“You Were There, Oh Soul”: Color Manifestation of the Sacred and Metaphysical Treatment of Flora in the Poetry by Sigitas Geda, Leonardas Gutauskas, and Jonas Juškaitis in the 1970–1980s

Author(s): Gintarė Bernotienė / Language(s): English Issue: 51/2023

During the period of Stagnation the works by Sigitas Geda, Leonardas Gutauskas, and Jonas Juškaitis, with their inclination towards the poetics of visions and a theocentric worldview, notably differed from the prevailing themes in Lithuanian poetry. Due to this shared apperception, plants in their poetry were treated as having an essential characteristic of Being, which grounds metaphysically the related notions of the place and the transcendentality. An address taken from Geda’s poem, “Buvai, o siela” (“You Were There, Oh Soul”), reveals an approach (common to all three poets) that sees the landscape of the homeland as a repository of past and future lives. Concluding my earlier research, this article aims to analyze how a) a spiritualized manifestation of Being, seen in plants and perceived as sacredness expressed by certain colors, b) an apprehension of the world as a perpetual metamorphosis, and, c) the images of harmonious existence, which draw their specific character from the archetypes of ancient Baltic culture, reveal the specific experiences of divinity and sacredness of the native landscape in the poetry of Geda, Gutauskas, and Juškaitis in the 1970–1980s, as well as to disclose the philosophical and theosophical ideas that influenced their thought.

Îndreptarea unor erori din ediţiile ştiinţifice ale Istoriei ieroglifice (1705) de Dimitrie Cantemir. Ediţia Panaitescu-Verdeş (vol. 1-2, 1965)

Author(s): Ștefan Șuteu / Language(s): Romanian Issue: 1/2023

The Hieroglyphic History, written by Dimitrie Cantemir in 1705, is considered the first Romanian (historical) novel. Beyond the veil of allegory, the exotic topos and animal-related fantasy, the historical events between 1685 and 1705 are revealed through characteristic deciphering, representing valuable data for a historian. The work, first published in 1883, then in 1927 and 1957, in a few nonscientific editions, was finally republished in 1965 in a scientific edition elaborated by P.P. Panaitescu and Ion Verdeș. This 1965 edition is of very high historical value, but it also has a number of lacunae, especially in the field of theology. The editors don't reference certain biblical quotes, they hint at certain psychological ideas when mentioning quotes that are clearly derived from the Bible, they ignore the biblical source, which was the very foundation of Cantemir’s maxims, they overlook the study of certain toponyms with biblical origins (Euphrates, Tarshish, Babylon etc.) and don’t realize that some of his ideas have biblical origins. Furthermore, they don’t distinguish certain elements of Christian iconography from their biblical counterparts, leading to confusion (according to the editors, Saint Veronica’s Veil is attributed to Magdalene!). To edit the text correctly, it is necessary to have a thorough knowledge of biblical sources and familiarity with Romanian and European biblical traditions.

Традиционната религия като елемент от националната конституционна идентичност

Author(s): Mladen Mladenov / Language(s): Bulgarian Issue: 1/2024

The concept of traditional religion is a complex phenomenon containing within itself legal, customary, moral, and other positions. For historical reasons, it has settled in each individual society in a unique and authentic way, in the different nation-states, exchanging active and passive influence with other deontic and axiological systems. The special and essential role of the traditional religion in the Republic of Bulgaria - the Eastern Orthodox faith - is an explicitly enshrined constitutional postulate with the meaning of an element of national identity, on the basis of which doctrinal, administrative, judicial, and other positions are developed, in the complex and dynamic environment of the phenomenon of rule of law.

Wiedza boska a wiedza ludzka. Boska synestezja w filozofii Ksenofanesa z Kolofonu

Author(s): Sebastian Śpiewak / Language(s): Polish Issue: 49/2023

The aim of the present article is to analyze the poetry of Xenophanes of Colophon concerning his epistemological considerations with the notion of god proposed by him. Traditionally, Xenophanes is well known as a philosopher engaged in the debate on the meaningfulness of mythological ideas. At the same time, he advocates the concept of god, which is different from pictures transmitted through The Greek epic. It shall be shown how the theological approach of the Colophonian finds its justification in his remarks on cognitive abilities, especially in creatively used opposition between human and divine knowledge. Recently indicated, the connection between Xenophanes’ theology and his epistemological theses is not exhausted in the critique of religious anthropomorphism but is more profound, and based on the awareness of the impossibility of clear knowledge (saphes) for a human being. The latter is, however attributed to god alone, who gains the knowledge in the manner of synesthesia.

