Folk Elements in Burmese Buddhism

The book is organized into nine main chapters. Chapter 1 introduces the general problem of folk elements in Burmese Buddhism, especially the survival of Nat worship, astrology, alchemy, magical practices, and pre-Buddhist cults under the dominance of Theravāda Buddhism. Chapter 2 studies the ritual of the Nine Gods, showing how planetary worship, Hindu deities, Arhats, and Buddhist interpretation were combined in Burmese ceremonial life. Chapter 3 examines the Feast of the New Year, including the visit of Thagyamin, water festival customs, ceremonial hair-washing, and the Buddhist reinterpretation of seasonal ritual. Chapter 4 discusses the cult of alchemy and its relation to longevity, transformation, and magical aspiration. Chapter 5 analyzes the cult of the Magus. Chapter 6 studies the Lord of the Great Mountain and the Festival of Lights. Chapter 7 presents the Thirty-seven Lords and related Nat traditions, including the cult of the Naga. Chapter 8 examines initiation ceremonies. Chapter 9 discusses the Ari monks and their role in the introduction and transformation of Buddhism in Burma.