Published Paper Details:

Buddhism is one of the major religions followed in Southeast Asia. The Buddhist traditions of the Lao people possess distinctive characteristics arising from the integration of Theravada Buddhism with indigenous animistic beliefs, which have played a significant role in the way of life, society, and culture of Lao communities over an extended period. The concepts of the concerned spirits, such as household spirits, ancestral spirits, guardian spirits, ancestor veneration, and rituals for protection and prosperity, continue to coexist alongside Buddhist tradition in Laos, such as karma, the cycle of death and rebirth, and merit-making through dedication of merit. Alongside economic transformations, urbanization, globalization, technological advancements, and governmental regulations in the twenty-first century, several customs have been altered or are now seen as cultural heritage rather than adherence to faith. However, this integration still demonstrates the adaptability and flexibility of Lao Buddhism, which continues to play a vital part in preserving Lao society's uniqueness and cohesion. Furthermore, indigenous beliefs are interpreted within the moral framework of Buddhism, and Lao Buddhist monks frequently act as a bridge between ceremonies associated with animist tradition beliefs, such as the dispelling of misfortune. This article, "Lao Buddhist Tradition: An Examination of its Interplay with Animism and Changing Contours in the Twenty-First Century," focuses on the pre-Buddhist and modern amalgamations of Animism and Buddhism in Lao civilization. I will also discuss Buddhism in Lane Xang from the 13th century C.E. onward, making it the primary religion of the Lane Xang people and uniting all the sub-lands into one kingdom. Furthermore, King Fa Ngum, the first great king, and other Kings of Lane Xang, who patronized Buddhism in the land. In addition, I'll discuss the mixture of Buddhist tradition with other Laotian faiths. Finally, I'll discuss and analyze the interaction between Buddhism and animism in Lao society and examine the transformation of Buddhist traditions in the twenty-first century.