Tamang Shamans celebrate Janai Purnima Festival in Nagarkot. by Ekant sw (Wikimedia)

In Nepal, the Tamang people follow a very old religion called Bon, which originated in Tibet. This religion emphasizes shamanism, a practice believed to be one of the world's earliest, existing potentially for over 100,000 years. Tibet's original religion, Bon, existed before Buddhism arrived. Unlike Buddhism, Bon focused on appeasing powerful spirits, sometimes through blood sacrifices. It also involved a special role for kings who were seen as divinely chosen, priests who received messages from the gods, and the worship of deities that controlled the sky, earth, and underworld.

History of Tamang Shamans in Nepal

Ages ago, a bunch of people from near southern Tibet moved to the mountains around Kathmandu. They spoke a language that sounded like Tibetan, and they brought their traditions with them. These traditions include believing in a religion called Bon, where people connect with spirits, and having spiritual leaders who can talk to those spirits. That's the Tamang shamans in a nutshell! The Tamangs identify as devout Buddhists, but scratch beneath the surface and you'll find a fascinating blend. Their rituals and beliefs weave together threads of Tibetan Buddhism with whispers of the even older Bon faith. Bon is an ancient system where shamans act as bridges between the physical world and the spirit realm. Now, here's the twist: the arrival of the revered Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century, kind of like a rockstar bringing a new sound to town, influenced Bon traditions. So, while the Tamangs embraced Buddhist teachings, some aspects of Bon, like a cherished family recipe, continue to flavor their spiritual practice.

Becoming a Shaman

The journey of a shaman begins with a powerful awakening, a special connection with the spirit world. This initial encounter blossoms into a lifelong partnership with a guiding spirit, a wise inner teacher who supports their growth. To become a shaman, the apprentice cultivates deep states of awareness, where they can connect with the spirit world and embark on journeys beyond the physical realm. Their guiding spirit, a wise companion, instructs them through dreams, visions, and even by joining them in sacred ceremonies. A crucial part of shamanic training involves honing the ability to receive clear messages from the spirit world. Instead of fleeting, confusing glimpses, the shaman learns to experience visions in a focused and meaningful way. By facing and understanding the content of these visions, they gain wisdom and mastery. From the initial call to the ongoing practice of a shaman, their guiding spirit, a wise inner teacher, remains by their side. This trusted companion offers invaluable knowledge, protection, and guidance, blossoming into a powerful spiritual alliance. Tamang shamans believe the call to become a shaman comes from the spirit world itself, not necessarily through family history. The spirits, both ancestral and those acting as guardians, choose the individual they feel is best suited for the role. An aspiring Tamang shaman hones their skills in the beautiful and symbolic language used during rituals and prayers. This mastery allows them to effectively communicate with the spirit world.

Costumes, tools, and language used by Shamans

In Nepal, Tamang shamans, along with others, incorporate unique ritual tools and drums into their spiritual practices. These items are seen as keys, unlocking altered states of consciousness and facilitating communication with the spirit world. Tamang shamans cultivate their practice through intricate recitations and metaphorical language. Mastering these rituals is a cornerstone of their training, allowing them to bridge the gap between the physical world and the spiritual realm. Tamang shamanic ceremonies are a visual feast, with shamans themselves adorned in elaborate costumes. Masks, headdresses, and cloaks are more than just decorations; they are believed to empower the shaman to enter altered states and connect with the spirit realm. Tamang shamans don't rely solely on physical examinations to diagnose illness. They act as holistic detectives, wielding a fascinating array of divination techniques. Reading omens in the natural world, interpreting cryptic messages from dreams, and using ritually imbued objects are all part of their arsenal. Through these methods, shamans not only diagnose the ailment but also determine the most appropriate course of treatment, ensuring a balanced approach to healing that addresses both the physical and spiritual aspects of a person's well-being. Tamang shamanic rituals sometimes incorporate offerings to appease spirits and deities. These can range from symbolic gestures like food and incense to acts of appeasement with animals. The purpose is to restore harmony, ensuring the flow of good fortune and protection from the spiritual realm.

