Mun or Munism (also called Bongthingism) is the traditional polytheistic, animist, shamanistic and syncretic religion of the Lepcha people.
The traditional religion permits incorporation of Buddha and Jesus Christ as deities, depending on household beliefs.
[8] Conversion to other religions is attributed to economic pressure, as traditional practices are immensely expensive to the ordinary practitioner.
[2] The environment is so deeply intertwined with Mun beliefs that religious leaders have offered direct opposition to development in areas including the Rathong Chu and Teesta Rivers.
[9] The traditional Lepcha belief system is rich in oral myths, legends, fables, and fairy-tales collectively called lúngten sung.
[10] According to Mun mythology, the ancestors of the Lepcha were created by Itbu Rum, who molded them from the pure snows of mount Kangchenjunga.
[1] Traditional Lepcha beliefs include deities governing family, clan (or lineage, putsho), village, region, and wider levels.
The current traditional religion also incorporates Buddha and Jesus Christ as a deities, depending on household beliefs.
Generally symptoms are the manifestation of mung spirits feeding off the flesh, blood, internal organs, or life energy of the host.
[2] Ritual paraphernalia include the ghanta bell, damaru dru necklaces, and consecrated cup filled with chi.
[1][14] Auspicious locations and days, particularly in rural settings, may be required of rituals to address more severe ailments or threatening afflictions.
Although the priesthood exists, the religion considers true knowledge to be a divine revelation through meditation or dreams, as opposed to a learned talent.
Trained disciples of existing masters are often recruited to service at times of crisis as an election by ancestors or shamanic gods.