Mandy Sadan
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- January 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780197265550
- eISBN:
- 9780191760341
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- British Academy
- DOI:
- 10.5871/bacad/9780197265550.003.0004
- Subject:
- History, Asian History
This chapter examines the changing political framework of the region from the late nineteenth century through to World War I as fluid political boundaries that were transformed into bordered ...
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This chapter examines the changing political framework of the region from the late nineteenth century through to World War I as fluid political boundaries that were transformed into bordered territories. It describes how local elites in the Yunnan boundary region managed the transition zone of the mountains between Burma and China, and the role that they played in the local political system after the Panthay revolt and just prior to the fall of the Konbaung Dynasty in Burma. The chapter then describes how old and new elites were created in this process of geo-political transformation. It focuses in particular on the eastern borderworld, where great ethnographic complexity became rationalised in line with new and emerging political needs. It describes in detail how a local system of cross-group relations expressed as a ritual system became a model for later Kachin ethno-nationalist ideological expansion influenced by these administrative changes.Less
This chapter examines the changing political framework of the region from the late nineteenth century through to World War I as fluid political boundaries that were transformed into bordered territories. It describes how local elites in the Yunnan boundary region managed the transition zone of the mountains between Burma and China, and the role that they played in the local political system after the Panthay revolt and just prior to the fall of the Konbaung Dynasty in Burma. The chapter then describes how old and new elites were created in this process of geo-political transformation. It focuses in particular on the eastern borderworld, where great ethnographic complexity became rationalised in line with new and emerging political needs. It describes in detail how a local system of cross-group relations expressed as a ritual system became a model for later Kachin ethno-nationalist ideological expansion influenced by these administrative changes.
Susan Guettel Cole
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520235441
- eISBN:
- 9780520929326
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520235441.001.0001
- Subject:
- Classical Studies, Archaeology: Classical
The division of land and the consolidation of territory that created the Greek polis also divided sacred from productive space, sharpened distinctions between purity and pollution, and created a ...
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The division of land and the consolidation of territory that created the Greek polis also divided sacred from productive space, sharpened distinctions between purity and pollution, and created a ritual system premised on gender difference. Regional sanctuaries ameliorated competition between city-states, publicized the results of competitive rituals for males, and encouraged judicial alternatives to violence. Female ritual efforts, focused on the reproduction and the health of the family, are less visible, but, as this study shows, no less significant. Taking a fresh look at the epigraphical evidence for Greek ritual practice in the context of studies of landscape and political organization, the book illuminates the profoundly gendered nature of Greek cult practice and explains the connections between female rituals and the integrity of the community. In an integration of ancient sources and current theory, the book brings together complex evidence for Greek ritual practice. The book discusses relevant medical and philosophical theories about the female body; considers Greek ideas about purity, pollution, and ritual purification; and examines the cult of Artemis in detail. This nuanced study demonstrates the social contribution of women's rituals to the sustenance of the polis and the identity of its people.Less
The division of land and the consolidation of territory that created the Greek polis also divided sacred from productive space, sharpened distinctions between purity and pollution, and created a ritual system premised on gender difference. Regional sanctuaries ameliorated competition between city-states, publicized the results of competitive rituals for males, and encouraged judicial alternatives to violence. Female ritual efforts, focused on the reproduction and the health of the family, are less visible, but, as this study shows, no less significant. Taking a fresh look at the epigraphical evidence for Greek ritual practice in the context of studies of landscape and political organization, the book illuminates the profoundly gendered nature of Greek cult practice and explains the connections between female rituals and the integrity of the community. In an integration of ancient sources and current theory, the book brings together complex evidence for Greek ritual practice. The book discusses relevant medical and philosophical theories about the female body; considers Greek ideas about purity, pollution, and ritual purification; and examines the cult of Artemis in detail. This nuanced study demonstrates the social contribution of women's rituals to the sustenance of the polis and the identity of its people.
