Introduction to Bön Philosophy – Part 2

It is certainly reasonable to be concerned that someone who is taught that everything is empty and that nothing exists on its own might not understand what is meant and end up with a nihilistic outlook. Therefore, it is far better to start with a strong affirmation of the world as it appears, in all its variety, and then analyse what could be wrong with that view. We are all inherently naïve realists, believing in the genuine actuality of what our senses perceive. The Nine Ways of Bön signify the progressive journey of realisation, both intellectually and experientially, that an individual undertakes. This progression leads to increasingly profound modes of realisation, each accompanied by its unique application practices, leading either to the dissolution of all our erroneous superimpositions (ma rig pa, or ignorance), or to a more complete, whole and perfect vision (which is what the term 'Dzog chen' means).

One of the key teaching approaches of the Nine Ways is to help us identify beliefs that we may hold unconsciously, so that they can be analysed. The significance of this approach to studying Yungdrung Bön and the explanations derived from each of the Nine Ways does not lie in their absolute accuracy regarding the nature of reality — only Dzogchen presents the complete perspective — but in their capacity to elevate our understanding and facilitate a transition from ignorance (naïve realism, the first Way) to thorough realisation (Dzogchen emptiness, the ninth Way).

This Introduction to the Nine Ways of Bön course will primarily focus on the first two Ways. The examination will predominantly focus on the objects of our common experience, paying particular attention to how they are scrutinised by dharma theory.

The course consists of 8 lectures. is intended not only for complete beginners who wish to learn the core philosophical concepts of Yungdrung Bon, but also for advanced practitioners who wish to deepen their knowledge of the tradition.

It is not a prerequisite to have attended the first lecture.

Dates

The dates are as follows (Paris time, CEST / UTC+1):

• April 12 from 4:30 to 5:30pm

• April 19 from 4:30 to 5:30pm

• April 23 from 4:30 to 5:30pm

• April 26 from 4:30 to 5:30pm

• April 30 from 4:30 to 5:30pm

• May 03 from 4:30 to 5:30pm

• May 07 from 4:30 to 5:30pm

• May 10 from 4:30 to 5:30pm