Toh 2961Untitled

Exposition of the Esoteric Scripture of the Kangyur, Toh 2961

Context

This scripture belongs to the Kangyur, the translated canon, in the Tantra section of Vajrayana Buddhism. In the Tibetan tantric tradition, such esoteric scriptures are regarded as the highest teachings, transmitted directly from the Blessed Buddha in the form of the Supreme Buddha (Ādi-Buddha) or tutelary Buddhas (Yidam) within the three bodies of the Buddha (Trikāya).

The Kangyur was compiled from around the eighth to ninth centuries in Tibet, translated from original Sanskrit texts by masters proficient in the languages of Buddhist learning. The esoteric scriptures in this collection are not publicly taught to everyone, but are intended only for practitioners who have received bodhisattva vows or tantric initiations (abhiṣeka) from a qualified tantric Teacher.

Main Content

Although the descriptive information does not provide a specific title, scriptures belonging to the Tantra section of the Kangyur usually focus on one of the three main contents of Vajrayana:

First, instructions on meditation upon the Yidam (Iṣṭadevatā), that is, the practice of the forms of Buddhas and bodhisattvas with special appearances, for the purpose of transforming ordinary consciousness into the very wisdom of a Buddha.

Second, methods of sādhana and mantra recitation (japa), sacred sounds bearing spiritual power that help activate the inner potential of Buddha-nature.

Third, secret methods concerning the transformation of subtle energies (prāṇa, nāḍī, bindu) in the body, thereby transforming lust, hatred, and delusion into neutral wisdom.

Esoteric scriptures especially emphasize one characteristic: they do not separate mind, sound, and image. Each part has symbolic meaning at the outer level, the inner level, and the secret level, the absolute truth.