Beliefs & Practices
 
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Tantra

Tantras are a body of Hindu, Buddhist and Jain literature that present instructions for performing advanced rituals, meditative practices and yogic techniques as a means to rapid religious advancement.

Tantras also discuss profound metaphysical theories and philosophies. An underlying feature of Tantric literature is its highly esoteric, secret nature. Therefore, proper training and instruction under a guru or teacher is a vital aspect of Tantric practices, for a master is essential to help decode the complex messages presented in the texts and to comprehend the significance of the elaborate practices they advocate.

 

Right: Avalokiteshvara and partner China, Tibeto-Chinese style, Ming dynasty, Yongle period (1403–1424) KIT Tropenmuseum, Amsterdam

 

 
Avalokiteshvara and partner
Goddess Divine Energy back to top