audiobook The Fate of Rural Hell: Asceticism and Desire in Buddhist Thailand by Benedict Anderson in History

Review

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. One of a kindBy JDVAs far as I know; this is the only book written that discusses the "Hell Temples" of Thailand. I have been to the one in Khorat; and this one in Suphanburi. What I found to be the most useful is translations of the Thai writing on the various sculptures that inform the reader about the "sins" that the tormented are suffering for. I took this book with me in Oct of 2012 to Wat Phai Rong Wua; and it was a great aid in understanding the displays. This book is definitely one of a kind. Buy it if you are interested in Thai Buddhism; occultism; ghosts; or legends...or just want a deeper understanding of Thai culture. These temples are a kind of living "Dante's Inferno"--meant to dissuade sinners from deviating from the Buddhist path. In my opinion; they are also a sort of gimmick for generating money for the temples. As are most of the "gimmicks" that require feeding money into displays found in many Thai temples. Overall; small book; great photos; interesting text and subject. I would buy another copy if the one I have got lost or damaged--just to have it.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. InterestingBy LanceManionI notice a lot of 'hell' tableau in Thai Temples; particularly in the far north (Nan and Phayao). This book could do a better job of explaining how this has come about; what's changed in Thai religious culture; etc. Very desciptive; leaves one wanting some explanation.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. HellBy Tony MiltonInteresting insights about Theravada Buddhism in Thailand. Copious photographs of Hells in rural Temples. Great biographical information about the monks and artists involved in creating these special spaces.