cover
Contact Name
Husnul Qodim
Contact Email
jcrt@uinsgd.ac.id
Phone
+628986143832
Journal Mail Official
jcrt@uinsgd.ac.id
Editorial Address
Jalan AH. Nasution No. 105, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia
Location
Kota bandung,
Jawa barat
INDONESIA
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions
ISSN : -     EISSN : 29885884     DOI : https://doi.org/10.15575/jcrt
The Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions is a scholarly publication dedicated to the exploration and analysis of contemporary rituals and traditions from diverse cultural, social, and religious contexts. The journal provides a platform for interdisciplinary research and critical discourse on the significance, evolution, and meaning of rituals and traditions in the modern world. JCRT welcomes contributions from scholars, researchers, and practitioners in anthropology, sociology, religious studies, cultural studies, folklore, and performance studies. The journal publishes original research articles, theoretical discussions, comparative analyses, and case studies that shed light on various aspects of contemporary rituals and traditions, including their cultural, social, psychological, and symbolic dimensions.
Articles 32 Documents
Cultural Sentinels: Ọkọnkọ Society's Watchdog Role in Conflict Resolution and Cultural Preservation in Umuahia Community Aniga, Ugo
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.348

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This study investigates the diverse roles of the Ọkọnkọ Society in Umuahia, Nigeria, particularly its use of Igbo language and cultural practices in conflict resolution and cultural preservation, challenging the conventional view of the society as merely a secret male cult. Methodology: The study employs qualitative, ethnographic methodologies including in-depth interviews, FGDs, and non-participant observations in Umuahia, supplemented by scholarly literature, with analysis grounded in hermeneutics, semiotics, and conflict management theories to emphasize the role of language and culture in the Ọkọnkọ Society's practices. Main Findings: The research uncovers the crucial role of the Ọkọnkọ Society in Umuahia as a guardian of peace and cultural sentinel. Key findings include the society's use of Igbo proverbs and semiotics (e.g., ọmụ palm frond, uhie drum) in conflict mediation, and the societal respect and trust they command. The society's conflict resolution role extends beyond mere mediation, effectively acting as an appellate court within the community, especially in land disputes. The study also highlights society's role in preserving and enforcing cultural norms and practices. Applications of this Study: This research has practical implications for understanding indigenous conflict resolution mechanisms in African communities. It offers insights for policymakers and social workers in designing culturally sensitive conflict management strategies. Additionally, it contributes to preserving the cultural heritage of the Igbo people by documenting traditional practices and societal structures. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study is original in its comprehensive examination of the Ọkọnkọ Society, linking Igbo language and culture with conflict management practices. It fills a significant gap in academic research by shedding light on the societal and cultural dynamics within the Umuahia community, thus providing a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between language, culture, and social governance in an African context.
Syncretism and Identity: The Integration of Lutheranism among the Mari People of Bashkortostan, Russia Klyashev, Alexander; Sadikov, Ranus
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.373

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This study explores the intricate process of religious syncretism and identity transformation among the Mari people of Bashkortostan through the integration of Lutheranism into their traditional and Orthodox Christian practices. Methodology: Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research combines qualitative insights from field observations, interviews, and sociological surveys with quantitative data analysis to examine the impact of Lutheranism on the Mari's ethnic identity, cultural adaptation, and social dynamics. Main Findings: The findings reveal that culturally sensitive missionary strategies, including the use of the Mari language and incorporation of ethnic cultural elements into Lutheran worship, have facilitated the acceptance and integration of Lutheranism among the Mari, leading to the formation of a novel religious identity. This identity reflects a dynamic synthesis of traditional Mari beliefs and Lutheranism, embodying the broader phenomena of adaptation and resistance in a globalizing world. Applications of this Study: This study offers insights into the complexity of religious evolution and the role of syncretism in preserving cultural heritage amidst modern challenges. Novelty/Originality of this Study: The study contributes to the discourse on religious syncretism, cultural adaptation, and the resilience of ethnic identities, offering insights into the complexities of religious evolution and the role of syncretism in preserving cultural heritage amidst modern challenges. The research underscores the significance of intercultural dialogue and the adaptability of religious practices, highlighting the potential for mutual enrichment between global religious traditions and local cultural contexts.
Bridges of Peace: The Role of Symbols and Rituals in Peacebuilding Mahmuluddin, Mahmuluddin
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.403

