Toh 1445Untitled

An Explanation of Kangyur Tantric Scripture 1445 (Vajrayāna Tantra)

Context

This scripture is part of the Kangyur, the class of Vajrayāna tantric scriptures preserved in the Tibetan tradition. Although its title has not been clearly identified, this work belongs to the class of advanced tantras, in which the teachings of the Buddha are transmitted as secret instructions for students whose veils have been removed and who are ready to receive the most profound methods.

In the Tantric tradition, the Kangyur is the collection of the Buddha’s scriptures translated from Pāli and Sanskrit into Tibetan. These tantric scriptures have been confirmed by great bodhisattvas and masters who practiced the Secret Mantra as authentic teachings of the Buddha, or of Buddhas and bodhisattvas recognized by the Buddha. Vajrayāna Tantra is not a distorted path of practice, but an orthodox path taught by the Buddha Shakyamuni to disciples of special capacity.

Main Contents

Although the detailed content of this scripture has not yet been fully translated, based on the context of Vajrayāna tantric scriptures, this work is likely to focus on one or more core elements of the Secret Mantra path of practice.

Ordinarily, Vajrayāna tantric scriptures teach about: (1) the nature of the pure Buddha realm and the deities (Yidam), regarded as emanations of buddha-nature; (2) the power of tantric ritual (sādhana) and mantras; (3) the relationship among the Four Foundations of Tantra (guru yoga, prostrations, the accumulation of merit, and prayer); and (4) the transformation of consciousness through the direct instruction of the teacher and the understanding of Śūnyatā (emptiness).

As part of the Tantra class in the Kangyur, this scripture may relate to guidance on ritual practices, or it may focus on a particular Yidam and the transformative powers that it brings forth.