Culture in Bhutan – Religion

1. What is the religion in Bhutan?

Bhutanese religion is deeply influenced by Buddhism and is an integral part of the culture and way of life in Bhutan. The predominant religion in Bhutan is Vajrayana Buddhism, a form of Buddhism that emphasizes tantric practices and the use of rituals and symbols. Here are some key aspects of Bhutanese religion:

1. Tibetan Buddhism: This is the main form of Buddhism practiced in Bhutan. It is also known as Tibetan Buddhism, as it shares many similarities with the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Tibetan Buddhism places a strong emphasis on meditation, mindfulness, and the use of mantras and rituals to achieve spiritual enlightenment. Bhutanese people follow the Drukpa Kagyu school of Vajrayana Buddhism, which is one of the major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
2. Guru Rinpoche: Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, is a highly revered figure in Bhutanese Buddhism. He is considered the second Buddha and is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. Many monasteries and religious sites in Bhutan are associated with Guru Rinpoche, and his images and teachings are widely respected.
3. Monasteries and Temples: Bhutan is home to numerous monasteries, temples, and dzongs (fortress monasteries) that serve as centers of religious and cultural life. Some of the most famous monasteries include Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Punakha Dzong, and Tashichho Dzong in the capital city of Thimphu.
4. Prayer Flags: Colorful prayer flags are a common sight in Bhutan. These flags, often hung on mountain passes and high places, are believed to carry prayers and blessings to the wind, spreading positive energy and purifying the environment.
5. Festivals: Bhutan celebrates various religious festivals known as “tshechus.” These festivals are held in different regions of the country throughout the year and involve traditional mask dances, religious ceremonies, and cultural performances. The most famous tshechu in Bhutan is the Paro Tsechu.
6. Gross National Happiness (GNH): Bhutan is known for its unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness, which places spiritual and cultural well-being at the center of its national policy alongside economic development. This reflects the strong connection between religion and everyday life in Bhutan.
7. Religious Leaders: The head of Bhutan’s religious establishment is the Je Khenpo, who is the chief abbot of Bhutan and holds a significant role in overseeing religious matters in the country.

It’s important to note that while Buddhism is the dominant religion, there is also a small population of Hindus in Bhutan, particularly in the southern regions. The government of Bhutan has historically promoted religious harmony and tolerance among its citizens. Bhutanese religion plays a vital role in shaping the country’s culture, values, and way of life, making it a distinctive and spiritually rich nation.

2. The history of Tibetan Buddhism in Bhutan

The history of Tibetan Buddhism in Bhutan is deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious development of the Bhutanese people. Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Vajrayana Buddhism, has played a pivotal role in shaping Bhutan’s identity and its unique form of Buddhism known as the Drukpa Kagyu tradition. Here is a brief overview of the history of Tibetan Buddhism in Bhutan:

1. Introduction of Buddhism: Buddhism was first introduced to Bhutan in the 7th century, but it was not until the 8th century that Tibetan Buddhism took hold in the region. This was largely due to the efforts of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, who is credited with spreading Buddhism across the Himalayan region, including Bhutan.
2. Foundation of the Drukpa Kagyu Tradition: The Drukpa Kagyu tradition, one of the major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, was founded in Bhutan by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo in the 12th century. Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, a Tibetan lama, established the Drukpa Kagyu lineage in Bhutan and laid the foundation for Bhutanese Buddhism as it is known today.
3. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal: In the 17th century, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, a charismatic and influential leader, unified Bhutan under a single rule and played a significant role in consolidating the influence of Tibetan Buddhism in the region. He established a dual system of governance, which combined both religious and secular authority.
4. Building of Monasteries and Dzongs: Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and his successors were instrumental in constructing numerous monasteries, temples, and dzongs (fortress monasteries) throughout Bhutan. These religious and cultural landmarks continue to be centers of worship, learning, and community life.
5. Cultural Preservation: Bhutan has a rich tradition of preserving its cultural and religious heritage. The Dzongs, in particular, serve as both religious and administrative centers and have been instrumental in safeguarding Bhutan’s unique form of Buddhism.
6. Religious Festivals: Bhutan celebrates a plethora of religious festivals known as “tshechus.” These festivals showcase Bhutanese culture and are characterized by masked dances, religious ceremonies, and cultural performances. The Paro Tsechu is one of the most famous tshechus in Bhutan.
7. Current Role: Tibetan Buddhism remains the dominant religion in Bhutan, with the majority of the population adhering to its teachings. The Je Khenpo, the chief abbot of Bhutan, is a central figure in the country’s religious hierarchy.
8. Gross National Happiness (GNH): Bhutan’s development philosophy of Gross National Happiness is heavily influenced by Buddhist principles, emphasizing spiritual and cultural well-being alongside material progress.

Tibetan Buddhism in Bhutan continues to thrive and evolve, and it remains an integral part of the Bhutanese way of life. The country’s commitment to preserving its religious and cultural heritage while embracing modernization has made it a unique and spiritually vibrant nation in the Himalayas.