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This article investigates how symbols and rituals contribute to conflict management in deeply divided societies. Methodology: Through qualitative library research, this study examines the impact of symbols and rituals on peace-building by analyzing theoretical frameworks and case studies. Main Findings: The study identifies that symbols and rituals play a crucial role in the peace-building process, achievable through two primary methods: the creation of new symbols and rituals that draw on inclusive narratives to foster a shared symbolic space promoting multicultural tolerance, and the creative manipulation of existing symbols and rituals to challenge and subvert historical power dynamics. Applications of this Study: The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, peace-building practitioners, and community leaders engaged in conflict resolution and reconciliation efforts. By understanding the dual potential of symbols and rituals in peace-building, stakeholders can develop more effective strategies to address the underlying causes of division and promote enduring peace in divided societies.  Novelty/Originality of this Study: This research contributes to the field by providing a comprehensive analysis of the transformative power of symbols and rituals in peace-building. It showcases how these cultural elements can be strategically leveraged to support reconciliation and unity, marking a significant advancement in the understanding of non-traditional mechanisms of conflict resolution and peace-building efforts.
Review of “A Vida Secreta das Cidades (The Secret Life of Cities)” by Mateus Soares de Azevedo de Mello, Ricardo Garcia
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.414

Abstract

“The Secret Life of Cities”, authored by Brazilian writer Mateus Soares de Azevedo, fathoms the unknown spiritual dimensions present in the culture, art and history of emblematic cities around the world. The analytical and contemplative work is carried out by the author in loco in symbolic cities belonging to six religious traditions – Sunni Islam, Shiite Islam, Buddhism, Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern Christianity. The author's modus operandi is not that of the voyeur, the adventurer, or the collector of novelties, but rather that of the pilgrim in search of knowledge.
Interweaving Dreams and Rituals: The Anthropopoiesis of Communal Identity in the Festino di San Silvestro Rite Agresta, Domenico
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.437

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This research aims to investigate the intricate relationship between communal identity, rituals, and dreams within the Festino di San Silvestro rite in Troina, Sicily. It focuses on understanding how shared dreaming, facilitated by the Social Dreaming Matrix (SDM), reflects and shapes communal engagement with cultural myths and collective identity during a traditional rite of passage. Methodology: Employing a qualitative approach, the study integrates participant observation, thematic analysis of dreams collected through SDM sessions, and semi-structured interviews with participants of the rite. This methodology allows for an in-depth exploration of the symbolic and metaphorical content of dreams and their relevance to the community's cultural practices and identity. Main Findings: The research uncovers that dreams shared during the rite act as semiophores, mediating the dialogue between individual and communal psyches, thus reinforcing communal bonds and cultural heritage. The liminal phase is identified as crucial for communal transformation, wherein rituals and shared dreams catalyze the redefinition of communal identity and the reinforcement of ties to cultural and spiritual roots. Applications of This Study: The findings have broad implications for cultural anthropology, community psychology, and ritual studies, offering a novel perspective on using shared dreaming as a mechanism for community building and identity formation. This study suggests practical applications for SDM in fostering community cohesion and understanding the dynamic process of anthropopoiesis in various communal settings. Novelty/Originality of This Study: This research contributes a novel perspective by integrating SDM with rites of passage, offering fresh insights into communal uses of dreams for navigating identity and heritage. Its exploration of dreams as semiophores in a communal ritual context marks a unique contribution to the fields of cultural and psychological studies, highlighting the SDM's potential in uncovering collective unconscious processes and supporting the dynamic construction of communal identity.
Islamic Influence and Dogon Cultural Synthesis: Redefining Cultural Dynamics in Mali Kutsenkov, Petr A.
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.447

