Title
Making Pilgrimages: Meaning and Practice in Shikoku,Used
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This study involves a fourteenhundredkilometerlong pilgrimage around Japans fourth largest island, Shikoku. In traveling the circuit of the eightyeight Buddhist temples that make up the route, pilgrims make their journey together with Kb Daishi (774835), the holy miracleworking figure who is at the heart of the pilgrimage.Once seen as a marginal practice, recent media portrayal of the pilgrimage as a symbol of Japanese cultural heritage has greatly increased the number of participants, both Japanese and foreign. In this absorbing look at the nature of the pilgrimage, Ian Reader examines contemporary practices and beliefs in the context of historical development, taking into account theoretical considerations of pilgrimage as a mode of activity and revealing how pilgrimages such as Shikoku may change in nature over the centuries.This rich ethnographic work covers a wide range of pilgrimage activity and behavior, drawing on accounts of pilgrims traveling by traditional means on foot as well as those taking advantage of the new package bus tours, and exploring the pilgrimages role in the everyday lives of participants and the people of Shikoku alike. It discusses the various ways in which the pilgrimage is made and the forces that have shaped it in the past and in the present, including history and legend, the islands landscape and residents, the narratives and actions of the pilgrims and the priests who run the temples, regional authorities, and commercial tour operators and bus companies.In studying the Shikoku pilgrimage from anthropological, historical, and sociological perspectives, Reader shows in vivid detail the ambivalence and complexity of pilgrimage as a phenomenon that is simultaneously local, national, and international and both marginal and integral to the lives of its participants. Critically astute yet highly accessible, Making Pilgrimages will be welcomed by those with an interest in anthropology, religious studies, and Japanese studies, and will be essential for anyone contemplating making the pilgrimage themselves.
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- Q: What is the main focus of 'Making Pilgrimages: Meaning and Practice in Shikoku'? A: The book focuses on the Shikoku pilgrimage, a fourteen-hundred-kilometer journey around Japan's fourth largest island, exploring the contemporary practices, beliefs, and historical development of this pilgrimage.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'Making Pilgrimages' is Ian Reader, who provides insights into the pilgrimage from anthropological, historical, and sociological perspectives.
- Q: What themes are explored in this book? A: The book explores themes such as the nature of pilgrimage, its historical evolution, the experiences of pilgrims, and the impact of cultural heritage on modern pilgrimage practices.
- Q: Is this book suitable for someone planning to go on the Shikoku pilgrimage? A: Yes, the book is essential for anyone contemplating the pilgrimage, providing valuable insights into its significance, practices, and the experiences of past pilgrims.
- Q: What type of binding does the book have? A: The book is available in paperback binding, making it accessible and easy to carry for readers.
- Q: How many pages does 'Making Pilgrimages' have? A: The book has a total of 368 pages, offering an in-depth exploration of the Shikoku pilgrimage.
- Q: When was this book published? A: The book was published on December 31, 2004.
- Q: What makes this book different from other books about pilgrimage? A: This book distinguishes itself by examining the Shikoku pilgrimage through multiple lenses, including anthropology and sociology, while also addressing the changes in pilgrimage practices over time.
- Q: Who would benefit from reading this book? A: Readers with interests in anthropology, religious studies, Japanese studies, and those planning to undertake the pilgrimage would all benefit from this insightful work.
- Q: Are there any specific historical figures discussed in the book? A: Yes, the book discusses Kôbô Daishi, a significant figure in the Shikoku pilgrimage, known for his role in its history and cultural significance.