What is Tantrism?

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Tantrism is a spiritual movement originating in medieval India whose inter-religious doctrines are contained in the scriptures known as Tantras. The anglicized word Tantrism is derived from the Sanskrit word Tantra which means system or doctrine. Tantra or Tantrism is one of the branches of Indian spiritual studies enumerating the various aspects of Vedic tradition that can be followed practically. In fact the tantra tradition and the religious practices of the tantriks are similar to the Vedic traditions and is an important part of the Vedic System.

Tantrism is a spiritual movement originating in medieval India whose inter-religious doctrines are contained in the scriptures known as Tantras. The anglicized word Tantrism is derived from the Sanskrit word Tantra which means system or doctrine. Tantra or Tantrism is one of the branches of Indian spiritual studies enumerating the various aspects of Vedic tradition that can be followed practically. In fact the tantra tradition and the religious practices of the tantriks are similar to the Vedic traditions and is an important part of the Vedic System. The tantriks are worshippers of Lord Shiva or Goddess Shakti.

 

What is the History of Tantrism?

Though tantrism originated much earlier it developed into a religious tradition during the ending of the Gupta Era. Many mystical Buddhist and Hindu sects have been greatly influenced by the Tantric movement. Besides the Hindu and Sikh religion, tantrism has left much impact on the religious traditions of Bon, Sikh and Jain religions. Tantrism as such may not essentially be regarded as a separate faith but a combination of beliefs, rituals and practices existing in many Eastern religions. Tantrism spread to South East Asia and East Asia with the spread of Buddhism to these regions.

What are the Features of Tantrism?

The key principle of Tantrism is the belief that the universe is the concrete manifestation of a higher spiritual and divine energy which can be channeled within human consciousness by means of tantric rituals to attain freedom from ignorance. Tantrism is a positive doctrine envisioning reality as an outburst of Divine Consciousness. It is manifested in the divine powers of Shiva and Shakti. The popular yoga finds its roots in Tantric rituals and scriptures. The various practices of yoga including the asana, breath-regulation, meditation, mudras, the energy centres and channels of the body are important tenetsof Tantric Yoga.

What are the Beliefs of Tantrism?

A follower can be initiated into tantrism with the help of a qualified Guru. Tantrism believes that mind and matter manifest a spiritual reality of a higher plane which is in fact our true nature. Thus spiritual reality is to be seen as part of the samsara or empirical reality. Tantrism reiterates the belief that it is possible to achieve enlightenment while present in the physical body. Man can achieve enlightenment by focusing on and kindling the kundalini-shakti or the spiritual power that usually lies dormant in man. Tantrism believes in rebirths which is determined by karma or one’s moral deeds and actions.

Why is Tantrism an Occult Tradition?

Tantrism is regarded as an occult tradition with its teachings basically being a secret and divulged only to those who are initiated into the discipline as disciples and devotees.The tantric teachings can not be practiced by the uninitiated as it may lead to their fall. The Kularnava-Tantra is a popular Sanskrit writing on Tantrism which stresses that tantric disciples were sworn to secrecy during the initiation process. Initiation into tantrism involves preparing the body and mind emotionally mentally and spiritually. In fact many tantric teachings lack any written documentation and have been passed on from the guru top the disciple by word of mouth.  

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