Significance of Mantrayana

Mantrayana is a branch of Tibetan Buddhism that emphasizes the use of mantras in spiritual practices, including meditation and rituals. It was recognized by Dharmasvamin at a young age and enriched his spiritual journey. This form of Vajrayana Buddhism informs the practices of notable historical figures such as King grags pa 'byung gnas and lha rje rgya nag, who both mastered mantra practice. Additionally, Mantrayana is linked to a class of Buddhist scriptures studied by Rinchen Zangpo, showcasing its broader significance in Tibetan spiritual traditions.

Synonyms: Tantric buddhism, Esoteric buddhism, Secret mantra, Vajrayana

In Dutch: Mantrayana; In Finnish: Mantrayana; In Spanish: Mantrayana

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Buddhist concept of 'Mantrayana'

Buddhism Books

Mantrayana in Buddhism is a branch of Tibetan Vajrayana that emphasizes the use of mantras in spiritual practices and rituals, influencing figures like King grags pa 'byung gnas and scholars like Rinchen Zangpo.

Significance in Tibetan Buddhism (Vajrayana or tantric Buddhism):
Tibetan Buddhism Books

From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)

(1) A form of Tantra associated with mantra practices, considered to be the source of spiritual teachings in Oddiyana.[1] (2) A branch of Tibetan Buddhism focused on the use of mantras within practice to achieve spiritual goals.[2] (3) A branch of Tibetan Buddhism focusing on the invocation of mantras for spiritual practices.[3] (4) A branch of Tibetan Buddhism focused on mantra practice, which lha rje rgya nag mastered during his spiritual education.[4] (5) Mantrayana refers to a form of Vajrayana Buddhism that emphasizes the use of mantras in meditation and ritual practices.[5]

Tibetan Buddhism includes schools such as Nyingma, Kadampa, Kagyu and Gelug. Their primary canon of literature is divided in two broad categories: The Kangyur, which consists of Buddha’s words, and the Tengyur, which includes commentaries from various sources. Esotericism and tantra techniques (vajrayana) are collected indepently.

Significance in Buddhism (general):

From: The Great Chariot

(1) A branch of Tibetan Buddhism focused on the use of mantras and specific rituals to achieve spiritual goals.[6] (2) A specific path or approach in Buddhist practice that emphasizes the use of mantras and inner practices for realization.[7] (3) Mantrayana is a branch of tantric Buddhism focusing on the use of mantras and visualizations as a method for spiritual attainment.[8] (4) A branch of Tibetan Buddhism that emphasizes the use of mantras and profound techniques for reaching enlightenment.[9]

Hindu concept of 'Mantrayana'

Hinduism Books

Mantrayana in Hinduism can be interpreted as a practice that emphasizes rituals, mantras, and esoteric methods, drawing from the influences of Buddhism as established by Nagarjuna, highlighting its unique spiritual vehicle within the broader faith.

Significance in Shaktism (Shakta philosophy):
Shaktism Books

From: Shakti and Shakta

(1) A vehicle of Buddhism founded by Nagarjuna that incorporates rituals, mantras, and esoteric practices.[10]

Shakta or Shaktism (shaktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.