Symbol Of Power Research Articles

Embodied Spaces: Architectural Elements as Symbols of Power and Identity in Partition-Era Historical Fiction

Embodied Spaces: Architectural Elements as Symbols of Power and Identity in Partition-Era Historical Fiction

Potensi Delima (Punica granatum) dalam kajian Qur'an dan Sunnah

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) occupies a special place in Islamic tradition and modern health literature. This article aims to explore the potential of pomegranate from the perspective of the Qur'an and Sunnah, as well as to examine the health benefits substantiated by scientific research. Pomegranate is mentioned in several verses of the Qur'an, such as in Surah al-An'am (6): 99 and Surah Ar-Rahman (55): 68, highlighting its significance as a symbol of Allah's power. Hadith also recommend the consumption of pomegranate, indicating its spiritual and medicinal properties.Previous research has demonstrated that pomegranate possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it has the ability to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Studies confirm that pomegranate consumption can mitigate oxidative stress, inflammation, and cancer cell proliferation. This article compiles and analyzes data from various literature sources using a systematic literature review method.The findings of this review indicate that pomegranate has significant religious and health benefits, rendering it an important fruit in a healthy diet and alternative medicine. Further research is necessary to explore the applications of pomegranate in modern health therapies more comprehensively.

History, Memory, Landscape, and Patriarchal Ideology in the Novels of Easterine Kire: A Comparative Study of 'A Respectable Woman' and 'A Terrible Matriarchy

This comparative study delves into the literary works of Easterine Kire, a prominent Naga author, to explore the intricate interplay of history, memory, landscape, and patriarchal ideology in her novels 'A Respectable Woman' and 'A Terrible Matriarchy.' Set against the backdrop of Nagaland, India, these novels provide a nuanced understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics and transformations that have shaped the Naga society. Memory emerges as a central theme, as the study examines how characters in both novels grapple with personal and collective memories, reflecting the broader collective memory of the Naga people. The landscape, both natural and urban, serves as a powerful symbol in Kire's works. Furthermore, the research investigates the presence of patriarchal ideology in Naga society, analyzing how it influences gender roles and societal expectations. It highlights instances of resistance and empowerment, particularly among female characters, illustrating their agency in challenging oppressive norms. Through a comparative approach, this study uncovers commonalities and differences in how history, memory, landscape, and patriarchal ideology are portrayed in 'A Respectable Woman' and 'A Terrible Matriarchy.' It sheds light on the evolution of Easterine Kire's perspective on these themes and their implications for understanding Naga identity and postcolonial literature. In conclusion, this research contributes to the broader discourse on postcolonial literature, gender dynamics, and cultural preservation. It underscores the significance of literature in capturing the multifaceted facets of Naga history and identity, offering valuable insights into the complexities of a society in transition.

Symbol of (Iranian) Empire: The Sāsānian Imperial Standard (Derafsh-e kāviyān) from Arab-Islamic Conquest Narratives to Modern Nationalist Myths

Abstract: With its capture at the outset of the conquest of Iran in the early seventh century, the imperial Sāsānian standard, known as the Derafsh-e kāviyān , became a metaphor for imperial corruption, underscoring both the righteousness of the Islamic caliphate and the piety of the Arab-Muslim warriors who founded it. Two centuries later, it served as a potent symbol of pre-Islamic Persian splendor and the continuity of its rich tradition. Later still, modern Iranian nationalists raised the "banner of Kāveh" as part of their campaign to foster a sense of national consciousness and pride in the country's ancient heritage. Today, the Derafsh-e kāviyān continues to be a powerful symbol for secular Iranian nationalists campaigning against the Islamic Republic of Iran; for Kurdish nationalists seeking political autonomy; and for Tajik state authorities linking their nation to a mythical past.

