Buddhist ascetic monks and hermits that move largely outside of the institutional structures of the monastic order (sangha) have a long history in mainland Southeast Asia. In Lao Buddhism these figures seem to have largely disappeared, but due to their charismatic qualities they still occupy a crucial position in the social imaginary. This article explores rumours and narratives about the existence of ascetic monks and hermits in contemporary Laos. I argue that rumours about, and narratives of, spectral apparitions of these figures express a longing for Buddhist charisma that is partially rooted in Laos’ revolutionary past, and in recent social and economic changes. As Buddhist charisma can point to alternative, personalised sources of power, I argue that rumours and spectral apparitions can be interpreted as haunting, and therefore afflicting and challenging the current politics of religion of the Lao state.
目次
Abstract 509 Keywords 509 Introduction 510 Rumours of Dhutanga Monks and the State’s Politics of Religion 510 Spectral Monks and the Search for the “Supernatural” 515 The Longing for Buddhist Charisma and the State 518 Conclusion 521 Acknowledgments 522 Notes 522 References 523
