Bhutanese Culture & Religions
Bhutanese Culture and Religions in Bhutan – Buddhism and Hinduism are two main religions practiced in Bhutan. Bhutanese Culture and Religions in Bhutan
Buddhism in Bhutan. Bhutan is the Buddhist country. Yeshi Gonpo or Mahakahala is the main protective deity of Bhutan and is often appeared in the form of Raven. Before the arrival of Buddhism to Bhutan, various forms of animistic religion such as bonism were followed.
The official state religion of Bhutan belongs to the Drukpa sect of Kagyudpa, school of tantric Mahayana Buddhism, the Great Vehicle. The Mayahana form of Buddhism that is practiced in Bhutan can be seen in evidence in the dzongs, monasteries, stupas, prayer flags and prayer wheels that form part of the landscape, and the monks & nuns that you will meet in every village and every town. Buddhism was first introduced into Bhutan by Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century. Some of the key figures of the Bhutanese Buddhism are Kuenkhen Longchen Rabjam, Phajo Drukgom Zhigpo, Drukpa Kuenley, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye. Bhutanese people are very pious and the importance of the Buddhism is evident in its every aspect of life in the Bhutanese people.
Hinduism in Bhutan. Hinduism is the second most practiced religion in Bhutan after Buddhism. There are several Hindu temples in Bhutan, especially in southern Bhutan. In order to boost the Hindu religious tradition, His Majesty the King also graciously initiated the establishment of 5 Sanskrit Pathshalas in Southern Bhutan. Some of the bright student who passed from these schools were sent on government scholarship to the Varanasi Hindu University in India for further studies in Hinduism. The Hindu Dharma Samudaya of Bhutan (HDSB) is an organisation with the motive to promote Hindu cultures and spiritual traditions across the country.
Monks and Monks Body. Over 10% of the population of Bhutan are Buddhist Monks. The Je Khenpo (Sangharaja) in the Central Monastic Body, who is responsible for the nation’s religious affairs, enjoys a prominent place in the social and cultural life of the people, and is equal in status to the King. The clergy plays an important role in the day-to-day lives of the Bhutanese and is a body that is well-respected by the people and an essential part. Monks and nuns are, therefore, highly regarded by people from all walks of life.
Zhung Dratshang is the central monk body of Bhutan. The Monk Body is also an important custodian of our unique culture and language. Many historical buildings and sacred art and objects are in the care of the Dratshang, to be protected and maintained for future generations. Further, the Dratshang preserves and promotes Bhutanese wisdom and traditions. The Monk Body continues to provide spiritual guidance and service to the Bhutanese people in many ways. Since almost every important occasion in the life of an average Bhutanese is invested with religious significance, the monks visit households to perform rites during birth, marriage, sickness, death, construction of houses, consecration ceremonies, promotions, inaugural ceremonies, and other day-to-day functions. They also provide teachings and instructions when requested.
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