Journal Title Center of Middle Eastern Studies (CMES) Initials CMES Frequency Twice a year E-ISSN 2502-1044 Chief Editor Dr. Khabibi Muhammad Luthfi S.S., M.Hum. DOI Prefix : 10.20961/cmes Publisher Arabic Literature Department, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Sebelas Maret Accreditation DOAJ; SINTA 3 SUBMISSION ANNOUNCEMENT Dear Authors, Please be informed that the OJS 3 submission system is currently under preparation and is not yet available for manuscript submissions. For the time being, all submissions should be made through our OJS 2 platform at the following link: https://jurnal.uns.ac.id/cmes/ We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We will inform you once the OJS 3 submission system is fully operational. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Sincerely, Editorial Team INDEXED : <a href="https://doaj.org/toc/2502-1044?source=%7B%22query%22%3A%7B%22filtered%22%3A%7B%22filter%22%3A%7B%22bool%22%3A%7B%22must%22%3A%5B%7B%22terms%22%3A%7B%22index.issn.exact%22%3A%5B%222085-563X%22%2C%222502-1044%22%5D%7D%7D%5D%7D%7D%2C%22query%22%3A%7B%22match_all%22%3A%7B%7D%7D%7D%7D%2C%22size%22%3A100%2C%22sort%22%3A%5B%7B%22created_date%22%3A%7B%22order%22%3A%22desc%22%7D%7D%5D%2C%22_source%22%3A%7B%7D%7D">
Arabic Literature Department, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Sebelas Maret
Hak Cipta (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
STRATEGIES OF FEMALE RESISTANCE IN IBRAHIM NASRALLAH’S A'ROS AMINAH: A POSTCOLONIAL FEMINIST ANALYSIS
This study analyses the strategies employed by female characters, particularly Aminah in Ibrahim Nasrallah's novel A'ros Aminah, to resist and challenge the oppressive characteristics of Israeli colonialism. The resistance is demonstrated by female characters in the novel from the perspective of postcolonial feminist studies. Postcolonial feminism is a multidisciplinary area of study that examines the convergence of feminist and postcolonial philosophies. The analysis centers on examining the profound impact of colonialism on the marginalization of women's dignity. This study utilizes a descriptive qualitative research methodology to analyze the behaviors and resistance of Aminah and other female characters in novel narratives. The study's data include quotations that portray the acts of resistance demonstrated by women throughout the conflict between Palestinian and Israeli soldiers. The quotes in the collection are analyzed using postcolonial feminist theory to investigate how women in the novel engage in resistance. The study findings suggest that the female characters in the novel are depicted as independent women who actively work towards their survival, possess the capability to support their families, and exhibit a distinct ability to oppose the Israeli army. The research findings indicate that women can actively resist and counteract the oppression that occurred during the conflict between the Palestinians and Israel.
BRICS EXPANSION IN THE MIDDLE EAST FROM POLITICAL ECONOMY PERSPECTIVE
This article examines the expansion of the BRICS organization in the Middle East through the lens of the political economy. The BRICS countries, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, have expanded their presence in the Middle East. Despite extensive research on the BRICS studies, more comprehensive studies need to explore the analysis of BRICS expansion to the region. Utilizing a qualitative approach, this study conducts a literature review to explore the depth and breadth of its expansion. The findings of this research reveal some of the interests of the BRICS countries in securing energy resources, establishing political influence, and tapping into the region's economic potential. Furthermore, the BRICS countries see the Middle East as a crucial region for their geopolitical ambitions and an opportunity to challenge Western dominance in global politics and economics.
THE CRISIS OF DEMOCRACY: AN EMPIRICAL ASSESSMENT OF SUDAN AFTER THE FALL OF OMAR BASHIR
Sudan's democratic journey continues to face a long and steep road. The stepping down of President Omar Bashir in 2019 has brought the country to a condition that is increasingly far from the requirements of democracy. This research offers theoretical and empirical assessments to answer whether Sudan has experienced a democratic crisis. Through a socio-historical approach, this research will operationalize Brigitte Weiffen's concept of democratic crisis and apply it to the condition of Sudan. The research method used is qualitative and aims to explain the phenomenon of democracy in Sudan. The data analyzed comes from the author's investigations and notes conducted in the 2018-2020 period at the research location, books, journals, humanitarian agency reports, podcasts, and news. The results show that Sudan is facing a severe democracy crisis. Sudan has fulfilled all three main categories of crisis causes: democratic crisis, disharmony in the civilian coalition, weak legitimacy of the transitional government, and failure to form a government. In addition, the military and paramilitaries are present as challenger actors who continue to intervene and seek to overthrow or fundamentally change the rules of democratic governance.
