Monk Dancers of Tibet

Tibetan Buddhism, the most symbolic and esoteric of all Buddhist traditions, has a rich history of sacred dance in which every mask, costume, sound and gesture has spiritual significance. Most Tibetan dances, says Ricard, a French Buddhist monk, are based in the exploits of masters and great teachers, and seek to preserve their legacy. Since the Chinese occupation of Tibet, however, the dances have been restricted, and are now found mostly in exile communities in India, Nepal and Bhutan. The color photographs and illustrations are the real highlight of this book, which discusses the role of sacred dance in Tibetan Buddhism and, most interestingly, profiles what life is like for the monk dancers. The book makes it clear that dance is a meditative practice, and even the crafts associated with it--such as the making of masks and elaborate costumes--are sacred acts. A final section explores the ritual cycle of Tibetan Buddhism, and outlines which dances are performed for holidays and festivals.