The Kings of Buddhism: Power, Religion, and Fury in Myanmar

This is a political history of two of the most intimate of human concerns – religion and power. The history of religion in Myanmar is fascinating, brutal, and reveals the consequences of entangling the powers of state and religion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The Kings of Buddhism delves into the profound implications of state regulation and protection of a country's dominant religion. Sterken contends that the extent of religious liberty or its absence hinges on rational calculations made by both religious and state actors, influenced by their respective interests. Drawing upon insights from renowned thinkers such as Adam Smith, John Locke, and Thomas Jefferson, Sterken argues that centuries of state support for Theravada Buddhism has tainted the religious marketplace in Myanmar. This support, at the expense of other religions and society, has enabled the kings and military rulers of Myanmar to safeguard and control religion for their own political survival. The entanglement of state and religion manifests in several concerning consequences, including:
1. A State-Supported Religious Monopoly: The state's involvement in supporting a particular religion creates a situation where other religions are marginalized and suppressed. This monopoly hinders the free expression and growth of religious diversity, leading to a lack of religious freedom and pluralism.
2. Corruption, Regulation, and Repression of Theravada Buddhists: The state's control over religion often leads to corruption, regulation, and repression of Theravada Buddhists. The government may use its power to favor certain Buddhist practices, institutions, or monks, while suppressing or limiting the expression of other religious beliefs and practices. This creates an environment of inequality and injustice within the religious community.
3. Repression and Violence against Religious Minorities: State control over religion can also result in the repression and violence against religious minorities. Non-Buddhist religious groups, such as Muslims, Christians, or Hindus, may face discrimination, persecution, and even violence from the state-sanctioned Buddhist majority. This violates their fundamental human rights and perpetuates a culture of religious intolerance.
4. Perpetual Conflict and Violence: The entanglement of state and religion can lead to perpetual conflict and violence within society. Religious differences and tensions can be exploited by political actors to gain power and control, leading to armed conflicts and social unrest. This undermines the stability and peace of the country.
5. A Corrupt Religious Economy: State control over religion can also contribute to the corruption of the religious economy. Monks and religious institutions may become involved in corrupt practices, such as embezzlement, bribery, or land speculation, using their position and influence to enrich themselves at the expense of the religious community. This erodes the trust and credibility of the religious institution and undermines the moral and ethical foundations of society.
6. A Corruption of Truth: State control over religion can lead to the corruption of truth and the distortion of religious teachings. The government may manipulate religious texts, teachings, or rituals to suit its political agenda or to control the religious community. This undermines the integrity and authenticity of religious beliefs and practices, leading to a loss of faith and a breakdown of religious harmony.
The consequences of state control over religion are severe and serve as a stark warning to all those who seek to entangle religion and the state. Religious freedom and pluralism are fundamental human rights that should be respected and protected by all governments. Any attempt to undermine these rights can lead to social unrest, instability, and a decline in the moral and ethical fabric of society. It is essential for governments to establish a clear separation between state and religion, ensuring that religious institutions are free to operate independently and that individuals are free to practice their faith without fear of persecution or discrimination. Only through a harmonious balance between state and religion can societies achieve true peace, prosperity, and social harmony.

Weight: 431g
Dimension: 223 x 154 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538177945