COMMENT WAR IN TURKEY ELECTIONS 2023: A POLITICAL NETNOGRAPHY ANALYSIS
Social media platforms have recently emerged essential to electoral politics and democratic processes worldwide. The uninhibited flow of ideas and opinions between fans can frequently be seen in the comment areas of social media platforms. This article analyzes the Instagram Middle East Eye (MEE) comment war, emphasizing the 2023 Turkish elections. We use political netnography to evaluate one of David Hearst's thoughts on Instagram MEE. We categorize comments based on Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu. We discovered that public opinion is divided into two camps: secularists and Islamists. Groups advocating secularism use arguments about the Turkish economy's collapse and the freedom of the media in Turkey during Erdogan's rule. On the other side, Islamists argue that only Erdogan has the guts to speak out boldly in support of freedom for the Islamic community that is currently at odds. According to them, Turkey protects Muslims all around the world. They also claimed that the West and Europe interfered in Turkey's elections in order to weaken Islam. They stated that the intervention was taking place. The research is critical because the election in Turkey in 2023 is one of the most important elections that will change the map of Islamic power against the West.
THE DYNAMICS OF THE SAUDI—YEMEN CONFLICT: A SOCIAL CONSTRUCTIVIST ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC PERCEPTION
This study examines the conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen, which impacts political, economic, and social aspects. The background of this research is Yemen's internal conflict involving Saudi Arabia's military intervention since 2015. This study analyzes the public's perception of the intervention and its impact. Using the theories of social constructivism by Peter L. Berger and Thomas Luckmann, this study identifies how public perceptions are shaped through narratives constructed by the media, governments, and other social actors. The method used is qualitative with an analytical descriptive approach through the explanation of conflict variables, community conditions, and the impact of the intervention. The discussion results show that public perceptions are divided into positive perceptions that see intervention as an effort for stability in the region and negative perceptions that consider intervention to exacerbate humanitarian and economic crises. Despite the political benefits, the negative impact on civil society is enormous. Therefore, a diplomatic approach that prioritizes human rights and the welfare of civil society, as well as inclusive reconciliation efforts to achieve sustainable peace, is needed.
DEMONSTRATIONS, BOYCOTTS, AND THREATS: COUNTER-HEGEMONY AGAINST THE ISRAEL INVASION IN THE GAZA STREET
This research explains the history of the founding the state of Israel, and its long conflict with Palestine. And how did the Hamas attack on October 7, receive a response from Israel which resulted in a humanitarian tragedy for the Palestinian peoples in the Gaza Strip. Israel's counterattack received criticism from the people around the world, they used various methods such as mass demonstrations in various countries, boycott action, various forms of threats, and pressure on their government to stop the war. The author tries to describe Israel's hegemony over Palestine in the Gaza conflict, which received resistance in the form of counter-hegemonic actions from the world community, the author calls this resistance the people emotional hegemony. The resistance movement really had an influence and impact on Israel and the countries that supported Israel's invasion, in the form of economic pressure, political issues and security. This study used descriptive qualitative method and Gramsci's theory of hegemony, based on this theory, Israel's invasion in the Gaza Strip, and killing of many Palestinian civilians, succeeded in receiving the world attention, in the form of protests from various dimensions of the world, call "counter hegemony".
