study involved the use of photographs. The data presented demonstrate the presence of multiple dimensions that characterize the linguistic landscape of a tourist area. The 83 photographs reveal the language distribution of the Lembang LL. There are three public signs discernible from the language usage of LL signs: monolingual, bilingual, and multilingual. The linguistic landscape in Lembang LL demonstrates a complex interplay of sociopolitical and economic factors, resulting in a multifaceted phenomenon. The results indicate that Indonesian, as the sole national and official language of the country, occupies a prominent position on all signs. English is recognized as the second most significant language in Indonesia, following Indonesian, and is widely used as a means of international communication. Nevertheless, it is regrettable that Sundanese is not predominantly utilized, particularly within the economic realm or business world in the Lembang region. The aforementioned findings indicate that English and Indonesian in Lembang possess both symbolic and commercial significance. Furthermore, the linguistic landscape (LL) in Lembang progressively transforms into a commodified entity.

Anthropological Symbolic Significance of the Number ‘Three’: A Case of Selected Languages and Cultures in Zambia

This paper problematizes the symbolic significance of the number ‘three’ in Zambian culture and society. The paper aims to highlight the pragmatic implicature of the number ‘three’ conveyed by different cultures and languages in Zambia. The study used a qualitative approach. Data were collected through elicitation by conducting unstructured interviews as well as document analysis. Primary data were collected from 33 respondents who were selected purposively to represent six cultures from five provinces of Zambia. Primary data were justified by secondary sources of information. Phenomenology theoretical locale was chosen to underpin the study. The study reveals that there is a significant value in numerology such as the arithmetic number ‘three’. The number ‘three’ is highly interpreted in both Biblical and cultural contexts and can be used to preserve indigenous knowledge for future generations. Anthropologically, the number ‘three’ is used to teach, admonish, counsel, reconcile, and unify people such as families, churches, and marriages. It can be concluded that the anthropological symbolic significance of the number ‘three’ bears some commonalities in the Zambian culture and the sample languages, and has minor pragmatic variations.

ARTISTIC FEATURES OF SYMBOLISM IN JAPANESE VISUAL ART DURING THE EDO PERIOD

This article is dedicated to exploring the artistic characteristics of symbolism in Japanese visual art during the Edo period (1603-1868). Through an analysis of this era, the author investigates the utilization of natural symbols, particularly flowers and birds, in the works of artists. Additionally, the article examines the influence of seasonal symbolism and its impact on artistic practice. Special attention is placed on the use of colors and their significance in conveying emotions and atmosphere. Furthermore, depictions of mythological creatures such as dragons and fairies are studied, along with their role in expressing spiritual concepts. The study also delves into the utilization of geometric forms and their symbolic meanings within the context of cosmic and philosophical aspects. The author further analyzes the incorporation of everyday objects and their contribution to creating allegorical imagery. The primary objective of this article is to uncover the significance of symbolism in Japanese visual art during the Edo period and to reveal its influence on the cultural, philosophical, and aesthetic context of that time. The article examines the utilization of natural symbols, seasonal, and color symbolism as means of metaphorically conveying profound concepts. It highlights the impact of mythological creatures on artworks of that era and the use of geometric forms to convey cosmic and spiritual dimensions. The role of object symbolism in generating additional meanings in art is also explored. The central aim of the article is to comprehensively comprehend the significance of symbolism in Japanese art during the Edo period and its effect on the cultural and artistic milieu of the time. The research is focused on investigating the role of symbolism in Japanese art during the Edo period and its impact on the cultural and artistic context of that period. Additionally, the article examines object symbolism and its role in shaping dual meanings and additional layers of significance in artworks. The study is aimed at unveiling the essence of symbolism in Japanese visual art during the Edo period and deepening the understanding of the impact of these artistic techniques on the cultural context of the time.

THE PATERNUS PLATE AND ITS SYMBOLISM

The Paternus Plate and its Symbolism. The eucharistic disk attributed to bishop Paternus of Tomis is a well-known artifact of the 6th cen tury. Since its discovery in 1912 it was approached from several perspectives, going from the evolution of the late antique and early Byzantine art to the study of the foreign policy of the Eastern Roman Empire. The present study takes into discus sion the symbolic significance of its decoration and reads it in the larger context of the artistic evolution of Byzantium before iconoclasm. Regarded in the context of the silver patens of the 6th century, the central monogram of Christ on the Paternus plate reveals itself as representing more than just an ornament. For the believer it had a clear symbolic significance: it represented Christ himself offering him the Communion. The central motive was also connected to the border decoration, con taining eucharistic symbols familiar to the contemporary viewer from several re ligious texts and discourses. Regarding such a eucharistic artifact with eusebeia, the 6th century believer was introduced into a salvific atmosphere, allowing him a glimpse into eternity.

