Shenrab

Shenrab, also known as Shenrab Miwoche or Tonpa Shenrab, is the founder of the Bön religion, an indigenous spiritual tradition of Tibet. Bön predates Buddhism in Tibet and shares many similarities in philosophy, practice, and iconography, though it maintains its distinct origins and lineages. Shenrab is considered by Bön followers to be a fully enlightened Buddha who appeared in the world to teach the path to liberation.

According to Bön scriptures, Shenrab was born in the land of Olmo Lungring, a mythical realm located west of Tibet. His birth is described as a significant event meant to bring spiritual guidance to sentient beings. He is said to have renounced his princely life and embarked on a spiritual quest, eventually attaining enlightenment and dedicating his life to teaching. His teachings encompass a wide range of practices, including meditation, rituals, philosophical discourse, and ethical guidelines.

Bön traditions revere Shenrab as a supreme teacher who attained Buddhahood independently of the Buddhist path. His teachings are preserved in extensive canons of scripture, often referred to as the Bön Dzogchen canon. While historically there have been periods of integration and sometimes conflict with Buddhism in Tibet, Bön continues to be practiced today as a distinct spiritual path with its own monastic institutions and traditions, all tracing their lineage back to Shenrab Miwoche.