Forbidden City scenes

With China Road Tales ... Zezhol Monastery, a spiritual beacon of the Bon Religion Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the renowned holy mountain, Mt. Zezhol, Zezhol Monastery stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of the Bon religion, one of the oldest spiritual traditions in Tibet; indeed, the indigenous faith of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Located in DingQing County, Chamdo, in eastern Tibet, this sacred site is situated at an impressive altitude of 4,800 meters, making it not only one of the highest monasteries in Tibet but also one of the most significant centers for the Bon religion. The monastery lies approximately 37 kilometers from the county town, adding to its mystique and remoteness, which only enhances its spiritual aura. The Bon Religion: A Deep-Rooted Tradition The Bon religion predates the introduction of Buddhism to Tibet and is believed to have originated in the ancient kingdom of Zhangzhung, centered around the sacred Mount Kailash. Bon has played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual and cultural landscape of Tibet, and despite the dominance of Tibetan Buddhism, Bon continues to thrive in certain areas, particularly in eastern Tibet and in communities that maintain strong ties to their indigenous spiritual heritage. Bon is characterized by its unique practices and rituals, which include worship of nature spirits, ancestor reverence, and a rich tradition of oral teachings. The religion encompasses a wide array of rituals intended to harmonize with natural forces, protect communities from malevolent spirits, and promote the well-being of individuals and society as a whole. Central to Bon is the belief in the interconnectedness of all life, the importance of living in harmony with nature, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Zezhol Monastery: A Center of Bon Spirituality Zezhol Monastery is not only a religious site but also a living repository of Bon teachings and practices. The monastery's location on Mt. Zezhol, a mountain revered as sacred in the Bon tradition, underscores its importance as a place of pilgrimage and spiritual refuge. The faithful believe that the mountain itself is imbued with spiritual power, and the monastery, perched precariously on its cliffs, serves as a conduit between the physical and spiritual realms. Founded centuries ago, Zezhol Monastery has been a pivotal center for the preservation and dissemination of Bon teachings. It houses ancient scriptures, sacred relics, and thangka paintings that depict the Bon deities and cosmology. The monastery’s monks continue to perform traditional Bon rituals, including offerings to the mountain spirits, ceremonies to ensure harmony between humans and nature, and the recitation of ancient Bon texts. The Continuing Influence of Bon Today Despite the rise of Tibetan Buddhism, the Bon religion has managed to survive and even thrive in certain areas of Tibet. Today, Bon practitioners can be found not only in Tibet but also in Nepal, Bhutan, and among the Tibetan diaspora worldwide. The influence of Bon is particularly evident in eastern Tibet, where communities still practice Bon rituals and uphold its teachings. In some regions, Bon rituals are integrated into local Buddhist practices, creating a syncretic form of spirituality that honors both traditions. For instance, many Tibetan Buddhists incorporate Bon deities and rituals into their own religious practices, recognizing the deep cultural and spiritual roots that Bon has in Tibetan society. Furthermore, Bon teachings on the relationship between humans and the natural world continue to resonate, particularly in the context of environmental preservation and sustainable living. Zezhol Monastery remains a vital symbol of this enduring legacy. Pilgrims from across Tibet and beyond visit the monastery to seek blessings, participate in rituals, and connect with the ancient spiritual traditions that have shaped their culture. The monastery’s remote location, high in the mountains, adds to its allure as a place of profound spiritual significance, where the faithful can retreat from the material world and engage deeply with the sacred. Conclusion Zezhol Monastery is more than just a religious site; it is a living testament to the resilience and continuity of the Bon religion in Tibet. As one of the highest and oldest Bon monasteries, it plays a crucial role in preserving this ancient tradition, offering a place of refuge and spiritual nourishment to those who seek to connect with the deep, mystical roots of Tibetan spirituality. In a rapidly changing world, Zezhol Monastery and the Bon religion it represents continue to provide a link to the past, offering insights and teachings that are as relevant today as they were centuries ago.

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The Western media's portrayal sounds like a pre-prepared script; part of the long-standing policy of world hegemony through 'color revolutions' destabilisations such as recently in Ukraine (and dozens more). At least, it has persisted in its propaganda for decades. The 'struggle for democracy' really means subservience to Western domination. Who is the one rewriting history? Despite the thousands of protesters, other residents and hundreds of foreign journalists, there is no photographic evidence; the 'proof' lies only in tales. For many weeks the government listened to the protesters but it had become overtaken by 'leaders' determined to force confrontation. About 300 (rioters and military) died a few kilometers west of the square as rioters attacked the military's approach to the square. At the square, an agreement was reached for the protestors to leave by dawn, and that's what happened, without bloodshed. The MSM like to show us the 'tank man'. There is video too. This person climbs onto the tank, talks with the military, then again returns to being in front of the tank, which tries to go around him. Two bystanders then persuade him to leave. What we do not see - anyone getting shot or run over. Some have grudgingly accepted that the violence took place some distance away from square, but state that the location is not important. But it is important given that for decades the tale was of a 'massacre of students in the square'; it shows the deception. Who is the one rewriting history? The following links have a good overview : https://www.liberationnews.org/tiananmen-the-massacre-that-wasnt/ https://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2014/06/03/commentary/world-commentary/really-happened-tiananmen/ More : https://www.rt.com/op-ed/163872-china-tiananmen-square-june4/ https://www.cbsnews.com/news/there-was-no-tiananmen-square-massacre/

LiJiang is primarily home to the NaXi ethnic minority. XiShuangBanNa is close to the border with Myanmar.