Leland Donald
- Published in print:
- 1997
- Published Online:
- May 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520206168
- eISBN:
- 9780520918115
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520206168.001.0001
- Subject:
- Anthropology, American and Canadian Cultural Anthropology
This investigation of slavery on the Northwest Coast of North America contributes to our understanding of the aboriginal cultures of this area, and shows that Northwest Coast servitude, relatively ...
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This investigation of slavery on the Northwest Coast of North America contributes to our understanding of the aboriginal cultures of this area, and shows that Northwest Coast servitude, relatively neglected by researchers in the past, fits an appropriate cross-cultural definition of slavery. Arguing that slaves and slavery were central to these hunting-fishing-gathering societies, the book points out how important slaves were to the Northwest Coast economies for their labor and for their value as major items of exchange. Slavery also played a major role in more famous and frequently analyzed Northwest Coast cultural forms such as the potlatch and the spectacular art style and ritual systems of elite groups. The book includes detailed chapters on who owned slaves and the relations between masters and slaves; how slaves were procured; transactions in slaves; the nature, use, and value of slave labor; and the role of slaves in rituals. In addition to analyzing all the available data, ethnographic and historic, on slavery in traditional Northwest Coast cultures, it compares the status of Northwest Coast slaves with that of war captives in other parts of traditional Native North America.Less
This investigation of slavery on the Northwest Coast of North America contributes to our understanding of the aboriginal cultures of this area, and shows that Northwest Coast servitude, relatively neglected by researchers in the past, fits an appropriate cross-cultural definition of slavery. Arguing that slaves and slavery were central to these hunting-fishing-gathering societies, the book points out how important slaves were to the Northwest Coast economies for their labor and for their value as major items of exchange. Slavery also played a major role in more famous and frequently analyzed Northwest Coast cultural forms such as the potlatch and the spectacular art style and ritual systems of elite groups. The book includes detailed chapters on who owned slaves and the relations between masters and slaves; how slaves were procured; transactions in slaves; the nature, use, and value of slave labor; and the role of slaves in rituals. In addition to analyzing all the available data, ethnographic and historic, on slavery in traditional Northwest Coast cultures, it compares the status of Northwest Coast slaves with that of war captives in other parts of traditional Native North America.
Jacob P. Dalton
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- September 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780231176002
- eISBN:
- 9780231541176
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231176002.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Buddhism
The Gathering of Intentions reads a single Tibetan Buddhist ritual system through the movements of Tibetan history, revealing the social and material dimensions of an ostensibly timeless tradition. ...
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The Gathering of Intentions reads a single Tibetan Buddhist ritual system through the movements of Tibetan history, revealing the social and material dimensions of an ostensibly timeless tradition. By subjecting tantric practice to historical analysis, the book offers new insight into the origins of Tibetan Buddhism, the formation of its canons, the emergence of new lineages and ceremonies, and modern efforts to revitalize the religion by returning to its mythic origins. The ritual system explored in this volume is based on the Gathering of Intentions Sutra, the fundamental “root tantra” of the Anuyoga class of teachings belonging to the Nyingma (“Ancient”) school of Tibetan Buddhism. Proceeding chronologically from the ninth century to the present, each chapter features a Tibetan author negotiating a perceived gap between the original root text—the Gathering of Intentions—and the lived religious or political concerns of his day. These ongoing tensions underscore the significance of Tibet’s elaborate esoteric ritual systems, which have persisted for centuries, evolving in response to historical conditions. Rather than overlook practice in favor of philosophical concerns, this volume prioritizes Tibetan Buddhism’s ritual systems for a richer portrait of the tradition.Less
The Gathering of Intentions reads a single Tibetan Buddhist ritual system through the movements of Tibetan history, revealing the social and material dimensions of an ostensibly timeless tradition. By subjecting tantric practice to historical analysis, the book offers new insight into the origins of Tibetan Buddhism, the formation of its canons, the emergence of new lineages and ceremonies, and modern efforts to revitalize the religion by returning to its mythic origins. The ritual system explored in this volume is based on the Gathering of Intentions Sutra, the fundamental “root tantra” of the Anuyoga class of teachings belonging to the Nyingma (“Ancient”) school of Tibetan Buddhism. Proceeding chronologically from the ninth century to the present, each chapter features a Tibetan author negotiating a perceived gap between the original root text—the Gathering of Intentions—and the lived religious or political concerns of his day. These ongoing tensions underscore the significance of Tibet’s elaborate esoteric ritual systems, which have persisted for centuries, evolving in response to historical conditions. Rather than overlook practice in favor of philosophical concerns, this volume prioritizes Tibetan Buddhism’s ritual systems for a richer portrait of the tradition.
