A Sanctuary and Place of Study
The Lishu Institute aims to preserve the Bön Buddhist tradition in the West. It will allow Western students to study the Bön tradition and culture in the beautiful natural surroundings of the foothills of the Himalayas; and it will serve as a sanctuary for ancient texts, ritual objects, and images of the ancient Bön culture that might otherwise be lost.Location
The site of Lishu Institute is near Dehra Dun in the state of Uttranchal Pradesh, India. It is on a beautiful ridge overlooking valleys and partly surrounded by the Mussoorie Mountains. The land has access to electricity and running water and is covered with fruit trees of all kinds: papaya, guava, lemon, mango, litchi, pomegranate, and banana.
Long- and short-term programs
and retreats
Students of Bön can enter into residential programs of three to five years or engage in shorter one- to three-month periods of study. Small groups also will be able to study intensively together on specific projects. There will be opportunities for personal retreats, including dark retreats, in a comfortable, safe, and supportive environment. A teacher will always be in residence.
Lishu study program
Lishu Institute will be an important meeting point for Western scholars and translators of Bön, as well as for Bönpo geshes and lay scholars. Lishu will also support research into the application of ancient Bön wisdom to modern science and scientific methods.
Students will be able to study a variety of subjects, including Tibetan language, philosophy, medicine, and related arts such as the creation of tormas, namkhas, masks, and other ritual objects.
Teachers
The Lishu Institute will be a place where students can receive teachings from a much broader array of Tibetan teachers than they might in the West. For example, older teachers who are no longer able to travel to the West will be available. Teachings will be organized to accommodate the needs of our Western students.
Ritual objects
The Lishu Institute will seek to collect and preserve sacred texts, artwork, and ritual objects, such as thangkas and other images that are in danger of loss or destruction.
Admissions
When the enrollment process begins, applications will be accepted online at www.lishu.org. (The site is now under construction).
Tuition
For approximately $3,000 per year, a student can study full-time at the Lishu Institute and receive full room and board. The Lishu Institute will seek to generate scholarships for students without financial means who demonstrate a sincere, stable desire to learn.
Texts in Bön's three major areas of study—sutra, tantra, dzogchen—will be translated and published for use at Lishu as well as by international sangha. A standardized textual vocabulary will be developed for this purpose.