Tantric Buddhism is quite different
form a number of other Buddhist forms. Also known as Vajrayana, it is
considered as one of the three major 'vehicles' (Yanas) of Buddhism,
along with Theravada and Mahayana. Read on further to get a brief
introduction to Tantric Buddhism...
Vajrayana Buddhism is based, to a certain extent, on the tantras,
tantric techniques written in Indian scriptures. It prescribes the
technique of 'use the result as the Path'. It means that a person should
try to identify with the enlightened body, speech and mind of a Buddha.
The form of Buddha one can best relate to is known as yidam (in Tibetan)
or ishtadevata (in Sanskrit). For the purpose of self-identification
with a Buddha-form, Buddhist tantric techniques make use of symbolism
and visualization.
The Tantric Buddhism symbols can come as quite confusing to the person
introduced to it for the first time. Most of these symbols are said to
have been taken from the Tibetan Buddhism. Given below are the major
symbols used in Tantric Buddhism...
The Vajra
One of the important symbols in Buddhist tantra, Vajra seems to be a
combination of a weapon and a scepter. It symbolizes the quality of
indestructibility. At the time of tantric rituals, Vajra is usually held
in the right hand.
The Bell
Bell stands for insight, emptiness, the female aspect. It symbolizes
the sound of the Dharma and is used in the rituals to offer sound. At
the time of rituals, it is generally held in the left hand.
Other Tantric Symbols :
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