Structure and Contents
David B. Gray
October 19, 2023 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780197623831.003.0003 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Historical analysis |
|---|---|
| Key points | Surveys the Buddhist tantras, arguing that their opening verses continue the Mahāyāna sutra genre while many tantras redirect it in transgressive ways. Covers the languages and philosophical positions of the tantras, and examines mandala production and initiation rituals, with particular attention to their links to Śaiva Hindu practices involving possession and ritual sexual practices. |
Abstract
Abstract The second chapter surveys the contents of the Buddhist tantras. It begins with the opening background verse, which is an element that demonstrates continuity with the genre of Mahāyāna sutras, although it was taken in a new and transgressive direction of many of the tantras. It then explores both the languages in which the tantras were composed and the philosophical positions expressed in many of the tantras. It concludes with a survey of the ritual and contemplative practices described in the tantras, focusing on the production of mandalas and initiation rituals practiced therein, with particular focus on the latter’s connection with Śaiva Hindu practices involving possession and ritual sexual practices. It also briefly describes other ritual, magical practices contained within many Buddhist tantras.