Tantra, Magic, and Vernacular Religions in Monsoon Asia: Texts, Practices, and Practitioners from the Margins

A first and coherent enquiry on vernacular religions across Monsoon Asia and critically questioning why they have been frequently alienated in the elitist discourse of mainstream Indic religions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

A comprehensive exploration of vernacular religions in Monsoon Asia, delving into their historical significance and examining the reasons behind their frequent marginalization within the elitist discourse of mainstream Indic religions.

Vernacular religions in Monsoon Asia have a rich and complex history, dating back thousands of years. These religions are deeply rooted in the local cultures and traditions of the regions, and they play an important role in the lives of millions of people. However, despite their importance, vernacular religions have often been excluded from the mainstream discourse of Indic religions. This marginalization has led to a lack of recognition and understanding of these religions, which can have negative consequences for their followers.

One of the main reasons why vernacular religions have been excluded from the mainstream discourse of Indic religions is the belief that they are inferior or less legitimate than the major religions. This belief is often perpetuated by religious scholars and authorities who prioritize the study and promotion of the major religions, such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Vernacular religions are often seen as a threat to the stability and unity of the Indic religious community, as they may challenge the authority and legitimacy of the major religions.

Another reason for the marginalization of vernacular religions is the historical dominance of the major religions in the region. For centuries, the major religions have been the dominant force in Indian society, and they have established their own religious institutions, customs, and practices. Vernacular religions, on the other hand, have often been seen as a threat to the established order and have been suppressed or marginalized.

Despite these challenges, vernacular religions have continued to thrive in Monsoon Asia. Many followers of these religions believe that they offer a more personal and meaningful form of worship than the major religions. They also emphasize the importance of local customs and traditions, which can be lost in the mainstream discourse of Indic religions. Vernacular religions also play an important role in the social and cultural life of the regions, providing a sense of community and identity for their followers.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of vernacular religions in Monsoon Asia. There have been efforts to promote these religions and to increase their visibility in the mainstream discourse. This has included the establishment of religious institutions, the publication of religious literature, and the promotion of interfaith dialogue and cooperation.

However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that vernacular religions are fully recognized and respected in Monsoon Asia. This will require a commitment from religious scholars, authorities, and the broader community to promote understanding and respect for these religions. It will also require efforts to address the historical and social factors that have contributed to their marginalization, such as the belief that they are inferior or less legitimate than the major religions.

Weight: 590g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032251288