The Department of South and Central Asia is hosting a talk by Charles Ramble, a distinguished scholar in the field of Himalayan studies. Ramble, who serves as the Director of Studies at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris, will be discussing the topic of „Understanding Himalayan Buddhist Communities through the Prism of Civil Religion.“ The event is scheduled for Friday, November 13, at Celetná 20, room No. 427, starting at 2:10 pm.
Ramble’s talk will delve into the intricate dynamics of religious pluralism within Himalayan Buddhist communities. While many ethnographies portray a simplistic view of a clash between Buddhist and non-Buddhist traditions, Ramble argues that the reality is far more complex. Drawing on a case study from Nepal’s Mustang district, he suggests that the interaction between Buddhism, local sacrificial cults, and political institutions gives rise to a „dark“ third manifestation of religion. This phenomenon, best understood through the lens of civil religion, challenges traditional notions of religious opposition and highlights the interconnectedness of individuals and their social structures.
The concept of civil religion, originally proposed by Rousseau and further developed by scholars like Robert Bellah and Gerald Parsons, posits that communities possess a collective identity that transcends individual beliefs and practices. In the context of Himalayan Buddhist communities, this civil religion emerges as a product of the complex interplay between religious, legal, and political institutions. While individuals shape this communal identity, it is perceived as an autonomous entity with a profound influence on their lives.
Ramble’s talk promises to shed light on the nuanced dynamics of religious life in the Himalayas and challenge conventional narratives of religious conflict. By exploring the concept of civil religion, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how communities construct and maintain their collective identities. This event is a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research in the field of Himalayan studies and broaden one’s perspective on the intricate tapestry of religious beliefs and practices in the region.
In conclusion, Charles Ramble’s talk on „Understanding Himalayan Buddhist Communities through the Prism of Civil Religion“ offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex interplay between religion, politics, and community identity in the Himalayas. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights into the ways in which individuals and institutions shape and are shaped by the communal fabric of Himalayan society. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in a stimulating discussion led by one of the foremost experts in the field.