Introducing Tibetan Buddhism Chapter 4: Tibetan Buddhism as a path to liberation: II. Tantric teachings

Main topics covered Tantric practice and the lama Retreat and the training of the subtle body Tantra and sexuality Tantric deities Classes of Sarma Tantra and Nyingma Tantra Empowerment and preliminary practice (ngöndro) Dzogchen

Key points 1 Tantric practices are varied and classified in different ways but are based around common principles. The Tantric deities around which they are structured can be seen as aspects of Buddha-nature and as ways of accessing the powers and insight of the Buddha. They are structured in complex geometrical arrays (maṇḍala) and form part of elaborate schemes of correspondences, and are evoked in rituals which can vary considerably in elaboration and complexity.

Key points 2 Tantric practice can be performed by a single practitioner or by a large monastic team under the direction of a senior lama. In either case, the central performer or performers needs to have the expertise to carry out the inner visualisations and practices effectively. These skills, normally acquired in extended retreat, are what defines a lama. They involve both a range of ritual skills and learning control over relevant mind– body processes, typically in an extended retreat of three years, three months and three days. Acquiring these skills is the purpose of yoga and meditation..

Tantric ritual Lama Kunzang Dorjee performing Tantric ritual, Jangsa Gompa, Kalimpong, 2009

Key points 3 The internal processes are integrally linked with the development of the key emotional and motivational aspects of Buddhist practice, which can be expressed in terms of tsalung or the internal structure of channels and subtle breath. Tantric sexual practices, where performed, are also closely related to these internal processes.

Guru Dewa Chenpo Mural at Kardang Gompa, Lahul, 1989

Buddha Amitāyus Amitāyus and related deities (Chime Sogtik). Wall painting at Changsa Gompa, Kalimpong , 2007

Avalokiteśvara (Chenresik) Contemporary image of Avalokiteśvara, Kathmandu. Photo by Daniel Palmer, 2011

Oṃ maṇi padme hūṃ hrīḥ Mantra inscribed on a rock by the roadside in Dalhousie, India, photo 1996

Sand maṇḍala Chime Soktik Sand Mandala, Changsa, Kalimpong, 2009

Key points 4 Tantric practices may be performed for this-worldly (practical) aims such as health and prosperity, but their ultimate goal is personal spiritual cultivation, leading eventually to the attainment of Buddhahood.

Prostrations Tibetans performing prostrations in front of the Jokhang Temple, Lhasa. Photo by Ruth Rickard, 2006

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