Description
Book SynopsisIllustrates how popular, public ritual performance, far from being static, clearly indexes patterns of social and political change. This rich, innovative volume provides a provocative introduction to the practice of Theravada Buddhism and the nature of social change in contemporary Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
Trade ReviewA masterful and original approach to the study of Theravada Buddhism. By focusing on five distinct Buddhist rituals in five different countries, John Holt succeeds in presenting the “performance” of Theravada traditions in both their unity and diversity. In featuring present day practices set against their historical and sociocultural backdrops, the author effectively combines his insights as a historian of religion and buddhologist with his expertise as a seasoned interviewer and observer of Buddhism-on-the-ground. Fluidly written, and solidly researched, this book will both interest scholars and serve students as a substantive introduction to the field." — John S. Strong, author of
Buddhisms: An Introduction"It is rare to have a book that is not only clear, accessible, and broad, but also rigorous, detailed, and highly respectful of context. It is an impressive achievement that not only provides the most up-to-date research on major questions about the very nature of the term Theravada and various approaches to ritual, but also gives five close studies of rituals in five different national contexts. The writer’s skill as a teacher and the benefit of a keen eye, long-term experience, and sound disciplinary training make this book a resounding success." — Justin Thomas McDaniel, author of
Architects of Buddhist Leisure: Socially Disengaged Buddhism in Asia’s Museums, Monuments, and Amusement Parks"This rich and informative book on the ritual cultures of Theravada Buddhism shows how rituals, far from being static, evolve subtly in ways that reflect social, economic, and political changes. By drawing together examples from across the Theravada world and providing a full exploration and interpretation of each, we have in a single volume both a major study of Theravada and the elucidation of the many functions of ritual through dynamic, living examples." — Kate Crosby, author of
Theravada Buddhism: Continuity, Diversity,and Identity
