Bön is an indigenous Tibetan religion that existed prior to the introduction of Buddhism in Tibet. The origins of Bön can be traced back to the ancient kingdom of Zhang Zhung, which existed in what is now western Tibet.

According to Bön tradition, the religion was founded by the mythical figure Tönpa Shenrab Miwoche, who is believed to have lived around 18,000 years ago. He is considered to be a fully enlightened being and the first teacher of Bön. Legend has it that he descended from the heavens to spread his teachings to the people of Zhang Zhung.

The teachings of Bön were passed down orally for many generations before being recorded in written form. The earliest written records of Bön can be found in the ancient Zhang Zhung language, which is now extinct. These texts were later translated into Tibetan and are still used in Bön practice today.

Bön was the dominant religion in Tibet until the 7th century when Buddhism was introduced by the Indian sage Padmasambhava. However, Bön continued to coexist with Buddhism and even influenced its development in Tibet.

The relationship between Bön and Buddhism has been complex and at times contentious. Some scholars believe that Bön may have influenced the development of Vajrayana Buddhism, which is the dominant form of Buddhism in Tibet. Others argue that Bön and Buddhism have coexisted and influenced each other in a mutually beneficial way.

Bön has faced many challenges throughout its history, including persecution and suppression by the Tibetan government and Buddhist authorities. However, it has managed to survive and even thrive in some regions of Tibet, particularly in the remote areas of the country.

Today, Bön is practiced by an estimated 10% of the Tibetan population and has a growing number of followers in the West. It is recognized as one of the five main schools of Tibetan Buddhism and has its own monastic institutions, rituals, and practices.

In conclusion, Bön originated in the ancient kingdom of Zhang Zhung and was founded by the mythical figure Tönpa Shenrab Miwoche. It has a rich history and has played an important role in the development of Tibetan culture and religion. Despite facing challenges, Bön continues to be practiced and has a growing presence in the world today.