Chapter VIII. Rdzogs Chen In The Bonpo Tradition

Abstract

While a sufficient number of texts on rDzogs chen of the rNying ma pa tradition are available for research, only a limited number of the Bonpo texts have been accessible and only in the last few years. The Gab pa dgu bskor is one the fundamental works on rDzogs chen of the Bonpo tradition. It is usually included in the group of nine texts known as Sems smad sde dgu and is reputed to have been “rediscovered” by gShenchen Klu-dga’ (996–1035). The most characteristic theme that is found in rDzogs chen of the Bonpo tradition is its teaching concerning the origin of the phenomenal world and the beginning of man’s descent into existence. However, this theme, unlike the myths about the origin of the world recounted in popular rituals, is developed along the lines of the rDzogs chen philosophical system.Keywords: Bonpo tradition; phenomenal world; philosophical system; rDzogs chen