This paper presents a description of the Shan calendrical system and how it is used, beginning with a discussion of Shan cosmology, the nature of the relationship between Buddhism and animism, and the role of power in that relationship. I provide an account of the calendar, systems used to determine auspicious and inauspicious days and directions, kinds of events scheduled in reference to particular systems, and the consequences of mis-scheduling events. I then argue that this evidence indicates that Buddhism, animism, and astrology form a single religious system. The analysis of the calendrical system raises further questions about the nature of power and its role in unifying Shan religion.
目次
1. Shan Cosmology 505 2. The Shan Calendrical System 507 3. Using the Calendar 510 4. Conclusions 514 References Cited 515