Нов поглед към проблема за църковното разделение между Римската църква и Константинополската патриаршия

Author(s): Kristiyan Kovachev / Language(s): Bulgarian Issue: 2/2024

Religious Freedom in Indonesia: Worldview of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika for Multicultural Education

Author(s): Yusak Tanasyah,Bobby Kurnia Putrawan,Ester Agustini Tandana / Language(s): English Issue: 1/2024

This study looks into issues facing Indonesian multicultural education and offers solutions based on the worldview of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. The study tries to clarify how Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’s worldview applies to the nation’s rich history, numerous tribes, nations, races, worldviews, including customs. The worldview is deeply established in the historical background of the Majapahit Kingdom and deeply embedded in Indonesia’s identity as the world’s largest Muslim nation; it can serve as a foundation for promoting religious freedom and building a peaceful, multicultural society for multicultural education.

Татяна Иванова. Страшният съд в монументалната живопис на Българското възраждане XVIII–XIX век.

Author(s): Vladimir Dimitrov / Language(s): Bulgarian Issue: 48/2024

Годишник на Асоциация за антропология, етнология и фолклористика „Онгъл“. Том 22, „Етнос и култура: между локуса и универсума”.

Author(s): Rossen Malchev,Konstantin Rangochev / Language(s): Bulgarian Issue: 48/2024

Understanding Religious Pluralism through Existential Phenomenology and Historical Contexts. Phenomenological Pluralism – an alternative to Hick and Eck’s theories

Author(s): Cosmin Tudor Ciocan / Language(s): English Issue: 2/2024

Phenomenological Pluralism (PP), grounded in the existential phenomenology of Maurice Merleau-Ponty, offers a novel approach to religious pluralism by emphasizing the unique and irreducible experiences individuals and communities have with the divine. Central to PP is the concept of "My (personal) God," which acknowledges that each person's encounter with the divine is uniquely personal and contextually grounded without a genuinely polytheistic implication. Unlike Universalist Pluralism (UP), which seeks common theological ground, and Particularist Pluralism (PaP), which focuses on cultural context, PP asserts that each religion operates within its own distinct reality. This approach fosters deeper interfaith dialogue by appreciating the diversity of spiritual narratives and promoting empathy and inclusivity. PP's practical implications extend to conflict resolution, social integration, and educational advancement, making it a robust framework for understanding and managing religious diversity. By validating the unique spiritual experiences of all participants, PP creates an inclusive environment conducive to genuine interfaith dialogue and societal cohesion.

Toward a Theology of Compassionate Release: Orthodox Christianity and the Dilemma of Assisted Dying. Confronting End-of-Life Realities with Faith and Compassion

Author(s): Cosmin Tudor Ciocan / Language(s): English Issue: 2/2024

This article examines the subtle interconnection between the sanctity of life and individual autonomy within the context of assisted dying, as seen through the lens of Orthodox Christianity. It seeks to unravel the complex theological, ethical, and pastoral considerations that inform the Orthodox stance on end-of-life issues, particularly the nuanced understanding of suffering, death, and the redemptive potential encapsulated within them. Orthodox theology, with its profound veneration for life as a divine gift, offers a counter-narrative to contemporary discourses that often prioritize personal autonomy and the alleviation of suffering above all. This tradition emphasizes the transformative power of suffering when united with Christ’s own redemptive suffering, proposing a vision of end-of-life care that is rooted in compassion, dignity, and hope for resurrection. The exploration begins with a historical and theological examination of the Orthodox perspective on life’s sanctity, engaging with the teachings of Church Fathers and contemporary theological and bioethical discussions. It highlights the foundational concepts of Orthodox anthropology, which perceives human beings as an indivisible unity of body and soul, reflecting the imago Dei. This anthropological understanding challenges reductionist views of human existence and informs the Orthodox approach to medical ethics, palliative care, and the spiritual accompaniment of the dying. By critically evaluating arguments for and against assisted dying, the article presents a balanced discourse that respects the depth of individual suffering while upholding the intrinsic value of life. It argues that Orthodox Christianity, through its rich theological heritage and pastoral practice, provides a compassionate and ethically nuanced framework for navigating the moral complexities of assisted dying. This framework advocates for an end-of-life care that honors the fullness of the human person, supports the spiritual journey toward eternal life, and fosters a communal embrace of life’s sacred threshold, offering a dignified passage that aligns with the faith’s deepest convictions about human destiny and divine grace.