Природная образность в эрзянской женской лирике

the article is devoted to the study of the poetics of the natural code of modern Erzya women’s lyrics. The subject of the study is a complex of floristic and faunal images in women’s poetic discourse, their semantic and structural features, and aesthetic functions. Objective: to identify the natural symbolic images represented in the works of the Erzya poets; to reveal their functional and semantic features. Research materials: poems by L. Ryabova, A. Podgornova, M. Slugina, T. Mokshanova. Results and novelty of the research: as a result of the study, we come to the conclusion that in the aesthetic system of the Erzya women’s lyrics, various natural images are presented – floristic (trees, flowers), faunistic (animalistic, ornithological, insectic), which are endowed with original metaphorical semantics, symbolic significance. They correlate with the national and world folklore and mythological tradition, allow to implicate the worldview, emotional and psychological state of a lyrical heroine, concretize spatial and temporal markers, reveal the author’s individual creative concept and value preferences. They lead to the understanding of complex ontological, existential, axiological categories, problems of ethnic and ecological content. The scientific novelty of the article is determined by the fact that Erzya women’s lyrics in the aspect of natural landscape imagery for the first time becomes the object of scientific reflection. Most of the works are introduced into the context of Finno-Ugric literary studies for the first time

Ancestral funerary knives: why did flint knives enter the funerary realm?

The tradition of using stone tools as grave goods is believed to have originated in the Paleolithic period. However, due to limited evidence of earlier burials, this practice becomes more apparent primarily from the Neolithic period onwards. During this time, various types of stone tools began transitioning from domestic to non-domestic contexts. Among these, flint knives stand out as a distinct class, with their presence in funerary context emerging as early as the Neolithic in Egypt, predating the luxurious forms characteristic to the Predynastic period. This paper explores the earliest stages in the transition of flint knives from domestic to non-domestic contexts, analyzing the ancestral types found in both contexts and investigating the early processes that imbued these tools with symbolic significance.

Water as a Commodity based on Epic “Manas”: A Semiotic Perspective

This paper explores the role of water as a commodity in Kyrgyzstan from a semiotic perspective, drawing parallels between the historic Silk Road and contemporary debates surrounding water resources. It analyzes the semiotics of water, examining its representation, interpretation, and symbolic significance in the context of regional cooperation and resource management. By applying semiotic frameworks to understand the complexities of water governance, this study sheds light on the socio-political dynamics shaping water policies in Central Asia. The concept of the Great Silk Road holds immense historical and cultural significance as a symbol of connectivity and exchange between East and West. The semiotic analysis encompasses a variety of sources, including visual representations of the Silk Road's logo and imagery, along with literary works like John Masefield's poem “Cargoes” and the epic Manas. Through a comparison of the traded goods on the Silk Road in the West and the Silk Road in the East, this study reveals the similarities and differences in the portrayal of goods, the evolution of trade, and the cultural interactions facilitated by this ancient trade network. By shedding light on the semiotic dimensions of the Great Silk Road, this paper contributes to a deeper understanding of its historical and cultural significance, enriching our comprehension of this remarkable historical phenomenon.

Lingzhi : Mushrooms, Immortality, and Order

Abstract: This article examines references to the lingzhi 靈芝 mushroom in Song encyclopedic compilations ( leishu 類書), specifically the Taiping yulan , as both a reflection and embodiment of greater shifts in the consolidation of state power and religious control during this period. This mushroom forms an ancient and vital component of Daoist medicine and alchemy, and an equally influential symbol in Daoist literature and art. Written references date back to the Han, when it was understood as both a divine medicine of immortality and signifier of political mandate. After providing an analysis of lingzhi 's symbolic significance from the Han until the Tang, this study argues that Song governmental encyclopedic efforts culturally stripped the fungus of its divine significations, which preceded its symbolic commodification in later periods.