John G. Kennedy
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- January 2012
- ISBN:
- 9789774249556
- eISBN:
- 9781617970955
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- American University in Cairo Press
- DOI:
- 10.5743/cairo/9789774249556.003.0008
- Subject:
- Society and Culture, Middle Eastern Studies
This chapter deals with an important component of the traditional Nubian ritual system, but one which has lapsed into relative insignificance in modem times. It begins by describing the circumcision ...
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This chapter deals with an important component of the traditional Nubian ritual system, but one which has lapsed into relative insignificance in modem times. It begins by describing the circumcision rites for Egyptian Nubian boys as they were practiced in some parts of Nubia (e.g., Diwan and Abu Hor) as late as 1933, and excision rituals for girls as they are still frequently performed. Nubian circumcision and excision ceremonies cannot simply be categorized as “rites of passage” or as “initiation rites.” They embody a complex constellation of interrelated beliefs, values, and principles of social structure—all of which must be examined in order to comprehend their form and existence. Furthermore, though the rituals had important effects on the social awareness and identity formation of children, they had no obvious relationship to gaps or failures in the socialization process.Less
This chapter deals with an important component of the traditional Nubian ritual system, but one which has lapsed into relative insignificance in modem times. It begins by describing the circumcision rites for Egyptian Nubian boys as they were practiced in some parts of Nubia (e.g., Diwan and Abu Hor) as late as 1933, and excision rituals for girls as they are still frequently performed. Nubian circumcision and excision ceremonies cannot simply be categorized as “rites of passage” or as “initiation rites.” They embody a complex constellation of interrelated beliefs, values, and principles of social structure—all of which must be examined in order to comprehend their form and existence. Furthermore, though the rituals had important effects on the social awareness and identity formation of children, they had no obvious relationship to gaps or failures in the socialization process.
Kathryn T. McClymond
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- April 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199790913
- eISBN:
- 9780199369515
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199790913.003.0007
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter argues that several general conclusions can be drawn from the specific case studies presented in the volume. First, scholars should actively resist the polarized characterization of ...
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This chapter argues that several general conclusions can be drawn from the specific case studies presented in the volume. First, scholars should actively resist the polarized characterization of ritual (imagined and perfect vs. actual and imperfect) that underlies most ritual theory today. Second, scholars should handle source material differently, putting studies of “lived” ritual in intimate conversation with studies of “imagined” ritual, and incorporating texts that discuss ritual disruption and adjustment more prominently in ritual theorizing. This will facilitate locating ritual disruption appropriately in ritual theory discussions. Third, ritual gone wrong highlights the fact that ritual activity is largely concerned with putting something at stake, often revealing dynamics and elements at play between conflicting stakeholders. Finally, ritual disruptions often function as a “tell,” signaling the relative vibrancy or vulnerability of a ritual system through its ability (or inability) to absorb innocent mistakes, deliberate change, or malicious misrepresentation.Less
This chapter argues that several general conclusions can be drawn from the specific case studies presented in the volume. First, scholars should actively resist the polarized characterization of ritual (imagined and perfect vs. actual and imperfect) that underlies most ritual theory today. Second, scholars should handle source material differently, putting studies of “lived” ritual in intimate conversation with studies of “imagined” ritual, and incorporating texts that discuss ritual disruption and adjustment more prominently in ritual theorizing. This will facilitate locating ritual disruption appropriately in ritual theory discussions. Third, ritual gone wrong highlights the fact that ritual activity is largely concerned with putting something at stake, often revealing dynamics and elements at play between conflicting stakeholders. Finally, ritual disruptions often function as a “tell,” signaling the relative vibrancy or vulnerability of a ritual system through its ability (or inability) to absorb innocent mistakes, deliberate change, or malicious misrepresentation.