REVISITING ZIONISM AS A STATE IDEOLOGY OF ISRAEL: A CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF THE ISRAEL—PALESTINE CONFLICT
This paper critically examines Zionism as the state ideology of Israel, with a particular focus on its role and impact within the Israel-Palestine conflict. Zionism, originally a movement for the re-establishment of a Jewish homeland, has evolved into a complex and contentious political ideology. This study revisits its historical roots, ideological foundations, and contemporary interpretations. By exploring the intersection of Zionism with nationalism, religion, and politics, the paper aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how Zionism shapes Israeli policies and influences the ongoing conflict with Palestine. The analysis delves into the narratives and counter-narratives surrounding Zionism, addressing the perspectives of various stakeholders, including Israeli Jews, Palestinians, and the international community. Through a critical lens, the paper assesses the implications of Zionist ideology for peace prospects, human rights, and regional stability. The findings underscore the need to re-evaluate Zionism in light of its practical outcomes and ethical considerations. This study contributes to the broader discourse on state ideologies, conflict resolution, and Middle Eastern politics, offering insights into the possibilities for a just and sustainable resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
JAWDAT SA’ID ON PACIFISM AND VIOLENCE TODAY
Nonviolence and pacifism are widely recognized and understood by various religions and cultures. Since the 1960s, a particular group of intellectuals, theologians, and religious leaders in the Muslim world have been working to establish a theoretical basis for social justice and a society that embraces diversity. Their efforts primarily focus on minimizing the use of violence. The main objective of this work is to elucidate the philosophical perspective on pacifism in Islam as articulated by the contemporary Islamic scholar Jawdat Saʽīd (1931-2022). Saʽīd offers an academic viewpoint on the strategic implementation of pacifism for promoting social change within the Muslim world and its diplomatic utilization externally. His theory is equally applicable to the non-Muslim world, encompassing monotheists and atheists as well. This study examines the texts or written materials, as well as the spoken words and interviews available on Saʽīd's personal website and other online platforms related to academia and widely known and used by the public.
THE ABRAHAM ACCORDS AND PEACE IN THE MIDDLE EAST: REGIONAL RECEPTION AND IMPLICATIONS
The normalization of ties between Israel and four Arab countries (Bahrain, Morocco, the United Arab Emirates, and Sudan) starting in 2020 through the US-facilitated Abraham Accords opened a new paradigm of peace in the greater Middle East and North African region. Optimists embrace the Accords as the harbinger of a new era of Israel-Arab relations and a renewed opportunity for peace in the region. Others consider them as mere official pronouncements by involved parties and without regard to the urgent and long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This paper argues that the Abraham Accords are based solely on the national interests of the signatories and the facilitator, the United States, and not primarily intended for restoring Israel-Arab ties and regional peace and security. This paper begins by examining the prospects and challenges of peacebuilding in the Middle East. The discussion proceeds to the pragmatism of the Abraham Accords, i.e., its strategic advantages for the signatories and the U.S. Finally, the paper briefly explores the reception of relevant actors in the Middle East and the wider Asian region, particularly Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkey, and China.
CONTENT ANALYSIS OF ABU UBAIDAH’S SPEECH ON ALJAZEERAMUBASHER’S INSTAGRAM DURING OPERATION AL-AQSA TEMPEST
Abu Ubaidah's speech aired by aljazeeramubasher's Instagram account was in the spotlight after the occurrence of Toufan al-Aqsa on October 7, 2023. The firm and straightforward style of language and the use of fushah Arabic are definitely a special attraction for listeners. This study aims to describe the style of language and messages conveyed by Abu Ubaidah in his speech using the content analysis method approach of Krippendorff's perspective. The stages of Krippendorff content analysis consist of unitizing, sampling, recording, reducing, inferring, narating, and desingning. This stage is carried out with watching, listening, and note-taking techniques. The results showed that the Arabic uslub used by Abu Ubaidah was fushah Arabic in accordance with the rules of good and correct Arabic. No Abu Ubaidah used 'ammiyah Arabic at all in his speeches. Meanwhile, in terms of the message conveyed by Abu Ubaidah with Krippendorf content analysis techniques, it was found that there was an invitation and expression of optimism from Abu Ubaidah to especially Muslims and all people in the world for Allah's help to the Palestinian people and the struggle of Hamas forces in defending Palestinian land. Abu Ubaidah as the spokesman for the Izzuddin Al-Qassam brigade managed to transfer this confidence to all the audience who watched and listened to his speech.
