Long before Buddhism’s arrival, Tibet’s Bon tradition revolved around a rich tapestry of deities led by Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche. Once Buddhist teachings began flowing across the Himalayas in the 7th–8th centuries, Bon didn’t slam the door shut. Instead, a fascinating fusion took place: key figures from the Buddhist pantheon—Shakyamuni Buddha, Avalokiteśvara (Chenrezig), Manjushri (Jampal), and others—found a place alongside Bon’s native gods.

Rather than seeing Buddhas and bodhisattvas as foreign imports, Bon adapted their stories and practices into its own rituals. Ritual texts like the Yungdrung Bon Kangyur include sūtras attributed to Shakyamuni and praise-poems to Amitabha, illustrating that these enlightened beings share the stage with traditional Bon guardians. In modern Bon monasteries, ceremonial dances and offerings often invoke both Tonpa Shenrab and Avalokiteśvara, reflecting a spiritual melting pot.

Today’s global interest in indigenous traditions has shone a spotlight on Bon’s unique hybrid identity. At interfaith gatherings, Bon masters may chant alongside Tibetan Buddhist lamas, united in reverence for the Buddha’s compassion and wisdom. The 14th Dalai Lama’s acknowledgment of Bon as Tibet’s fifth religious school underscores this mutual respect.

When push comes to shove, Bon doesn’t draw strict lines between “native” and “Buddhist.” Instead, its pantheon resembles a vibrant tapestry where bodhisattvas and ancient Bon deities coexist—proof that spiritual traditions can weave together without losing their distinctive colors.