Himalayan Art: Collection Browse

Bon Outline | Bon Deities | Bon Art Topics

Bon (Tibetan: Yungdrung Bon. English: Ever-lasting Truth): the indigenous religion of the Himalayas, Tibet and regions of Central Asia prior to the arrival of Buddhism in Tibet in the 8th century. Although in modern times having fewer followers than Buddhism, the Bon religion is still active and thriving in many parts of the Himalayas and surrounding regions spanning the areas of India, Nepal, Bhutan, China and Tibet.

An Introduction An example of each of the main subject catagories along with a written explanation.		4 Transcendent Lords Desheg Shi: the four principal figures and progenitors of the Bon religion: several sets including a mandala.

6 Teachers of Discipline Dulwa Shen Drug: six special forms of Tonpa Shenrab relating to the 6 realms of beings in the world of existence.		12 Ritual Deities Choga Chunyi: the twelve special ritual practices taught by Tonpa Shenrab.

Lamas (Teachers) The founder of Menri Monastery and other notable teachers.		Mandala (kyil khor) Circular models, an idealized image of a pure universe; the abode of an archetypal deity.

Miscellaneous Subjects Stupa, refuge fields, the pureland of Olmo Lungring, and a protective chart.		Murals Murals painted on the walls of temples in Kham (Tibet), and Dolanji (H.P., India).

Peaceful & Wrathful Deities The distant and near lineage, deities and protectors of the Shi-tro cycle of practice.		Peaceful Deities Including meditational deities, Tonpa Shenrab and his various forms.

Protector Deities The principal enlightened and worldly protectors; Sipa'i Gyalmo, Machen Pomra and others.		Sculpture Various sculptures of Lamas, Deities and Protectors.

Tonpa Shenrab: Founder The founder of the Bon religion; painting and sculpture.		Wrathful Deities The catagory of Wrathful Deities including meditational deities and protectors.