Unveiling Body Politics: The Grotesque and Alienated Representation of the Monster in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein explores on the complexities of body politics and societal norms through the narrative of Victor Frankenstein and his creation, the monster. This research paper analyzes the novel through the lens of rejection, Otherness and the societal constructs of beauty and acceptance. The research investigates on the intricate intersections of various discourses in shaping the notion of “black body” throughout the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Furthermore, it highlights on how Shelley’s portrayal of the hideous and marginalized body of the monster in her text aligns with the ideological constructions of black bodies. The monster, with his physical deformities and alien appearance, serves as a powerful symbol of the Other, highlighting society’s tendency to fear and ostracize those who are different. Drawing on Julia Kristeva’s concept of “the abject,” Michel Foucault’s notion of “biopower,” and Freud’s idea of “uncanny,” this paper searches how Shelly’s text reflects broader cultural anxieties and critiques societal norms. Through a detailed analysis of textual evidences, including direct quotes from the novel, this paper examines the implications of the monster’s rejection to socio-cultural norms and the societal forces that shape his identity. The paper concludes that exclusion of Frankenstein’s creation from the society directly stems from the societal constructs and responses towards bodies. Perception of bodies reflects more about the culture observing them than bodies themselves. In its essence, Frankenstein stands as a poignant narrative about the dangers of marginalization and the importance of empathy and acceptance in a diverse society. This paper underscores the critical need to understand how societal constructs shape perceptions of marginalized bodies, paving the way for future research to explore these dynamics in contemporary contexts and to develop strategies for fostering greater inclusion and acceptance.

El cuerpo despreciable de Pablo: Los conflictos de poder-somático en las primeras comunidades paulinas

This work aims to delve into discussions concerning the relationship between body and power within the early conflicts of Pauline Christianity. Ideals and ideological transmission, particularly pertaining to a somatic classification of power in the most urbanized cities of the Roman Empire in the 1st century, compelled Paul to employ a rhetoric of suffering in order to uphold his somatic (apostolic) legitimacy. Within the symbolism of Roman power, Paul does not embody the hegemonic stereotype of a divine emissary. In this context, the apostle introduces the discourse of the Crucified body, “bearing in the body the death of Jesus everywhere” (2 Cor 2:4). This serves as a response to accusations and ideological discourses that politically disdain bodies, diverging from the ideals of the Greco-Roman elite.

Meru Architecture in Bali : History, Function and Challenges

Meru is a sacred structure in Balinese architecture, symbolizing Mount Sumeru in Hindu-Buddhist cosmology. Introduced by Mpu Kuturan in the 11th century, Meru is a key feature of Balinese temples, representing the connection between the divine and earthly realms. The tiered roof, which can range from one to eleven layers, reflects different levels of the universe, with higher tiers holding greater spiritual significance. Meru is not only a site of worship for deities and ancestors but also plays a crucial role in traditional ceremonies, such as the ngaben cremation rites. One of the remarkable aspects of Meru is its earthquake-resistant design. Built with natural materials like ijuk (sugar palm fibre) and ironwood, its proportional structure and construction techniques allow it to withstand seismic shocks effectively. However, while Meru can endure earthquakes, it remains vulnerable to fire, especially due to lightning strikes. The dry, flammable ijuk used for the roof makes Meru susceptible, as evidenced by recent fires at temples like Ratu Gede Bima Sakti and Dadia Bingin. Efforts to protect Meru from fire hazards are underway, including raising community awareness and improving fire safety protocols. Despite these challenges, Meru continues to stand as a powerful symbol of Bali’s spiritual and cultural identity, blending ancient traditions with modern efforts to preserve this sacred architecture.

Historical Study of the Use of Low Seat Dingklik In Java in the Socioeconomic Activities of the Colonial Era (1800-1900)

ABSTRACT Since the 8th century, Indian traders have brought Hindu/Buddhist practices to Java, influencing the culture of sitting low. When furniture came to Indonesia during the colonial era, the Javanese started using low-wooden benches called dingklik for work and informal interactions. Despite having a simple form and being often hidden, dingklik underwent a transformation through socioeconomic activities in Java during the colonial period. Contemporary paintings, photographs, and films were used to analyse dingklik in terms of content, visual elements, and height in socio-economic activity. From an economic perspective, the shape of dingklik was oriented towards mobility so that for carry-on traders, the dingklik had smaller and lighter legs, making it easy to carry. Meanwhile, socially, the form of dingklik was influenced by philosophical symbolism, and for Javanese nobles, it had decorative features similar to royal chairs as symbols of power. This study highlights the shift in the value of traditional Javanese sitting facilities.

