While a rational consciousness grasps many truths, Gananath Obeyesekere believes an even richer knowledge is possible through a bold confrontation with the stuff of visions and dreams. Spanning both Buddhist and European forms of visionary experience, he fearlessly pursues the symbolic, nonrational depths of such phenomena.
Focusing on ceremonial practices in Sri Lanka, the book explores key ideas and symbolic systems that continue to influence contemporary culture. It critically analyzes how these traditions have evolved while retaining their core elements, revealing the underlying significance and continuity of these rituals in modern society.
This book examines culture, religion and polity in the context of Buddhism. Gananath Obeyesekere, one of the foremost analytical voices from South Asia develops Freud’s notion of ‘dream work’, the ‘work of culture’ and ideas of no-self ( anatta ) to understand Buddhism in contemporary Sri Lanka. This work offers a restorative interpretation of Buddhist myths in contrast to the perspective involving deconstruction. The book deals with a range of themes connected with Buddhism, including oral traditions and stories, the religious pantheon, philosophy, emotions, reform movements, questions of identity and culture, and issues of modernity. This fascinating volume will greatly interest students, teachers and researchers of religion and philosophy, especially Buddhism, ethics, cultural studies, social and cultural anthropology, Sri Lanka and modern South Asian history.
Focusing on the interplay of culture, religion, and governance within Buddhism, this book provides a restorative interpretation of Buddhist myths, challenging traditional deconstructive views. It explores oral traditions, the religious pantheon, and philosophical concepts, while addressing emotions, reform movements, and the complexities of identity and culture in the face of modernity.
Focusing on land tenure and social structure, this anthropological study explores the dynamics within the Ceylonese village of Madagama. It examines how land ownership influences community relationships and social hierarchies, providing insights into the cultural and economic factors that shape village life. Through detailed observations, the work reveals the intricate connections between land use and social organization in this unique setting.
Exploring the multifaceted meanings of hair in Asian cultures, the book delves into its significance as a symbol of identity, beauty, and social status across various contexts. Contributors analyze a range of evidence—from literary and archaeological to religious and ethnographic—addressing themes such as hair codes, community norms, and the interplay of privilege and rebellion. The work highlights diverse interpretations of hair, including its associations with femininity, virility, and societal constructs, revealing how hair communicates complex cultural narratives.