Description
For anyone seeking to understand the lived reality of Tibetan Buddhism beyond philosophy and meditation, this comprehensive anthropological masterwork is indispensable. Stephan Beyer’s meticulous fieldwork reveals how magic, ritual, and religious practice interweave in everyday Tibetan life—from protective ceremonies and healing rites to elaborate tantric visualizations and deity invocations. Unlike purely theoretical texts, this book brings you into monasteries, homes, and ritual spaces where practitioners actually work with protective deities, perform exorcisms, and navigate the spirit world. Beyer combines rigorous scholarship with accessible prose, making complex tantric concepts and ritual structures comprehensible to Western readers. Whether you’re a student of comparative religion, a practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, or simply fascinated by how indigenous spiritual traditions function in practice, this 563-page hardcover offers an unparalleled window into one of the world’s most sophisticated religious systems. A must-have reference that remains as relevant today as when first published.
- Publisher : South Asia Books (1 June 1989); South Asia Books
- Language : English
- Hardcover : 563 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120804880
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120804883
- Item Weight : 748 g
- Dimensions : 14.61 x 3.81 x 22.23 cm
- Country of Origin : India
- Importer : South Asia Books
- Packer : South Asia Books
- Generic Name : Book
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the author of Magic and Ritual in Tibet?
Magic and Ritual in Tibet is written by Stephan Beyer, an American anthropologist and scholar of Tibetan Buddhism. Beyer conducted extensive fieldwork in Tibetan communities to document actual ritual practices, making this one of the most authoritative anthropological studies of Tibetan religious life.
What topics are covered in Magic and Ritual in Tibet?
The book covers protective rituals, tantric visualizations, deity worship, exorcism practices, healing ceremonies, and the role of magic in everyday Tibetan Buddhist life. It explores how monks and lay practitioners invoke deities, perform protective rites, and integrate spiritual practices into daily routines, providing both theoretical frameworks and practical examples.
Is Magic and Ritual in Tibet suitable for beginners in Tibetan Buddhism?
While comprehensive and scholarly, the book is written accessibly enough for serious beginners willing to engage with anthropological material. It’s particularly valuable for those who want to understand how Tibetan Buddhism is actually practiced, not just its philosophical teachings. Some background in Buddhism or anthropology helps but isn’t essential.
Where can I buy Magic and Ritual in Tibet online in India?
You can buy Magic and Ritual in Tibet at The Bookish Owl for ₹795 with delivery across India. This hardcover edition published by South Asia Books contains 563 pages and is the authoritative text on Tibetan ritual practices.
Why is Magic and Ritual in Tibet considered an important book?
It’s considered a landmark anthropological study because Beyer documents actual ritual practices rather than just philosophical concepts. The book reveals how Tibetan Buddhism functions as a complete religious system integrating magic, healing, protection, and spiritual development. It remains essential reading for scholars, practitioners, and anyone interested in comparative religion or Tibetan culture.
