An Uncouth Monk: The Moral Aesthetics of Buddhist Para‐Charisma

Abstract

In this article, I propose a new theory of “Buddhist para‐charisma” by analyzing the case of an iconoclastic monk in Vietnam. My argument draws from 20 months of ethnographic research conducted in Ho Chi Minh City between 2015 and 2019. During fieldwork, I was introduced to a highly respected monk with the extraordinary capacity to read minds and perceive karmic obstacles in the lives of his lay and monastic followers. This monk was unique for openly consuming meat and alcohol, wearing lay clothing, and using insults while preaching. These behaviors had the deliberate effect of creating an uncomfortable, tense environment among his visitors. Later, the nun who introduced us explained that his harsh language and adversarial demeanor were a rare form of compassion that urged immediate awakening to Buddhist teachings. I compare this case with previously developed theories of Buddhist charisma and moral aesthetics. While past studies analyze Buddhist charisma through the moral aesthetics of physical beauty or affective responses of tranquility, gratitude, and awe, the theory of para‐charisma shows how some monks can deliberately use repulsive behavior and negative affects to attract followers and advance spiritual goals.

The Precarious Spaces Between Us: The Exchange of Food and Merit in Thailand's Affective Moral Economy during the COVID‐19 Pandemic

“…In acting within a broad monastic field of merit, the food distribution allowed the monks to further their own spiritual development. As Sara Swenson (2023) notes, by transferring the merit accumulated through their disciplinary training, monks are understood to gain merit at the same time that they offer it to others. In a sense, in receiving offerings from the monks—in the form of both material and emotional aid—the lay follower is able to give back to the monk by providing them the opportunity to practice their religion.…”