Tantrism
Noun 1. A doctrine or system of spiritual practices: Tantrism is a spiritual tradition focused on achieving enlightenment through the realization that one's true self and the visible universe are fundamentally one. It integrates ritual, symbolic, and meditative techniques from Hindu and indigenous pagan traditions, including the use of mantras (sacred sounds), mudras (ritual gestures), and specific rites, some of which involve erotic symbolism. 2. A movement within Buddhism: Specifically, Tantrism refers to a major movement within Mahayana Buddhism, particularly influential in Tibetan Buddhism. This movement incorporates ritual and philosophical elements from Hinduism and local pagan traditions, emphasizing esoteric practices for attaining enlightenment rapidly.
- Tantrism is studied as a complex historical and religious phenomenon.
- The term is often used in academic contexts discussing comparative religion or the history of Asian spiritual traditions.
- It is important to distinguish between Hindu Tantrism and Buddhist Tantrism, though they share common principles.
- The scholar dedicated her life to studying the intricate rituals of Tantrism.
- Tantrism in Tibet developed a unique canon of texts and meditation practices.
- A core concept in Tantrism is the use of worldly energy as a path to spiritual liberation.
- Tantric (adj): Pertaining to Tantrism.
- She practices tantric meditation.
- Tantrika (n): A practitioner or adherent of Tantrism.
- Tantra: The scriptures or texts that form the basis of Tantrism. The word "Tantrism" is derived from this term.
- Vajrayana: The "Diamond Vehicle," a term often used synonymously with Buddhist Tantrism, especially in Tibetan and Shingon Buddhism.
- Esoteric Buddhism (for the Buddhist context)
- Tantric tradition
- Mantrayana (another name for Buddhist Tantrism)
The term "Tantrism" almost exclusively refers to the religious doctrines and movements described above. It does not have common, significantly different secular meanings.
- In popular Western culture, the term is sometimes incorrectly reduced to and sensationalized for its erotic ritual components. Academically, it is understood as a comprehensive soteriological (concerning salvation) system where such elements are symbolic and part of a larger philosophical framework.
- The practices and goals of Tantrism can differ significantly between its Hindu and Buddhist forms.
- doctrine of enlightenment as the realization of the oneness of one's self and the visible world; combines elements of Hinduism and paganism including magical and mystical elements like mantras and mudras and erotic rites; especially influential in Tibet
- movement within Buddhism combining elements of Hinduism and paganism