Book Reviews Acta Orientalia 70
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: Book Reviews Acta Orientalia 70
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Acta Orientalia
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: Book Reviews Acta Orientalia 70
Year: 2009 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5342
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
The compendium of reviews on various scholarly works and publications related to Islamic history, linguistics, and cultural studies showcases the breadth of research and narratives concerning underrepresented subjects, particularly focusing on the nuances of Islamic sects, ancient texts, and Bedouin poetry. These reviews not only highlight the contributions of various authors and historians but also delve into the intricacies of cultural expressions within the contexts of religion, geography, and social structures.
2) The Ibadi History in Tunisia
One prominent work reviewed is Virginie Prevost’s examination of the Ibadi communities in southern Tunisia during the 8th to 13th centuries. Prevost delves into the political history of the Ibadi, showcasing how their adherence to a more austere form of Islam was an adaptation to Arab domination. The book traces their decline following conflicts with the Aghlabids, Fatimids, and others while highlighting the cultural and economic roles these communities played, particularly in trade routes across the Sahara.
3) Parenthesis in Biblical Hebrew
Tamar Zewi’s study on parenthetical units in Biblical Hebrew offers a comprehensive analysis of narrative structures, classifying various parenthetical expressions and their historical context. Zewi navigates through linguistic challenges and proposes a functional-pragmatic approach, illustrating how parenthetical structures contribute to narrative techniques. Although her focus is somewhat limited in scope, her work opens doors for future research within biblical linguistics.
4) Sanskrit Manuscripts from Turfan
Klaus Wille’s catalog of Sanskrit manuscripts from Turfan marks a significant contribution to the field of manuscript studies, detailing over 1,162 entries of texts found in Central Asia. The volume illustrates the importance of these texts for understanding Central Asian Buddhism and its interrelation with linguistic history. Wille's meticulous cataloging efforts stand as a crucial resource for scholars exploring the cultural and historical significance of these manuscripts.
5) Gender and Drumming in Iron Age Israel
Sarit Paz's exploration of gender dynamics within the context of drumming traditions in Iron Age II Israel reveals vital insights into social roles. By analyzing archaeological figurines of female drummers, Paz illuminates the cultural significance of these figures in relation to women’s roles both in society and religious practices. The study emphasizes how drumming served not only as a musical form but also as a means of cultural expression and identity reinforcement.
6) Poetry and Politics in Bedouin Society
In “Poetry and Politics in Contemporary Bedouin Society,” Clive Holes and Said Salman Abu Athera present an anthology of poems that confront political and social issues within Bedouin communities. The work emphasizes the poetic tradition as a dynamic medium for expressing dissent and negotiating identity amid marginalization and evolving socio-political landscapes. As such, it serves as a testament to the resilience of Bedouin culture in the face of modernization and state control.
7) Convergences of Indo-Aryan and Dravidian Languages
H. Scharfe's investigation into the linguistic convergences between Indo-Aryan and Dravidian languages offers intriguing insights into the interaction between these language families. Scharfe's analysis focuses on specific grammatical constructions, exploring how cultural interchange has influenced linguistic development over time. This exploration not only contributes to our understanding of South Asian linguistics but also emphasizes social and historical contexts shaping language use.
8) Conclusion
The reviewed works collectively underscore the rich tapestry of Islamic history, linguistics, and cultural studies, revealing the complexities of identity formation and expression across various societies. Through diverse lenses—including the historical roots of Ibadi Islam, the intricate links between language and culture, and the dynamic role of poetry in contemporary society—these contributions encourage deeper engagement with often-overlooked narratives and promote interdisciplinary dialogues. It is evident that these scholarly endeavors are vital for a comprehensive understanding of the past and present influences in their respective fields.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of Virginie Prevost's book on Ibadi Islam?
Virginie Prevost's book details the political history of Ibadi communities in southern Tunisia, emphasizing their historical struggles against various powers like the Aghlabids and Fatimids, and explores their adaptation within the broader context of Maghribi history.
How does Tamar Zewi analyze parenthetical units in Biblical Hebrew?
Tamar Zewi conducts a linguistic analysis of parenthetical expressions in historical narrative books of the Tanak, focusing on their function and pragmatics rather than strict syntactical definitions, aiming to stimulate further research in this area.
What contributions does Klaus Wille's catalog offer about Sanskrit manuscripts?
Klaus Wille's catalog provides detailed descriptions of Sanskrit manuscripts from the Turfan finds, aiding the study of Central Asian Buddhism and documenting textual fragments that highlight the cultural and religious exchanges along the Silk Road.
What unique aspects are explored in Klaus Mylius's German-Pali dictionary?