PARALINGUAL ELEMENTS IN EGYPTIAN PRINT COMMERCIAL ADVERTISEMENTS: A SEMIOTIC ANALYSIS
Print media advertisements generally uses two displays, verbal displays accompanied by nonverbal. In nonverbal displays, it includes the use of paralingual elements. This study wants to reveal the meaning contained in nonverbal elements in commercial advertisements in Egyptian print media (Ikomcemes) in the form of paralingal. The goal is to find out the integration of the elements that form a complete discourse so that the meaning and message of the advertising discourse can be understood. This research data was collected from various newspapers, flayers, and magazines published in Egypt. Furthermore, the data is classified using the method of sorting the elements of the two elements as Leech's concept. The research findings are in the form of types of composition of elements that make up an advertising discourse, and then the findings are analyzed by utilizing the theory of discourse analysis and semiotics. The use of these two theories is not only to examine the meaning of the verbal text but also to examine simultaneously with the context that frames it. The results can be stated that although nonverbal elements do not have diverse patterns, their existence is very necessary to understand the message conveyed by advertisers, both verbal and noverbal.
THE INTERTEXTUAL READING OF IBN SYUHAID'S POETRY IN RISĀLAH AT-TAWĀBI' WA AZ-ZAWĀBI
Risālah At-Tawābi' wa Az-Zawābi' is an Andalusian literary work that combines prose and poetry. This treatise contains Ibn Syuhaid's poetry juxtaposed with the poetry of other poets, including jāhilī poets, such as Umruul Qais, Ṭarafah bin Al-Abd, and Qais bin Al-Khātim. This research examines Ibn Syuhaid's poetry in juxtaposition with the three jāhilī poets using Riffaterre's intertextual approach, which considers the important role of the reader in providing meaning of the poetry. To understand the meaning of a poem, the reader must find the intertext that forms the poem's shape. The Ibn Syuhaid poem which is the formal data in this research is entitled Fī Madḥi Yahya Al-Mu'talī, fi Washfi Riḥlah Aṣ-Ṣaydi and fī madīḥ Abī Marwān. This research was carried out to find the intertextual form of Ibn Syuhaid's transformational poetry with the actual hypograms juxtaposed with him in the Risālah At-Tawābi' wa Az-Zawābi'. The methodology used in this research is intertextual by determining the matrix, model, and variants in the transformation poem and the hypograms that are juxtaposed with it.
GENDER INJUSTICE IN NAWAL AS-SA’DAWI'S SUQUUTH AL-IMAAM: AN IDEOLOGICAL FEMINISM ANALYSIS
Gender injustice is a universal issue reflected in the novel Suquuth Al-Imaam by Nawal As-Sa’dawi. This study aims to identify the forms of gender injustice depicted in the novel and analyze them using the ideological feminist approach. The research employed a descriptive-analytical method with a literature study technique, focusing on text analysis of the novel based on various forms of gender injustice. The findings reveal that gender injustice in the novel is represented through marginalization, subordination, stereotyping, double burden, and violence. These injustices are not merely individual manifestations but are part of the patriarchal ideological structure legitimizing gender inequality both socially and institutionally. The ideological feminist approach exposes patriarchal control over women's bodies, roles, and statuses as a means to maintain male dominance. The novel serves as a critique of the patriarchal system and as a medium to promote gender awareness. This research contributes to feminist and literary studies by demonstrating that literature can be utilized to challenge unjust ideological structures.
NARRATIVE TRANSFORMATION IN THE ECRANISATION OF KAMIL KILANI’S ALI BABA AND THE 40 THIEVES
The development of modern filmmaking has undergone various transformations. Stories adapted into films are no longer limited to original scripts written by screenwriters but can also originate from literary works such as short stories or novels. The process of transforming written texts into films is known as ecranisation. This study examines the process of ecranisation in the short film “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves”, an adaptation of the short story Ali Baba by Kamil Kaylani. This study aims to analyze the ecranisation process based on plot, characters, and setting elements. The theoretical framework applied in this study is Seymour Chatman’s narrative theory, focusing on plot, characters, and setting, combined with Pamusuk Eneste’s ecranisation theory, which encompasses reduction, addition, and variation in film adaptation. The data for this study were derived from the short story Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves and the short film Ali Baba, produced by the Arabian Fairy Tales YouTube channel. The findings reveal differences between the original work and the adaptation, as the resulting film does not fully reproduce the source text but represents a summary shaped by the understanding and creativity of the screenwriter and filmmaker.
