Yungdrung Bön

Yungdrung Bön, also called Drungmu Gyer in the ancient language of Tagzig and Zhang Zhung, has a rich tradition of sophisticated philosophy and teachings. These teachings and practices help to cultivate the heart-mind of compassion and wisdom. They promote healing, forgiveness, clarity, peace, and ultimately lead to enlightenment.

The founder of Bön is Tonpa Shenrab Miwo, who, according to Bön tradition, first brought the Bön teachings to what is now central Asia 18,000 years ago. Tonpa Shenrab was born in Tazig and lived in Zhang Zhung. Zhang Zhung means "Garuda Land." Tazig means "Land of the Tiger."

Yungdrung Bön can be categorized into three main sets of teachings. These three sets are known as the Outer, Inner, and Secret teachings (Sutra, Tantra, and Dzogchen.) Each of these sets of teachings is a complete system of spiritual development that can lead the practitioner to attain enlightenment. Yungdrung Bön practitioners may choose to practice one, or more, of these sets of teachings, based on their capacity of understanding and the suitability of the practice.

The Four Noble Truths are among the first teachings taught by the Buddha Tonpa Shenrab, so it is important for us to know the Four Noble Truths. 

The Truth of Suffering

The first noble truth is the pervasive presence of suffering in our lives. This truth teaches that life always involves suffering, in obvious and subtle forms. Even when things seem good, we still feel an undercurrent of anxiety and uncertainty inside.

The Cause of Suffering

The cause of suffering is fundamental ignorance or misunderstanding about our own nature and the nature of reality. We suffer because of our mistaken belief that things, including us, are separate, independent, and solid. The painful and futile struggle to maintain this delusion of ego is known as samsara, or cyclic existence.

The Cessation of Suffering 

The good news is that our obscurations are temporary. They are like passing clouds that obscure the sun of our enlightened nature, which is always present. Therefore, suffering can end because our obscurations can be purified, and the awakened mind is always available. This state is referred to as enlightenment, or nirvana, which is the complete cessation of suffering. It is a state of freedom, peace, and liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

The Truth of the Path

The fourth and final truth tells us that by spiritual practice, living ethically, and developing wisdom, we can take the same journey to enlightenment and freedom from suffering that the Buddhas do. By following the eightfold path, we, too, can wake up.