What is Hindu Tantrism?
What is Hindu Tantrism? Tantra is one of the many systems of Hindu philosophy and spiritual practice. It differs from Brahminical Vedism in a number of ways. Meaning of “Tantra”: “tanyate, vistāryante jñānam anena, iti Tantra”. — That system by which knowledge is spread is called “tantra”. • Tan = thread, web, stretch, spread or expand • Tra = tool or instrument • Tatri = Support, adjunct • Tantra = A tool for expansion or a weaving.��Through tantric practice, one can experience an expansion of consciousness and recognize the interconnectedness of the web of existence. Tantra Literature. The vast Tantric literature deals with 21 topics. 1. Sṛṣṭhi — Cosmic Evolution 2. Pralaya — Cosmic Involution 3. Upāsana — Deity Yoga - or various forms of ritual worship 4. Sādhana — Spiritual practice 5. Puraścarana — retreat programs for yoga and meditation 6. Ṣaṭ-karma — 6 desiderative ritual activities for accomplishing material goals. 7. Yoga /Dhyāna— yoga āsana and meditation practice 8. Siddh