Hak Cipta (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
HISTORICAL PORTRAIT OF SHIITES AND SUNNIS IN IRAQ IN THE POEM “NACHNU SYA'BUN LAA YASTACHII”: A LITERARY SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE
The poem “Nachnu Sya’bun Laa Yastachii” by Ahmad Numaini serves as a socio-historical critique, reflecting sectarian tensions and political dynamics in Iraq. This study explores two primary aspects: first, how the poem reflects the socio-political context of Iraq during its composition, and second, its portrayal of Shiite history as interpreted by the poet. Employing a qualitative research methodology with Alan Swingewood’s literary sociology approach, this study analyzes the poem’s use of historical symbolism, particularly the Karbala tragedy, to critique patterns of betrayal and disunity within the Muslim community. The findings reveal that the poem functions as both a reflection of its era and a critique of contemporary socio-political conditions. This study highlights the role of literature in documenting and critiquing historical and societal phenomena, reinforcing its relevance as a medium for social commentary.
PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION IN SAUDI ARABIA: THE CASE OF THE NEW MURABBA PROJECT
The rapid economic development of Saudi Arabia reflects the country's commitment to achieving its Vision 2030 objectives. Vision 2030 encompasses transformative policies aimed at diversifying the economy and modernizing society. However, its implementation has been accompanied by significant political and social challenges, including resistance within the Kingdom. This study examines public perceptions of Vision 2030, focusing on the New Murabba Project as a case study. Using content analysis of social media platforms, this research identifies two distinct community groups with differing responses. The first group, consisting of young professionals and progressive citizens, supports the project as a necessary reform for economic diversification. In contrast, the second group, dominated by older and conservative religious communities, expresses concerns about potential cultural and religious implications. This study finds the duality of public opinion and underscores the importance of balancing modernity with traditional values to ensure the inclusivity of national policies.
INVESTIGATING THE IRAN PRESIDENTIAL HELICOPTER CRASH (2024): CAUSES, GEOPOLITICAL DYNAMICS, AND POLICY IMPACTS
This study investigates the helicopter crash that killed the Iranian President and seven others during a dam inauguration near the Azerbaijan border on May 9, 2024. The research examines factors contributing to the accident, including technical failures, weather conditions, human error, and potential external involvement, within the frameworks of aviation safety theory, geopolitical analysis, and crisis management. Using a multidisciplinary approach and secondary data analysis, the study identifies causal factors, evaluates their implications for aviation policies, and explores the political dynamics arising from the incident. Findings indicate that severe weather conditions, challenging topography, and possible operational errors contributed significantly to the crash. Additionally, speculation about external interference highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding the event. The incident underscores the need for enhanced aviation safety measures and effective crisis management strategies, particularly in politically sensitive regions like the Middle East.
THE SECURITIZATION OF THE EGYPT GOVERNMENT IN 2019-2023 AS AN EFFORT TO RESOLVE THE GRAND ETHIOPIAN RENAISSANCE DAM ISSUE
The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a hydroelectric dam on the Blue Nile River in Ethiopia, constructed to address Ethiopia's electricity needs. However, the GERD has sparked conflicts with Lower Nile countries, particularly Egypt and Sudan. Egypt relies on the Nile River for over 90% of its water supply and views the dam as a significant threat to its water security. This perceived threat has prompted Egypt to adopt securitization measures to safeguard its national interests. This study employs a descriptive qualitative method, integrating securitization theory and national interest to analyze Egypt's securitization efforts concerning the GERD dispute from 2019 to 2023. The findings reveal that Egypt's securitization measures have not yielded significant outcomes. Furthermore, military action against the GERD is deemed impractical, as the dam's filling process has already been completed, and such action could cause severe flooding, endangering Egypt and its neighboring countries.
SOCIAL RELATION TRANSFORMATION IN THE JAVANESE ADDRESSES EXPRESSIONS TRANSLATION INTO ARABIC IN GADIS KRETEK NOVEL
The translation of address terms can lead to a transformation in social relations between speaker and interlocutor. This study aims to analyze the transformation of social relations and its contributing factors through the translation of Javanese address terms in the novel Gadis Kretek into Arabic. The data consist of linguistic units that reflect social relationships, such as Javanese words or phrases of address that indicate status, closeness, and hierarchy. The data sources are Gadis Kretek by Ratih Kumala and its Arabic translation Fātatu As-Sajā’ir by Mohammed Ramadhan. The research method employed is qualitative descriptive with a comparative and interpretative approach. Data collection techniques include close reading, identification of address terms, data note-taking, transliteration, and numbering. Data analysis techniques involve classifying the data based on variations of address terms, comparing the forms in the source text (ST) and the target text (TT), and interpreting the linguistic and cultural factors involved. The results of the study reveal that the transformation of social relations is caused by differences in politeness systems and cultural norms between Javanese and Arabic societies. Address terms such as Pak, Mbok/Simbok, Nduk, Le, Mbak/Mbakyu, and Mas/Kangmas undergo transformations in meaning or form in translation, with efforts made to preserve the underlying social relations. In conclusion, the translation of address terms reflects the adaptation of language to the target culture while also demonstrating cultural resistance to maintain the meaning of social relations in character interactions.
