How to Compare Tibetan Buddhism & Bon

Prayer wheels are a constant reminder of the importance of spirits in the physical world.

Tibetan Buddhism and Bon are very similar in many ways. They both fuse elements of Mahayana, Vijrayana and Tantric Buddhism with indigenous Tibetan beliefs (see reference 1). Because early believers in Bon left no written records, its original forms are poorly understood (see reference 2). However, believers in Bon, Bon-pos, claim that modern Bon is the original Tibetan religion influenced by Buddhism while Tibetan Buddhism is Buddhism influenced by traditional beliefs (see reference 3). The two religions have heavily influenced each other so distinguishing between them is frequently difficult for outsiders (see reference 1). However, Tibetans assert that they remain distinct religions.

Instructions

1. Identify the key religious figures in both Bon and Tibetan Buddhism. Consider the roles of the enlightened figures Buddha and Shenrab (see reference 3). Look for similarities and differences in their different manifestations and incarnations.

2. Explore the roles of lamas. Lamas are enlightened teachers that guide the community on their spiritual path to enlightenment and assist the dead in their transition. Examine these roles in both Tibetan Buddhism and Bon. Consider the Bon belief that lamas must also act as shaman to protect against evil spirits and the dead (see reference 1) and look for similar beliefs in Tibetan Buddhism.

3. Consider the fundamental beliefs for each religion. Both focus on the relationship between life and death, mysticism and magic in addition to the Buddhist ideals of accepting change and following a spiritual path to enlightenment (see reference 1). Evaluate the similarities and differences in how these beliefs are actualized. For example, divination and exorcism are key elements in Bon (see reference 3). Explore their roles in both Bon and Tibetan Buddhism.

4. Compare the two sets of guiding tantras. Tantras provide an alternative path to enlightenment through meditation and intense rituals (see reference 1). Explore how Bon-pos and Buddhists use tantras and how they incorporate traditional magical beliefs into more traditional interpretations of Buddhism.

5. Examine the roles of gods, demons and spirits. Explore similarities and differences between their attributes and powers. Compare the rituals used to appease negative ones and encourage positive ones. Tibetan Buddhists claim that it is futile to attempt to reject the traditional pantheon of deities (see reference 1). Explore the mechanism for recognizing new gods or spirits and including them in existing rituals and beliefs for both religions.

References

• Brown University;Brief Introduction To Basic Concepts of Tibetan Buddhism; Phillip Lieberman et.al.; 2003
• Brown University; Basic Concepts of Tibetan Buddhism; Phillip Lieberman et.al.; 2003
• University of Virginia: The General Features of Tibetan Buddhism