Tantra

A look at common misunderstandings people have about tantra.

The subtlest level of mind, the clear light mind, naturally makes an appearance similar to that when non-conceptually cognizing voidness. Even when not cognizing voidness, it does that explicitly at the moment of death and, according to the Jetsunpa textbooks, subliminally...

Not all spiritual teachers are properly qualified. Firm action with a clear and compassionate mind is the key to dealing with situations of abuse.

Understanding and appreciating Kalachakra’s unique features and methods for attaining enlightenment grow based on first understanding and appreciating the unique features of Mahayana sutra, general tantra and anuttarayoga tantra.

The Tibetan word “damtsig,” “samaya” in Sanskrit, means “close bond.” It refers to practices that create a close bond between us and a Buddha-figure or our spiritual teacher.

In addition to taking bodhisattva and tantric vows, we also pledge at an anuttarayoga empowerment to maintain nine auxiliary bonding practices that bond us closely to tantra.

The primary connotation of “ngondro” is preparation. These practices are absolutely essential preparation for undertaking and sustaining our “spiritual journey.”

Chakrasamvara (Heruka) is a mother tantra practice of anuttarayoga tantra. It provides the most detail about the methods for generating the four levels of blissful awareness of voidness within the central energy-channel, enabling access to the subtlest level of mind, clear...

Kriya tantra (ritual tantra) is found in the Nyingma and Sarma classification schemes. It’s a practice with deity visualization that emphasizes cleanliness, vegetarianism and purification.

Dr. Berzin speaks about various topics with his students regarding the highest class of tantra, anuttarayoga, such as visualization practice and its obstacles, dream yoga and working with subtle energy-channels and energy-winds.