Hak Cipta (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
THE SOCIAL APPROACH TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF UNFAMILIAR TERMS IN ḤADĪṠ AND THE FORMULATION OF THEIR SELECTION CRITERIA FOR NON-ARABIC SPEAKERS
This study explores the historical development of strange words or gārīb al-Ḥadīṡ and the criteria used by early scholars in selecting them. It examines how social and cultural contexts influenced the methodologies of these scholars and proposes updating classical frameworks to better support non-Arabic-speaking communities in understanding the intended meanings of strange words in the hadiths. The research is grounded not only in sociocultural theories of language and knowledge acquisition, but also in adapting traditional criteria to align with contemporary social developments. The study concludes that the expansion of what is considered garīb was shaped by the integrative interactions among diverse populations following the Islamic conquests, as Arabs came into contact with non-Arab peoples—such as the Byzantines, Abyssinians, and others—continuing through to the present day. It further argues that suitable criteria for non-Arabic speakers should involve interpretive translation that ensures clear explanation and contextualization of the meanings of obscure terms, based on classical gārīb al-Ḥadīṡ sources. In some cases, integrating aspects of Arab cultural context may also contribute to a deeper and more accurate understanding.
Hak Cipta (c) 2025 Fauzun Jamal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
THE FUNCTION OF ISM TAFḌĪL IN THE NOVEL RAʾAITU RĀMALLĀH BY MOURID BARGHOUTI
he novel Ra’aitu Rāmallāh depicts the struggle of a young Palestinian man who experienced prolonged exile imposed by Israeli forces until his eventual return to his hometown, Rāmallāh. Within the context of a narrative replete with comparisons between life in exile and life in the homeland, this study adopts a mixed-methods approach to describe both the various forms of ism tafḑ̣īl and their functions in the novel Ra’aitu Rāmallāh by Mourid Barghouti, supported by quantitative data in the form of percentages. The primary source for this research is the Arabic version of the novel, which consists of nine chapters. Based on the theoretical framework of Al-Gulāyainī (1994), 90 instances of ism tafḑ̣īl were identified and categorized into four structural forms: without alif lām and not in the iḑ̣āfah construction (48 items), with alif lām (6 items), in the iḑ̣āfah construction with an indefinite noun (26 items), and in the iḑ̣āfah construction with a definite noun (10 items). Furthermore, the functions of ism tafḑ̣īl were found to fall into four categories: comparative (44 items), superlative (46 items), functioning as an adjective (na‘t) (4 items), and as a predicate (25 items). This research contributes to the understanding of ism tafḑ̣īl by offering insights into its definition, structural variations, and functional roles within the novel.
THE CONCEPT OF NŪR MUḤAMMAD IN “MAULID AD-DĪBA‘Ī”: A SCHLEIERMACHERIAN HERMENEUTIC PERSPECTIVE
This study aims to uncover the hidden meaning within the concept of Nūr Muḥammad as found in the Maulid ad-Dība‘ī, a classical Arabic literary work by ‘Abd ar-Raḥmān of Yemen, widely popular in Indonesia. Schleiermacher’s hermeneutics, which consists of grammatical and psychological interpretation, is employed as the analytical framework. Grammatical interpretation is conducted by examining the structure and linguistic choices in the text to uncover implicit meanings, while psychological interpretation delves into the author’s inner context through his biography, intellectual background, and spiritual environment. Utilizing a qualitative approach based on library research, the findings reveal that, grammatically, the concept of Nūr Muḥammad in Maulid ad-Dība‘ī is positioned as a primordial light that predates all prophets, including Prophet Ādam, and serves as a manifestation of the nobility of the Prophet Muḥammad. Psychologically, ad-Dība‘ī presents Muhammad not merely within a historical framework but also as the center of human existence and spirituality. More than a Sufi concept, Nūr Muḥammad in this work functions as a theological symbol that represents profound reverence for the Prophet and serves as a spiritual medium that radiates wisdom to those whose hearts are purified through love and the emulation of Muhammad.