Significance of the tutelary spirit in Tamang shamanism

The tutelary spirit, also known as the mukhiya guru, plays a crucial role in Tamang shamanism. In Tamang shamanism, a chosen person goes through a special experience that connects them with a powerful spirit. This spirit becomes their main advisor and helper, teaching them how to heal others and offering them protection. During a Tamang shaman's calling, a powerful spirit initially brings about a period of intense spiritual awakening. Over time, this spirit transforms into a trusted guide and mentor, residing within the shaman. This inner teacher provides wisdom and knowledge through dreams, visions, and ritual participation. Their inner guide remains a vital companion throughout a Tamang shaman's training. As the shaman hones their ability to enter deep meditative states and travel through the spirit world, their tutelary spirit acts as a protector and guardian. This trusted mentor ensures their safety during these profound journeys to the heavens and the underworld. Tamang shamans believe a person is chosen for the role by powerful spirits, not necessarily through family inheritance and so did Aama Bombo.

Aama Bombo, The Mother Shaman

Aama Bombo originally Buddhi Maya Tamang is a woman whose life story became a captivating legend. Ama Bombo, The Female Shaman of Nepal Born in the village of Melong, Aama Bombo's path seldom led towards shamanism. But a series of convulsions at the age of 25 sent her life on a mystical course, awakening her to a deeper spiritual calling. She interpreted these experiences as messages from her deceased shaman father, who had introduced her to shamanic practices when she was a child. That pivotal moment transformed her from a villager into a potential healer. Guided by her father's spirit, Aama Bombo embraced the role of a "Mother Shaman," despite facing initial skepticism from those who dismissed her experiences as mere madness.

Aama Bombo's purpose unfolded in two parts: healing and teaching.

Every day, the Boudhanath Temple bustled with people seeking solace from her wisdom. She cleansed them of "bad spirits," recognizing the deep connection between spiritual and physical well-being through ancient rituals. While she focused on spiritual healing and guidance, she never claimed to cure severe illnesses like cancer. Her influence transcended individual healing.

Aama Bombo served as a teacher, passing down the wisdom of her ancestors and the importance of connecting with the spirit world. Her teachings reflected a holistic view of health, where physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being were interwoven threads in the fabric of life.

Her impact extended far beyond the Himalayan mountains. Aama Bombo was a member of the prestigious International Council of 13 Indigenous Grandmothers. This global group worked to preserve ancient wisdom while advocating for environmental and social justice. Aama Bombo acted as a bridge between traditional practices and modern-day issues, highlighting the enduring relevance of indigenous knowledge.

Those who encountered Aama Bombo often described her as a maternal figure, radiating warmth and wisdom. Her compassion had a profound impact on countless lives. Stories about her resilience, healing power, and emphasis on spiritual connection continue to resonate with people from all walks of life.

Aama Bombo's story wasn't just about her role as a shaman. It was a testament to the enduring power of human connection, spirituality, and the quest for understanding in a complex world.

Her life embodied the rich tapestry of Nepali culture, where the veil between the spiritual and the everyday was thin.

How do Shamans practice healing techniques?

Tamang shamans have a range of methods to uncover the source of an illness or problem.  These techniques can include deciphering signs from the universe, understanding dreams' hidden messages, and using practices like scattering rice grains to gain a deeper perspective on the spiritual influences at work. Tamang shamans act as bridges between the world we see and the unseen realm of spirits. Using rituals, chants, drumming, and deep meditation, they connect with spiritual beings to uncover the root of an illness. Similarities exist between Tamang shamans and Western psychotherapists. Both aim to alleviate emotional distress, address ailments, and bring harmony to troubled relationships. Tamang shamans recognize that social conflicts within families or communities can sometimes be the root of illness. By addressing these issues and fostering harmony, the shaman can promote healing. Tamang shamans play a vital role as healers, counselors, and guardians of tradition. They are an essential part of what makes the Tamang people unique and contribute significantly to the rich landscape of Nepal's indigenous healthcare practices.