Bön Tradition

The Bön Tradition of Tibet

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The lineage of Bön is among the oldest indigenous traditions of the world. Originating from Tongpa Shenrap Miwoche (considered a full Buddha in the tradition) more than 17,000 years ago, the Bön teachings have been transmitted from teacher to student through study and direct experience. As a unique source of Tibetan culture and tradition, Bön has played a large role in cultivating the distinct expression of Tibetan Buddhism.

Like the other traditions of Tibet, Bön tradition has a particular textual, ritual, and philosophical basis all of which are geared toward cultivating an open heart, countering obstructing forces, and recognizing the presence of innate awareness. Authors such as Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, Nyima Drakpa, and Chogyal Namkhai Norbu are among the handful of Bön lineage holders presented here.

If we relate to the natural world as a collection of lifeless mechanical processes, it is lifeless for us. If we relate to our bodies as machines, they are machines to us. If we relate to religion as fantasy, it is a fantasy to us. But if we relate to the natural world as alive, full of spirits and elemental beings, the natural world speaks to us.

-Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche, Healing with Form, Energy, and Light

Books of the Bön Tradition of Tibet

The Philosophical View of the Great Perfection in the Tibetan Bon Religion

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Ngöndro: A Reader’s Guide to the Preliminary Practices of Tibetan Buddhism

A Series of Articles on Ngöndro The Preliminary Practices of Tibetan Buddhism Introduction The Elements of Ngondro 3. The Nyingma Traditiona...

Ngöndro in the Sakya, Gelug, and Bön Traditions (7/8)

A Series of Articles on Ngöndro The Preliminary Practices of Tibetan Buddhism Introduction The Elements of Ngondro 3. The Nyingma Traditiona...

Remembering Yongdzin Lopon Tenzin Namdak

Remembering Lopön Tenzin Namdak Rinpoche It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of the great Bön teacher, Yongdzin Lopon Tenzin Namdak. The great Bon teacher Lopon Tenzin Namdak...

Chöd: A Guide for Readers

Chöd: A Guide for Readers Chöd, often pronounced "chö," is a meditative practice found in both the Buddhist and Bön traditions of Tibet. Chöd, translated literally as "cutting through," incorp...

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