Significance of Tantric Buddhism

Tantric Buddhism is a form of Buddhism characterized by its incorporation of rituals, symbolic practices, and esoteric teachings, which aim to achieve enlightenment. It has gained significance across various regions, particularly India and Tibet, and has attracted scholars to institutions like Jagaddala University. Both Mahayana and Theravada perspectives recognize Tantric Buddhism's emphasis on unique rituals and teachings, often leading to deviations from mainstream Buddhist traditions, with important historical roots in places such as Odantapuri.1
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Synonyms: Vajrayana buddhism, Esoteric buddhism, Tibetan buddhism

In Dutch: Tantrisch boeddhisme; In Finnish: Tantrinen buddhalaisuus; In Spanish: Budismo tántrico

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

Buddhist concept of 'Tantric Buddhism'

Buddhism Books

Tantric Buddhism is an esoteric branch of Buddhism emphasizing rituals, symbolic practices, and teachings aimed at enlightenment, primarily prevalent in India and Tibet, and influenced by Nagarjuna's philosophical concepts of void.

Significance in Mahayana (major branch of Buddhism):
Mahayana Books

(1) A form of Buddhism that incorporates rituals, symbolic practices, and esoteric teachings, to which Nagarjuna's philosophy eventually contributed.[1]

Mahayana is a major branch of Buddhism focusing on the path of a Bodhisattva (spiritual aspirants/ enlightened beings). Extant literature is vast and primarely composed in the Sanskrit language. There are many sutras of which some of the earliest are the various Prajnaparamita sutras.

The concept of Tantric Buddhism in local and regional sources

History Books

Tantric Buddhism is an esoteric variant of Buddhism characterized by unique teachings and rituals, which influenced important religious sites like Jagaddala University and Odantapuri, distinguishing it from mainstream practices.

Significance in India history and geography:

(1) A form of Buddhism that emphasizes esoteric teachings and practices, which sometimes resulted in a divergence from mainstream Buddhist practices.[2]