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https://hdl.handle.net/2440/95451
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Type: | Journal article |
Title: | Encompassing empowerment in ritual, war, and assassination: Tantric principles in Tamil Tiger instrumentalities |
Author: | Roberts, M. |
Citation: | Social Analysis: international journal of cultural and social practice, 2014; 58(1):88-106 |
Publisher: | Berghahn Journals |
Issue Date: | 2014 |
ISSN: | 0155-977X 1558-5727 |
Statement of Responsibility: | Michael Roberts |
Abstract: | This study highlights the Tantric threads within the transcendental religions of Asia that reveal the commanding role of encirclement as a mystical force. The cyanide capsule (kuppi) around the neck of every Tamil Tiger fighter was not only a tool of instrumental rationality as a binding force, but also a modality similar to a thāli (marriage bond necklace) and to participation in a velvi (religious animal sacrifice). It was thus embedded within Tamil cultural practice. Alongside the LTTE's politics of homage to its māvīrar (dead heroes), the kuppi sits beside numerous incidents in LTTE acts of mobilization or military actions where key functionaries approached deities in thanks or in preparation for the kill. These practices highlight the inventive potential of liminal moments/spaces. We see this as modernized 'war magic'—a hybrid re-enchantment energizing a specific religious worldview. |
Keywords: | cosmic encirclement; enchanted practices; liminality; LTTE; regeneration; sacrifice; suicide attacks; Tantrism |
Description: | Publication date: 1 March 2014 |
Rights: | © Berghahn Journals |
DOI: | 10.3167/sa.2014.580105 |
Published version: | http://dx.doi.org/10.3167/sa.2014.580105 |
Appears in Collections: | Anthropology & Development Studies publications Aurora harvest 7 |
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