HeartMath iBhubesi Tree Rhythm Project at Umhlanga Rocks South Africa

Author(s): Stephen David Edwards / Language(s): English Issue: 2/2024

"The HeartMath Tree Rhythm project is a citizen science interconnectivity initiative. Interconnectivity refers to the hypothesis that all life forms are interconnected via intersecting magnetic energy fields. HeartMath tree rhythm research complements the HeartMath Global Coherence Initiative (GCI) and Global Consciousness Project (GCI). Related websites are as follows: https://treerhythms.net/ https://www.heartmath.org/gci/gcms/live-data/ and https://gcp2.netThe present contribution employs a narrative methodology to introduce the iBhubesi Tree Rhythm project at Umhlanga Rocks South Africa. The isiZulu term “iBhubesi” denotes an African lion. Ubuntu connotes humanity. Its deeper meaning is that we only become human through others (umuntu umuntu ngabantu), especially, ancestors, family and friends. African dialogue is epitomized by respectful greeting and openness in human relationships. Umhlanga Rocks iBhubhesi Mango has a unique ecological ancestry and eco-spiritual story. Mango trees are originally indigenous to India, its people and continent. They are also connected to everything else - nature, people, continents, planets and cosmos. The following contribution intends to unpack some universal, differential and unique aspects of this interconnectedness. "

Compte rendu: Калин Михайлов. Християнство и литература. Фигури на (не)благородното. София, УИ „Св. Климент Охридски“, 2023, ISBN: 978-954-07-5726-1. [Kalin Mikhaïlov. Christianisme et littérature. Figures du noble et de l’ignoble.]

Author(s): Miryana Yanakieva / Language(s): French Issue: 1/2024

Book review: Калин Михайлов. Християнство и литература. Фигури на (не)благородното. София, УИ „Св. Климент Охридски“, 2023, ISBN: 978-954-07-5726-1.[Kalin Mikhaïlov. Christianisme et littérature. Figures du noble et de l’ignoble. Éd. de l’Université de Sofia, 2023, ISBN : 978-954-07-5726-1 ; Christianity and Literature. Figures of the (Ig)Noble.]

The application of artificial intelligence in the context of the educational system in Serbia, with a special focus on religious education

Author(s): Bojan M. Tomić,Nebojša D. Radovanović / Language(s): English,Serbian Issue: 2/2024

The presence and increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern society and its already acknowledged potential for transforming educational practice demand a thorough and systematic study of the implications of its use in the entire educational system, aa well as in the context of certain school subjects and curricula. This paper covers the theoretical and empirical frameworks for analyzing positive and negative aspects of AI integration into education, with a special focus on religious education. In the theoretical segment, AI possibilities and challenges are analyzed in the context of today’s teaching process, while the empirical part of the research is focused on analyzing the aspects of AI application in the organization of the teaching process for the optional subject Religious Education. By identifying advantages and challenges in the application of this technology, AI possibilities are considered in detail as an auxiliary instrument for preparing Religious Education lessons in the primary school. For that purpose, the answers generated by ChatGPT application were compared with the subject teacher’s experience about the lesson preparation, whereas apart from content overlapping, deviation was also observed in the quality of certain generated answers. Through a critical review of the current situation in AI use in education, this paper offers a general estimate of the current situation, recognizing the importance of further development and adaptation of pedagogical practices to AI possibilities.

Antický životopis, sociální jednání a kanonická evangelia

Author(s): Magdalena Vytlačilová / Language(s): Czech Issue: 1/2024

The study serves two main purposes. First, it aims to provide a definition of ancient biography that can account for the genre’s diversity without viewing this diversity as problematic. Second, the study seeks to introduce the canonical gospels, describe their shared and distinct features to ancient biography and emphasise the implications of this approach for the interpretation of the gospels, which are frequently overlooked in contemporary research. As I point out, the first goal can be achieved by distinguishing between primary characteristics (an explicit focus on the life of a single protagonist and the intention to provide their life as a model for imitation) and secondary characteristics (historicity, paratexts, structure, length of life, and used material). These secondary characteristics may vary, but they presume the presence of the so­‑called primary characteristics. Furthermore, I argue that the canonical gospels have all of the primary characteristics of ancient biography, a conclusion supported by many contemporary scholars. I point to a fundamental aspect in which the Gospels differ from other Greco­‑Roman biographies, namely the construction of the reliability of the text and the different self­‑understanding of the authors who considered themselves – as I have argued – inspired.

Rituální studia a rané křesťanství

Author(s): Jiří Gebelt / Language(s): Czech Issue: 1/2024

In this paper, I focus on the emergence of ritual studies and subsequently formulate six characteristics that, in my opinion, establish their identity: a) an emphasis on being grounded in ritual theories; b) a plurality of ritual definitions; c) a wide area of application of ritual theories; d) a ritual understood as (performative) action; e) the plurality of methods; f) interdisciplinarity. Based on these characteristics of ritual studies, I deal with some aspects of their application to early Christianity. I demonstrate the benefit and innovation of this perspective on selected approaches: new viewpoints on rites of passage (DeMaris) and on the origin and development of the Eucharist (Taussig) and cognitive approaches (Uro). Finally, I address the problem of the researcher’s imagination (speculativeness) and the relationship between theories and exegesis of texts. I conclude by analysing the theory of ritual failure applied by P.­‑B. Smit.

