The Utility of the Convert/Natal Lens in the Study of Theravāda Buddhist Organizations in California

abstract:In this study of four Theravādin organizations in California, I explore the utility of the natal/convert binary construct in describing these organizations and their participants. In addition to the critiques of the model of two Buddhisms available in the literature (e.g., Hickey 2010; Han 2017), I note that conversions across Buddhist sectarian boundaries also challenge the binary. Although I note the benefit of this model in bringing to attention non-Theravāda elements brought by converts, my research demonstrates that the diversity in Asian American-led Theravāda temples in terms of temple participants' ethnic and religious backgrounds, openness to non-Theravāda elements, temple activities, orientation toward meditation practice, and missionary outreach to converts, seekers, and samplers is masked by the umbrella term "natal," which homogenizes these groups.