Did you know?

Did you know?

The phallus, for centuries, has had the most loyal following in Bhutan.

The Bhutanese believe that the phallus is a symbol of vigor and therefore aids in fertility. They also believe that the phallus chases away malicious gossip and offers protection from evil.

It is painted on the walls of houses or hanging from them, it is seen in vehicles and on unexpected road bends. In fact, the phallus – whether carved or just an image – has become an essential part of Bhutanese tradition and custom. 

However, no phallus is complete without the mention of one great spiritual teacher – Drukpa Kunley or the Divine Madman. He is solely responsible for the popularity of phallic worship in Bhutan that took roots in the country in the 15th century.

Drukpa Kunley was the guru who simplified Tantric Buddhism which is still practiced in Bhutan today. And he had rather unconventional methods of teaching the dharma – they were often fraught with sexual overtones. To give you an example, he is supposed to have said: “The best wine lies at the bottom of the pail, and happiness lies below the navel.”

The Divine Madman’s silver-handled bamboo phallus, believed to have been brought from Tibet, can still be found in the Chimi Lhakhang in Punakha.  The monastery was built in 1499 to honor the eccentric Buddhist teacher. The silver-handled bamboo phallus is believed to possess divine power to help sterile couples have children.