A Cognitive Approach to Tantric Language
Religions November 30, 2016 DOI: 10.3390/rel7120139 (opens in new tab) via DOAJ
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractApplying cognitive theories of schema, metonymy, metaphor, and conceptual blending shows that salient cognitive categories enable a deeper analysis of Tantric language. Tantras employ symbolic language in mantric speech and visual maṇḍalas, and texts link deciphering meaning with mystical experience. The essay examines distinctive varieties of Tantric language, arguing that select cognitive tools facilitate coherent reading of these expressions. Mystical language broadly uses images and metaphors, so deciphering Tantric language provides a framework for reading other mystical expressions across cultures.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Tantra Metaphor Metonymy Conceptual blending Image |
| Key finding | Argues that cognitive categories such as schema, metonymy, metaphor, and conceptual blending facilitate a deeper analysis of Tantric symbolic language and may apply to other mystical expressions. |
Abstract
By applying the contemporary theories of schema, metonymy, metaphor, and conceptual blending, I argue in this paper that salient cognitive categories facilitate a deeper analysis of Tantric language. Tantras use a wide range of symbolic language expressed in terms of mantric speech and visual maṇḍalas, and Tantric texts relate the process of deciphering meaning with the surge of mystical experience. In this essay, I will focus on some distinctive varieties of Tantric language with a conviction that select cognitive tools facilitate coherent reading of these expressions. Mystical language broadly utilizes images and metaphors. Deciphering Tantric language should therefore also provide a framework for reading other varieties of mystical expressions across cultures.