Jacob P. Dalton
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- September 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780231176002
- eISBN:
- 9780231541176
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Columbia University Press
- DOI:
- 10.7312/columbia/9780231176002.003.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Buddhism
This chapter examines the origins of the Gathering of Intentions, both historical and mythical. It includes discussions of the authorship of the tantra and the system of transmissions (brgyud pa ...
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This chapter examines the origins of the Gathering of Intentions, both historical and mythical. It includes discussions of the authorship of the tantra and the system of transmissions (brgyud pa gsum) within which the work’s myths are understood.Less
This chapter examines the origins of the Gathering of Intentions, both historical and mythical. It includes discussions of the authorship of the tantra and the system of transmissions (brgyud pa gsum) within which the work’s myths are understood.
Meghan J. DiLuzio
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- January 2018
- ISBN:
- 9780691169576
- eISBN:
- 9781400883035
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Princeton University Press
- DOI:
- 10.23943/princeton/9780691169576.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion in the Ancient World
This chapter argues that priestly couples had a larger role in the Roman ritual system than modern scholars have realized. The rex sacrorum and the flamen Martialis certainly shared their offices ...
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This chapter argues that priestly couples had a larger role in the Roman ritual system than modern scholars have realized. The rex sacrorum and the flamen Martialis certainly shared their offices with the regina sacrorum and the flaminica Martialis respectively. It seems very likely that the wives of the thirteen remaining flamines were flaminicae as well. Priestly couples are best understood in relation to the patterns of worship in the household, where husbands and wives fulfilled complementary religious roles. Indeed, priestly couples exemplified traditionally asymmetrical gender constructions and relationships. It is clear, however, that the structure of Roman society included a robust ritual role for both sexes. Wives and priestesses offered sacrifices at domestic hearths and public altars because the religious system was thought to function properly only when men and women served their gods together.Less
This chapter argues that priestly couples had a larger role in the Roman ritual system than modern scholars have realized. The rex sacrorum and the flamen Martialis certainly shared their offices with the regina sacrorum and the flaminica Martialis respectively. It seems very likely that the wives of the thirteen remaining flamines were flaminicae as well. Priestly couples are best understood in relation to the patterns of worship in the household, where husbands and wives fulfilled complementary religious roles. Indeed, priestly couples exemplified traditionally asymmetrical gender constructions and relationships. It is clear, however, that the structure of Roman society included a robust ritual role for both sexes. Wives and priestesses offered sacrifices at domestic hearths and public altars because the religious system was thought to function properly only when men and women served their gods together.
Yagyong Chong
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520260917
- eISBN:
- 9780520947702
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520260917.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, Asian History
This is an English translation of one of Korea’s most celebrated historical works, a pre-modern classic so well known to Koreans that it has inspired contemporary literature and television. Written ...