The Last Starfighter

Museum objects have the potential to act as powerful symbols of national identity and modernity. This article examines the three lives of Starfighter 637, a Norwegian military aircraft that flew in the Arctic during the Cold War before becoming an exhibit at the Norsk Luftfartsmuseum and finally being restored to fly again by a group of aviation enthusiasts. The case study of the Starfighter considers the role of socialisation in generating a military object’s meanings and value as cultural heritage, but also how museums can convey the kinetic experience of flying.

Threads of Tradition and Global Expression: Persian Rugs Unraveled through Paintings and Globalization

Abstract: Unravelling Persian Rugs: Art, Tradition and Globalization This study investigates the dynamic relationship between Persian rugs, art, and globalization, following their transformation from functional objects to powerful symbols of identity. The study examines representations in paintings from various historical periods, highlighting the nuanced interplay between these textiles and global influences. Persian rugs have served as conduits for cross-cultural communication throughout history, from luxury in the Renaissance to modernistic interpretations in the twentieth. Through case studies, the paper delves into narratives that connect tradition and transformation, contributing to a better understanding of art, culture, and our shared human journey.

Pulling the Strings Together: Women’s Hair a Symbol of Power and Danger as depicted in Indian Mythologies particularly in The Mahabharata and The Ramayana.

Pulling the Strings Together: Women’s Hair a Symbol of Power and Danger as depicted in Indian Mythologies particularly in The Mahabharata and The Ramayana.

Women and Power in Early Islamic History: Jawari of the Abbasid Court (786-861 AD)

<em>The significant presence of jawari owned by the caliphs of Islam became a phenomenon during the early period (170 AH/ 786 AD-247 AH/861 AD) of Abbasid rule. This article aims to examine why the early Abbasid rulers (786-861 AD) "kept" many jawari in their palaces and whether they had relations with all of them. Through a historical and sociological approach, the findings of this study indicate that the large number of jawari owned by the Abbasid caliphs during the early period was closely related to the advancements (economic, social, and political) achieved by the Abbasids at that time; the acceptance of slavery in Islam, territorial expansion (futuhat), the growth of economic trade sectors, the flourishing of entertainment in society, and the influence of Ctesiphon. Furthermore, the ownership of a large number of jawari did not necessarily indicate strong sexual desires of the caliphs; rather, it primarily served as a symbol of power, as evidenced by the fact that only individuals with significant authority typically possessed numerous jawari. This was also supported by a strong tradition of rewarding enslaved individuals as gifts, and the fact that not all Jariyah were intimate with their masters.</em>

A processual perspective on utopia as a lived social project: the case of a Ghanaian ‘Christian Town’

ABSTRACT How can we understand the concept of utopia when looking at a religious social utopia in practice? To unpack this question, the article retraces the motif of the ‘Christian Town’ or ‘Salem’ in the Apenkwa congregation of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana through more than a century of narratives and practices. Drawing on historical and ethnographic data, the article demonstrates how the utopian religious ideal can function as a powerful symbol for the self-identification of a religious group in practice. It shows how this motif is perpetuated by actors across different cultural and religious backgrounds and over several generations. Most significantly, it shows that all this is quite independent of the ‘success’ or ‘failure’ of the utopian social project itself. Based on these observations, the paper proposes to theorize utopia, in the case of lived social utopias, as both a vision and a process.

Cultural Identity in Museum Exhibits: Power Symbols in Intercultural Communication

The research provides a comprehensive investigation into the profound impact of museum exhibits, particularly those centered on potent symbols, on audience cultural identity and cross-cultural exchange, especially within the contemporary context of globalization. It elucidates the pivotal role played by museums as essential conduits of cultural expression, leveraging historical artifacts and symbolic representations not only to deepen audience appreciation of their own cultural heritage but also to foster empathy and appreciation for the diverse cultural perspectives prevalent worldwide. Through meticulous analysis of these exhibits, the study reveals the intricate cultural narratives they convey, thus emphasizing the critical role museums play in facilitating profound cross-cultural understanding, nurturing meaningful cultural dialogue, and shaping both individual and collective cultural identities. By showcasing objects rich in historical significance, aesthetic beauty, and societal values, museums emerge as dynamic platforms for cultural interpretation and exchange, effectively bridging cultural divides and promoting mutual understanding amidst the diverse tapestry of global cultures.

