A History of Zhang Zhung and Tibet, Volume One explores ancient
Tibet’s Zhang Zhung kingdom and Bon religion that preceded the advent
of Buddhism in the seventh century. Countering the long-held idea that
Tibet’s pre-Buddhist indigenous culture was primitive and undeveloped,
this book shares the rich cultural origins of the kingdom of Zhang
Zhung–the “cradle of Tibetan culture,” which encompassed a vast area of
Western and Northern Tibet in an area that includes sacred Mount
Kailash.
Presenting the meticulous research of internationally
known Dzogchen Buddhist teacher and scholar Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, the
book investigates the mysteries of Zhang Zhung’s Bon religion, a set of
shamanistic and animistic beliefs and practices only recently studied by
a handful of academic scholars. Offering a critical analysis of a vast
array of literary and primary sources, Norbu discusses the role of the
Bon traditions within Zhang Zhung’s lineages, dynasties, and culture.
Examining Zhang Zhung’s written language, sacred ornaments, rock
carvings, healing practices, music, and magical divination techniques,
Norbu contributes to an understanding of the roots of Tibetan Buddhist
culture and modern-day Bon religion–a practice followed by an estimated
ten percent of Tibetans.
261 pages. Paperback.