Klaus Mylius's dictionary serves as a substantial resource for understanding Pali equivalents for German terms, including idiomatic expressions, which enhances the study of Buddhist texts and their linguistic nuances.
What are the main themes discussed in 'Arabische, türkische und persische Handschriften'?
This catalog describes and analyzes 94 manuscripts from the Zentralbibliothek Zürich, emphasizing Islamic literature, history, and sciences, thus providing valuable insights into the cultural heritage of Arabic and Turkish literature.
How does Ruth Laila Schmidt's work contribute to understanding Shina language?
Ruth Laila Schmidt's grammar of the Shina language offers an in-depth analysis of its structure, including phonology, verb classifications, and syntactic features, enhancing the understanding of this lesser-studied Indo-Aryan language.
What is the significance of 'Living in the Ottoman Ecumenical Community'?
This volume reflects on Suraiya Faroqhi's contributions to Ottoman studies by examining the interactions of diverse ethnic and religious communities within the empire, demonstrating how these influences shaped the social and political landscapes.
What aspects of Bedouin poetry are explored in 'Poetry and Politics in Contemporary Bedouin Society'?
This book examines the role of Bedouin poetry as a means of political and social commentary, showcasing how contemporary poets address issues such as marginalization, identity, and political critique through their oral traditions.
What is the focus of Reinhold Müller’s selected essays on South Asian medicine?
Reinhold Müller’s essays analyze various aspects of South Asian medicine, including medical theories, practices, and historical texts, providing insights and discussions that remain relevant for contemporary studies of the region's medical history.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “Book Reviews Acta Orientalia 70”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Book:
A collection of written, printed, or digital pages bound together, featuring essays, reviews, or various scholarly topics such as 'Themes and Tasks in Old and Middle Indo-Aryan Linguistics' presented at the World Sanskrit Conference
2) Literature:
Writings in prose or verse, like the Palestinian fiction discussed in Ghanayim’s book or works covered under Arabic poetry in Bedouin society
3) Language:
System of spoken or written communication used by a particular community, studied through various forms such as dialects or Sanskrit discussed by scholars at the World Sanskrit Conference
4) Poetry (Poetic, Poetical):
A form of literary expression, exemplified by Bedouin poetry in Jordan and Sinai, involving rhyme and rhythm to convey ideas and emotions
5) Poem:
A composition in verse, like those composed by Bedouin poets in Clive Holes and Said Salman Abu Athera’s study, addressing political and social issues
6) Discussion:
A detailed exploration of a topic, often found in academic papers such as the analysis of Palestinian literature and its reflections of social and political themes
7) Sanskrit:
The classical language of ancient India, extensively analyzed in Rahul Peter Das’s compilation of Reinhold Müller’s works on medical texts and other aspects
8) Silk:
Refers to the ancient trade routes of Central Asia, thoroughly explored in 'The Journey of Maps and Images on the Silk Road' which includes geographical and cultural exchanges
9) Woman (Women):
Discussed as musicians and drummers in ancient Israel, their roles in society examined in 'Drums, Women, and Goddesses; Drumming and Gender in Iron Age II Israel' by Sarit Paz
10) Drum:
A percussive musical instrument played notably by women in Iron Age II Israel, discussed in Sarit Paz’s work for its social and possibly cultic roles
11) Identity:
Representing the self-concept and collective values of a group, examined through Palestinian fiction in Ghanayim’s analysis and its reflection of Palestinian identity within Israel
12) Image:
Visual representation or artifact, explored in 'The Journey of Maps and Images on the Silk Road' regarding the transmission and adaptation of imagery across cultures
13) Roman (Roma):
[see source text or glossary: Roman]
14) Linguistics:
The scientific study of language, delved into at the 12th World Sanskrit Conference dealing with Old and Middle Indo-Aryan languages
15) Politics:
Inextricable from literary works, it influences Bedouin poetry in Jordan and Sinai reflecting political concerns of their times
16) Medicine:
A field documented thoroughly by Reinhold Müller in South Asian context, covering traditional practices, medical theories and treatments in ancient texts
17) Indian:
Refers to the cultural, linguistic, and historical context of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in studies of medicine, linguistics, and literature
18) Iron:
Refers to a historical period, notably Iron Age II Israel, where women’s drumming traditions were studied for social and cultural insights by Sarit Paz
19) Experience:
[see source text or glossary: Experience]
20) Pakistan:
[see source text or glossary: Pakistan]
21) Village:
Small community setting featured in the works on traditional lifestyles like those described in the study of Bedouin poets and their socio-political roles
22) Dialect:
A regional language variation studied in Bedouin poetry and other linguistic research discussed in various academic contributions
