Ke Israel Lagi: A Sensory Perspective on Interlinear Translations from the Indonesian-Maly World

In a captivating symphony of scholarly inquiry, the Textual Microcosms Annual Workshop 2024 is set to unfold on May 15th and 16th, 2024. Held within the hallowed halls of the Confucius Room at the Faculty of the Humanities, this two-day extravaganza promises to illuminate the intricate nuances of interlinear translations from the Indonesian-Malay world, offering a sensory perspective like never before.

Kicking off the proceedings on Wednesday, May 15th, participants will be greeted with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee as they gather for a convivial start to the event. Amidst this congenial atmosphere, Ronit Ricci will deliver the opening remarks, setting the stage for the enlightening discussions that lie ahead.

The spotlight then turns to Julia Byl from the University of Alberta, Canada, whose presentation titled “Latent Letters: Sound and Text in North Sumatra” will delve into the symbiotic relationship between sound and text in this region. Chairing this session is none other than Ronit Ricci herself, a beacon of expertise in the field.

As the sun rises on Thursday, May 16th, participants reconvene for a morning of intellectual exploration. Under the adept guidance of Aglaia Iankovskaia, the day’s proceedings are divided into three riveting parts, each offering a unique lens through which to examine interlinear translations.

In the first part, the focus shifts to the Quran and Tafsir, where Muhammad Dluha Luthfillah will unravel the enigmatic images of women and desire in 18th-century Javanese Quran translations. Responding to his presentation is the esteemed Hannelies Koloska, lending her insightful perspective to the discourse.

As the day unfolds, participants are treated to a feast for the senses, with presentations exploring the realms of Visuality and Beyond, as well as Orality and Sound. From Keiko Kamiishi’s exploration of senses in Jarwa manuscripts to Omri Ganchrow’s melodic journey through the Bhagavad-Gītā pepaosan, each session promises to captivate the audience and ignite lively discussions.

Amidst coffee breaks and a sumptuous lunch, scholars and attendees alike will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful exchanges, fostering connections that transcend borders and disciplines. Finally, as the day draws to a close, participants will come together for a concluding discussion, reflecting on the insights gained and charting the course for future endeavors in the realm of interlinear translations.

With the Textual Microcosms Annual Workshop 2024 poised to unravel the mysteries of interlinear translations through a sensory lens, scholars and enthusiasts alike are in for a captivating journey through the Indonesian-Malay world—a journey that promises to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of scholarly inquiry.