Gendered Deification: Women Leaders and Political Iconography in Bangladesh

This paper explores gendered political deification in Bangladesh with emphasis on the situation of women politicians in Bangladesh today. Using political deification tools developed by Sen and Nielsen with the help of the concept of political leadership feminism, we look at the interaction of gender with the construction of political imagery. In accomplishing this research, critical discourse analysis and visual semiotics are employed to establish an understanding of the representation and received portrayal of two key Bangladeshi ‘women of power’, namely, Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia. These findings uncover a multi-layered duality based on the gender and dynastic-political relations in Bangladesh, along with the persona of the supreme leader of a country. We map out how the concept of mother and family relations is mobilized to build strong political discourses, even as the patriarchal framework is both affirmed and subverted. In trying to attain gender equality, female leaders obtain the most political power but are subject to gender roles and, at times, contribute to the perpetuation of those roles. By contextualizing this study in South Asian politics, we are indeed helping the existing scholarly discourse on gender and political iconography, women’s participation in democratization, and the dilemmas of female leadership in patriarchal societies. This study advances knowledge on gender, power, and political symbolism in SA with the potential for introducing similar phenomena in other cultural settings.

Machine learning and time-series decomposition for phase extraction and symbol classification in CV-QKD

The predictability of phase estimation and symbol classification using machine learning (ML) for experimental continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) is investigated. ML outperforms standard techniques, with up to 2.3% enhancement in the symbol accuracy, showcasing classical noise impact. The time-series decomposition method upper-bounds the predictable space due to shot noise. Ultimately, a 1 kbits/s secret key rate is achieved at 20 km for a 1.8 pW symbol power.

Symbolic Politics of Karaeng Power in Jeneponto

This study explores the symbolic political phenomenon of Karaeng power in Jeneponto, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The main objective of this research is to understand how Karaeng traditional symbols of power are maintained and utilized in the local political context. Qualitative research methods are used by conducting in depth interviews with community figures and content analysis of related primary and secondary data. The research results show that traditional Karaeng symbols of power still have strong relevance in influencing local political dynamics, even in the modern era and ongoing democratization. The discussion in this paper highlights the importance of understanding the role of symbols in the local political context, as well as its implications for power dynamics and community political participation in Jeneponto.

Alternative icons: rethinking symbols of power in ‘The World of Stonehenge’

Current debates surrounding decolonisation and the democratisation of display are a critical issue for prehistoric collections as well as more recent material. The objects most likely to symbolise prehistory in museum displays, and thus in the popular imagination—those made of precious, skilfully worked materials—are a restricted group of iconic things, often interpreted as reflective of social status rather than anything more personal or spiritual. To contextualise this debate, the authors outline public reaction to the display of alternative objects with more representative messages within The World of Stonehenge exhibition, which was held at the British Museum in 2022.

Euphrase Kezilahabi’s Kaptula la Marx as a site of cold war contestation and communitas making

This article analyzes Euphrase Kezilahabi’s Kiswahili play Kaptula la Marx, examining its explicit engagement with Cold War politics, ideologies, and aesthetics. Kezilahabi blends the satirical and revolutionary, making the play a site for Cold War contestations and community-building. It is a work of postcolonial disillusionment but also a call to arms. By focusing on the portrayal of the African dictator, particularly his ill-fitting clothes as symbols of power, Kezilahabi satirizes and undermines the dictator’s authority. The play’s rich Cold War references reveal Kezilahabi’s global visions, addressing African politics’ entanglement in the global Cold War and a growing North/South divide. Additionally, the play draws on radical theater traditions, featuring a revolutionary leader figure and interactive elements with the audience that inspire oppressed groups to unite for change.

The Sword Culture of Southern China in the East Zhou Dynasty

In the East Zhou Dynasty in China, the sword was a practical weapon and an important cultural symbol in the Southern part of China. This article employs the method of literature review, starting from explaining the practical use of the sword and analyzing the cultural message conveyed by the Southern sword in the East Zhou Dynasty in China. The article explores the sword culture from three aspects: sword-making technology, legend and literature stories of swords, and the political and social culture behind swords, providing a cultural picture with multiple aspects. It was found that the southern sword in the East Zhou Dynasty not only reflected the wisdom of metallurgical craftsmen but also became an important element in legend stories and political and social conventions. The Southern sword represents Southern peoples natural worship, morality and prestige of rulers, and the good quality and spirits of humanity. These swords were also the symbol of royal members political power and high status, the identity and capability of aristocracy, and the gratitude or respect between people.