Bön is an indigenous Tibetan religion that predates the arrival of Buddhism in Tibet. It is believed to have originated in the ancient kingdom of Zhang Zhung, which existed in what is now western Tibet. Bön has a rich history and has been deeply ingrained in Tibetan culture for centuries. However, with the introduction of Buddhism in the 7th century, Bön has undergone significant changes and has been greatly influenced by the new religion.

One of the major impacts of Buddhism on Bön was the adoption of many Buddhist practices and beliefs. As Buddhism gained popularity in Tibet, many Bön practitioners began to incorporate Buddhist teachings and rituals into their own practices. This led to a blending of the two religions, with Bön absorbing some elements of Buddhism while also retaining its own distinct identity.

One of the most significant changes that occurred was the incorporation of Buddhist deities into the Bön pantheon. This was due to the similarities between the two religions, such as the belief in reincarnation and the use of rituals and offerings to appease spirits and deities. As a result, many Bön deities were reinterpreted as Buddhist deities, and some Bön rituals and practices were also adapted to align with Buddhist beliefs.

Another impact of Buddhism on Bön was the introduction of a written script. Prior to the arrival of Buddhism, Bön was an oral tradition, with teachings and practices passed down through generations through storytelling and recitation. With the introduction of Buddhism, the Tibetan script was adapted from the Indian Devanagari script to write Buddhist texts. This eventually led to the development of a written script for Bön, which allowed for the preservation and dissemination of Bön teachings and practices.

Furthermore, the spread of Buddhism in Tibet also led to the decline of Bön in certain areas. As Buddhist monasteries and temples were built, many people converted to Buddhism, and Bön practitioners were often forced to integrate into the Buddhist community or face persecution. This resulted in a decrease in the number of Bön followers and a decline in its influence in some regions.

In conclusion, the introduction of Buddhism in Tibet has had a significant impact on Bön. While it has led to changes and adaptations within the Bön tradition, it has also allowed for the preservation and development of Bön teachings and practices. Today, Bön continues to coexist with Buddhism in Tibet, and both religions have played a crucial role in shaping Tibetan culture and spirituality.