Major Religion: Buddhism MORE

Bhutan is known as Druk Yul, Land of the Thunder Dragon, with the dragon being its national symbol. Founded in the eighth century A.D., Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom. Legend says that in the year 747 a Tibetan Guru flew to Bhutan on the back of a tiger and subdued a dragon spirit that dominated the country. He constructed numerous strategic monasteries and fortresses called dzongs to protect against the dragon and other outside invaders. Today the indigenous people of Bhutan, the Drukpa or People of the Dragon, tell countless stories of dragons and demons harnessed by magic to build these dzongs that are scattered throughout the country

Bhutan is currently on the threshold of major transformation and is embracing parliamentary democracy after 100 years of absolute monarchy. This year Bhutan will see an historic event in the coronation of its fifth king (known as the Dragon King), who will continue to have an influential role to play. The fourth king recently abdicated the throne in favor of his son. Widely reputed as the people’s king, the new king has made it a point to ensure that the happiness of Bhutan’s citizens be the nation’s top priority. He will continue with the emphasis of Gross National Happiness initiated by his father versus that of Gross National Product.

Pray that as Bhutan transitions to a democracy, freedom of religion is guaranteed and enforced. Persecution of Bhutanese Christians by Buddhists there is strong.