The Construction of Gender in Asian Religions

This module attempts to explore the position and role of women in Asian religions (primarily Hindu and Buddhist traditions) and understand the ways in which gender is constructed in their respective religious worlds. It examines the place of lay women who uphold religious faith at home and the religious position of female practitioners in their ascetic traditions. In particular, there is a focus on the ‘body’, serving as a vehicle for spiritual growth through the use of various techniques ranging from physical austerities to mental visualisations, and providing important metaphor on topics such as that of the cosmos, divinity, and the nature of sacred. This module attempts to understand some of the ways in which spirituality is viewed and how gender (both secular and religious) is constructed through the mediation of social body. Cultural (religious) symbolism, stereotypes, and taboos are also examined to understand how Asian women are defined in their respective religions and how they pursue their spiritual goals.

Select bibliography

Cabezon, J. I. (ed.) Buddhism, Sexuality and Gender

Coakley, S. (ed.) Religion and the Body

Herdt, G. (ed.) Third Sex, Third Gender.

Kawanami, H. Renunciation and Empowerment of Buddhist Nuns in Myanmar-Burma.

Obeyesekere, G. Medusa’s Hair: An Essay on Personal Symbols and Religious Experience.

Sobo, E. J. and S. Bell (eds.) Celibacy, Culture, and Society: The Anthropology of Sexual Abstinence.