THDL Religion Collections
Religion in Tibet and the Himalayas has been and continues to be central to understanding the region. Tibetan Buddhism has been of dominant influence since the twelfth century, extending into the northern third of Nepal as well as Bhutan, Sikkim and other southern Himalayan regions. The Bon tradition also has been a vibrant component of Tibetan religious life since at least the tenth century, and represents a complex mixture of Buddhist elements, indigenous traditions, and influences from other religious traditions. The imperial period in Tibet (seventh to ninth centuries) was dominated by non-Buddhist traditions, including a royal imperial cult centered around the figure of the Emperor (btsan po) and cultic practices centered around tombs and the dead. Contemporary Tibet also hosts Islamic and Christian traditions with fascinating historical roots. Nepal is also characterized by independent Buddhist traditions, which continue to thrive in Newar cultural traditions in the central region of Nepal. Hinduism is a dominant influence in central and southern Nepal and other areas in the southern Himalayas, while shamanic practices also enjoy an ongoing vibrant presence.
The Religion Collections are eager to engage projects that draw on the media in our Library, or those that aim to develop new media or scholarly collections. THDL has extensive holdings of various materials concerning religion, including documentation of rituals; deep-level cataloging of literary canons; documentation of religious art; video footage and analysis of logical debate; and other materials.
Spotlight
THDL is seeking an Editor-in-chief to direct the development of the Religion Collections. Read more.