Hinduism and Hierarchy in Bali

Howe, Leo

ISBN 10: 0852559143 / ISBN 13: 9780852559147

Published by James Currey, 2001

About this Item

One of the World Anthropology series of publications. This book presents 'detailed ethnographic analyses and historically informed interpretations of status competition, caste conflict, ritual inflation, religious innovation and the cultural politics of identity in today's Bali.' The dust jacket, which features on its cover a ritual preparatory to the cremation of a high-caste man in the village of Klakah, shows a little shelf-wear. Sapphire blue cloth boards with gilt (gold) titles along the spine. Black endpapers. Half title page has a previous seller's markings/pricing in pencil. Tight binding. Includes b/w plates, figures, tables (listed) and a map. pp. xvi, 228/8vo. Please note that, depending on destination, we may request an additional payment to cover any extra shipping/postage charges. Abe2303.

Seller Inventory # ABE-1674217591727

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Hinduism and Hierarchy in Bali
• Publisher: James Currey
• Publication Date: 2001
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0852559143
• ISBN 13: 9780852559147
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition: 1st Edition.
• Condition: Very Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: Dust Jacket Included

About this title

Synopsis

The book looks at how conflict and competition between various forms of Hinduism undermines and sustains relations of hierarchy. In the context of Dutch colonialism, world war, the incorporation of Bali into the Indonesian state and the tourist boom, this book examines the complex relationships between the changing nature and continuing relevance of Balinese hierarchy, the neo-Hindu reforms of Balinese religion, and the impact these have had on new forms of identity. Since at least the 1920s commoners and other intellectuals and reformers have sought ways to challenge Balinesecaste hierarchy, both through egalitarian re-interpretations of Balinese institutions and through changing religious ideas and practices. State initiatives to transform 'traditional' Balinese religion into monotheistic and more 'authentic' form of Hinduism have precipitated the appearance of many indigenous new religious movements and the importation from India of devotional forms of Hinduism (Sai Baba and Hare Krishna), which has created a vastly more intricate religious landscape. These various forms of Hinduism, and the conflict and competition between, both undermine and sustain relations of hierarchy. Through historically informed, ethnographic analyses of status competition, caste conflict, ritual inflation, religious innovation, and the cultural politics of identity this book, written in an accessible style, makes a major contribution to our understanding of modern Balinese society and its future development. Series editors: Wendy James & N.J. Allen

About the Author

Leo Howe is University Lecturer in Social Anthropology at Cambridge University and the Dean of Darwin College.