A Devotional Medallion from the Churchyard Cemetery on Mihail Kogălniceanu Street

In 2022, the archaeologists from the National Museum of Transylvanian History conducted an excavation in a section of the cemetery surrounding the present Calvinist Church on the former Farkas utca (Platea Luporum – Lat., Ulița Lupilor – Ro., now known as Mihail Kogălniceanu Street). Within one of the graves, they uncovered a silver devotional medallion enameled on both sides, featuring the IHS monogram. Following its discovery, the medallion underwent a meticulous series of physical‑chemical examinations and an in‑depth historical analysis. These efforts aimed to unravel the medallion’s structure, functionality, and symbolic significance, particularly considering the depiction of the well‑known IHS monogram. Utilizing archaeological and anthropological data, as well as drawing parallels with formal and functional analogies from other historical contexts, the present study endeavors to elucidate the role and dating of this significant discovery.

GOOD MORNING BEAUTIFUL MORNING

This abstract explores the concept of greeting the morning with appreciation and optimism. The phrase "Good Morning Beautiful Morning" encapsulates a sentiment of embracing each new day with a sense of wonder and positivity. Through an examination of various cultural and literary perspectives on mornings, this abstract delves into the symbolic significance of dawn and the renewal it represents. The document discusses how this theme is portrayed in different forms of art, literature, and philosophy, highlighting the universal human experience of encountering and responding to the start of a new day. The phrase "Good morning Beautiful Morning" encapsulates a profound theme of awakening and renewal, often found in literature where nature and human experiences intertwine. This evocative expression suggests more than just a salutation; it hints at a deeper connection between the observer and their surroundings.

Unveiling the Veil of Silence: Culture, Secrecy, and Pastoral Care in Botswana's Naomi/Laban Showers

Botswana's cherished cultural tradition, the Naomi/Laban showers, conceals a pervasive culture of silence concerning family matters, secrecy, and gender roles. Employing qualitative research methods like interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, this study explores the multifaceted impact of this culture of silence. It delves into the cultural and symbolic significance of draping a white shawl or blanket during these showers, signifying a vow of silence. Additionally, it investigates how this culture of silence shapes family dynamics, communication, and gender roles within Botswana's socio-cultural context. The role of pastoral caregivers and the Christian church in navigating this silence and providing support is also examined. Balancing the preservation of cultural traditions with addressing contemporary challenges is a central theme. This research aims to uncover pastoral care strategies that encourage healthy communication, gender equality, and family unity while respecting cultural norms. It seeks to deepen our understanding of the intricate relationship between culture, secrecy, and pastoral care during Naomi/Laban showers. Keywords: Culture of Silence, Naomi/Laban Showers, Pastoral Care, Gender Roles, Family Communication

Five Years Without the INF Treaty: Lessons and Prospects

This article focuses on regional ground-launched missiles in the context of the Russia-U.S.-China strategic triangle. It studies the bilateral nature, limited scope, and asymmetric limits/ reductions of the INF Treaty; considers the military and symbolic significance of regional ground-launched missiles in comparison with their sea- and air-launched counterparts; and examines the reasons for the INF Treaty’s termination, future U.S. deployments, and Russian and Chinese responses. In conclusion it describes two possible U.S. deployment scenarios and analyzes possibilities for minimizing the unfolding arms race.

The Symbolic Significance of Using Birds in English Romantic Poetry: “Ode to a Nightingale by John Keats” as a case study

The Symbolic Significance of Using Birds in English Romantic Poetry: “Ode to a Nightingale by John Keats” as a case study

The symbolic significance of the life and death of Antony and Cleopatra in selected literary texts by Alice Cary and W.H. Lytle and their influence on Western thought

The symbolic significance of the life and death of Antony and Cleopatra in selected literary texts by Alice Cary and W.H. Lytle and their influence on Western thought

Архитектура литературных смыслов Рецензия на книгу: Якимова Л. П. Поэтика русской литературы в семиологическом освещении / Рос. акад. наук, Сиб. отд-ние, Ин-т филологии. Новосибирск: Изд-во СО РАН, 2022. 298 с.

