Vajrayana

Vajrayana, also known as Tantric Buddhism or Mantrayana, is a branch of Buddhism that developed within Mahayana and became prominent in Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal, parts of India and Mongolia. It seeks to accelerate the path to enlightenment by employing esoteric techniques, ritual practices, and direct transmissions from a qualified teacher.

Central to Vajrayana are the three key elements: the use of mantras (sacred syllables); mudras (hand gestures); and mandalas (visualized environments) as supports for meditation and initiation. Practices include deity yoga, in which the practitioner visualizes oneself as a buddha or bodhisattva, and guru yoga, in which the teacher is honored as a spiritual source of realization. Initiations or tantric empowerments authorize students to undertake specific practices. Transmission of teachings is typically through a guru–disciple relationship.

Historically, Vajrayana emerged in India during the first millennium CE and was transmitted to Tibet and neighboring regions by the 8th–11th centuries. In Tibet, it developed into several schools, most notably Nyingma (the "ancient" school), Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug. Common features include elaborate ritual art, the use of guru devotion, tantric lineages, and the aim of achieving Buddhahood more rapidly than in other Buddhist paths. Some traditions emphasize Dzogchen or Mahamudra as core contemplative approaches.

While Vajrayana is often associated with Tibet, it also flourishes in Bhutan, Nepal's Himalayan communities, and among some lineages in Mongolia and the West.