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This is an English translation of one of Korea’s most celebrated historical works, a pre-modern classic so well known to Koreans that it has inspired contemporary literature and television. Written in 1821 by Chong Yagyong (Tasan), Admonitions on Governing the People (Mongmin simsŏ) is a detailed manual for district magistrates on how to govern better. In encyclopedic fashion, Here Chong Yagyong addresses the administration, social and economic life, criminal justice, the military, and the Confucian ritual system. He provides examples of past corrupt officials and discusses topics of the day such as famine relief and social welfare. A general call for overhauling the Korean ruling system, the book also makes the radical proposition that the purpose of government is to serve the interests of the people. This translation opens a new window on early-nineteenth century Korea and makes available to a wide audience a work whose main concerns simultaneously transcend national and cultural boundaries.Less
This is an English translation of one of Korea’s most celebrated historical works, a pre-modern classic so well known to Koreans that it has inspired contemporary literature and television. Written in 1821 by Chong Yagyong (Tasan), Admonitions on Governing the People (Mongmin simsŏ) is a detailed manual for district magistrates on how to govern better. In encyclopedic fashion, Here Chong Yagyong addresses the administration, social and economic life, criminal justice, the military, and the Confucian ritual system. He provides examples of past corrupt officials and discusses topics of the day such as famine relief and social welfare. A general call for overhauling the Korean ruling system, the book also makes the radical proposition that the purpose of government is to serve the interests of the people. This translation opens a new window on early-nineteenth century Korea and makes available to a wide audience a work whose main concerns simultaneously transcend national and cultural boundaries.
Michael D. Swartz
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780814740934
- eISBN:
- 9780814723784
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- NYU Press
- DOI:
- 10.18574/nyu/9780814740934.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter looks at an example of ancient ritual discourse about clothing—the significance of the vestments in Jewish sources on sacrifice in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The vestments of the ...
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This chapter looks at an example of ancient ritual discourse about clothing—the significance of the vestments in Jewish sources on sacrifice in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The vestments of the high priest form a key component of the ritual system and constitute a complex semiotic system that functions both instrumentally and expressively. Whereas all clothing signals information about issues such as the wearer's status, the vestments gained additional layers of hermeneutical possibilities because their fabric, form, and order were commanded by God to be used in the ritual. At the same time, the vestments were thought to have had an active role to play in representing Israel before its God. This led to a semiotic system wherein each detail of the vestments could stand for something greater or perform a significant function in the ritual, depending on the interpreter's discernment.Less
This chapter looks at an example of ancient ritual discourse about clothing—the significance of the vestments in Jewish sources on sacrifice in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The vestments of the high priest form a key component of the ritual system and constitute a complex semiotic system that functions both instrumentally and expressively. Whereas all clothing signals information about issues such as the wearer's status, the vestments gained additional layers of hermeneutical possibilities because their fabric, form, and order were commanded by God to be used in the ritual. At the same time, the vestments were thought to have had an active role to play in representing Israel before its God. This led to a semiotic system wherein each detail of the vestments could stand for something greater or perform a significant function in the ritual, depending on the interpreter's discernment.
Michael D. Swartz
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- March 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780814740934
- eISBN:
- 9780814723784
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- NYU Press
- DOI:
- 10.18574/nyu/9780814740934.003.0002
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter discusses the claim of ancient rabbis that God created the first pair of tongs at twilight on the sixth day of creation. This statement is one among many in a rich tradition of myths of ...
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This chapter discusses the claim of ancient rabbis that God created the first pair of tongs at twilight on the sixth day of creation. This statement is one among many in a rich tradition of myths of creation and precreation in rabbinic Judaism. The chapter examines the relationship of this myth to alternatives, in which entities other than the Torah were created before the world. This discussion of the preceding myths is threefold: first is to de-center the idea that the Torah was created before the world; second is to show that because of this alternative to the myth of the primordial Torah, the Temple, the sacrificial system, and the ritual system generally inspired creativity and systems of interpretation; and finally, to explain that the ancient Jews believed that God embedded signification in the natural world so that human beings could use those signs in their daily lives.Less
This chapter discusses the claim of ancient rabbis that God created the first pair of tongs at twilight on the sixth day of creation. This statement is one among many in a rich tradition of myths of creation and precreation in rabbinic Judaism. The chapter examines the relationship of this myth to alternatives, in which entities other than the Torah were created before the world. This discussion of the preceding myths is threefold: first is to de-center the idea that the Torah was created before the world; second is to show that because of this alternative to the myth of the primordial Torah, the Temple, the sacrificial system, and the ritual system generally inspired creativity and systems of interpretation; and finally, to explain that the ancient Jews believed that God embedded signification in the natural world so that human beings could use those signs in their daily lives.