Обществено – икономически и културни промени в Шотландия след Реформацията през XVI век

Author(s): Marieta Stoykova / Language(s): Bulgarian Issue: 2/2023

For Scotland 16th century is dramatic and resulted in major changes. The desire of the aristocracy and layman to change the moral of the catholic priests, who continues to ignore their parochial responsibilities, led to the Reformation. In the 1560s nobility, landowners and gentry declined the Papal authority in the name of their faith and converted to the new doctrine which gave them the moral and discipline they needed. Now the laity has the opportunity to own a Bible in their language and the ability to read it. After the religious changes, clergy is not subordinate to the crown, and parochial priests are the leaders of the Scottish society. Political changes coming with the establishment of the new Scottish church cease wars with England and bring a piece for the population in the border areas. The care for the poor becomes a national duty and this unites Scottish people. We may say that this struggle for ecclesiastical changes is not only a religious matter but a matter of nationalism. Creating a Godly society is not the aim only of the reformers but of all the laity in Scotland.

O niezbędności humanistyki w zinstrumentalizowanym świecie. Humanistyka jako projekt kształtowania wrażliwości

Author(s): Magdalena Szpunar / Language(s): Polish Issue: 48/2024

In the text, the humanities are understood as the only realistic counterbalance, but also resistance to the dominance of instrumental mind. Devaluation and marginalization of the humanities herald cultural regression and cultural autism of individuals. The humanities are treated as an important project for the formation of sensitivity, social integration, but also emancipation, the creation of a common universe that protects society from atomization. The humanities makes us realize that despite its focus on pragmatism and efficiency, the most important thing always is and has to be the human being. Although it can sometimes be inconclusive, although it leaves many things open, uncompleted, this is where its strength lies, breaking us out of certainties, breaking the hegemonic discourse of what is oppressive, speaking up for the human being.

Humanistyka i kultura czytania w obliczu zagrożeń egzystencjalnych. Lektury w czasach zarazy a egzystencjalne doświadczenia graniczne: epidemia-erotyka-wojna

Author(s): Barbara Zwolińska / Language(s): Polish Issue: 48/2024

In the article, referring to the common experiences related to the pandemic, I reflect on the meaning of texts read in the “times of plague.” I ask the question, to what extent and what kind of reading helps to understand the traumatic events experienced by people (affecting the physical and mental state), what readers are looking for in novels, memoirs and journals concerning mass diseases, for example, plague and cholera. The review and analysis of these themes in selected works is accompanied by a question about the metaphorical meaning of the epidemic, symbolizing the diseases of civilization, such as: consumerism, materialism, thoughtless exploitation of natural goods, destruction of the environment, or, in general, the evil accumulating in subsequent wars. An important theme is also the one relating to the connection between eroticism with the plague–a trail important in T. Mann’s Śmierć w Wenecji and in G. G. Márquez’s Love in the Time of the Plague. Both fictional works, such as the novels mentioned above, as well as records of witnesses of history depicting the war as a plague, or referring, like S. Márai, to the journalistic style in describing the course of cholera in Italy, may inspire an attempt to answer the question to what extent readings describing the time of human trials in a situation of endangered humanistic values may be a signpost for future generations not necessarily feeling well in a culture without books.

W stronę upodmiotowiania twórczości naukowej – przypadek auto/biografii

Author(s): Marcin Kafar / Language(s): Polish Issue: 48/2024

The article presents the problem of the tension arising between academic creativity and non-academic experiences of scholars. The individual subsections consist of approximations of expressive cases of scholarly auto/biographies that fall into the category of “consciously halved”– researchers whose works are situated at the intersection of what is personal with what is academic, giving it a specific cognitive tenor. The perspective adopted in the considerations is contained in the horizon of reflexive thinking, enabling the cultivation of hermeneutics of the Self in the area of “new humanities” as starting (and ending) with lived experiences of active human agents.

Postawić świat w centrum! (Post)humanistyczna wyobraźnia pedagogiki

Author(s): Maksymilian Chutorański / Language(s): Polish Issue: 48/2024

Referring to researchers who emphasize the Anthropocene aspect of modernity, I put forward a thesis on the need for a posthumanist pedagogical imagination, which I understand with reference to the sociological imagination of C. W. Mills and the ontological imagination of A. W. Nowak as an openness to the complexity of the world and questioning the accepted pedagogical settlements on ontology, methodology and axiology. Pedagogical imagination is an openness to the complex relations between humans and non-humans (R. Braidotti, D. Haraway, B. Latour, J. Law). Within its framework, questions are raised about the basic educational actors of the collective and what they can do for the common world. Pedagogical imagination is combined with the demand to constantly transcend the established horizons of what is pedagogical/humanistic.