Display Settings:

Format

Send to:

Choose Destination
We are sorry, but NCBI web applications do not support your browser and may not function properly. More information
    Urologe A. 2010 Dec;49(12):1535-42. doi: 10.1007/s00120-010-2461-y.

    [Phallus depictions in Bhutan].

    [Article in German]

    Source

    University of Health Sciences, Department of Dermatology, Phnom Penh, Kambodscha. cambodia_derma@yahoo.de

    Abstract

    Even in a globalized world, Bhutan is still a country which is less traveled and maintains relative remoteness. Localized in the Himalayas, the kingdom offers, besides its natural beauties, fascinating cultural sights, particularly secular and sacral architecture. For most foreigners, the omnipresence of depictions of phalli, always erected and often ejaculating on many walls of traditional houses is a stunning impression.The popularity of these displays goes back to the "Holy Madman" Drukpa Kunley (1455-1529) who made generous use of his penis to fight demons, convert women to Buddhism and mock the religious establishment. Although there is a vast written and oral tradition on the religious and historical significance of the phallus-symbol, for most Bhutanese today it merely means a sign of good luck and an instrument to ward off evil spirits.

    PMID:
    21107804
    [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

      Supplemental Content

      Icon for Springer

      Save items

      Recent activity

      Your browsing activity is empty.

      Activity recording is turned off.

      Turn recording back on

      See more...
      Write to the Help Desk