Diversity of Landscape in Tibet Essay

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The quote urges a return to the simple essence of Buddhism. Related to the three turnings, the quote refers to the unity of Buddhist doctrine from the expression of the Four Noble Truths to the Maitreya's complex explication of Buddha nature.

The term revolution applies to both doctrine and path in the Mahayana. Revolution implies a transformation of consciousness, a possibly instantaneous awakening of the Buddha-mind. A revolution of consciousness can extricate the mind from the wheel of samsara. Alternatively, consciousness can evolve gradually with the ultimate goal of ceasing the revolution of the wheel. As doctrine, revolution suggests continual application of Buddhist teachings throughout successive revolutions of the karmic wheel. As path, revolution is the active step toward consciousness change. Meditation and contemplation of the sutras are such active steps that are revolutionary in character because they lead to a revolution of consciousness.

Question 3

Before the lecture starts, define the terms "Tantra" and "Vajrayana." After the lecture, tell me what you think these terms mean.

The term "tantra" has been somewhat muddied by New Age literature. Traditional Buddhist practices of tantra go far beyond the simplistic and sex-centric New Age interpretation. Originally part of Hindu teachings, Tantra evolved into Vajrayana Buddhism. The terms refer to doctrine and ritual practiced in the pursuit of enlightenment. The term Vajrayana directly refers to the ritual and symbolic thunderbolt, and Vajrayana and Tantra are partly what distinguish Tibetan Buddhism from other expressions of the religion.

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The lecture elucidated the terms and also revealed the complexity of Tantra. It is impossible to pinpoint exactly what Tantra is, except to say that Tantra is a complex and multifaceted Buddhist path. Part of Tantra's mystery is a deliberate attempt at secrecy via successive layers of ritual and initiation. However, in other ways Tantra is not dissimilar from other Buddhist paths. The pursuit of Enlightenment and the endeavor to become a Boddhisatva are ultimate goals.

Why is Tantra so controversial? Is the infamy and awe warranted?

Part of the reason for the complexity of Tantra is its relative esotericism, the deliberately structured doctrine and ritual complexity. However, the New Age movement has also encouraged controversy by imbuing Tantra with spiritual sexuality. The taboo against spiritual sexuality has made Tantra more controversial than it deserves to be. The term Tantra is value-laden as a result. Awe, however, is warranted given the aesthetic and intellectual beauty of Tantra. Another reason for Tantra's infamy is the proclamation of spiritual powers that derive from ritual practice. In the West, the pursuit of spiritual powers is looked upon with great suspicion. Tantra seems imbued with magic and therefore hearkens to a more….....

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