The book under review examines the issues surrounding the semiological coverage of Russian literature of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The focus is on an innovative approach to studying the artistic system, which combines philological, historical, cultural, and religious syncretism in textual research. The research delves into the examination of figurative-motivic complexes and concepts found in the creative works of V. F. Odoevsky, I. A. Goncharov, A. P. Chekhov, and L. M. Leonov. These include motifs like the “cave,” “tower,” “pyramid,” “pit,” themes of poverty and wealth, the smell of sulfur, parables, and games. The examination of spiritual texts and stories involves identifying significant cultural-historical parallels and exploring philosophical concepts by V. S. Solovyov, K. N. Leontiev, N. A. Berdyaev, and others. The book describes and analyzes the images that have become constants of Russian literature. Hermeneutical research principles are innovatively applied with emphasis on the hidden layers of artistic language. The author explores the anaphoric design in I. A. Goncharov’s novels and the symbolic significance of numbers in L. M. Leonov’s works. Comments are provided on the semiotic connections, such as the parallel between the image of a child and the image of the Mother of God, and insightful analysis of intertextual details is performed. The book introduces the material that will be helpful for studying the problems of the history and theory of literature, especially in terms of text formation.

Transitional Meaning and Symbolic Significance of the Funeral Rites of the Yi Pula People—Taking the Yi Pula from Beige Township, Kaiyuan City, Yunnan Province as an Example

Transitional Meaning and Symbolic Significance of the Funeral Rites of the Yi Pula People—Taking the Yi Pula from Beige Township, Kaiyuan City, Yunnan Province as an Example

Urban design and Chinese culture spirit: the symbolic significance of mountain factors in shaping cultural park

Urban design and Chinese culture spirit: the symbolic significance of mountain factors in shaping cultural park

Rumi and the Paradox of Character in The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak

This paper aims to study the characters in Elif Shafak’s The Forty Rules of Love in the context of Sufism. It primarily examines what Aziz and Ella represent beyond the text. Parallels are drawn between the eponymous characters, Rumi, and other mystics of the time. Sufi philosophy is studied through symbolic significance of the elements fire and water. The Christian wisdom present is also observed. Allusions to the Masnavi, Rumi’s magnum opus, is inferred to be present in the novel. Ella and Aziz grow and change. This growth is examined through the four stages of Sufism.

용문사의 역사적 변화와 풍수환경

This study aims to discuss historical changes and geographical environments of Yongmunsa Temple based on perspectives of Feng Shui. In particular, this study is to examine characteristics of Feng Shui, reflected in Yongmunsa Temple, focusing on Jijangjeon Hall, which is a main building of Yongmunsa Temple, and a ginkgo tree which is placed at Hyeolcheo. Spatial constitution and distinctive features of arrangement of the temple buildings in Yongmunsa Temple, which is a central temple in Yangpyeong of Gyeonggi Province, consist of a central axis parallel with Daeungjeon Hall and Jijangjeon Hall. This remains not in a practically central role but in a symbolic significance and role. The true center of Yongmunsa Temple is located at not only Jijangjeon but the ginkgo tree.

Binya’s Blue Umbrella: a Symbol of Human Relationships

In the quaint setting of a small village, "The Blue Umbrella" unfolds the tale of Binya, whose unassuming life undergoes a profound transformation upon acquiring a coveted blue umbrella, triggering a wave of envy and avarice among her fellow villagers. This study meticulously examines the symbolic layers embedded within the blue umbrella, elucidating its thematic role in depicting generosity and kindness. A scrutiny of the novel reveals a rich tapestry of emotions, ranging from materialistic desires and jealousy to acts of kindness. Binya's socio-economic struggles and her possession of a leopard claw necklace lay the groundwork for the symbolic significance bestowed upon her newfound possession, the blue umbrella. The pivotal exchange between Binya and an English lady serves as a poignant showcase of generosity, marked by the reciprocal exchange of cherished possessions. This sets the stage for the interplay between the blue umbrella and benevolence. The narrative unfolds to reveal the transformative power of the umbrella, as witnessed through the interactions with the shopkeeper, Ram Bharosa. These encounters lay bare the repercussions of greed while hinting at the potential for redemption. The evolving relationship between Binya and her cherished blue umbrella serves as a compelling canvas for exploring the intricate dynamics of society. The villagers' initial reactions, steeped in envy, gradually shift towards empathy, underscoring the overarching themes of generosity and kindness intricately woven into the fabric of this captivating narrative.