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This study aims to re-evaluate the commonly held perception that Islamization leads to the destruction of traditional African cultural symbols and practices. Focusing on the Dogon people of Mali, the research seeks to understand how Islam interacts with and influences their traditional visual culture. Methodology: This study utilizes a combination of observational and ethnographic methods to analyze visual cultural elements in Dogon Country, including sculptures, door locks, traditional buildings, and Dogon mosques, based on extensive fieldwork conducted from 2015 to 2023. Main Findings: Contrary to the notion that Islam erases indigenous visual culture, the study finds a unique form of interaction between Islam and traditional Dogon visual symbols. The Dogon people have retained their beliefs in “jinna” and continue their ritualistic practices. Notably, the influence of Islam has led to the creation of Dogon mosques, which are new architectural forms that incorporate traditional Dogon decorative motifs associated with idol or fetish worship. Applications of This Study: The findings offer significant insights for cultural preservation efforts in Mali and similar contexts. By demonstrating the capacity for harmonious coexistence of Islamic and traditional cultural elements, this research provides a framework for understanding and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Dogon people. Novelty/Originality of This Study: This study offers a unique insight into the symbiotic relationship between Islamic and traditional Dogon cultures, challenging the common narrative of cultural erasure and highlighting the possibilities of cultural adaptation and synthesis in Africa.
Syncretism and Cultural Resilience: The Coexistence and Evolution of Traditional Itolimin and Christian Burial Practices in Esanland, Nigeria Aluede, Charles Onomudo; Ikhidero, Solomon Ijeweimen
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.448

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This research aims to uncover how traditional second burial rites coexist with and have adapted to Christian funeral norms, reflecting the socio-religious negotiation in a postcolonial context. Methodology: Employing a qualitative ethnographic approach, the study gathered data through semi-structured interviews with local chiefs, elders, and adults, alongside observations and an extensive review of related literature. Participants were selected based on their deep knowledge of Esan customs and involvement in the Itolimin practice. Main Findings: The study revealed that Itolimin, while embracing certain Christian elements, remains a vital cultural practice that reinforces the community's moral and social order. The rite's evolution showcases the Esan people's ability to blend traditional and Christian values, thereby preserving their cultural identity amidst religious changes. This syncretism illustrates the community's broader cultural resilience and adaptation approach in a rapidly changing religious landscape. Applications of this Study: Insights from this study apply to the broader discourse on funeral practices in postcolonial societies, providing a framework for cultural preservation amidst religious transformation. It is relevant for policymakers and public health officials regarding community health and burial practices. The findings also offer a basis for developing contextual theological education that respects indigenous beliefs within Christian teachings. Novelty/Originality: This study provides a unique contribution to the understanding of funeral rituals within African postcolonial societies by documenting the living tradition of Itolimin. It highlights how syncretism acts as a dynamic cultural force, shaping the way communities like the Esan negotiate identity and religious practice in a contemporary Christian-dominated context.
Beyond Carvings and Rituals: Unveiling the Ikenga's Role in Modern Igbo Society Ndubuisi, Chinyere
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.450