MAḤABBAH AND FANĀ’: NARRATIVE SEMIOTICS OF SUFIS VALUES IN THE SHORT STORY “ARINĪ ALLĀH” BY TAUFĪQ AL-ḤAKĪM
This study aims to analyze the values of Sufism, particularly the concepts of maḥabbah (divine love) and fanā’ (annihilation of the self), as reflected in the short story “Arinī Allāh” by Taufīq al-Ḥakīm, using the narrative semiotic approach based on A. J. Greimas’s theory. The research seeks to uncover the representation of Sufi values within the narrative structure and their influence on the development of the main character. A qualitative descriptive method was employed, with data collected through a close reading of the story and note-taking based on the theoretical framework. The data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model, which involves data collection, data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the story contains clear elements of the protagonist’s spiritual journey in search of the essence of God, which cannot be perceived physically but may be experienced through divine love. These results contribute to the enrichment of literary and Sufi studies by demonstrating how Sufi values are embedded within modern literary works through narrative semiotic analysis.
MILITARY ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND NEW CONFIGURATIONS IN THE GULF STATE: IRAN MISSILE ATTACK ON ISRAEL
This research analyzes the impact of the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in Iran's missile technology on regional security dynamics and changes in the geopolitical configuration in the Middle East, especially after Iran's missile attack on Israel in October 2024. Through a post-structuralist approach, this study highlights the role of AI technology in changing the geopolitical reconfiguration in the Middle East. Iran successfully used advanced technologies, such as the Fattah hypersonic missile, which was able to penetrate Israel's Iron Dome defense system. The research found that Iran's advances in AI integration technology triggered the formation of new strategic alliances, such as cooperation between Israel, the United States and the Gulf states. Conversely, Iran's technological advancements attract collaboration from countries such as Russia and China. With a systematic analysis of the literature, this research provides important insights into how AI can change regional security dynamics and global perceptions of Iran as a military technology actor to reckon with.
VIOLATIONS OF INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW BY ISRAEL IN RETALIATORY ATTACKS AGAINST HAMAS AND THE GLOBAL RESPONSE
The attack launched by Hamas against Israel, rooted in a long-standing historical conflict dating back to 1948, culminated in the events of October 7, 2023. Israel’s military response to the attack has sparked widespread debate, particularly regarding potential violations of international humanitarian law. This study aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the legal violations committed by Israel during its retaliatory attacks against Hamas, as well as the international community’s response. The research adopts a normative juridical approach, referencing primary legal sources from international humanitarian law governing armed conflict, and is supported by secondary literature such as books, accredited academic journals, and scholarly articles. Data were collected through document studies and literature reviews, and analyzed through data reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that Israel has violated several fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, including the principles of humanity, proportionality, distinction, and military necessity. International responses appear polarized; most European countries expressed support for Israel, while many Asian and Arab nations condemned its actions due to the significant impact on civilian populations. This polarization reflects a growing imbalance in the application of humanitarian principles in the context of armed conflict.
SAUDI ARABIA ISLAMOPHILIA: RECONSTRUCTING CONSERVATIVE ISLAM INTO MODERATE ISLAM THROUGH FOOTBALL
This study explores the reform of football in Saudi Arabia in the context of the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to reduce the Kingdom’s economic dependence on oil and gas resources. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach and library research method, the study is grounded in Alexander Wendt’s constructivist theory. The research investigates how Vision 2030 has influenced the lives of Saudi citizens and international visitors, particularly global football stars. Findings suggest that the vision, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has introduced substantial policy shifts that promote a more socially open, religiously moderate, and internationally welcoming environment. These reforms have not only transformed Saudi Arabia’s domestic landscape but also positioned football players as informal cultural ambassadors. Their presence serves to project a positive image of Saudi Arabia, countering Islamophobic narratives, especially in the Western world, by fostering what can be described as Islamophilia through sports diplomacy.