Himalayan space

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Himalayan Space: Cultural Horizons and Practices

To appear in 1999, Museum of Ethnography, Zürich
ISBN 3-909105-36-X

Abstract

The contributors to this volume analyze different conceptions of space in various traditions of the Himalayan region by relying on linguistic and cultural evidence. Linguistic approaches raise questions about the underlying cognitive models which are inscribed in grammatical systems and are relevant in everyday speech practice. Anthropological analysis complements this perspective by looking at cultural patterns which become particularly apparent in ritual action (such as shamanist journeys) and mythological discourse. In comparing the findings about different traditions, two basic spatial models emerge in various local constellations and blends: the 'mandalaic' model takes up a common South Asian theme and systematically conflates body-centred orientation with cardinal directions. The 'geomorphic' model invokes more territorial notions and is strongly bound to the hilly and mountainous landscape of the region. In their detailed studies the authors explore the complexities of these models and related practices. The cultural horizons for conceptualizing space and the practices informed by these horizons prove to be crucial for an understanding of both tradition and change in the social and political settings of the Himalayan region.

Contributors:

Balthasar Bickel & Martin Gaenszle
Introduction: cultural horizons and practices in Himalayan space

Gérard Toffin
Spatial categories of the Newars of the Kathmandu Valley: The inside - outside opposition

Balthasar Bickel
Cultural formalism and spatial language in Belhara

Karen Ebert
The up - down dimension in Rai grammar and mythology

Martin Gaenszle
Travelling up - travelling down: the vertical dimension in Mewahang Rai ritual journeys

Michael Oppitz
Cardinal directions in Magar mythology

András Höfer
Nomen est numen: notes on the verbal journey in some Western Tamang oral ritual texts

Judith Pettigrew
Parallel landscapes: ritual and political values of a Shamanic soul Journey

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