The mysterious rituals and dramatic depictions associated with Tantric Buddhism have long captured people’s imaginations, however its core concepts remain widely misunderstood. For centuries, its teachings illuminating the path towards Enlightenment were passed to students in secrecy, adding to the enigmatic allure of Tantra. Drawing on new interpretation and research and the V&A’s magnificent but little-known Himalayan collection of paintings, sculptures and other works, this fascinating book sets out to explain in a clear and engaging way the key principles, dynamic art and specific practices that characterize Tantric Buddhism both historically and today.
Introduction: historical and doctrinal development of Tantric Buddhism -- Historical Roots of Tantra - the Mahasiddhas -- The Power of Presence, Mindfulness and Emptiness -- Tantric Deities: Tantric Buddhist art in the V&A collection -- Dakinis and Yoginis: the female energy; Deity Yoga; The innovative teachings on physical yoga as found in the Amrtassidhi -- The Mandala, Completion stage and Enlightenment -- Tantric / Yogic dance: Performative Iconography and Embodying Deities -- Tantric Buddhism: Then and Now
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