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This study examines the contemporary significance of the Ikenga, a crucial cultural symbol among the Igbo people of Nigeria, commonly associated with strength, determination, and entrepreneurial drive. Methodology: The study used a qualitative research design and employed semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and document analysis to collect data from various participants in Igbo society. These participants included entrepreneurs, community leaders, cultural historians, and spiritual leaders. Main Findings: The research reveals that Ikenga continues to serve as a significant cultural icon, supporting entrepreneurship and symbolizing communal achievements and personal aspirations in contemporary times. Despite the challenges of globalization, Ikenga adapts to maintain its relevance, underpinning socio-economic practices and embodying the enduring Igbo values of resilience and determination. Applications of this Study: The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, cultural practitioners, and scholars, highlighting the importance of integrating cultural heritage into development strategies. This study encourages a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the dynamic interplay between traditional symbols and modern societal roles, offering a model for preserving cultural identity in rapidly changing environments. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This research contributes to the ethnographic literature by offering a contemporary analysis of Ikenga's relevance in Igbo society, beyond its traditional and symbolic interpretations. It underscores the symbol's adaptability and enduring significance, enriching the discourse on the preservation of cultural heritage in the face of globalization and modern challenges.
Nurturing Tradition and Nature through Odisha's Shraddha Rituals Panda, Taranisen; Mishra, Nirlipta; Rahimuddin, Shaik; Pradhan, Bikram Kumar; Nayak, Biraja Prasanna; Sahu, Sarat Kumar
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.467

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This research investigates the use of plant species in Odisha's Shraddha rituals, aiming to highlight the interplay between cultural traditions and biodiversity conservation. It seeks to understand how these rituals contribute to the preservation of the region's botanical heritage and the broader environmental sustainability. Methodology: The study employed qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, discussions with key informants, and direct observations, across both rural and urban areas of Odisha's coastal districts. A total of 167 informants from diverse backgrounds participated, providing comprehensive insights into the rituals and their associated flora. The research also involved collecting plant specimens and photographic documentation to enrich the understanding of these practices. Main Findings: Thirty-nine plant species across 24 families, crucial to the Shraddha rituals, were identified. Notable species like Areca catechu and Cocos nucifera emerged as symbols of the spiritual-nature bond in Odia culture. The study uncovers challenges such as overharvesting and habitat destruction, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable harvesting practices and biodiversity conservation. Applications of this Study: The findings are instrumental for cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and sustainable resource management. They provide a framework for local communities and religious leaders to engage in sustainable practices and for conservation bodies to develop strategies that balance cultural traditions with ecological preservation. Novelty/Originality: This research is unique in its ethnobotanical approach to exploring the role of religious rituals in environmental conservation. Integrating cultural anthropology with botanical science offers new insights into how traditional practices can support biodiversity preservation. Its comprehensive analysis across both rural and urban settings in Odisha adds depth and relevance to the understanding of these rituals in contemporary society, making it a novel contribution to the field.
Between Tradition and Modernity: Dynamics of Krobo Marriage Rites in the Eastern Region of Ghana Abbey, Elizabeth Anorkor; Nasidi, Nadir A.
Journal of Contemporary Rituals and Traditions Vol. 2 No. 2 (2024)
Publisher : UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.15575/jcrt.504

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This research delves into the dynamic evolution of marriage rites within the Krobo community in Eastern Ghana, focusing on the 'la-pomi' and 'fia' ceremonies. Methodology: Employing a qualitative approach, the study utilized narrative analysis to capture the intricate perspectives surrounding the 'la-pomi' and 'fia' marriage rites. Twenty-four participants from Krobo-Odumase and its environs, aged between 20 to 60 years, were purposively sampled and interviewed in two phases. Main Findings: The study unveiled a significant transformation in the Krobo marriage rites, from highly structured ceremonies to more adaptable forms blending traditional elements with modern practices. Key factors driving this evolution include urbanization, the influence of Western education, and the interplay with legal frameworks, all contributing to the rites' ongoing adaptation. Despite these changes, a strong commitment to preserving cultural identity remains evident among the Krobo people, showcasing their resilience and innovative approaches to sustaining cultural traditions. Applications of this Study: By highlighting the adaptive strategies employed by the Krobo community, this research contributes to broader discussions on cultural sustainability, identity, and social cohesion in the face of global changes. Novelty/Originality: This research underscores the complex negotiation process between preserving cultural heritage and embracing change, offering a unique perspective on the resilience and dynamism of Krobo cultural practices in a rapidly changing world.

Page 2 of 4 | Total Record : 32