23) Aryan:
Refers to the Indo-Aryan language family, extensively analyzed in the World Sanskrit Conference and related research on ancient texts
24) Theology:
[see source text or glossary: Theology]
25) Religion:
Central to various studies including Bedouin poetry, reflecting religious undertones and themes in traditional compositions and rituals
26) Citizen:
[see source text or glossary: Citizen]
27) Island:
Geographical features included in studies like those of the Ottoman Ecumenical Community contributing to the understanding of diverse cultural intersections
28) Discipline:
[see source text or glossary: Discipline]
29) Knowledge:
Accumulated information and understanding, often shared through books, essays and scholarly discussions on a variety of topics from medicine to linguistics
30) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
A major religious system discussed regarding its doctrinal and cultural impacts, particularly in textual traditions and cosmology
31) Samira (Shamira):
[see source text or glossary: Samira]
32) Doubt:
[see source text or glossary: Doubt]
33) Power:
A recurring theme in literary works and historical studies, often examined through the lens of political structures and social hierarchies
34) Space:
[see source text or glossary: Space]
35) Light:
[see source text or glossary: Light]
36) Cult:
Refers to religious practices and rituals, including the veneration of goddesses discussed in the context of Iron Age II Israel
37) Branch (Branches):
[see source text or glossary: Branch]
38) Musician:
[see source text or glossary: Musician]
39) External:
[see source text or glossary: External]
40) Kalasha (Kalasa):
[see source text or glossary: Kalasha]
41) Future:
[see source text or glossary: Future]
42) China:
A significant cultural and political entity, specifically in contexts like the Silk Road where cultural exchanges occurred
43) Music:
Explored in relation to cultural traditions, like women’s drumming practices in Iron Age II Israel, and its social significance
44) Error:
[see source text or glossary: Error]
45) Jena:
The German city associated with the work of Reinhold Müller on South Asian medicine and related studies
46) Anar:
[see source text or glossary: Anar]
47) King:
Refers to figures of authority in historical and contemporary contexts such as Bedouin poetry referencing Arab leaders
48) Hope:
[see source text or glossary: Hope]
49) Transmission:
Discusses the movement and adaptation of knowledge or artifacts across cultures, like that detailed in 'Journey of Maps and Images on the Silk Road'
50) Technology:
[see source text or glossary: Technology]
51) Mountain:
Natural feature often central to cultural and religious practices, depicted in visual and literary works like those from the Silk Road
52) Soldier:
[see source text or glossary: Soldier]
53) Grammar:
A key aspect of linguistics studied in various languages including Sanskrit, indicative of structured language rules
54) Student:
[see source text or glossary: Student]
55) Debate:
Formal discussion on various subjects, featured heavily in academic contexts such as the interpretation of ancient texts
56) Summer:
[see source text or glossary: Summer]
57) Delhi:
The capital city of India, a central location for scholarly activities and publications, such as the conference proceedings on Sanskrit linguistics
58) Glass:
[see source text or glossary: Glass]
59) Camel:
A frequently mentioned animal in Bedouin poetry, representing various cultural and social meanings within their nomadic lifestyle
60) Ocean:
[see source text or glossary: Ocean]
61) Sound:
Part of the study of linguistics and phonology, particularly in the analysis of poetic meter and lexical constructs
62) Mind:
[see source text or glossary: Mind]
63) Sarvastivada (Sarvasti-vada):
A Buddhist school mentioned within the context of religious studies and ancient scripts like those belonging to the Turfan Finds
64) Pancatantra (Pancan-tantra, Pamcatamtra):
A collection of Indian animal fables with significant scholarly study in fields related to early literature and translation
65) Recitation:
[see source text or glossary: Recitation]
66) Reflection:
[see source text or glossary: Reflection]
67) Education:
Theme within many studies, for instance, how literature functions as a form of political and social education in Bedouin poetry
68) Doctrine:
[see source text or glossary: Doctrine]
69) Merchant:
A key figure in trade and cultural exchange, particularly relevant in studies of the Silk Road or medieval economic history
70) Practice:
Actions and habits discussed in various studies, from medical traditions in ancient texts to musical performances seen in Iron Age Israel
71) Confusion (Confused):
The state of uncertainty, explored in contexts like the identity issues among Palestinians in Israeli literature
72) Festival:
[see source text or glossary: Festival]
73) Metrics (Metric):
Relating to the structure of verses in poetry, analyzed in Bedouin poems to study their rhythmic and formal qualities
74) Barbara (Varvara):
[see source text or glossary: Barbara]
75) Prakrit (Prakrt):
An ancient Indian vernacular language affiliated with Sanskrit, often analyzed in linguistic studies of Middle Indo-Aryan languages
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 160]