The Elegant Yungdrung Bön Chorten located in the village of Dunai in Dolpo, Nepal. Photo credit: Unknown
According to the Zi Ji, there are one hundred and twenty different kinds of physically manifested chorten (Sanskrit: stupa) within the Yungdrung Bön tradition. The ritual preparation, dimensions, materials, and ornamentation are all defined in great detail. Each of these aspects has multiple meanings. The chorten physically represents the path to enlightenment from the base to the flame of wisdom of absolute reality at the very top.
The Enlightened Teacher and founder of the Yungdrung Bön tradition, Tönpa Shenrap Miwoche, gave detailed instructions for the very first Elegant Yungdrung Bön Chorten to be built during the course of teaching the Fifth Way of Yungdrung Bön, The Way of the Virtuous Lay Practitioner.
The Bönpo flat bell is called sil nyen or shang. When also using a drum, it is held in the left hand. When only using the bell, it is held in the right hand. When used, it is never held so that it hangs facing completely downward and when setting it down, it is always placed upwards, as shown in the photo above.
Nine Ways 