Bob Thurman Podcast: Buddhas Have More Fun!

Buddhism 101: How Vajrayana & Tantra Works – Ep. 14

May 1, 2015

Delve into the fascinating distinctions between Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana Buddhism. Explore the relationship between the body and mind, revealing the impact of subtle energy on consciousness. Discover how interconnectedness can help navigate the suffering of existence. Unpack the five stages of perfection in Vajrayana, uncovering transformative practices and a critical translation of a Buddhist text. Finally, learn how collective imagination shapes reality and the vital role of compassion on the path to enlightenment.

43:34

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Quick takeaways

The podcast emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the gross, subtle, and extremely subtle aspects of body and mind in Tibetan Buddhism for spiritual development.

It explores the transformative stages of Yoga Tantra, highlighting how visualization and meditation lead practitioners towards experiencing 'clear light' and achieving Buddhahood.

Deep dives

Understanding the Body-Mind Complex

The podcast delves into the distinction between the gross, subtle, and extremely subtle aspects of body and mind, as outlined in Tibetan and Indian Buddhist traditions. The gross body encompasses our physical form and five senses, while the subtle body corresponds to the central nervous system and the various energies within it, such as circulatory and neural energies. The extremely subtle body includes an innermost essence often referred to as 'clear light,' representing a profound state of consciousness experienced at the time of death or deep meditation. This classification serves as a framework for understanding spiritual development and the transformation of reality through meditation practices.

Intro

3min

Exploring the Subtle Energies of Mind and Body in Buddhism

9min

Navigating the Suffering of Existence and Interconnected Bliss

2min

Exploring the Five Stages of Perfection in Vajrayana

2min

Imagination in Vajrayana Buddhism

28min

Professor Robert A,F, Thurman draws from his book, Brilliant Illumination of the Lamp of the Five Stages for a discussion on the distinctions between Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana, delving into a discussion of Tantra, the creation stage and perfection stage; the extraordinary-ordinary mergers pertaining to basis, path and fruition; and the five stages of the Glorious Esoteric Community (Shri Guhyasamaja) — (1) body isolation, (2) speech isolation, (3) mind isolation, (4) clear light, and (4) communion.

This episode is an excerpt from a lecture given at Tibet House US on April 22, 2015, as part of a lecture series there called “Essential Tibetan Buddhism, and its Context in Tibet and the World.”

Buddhism 101: How Vajrayana & Tantra Works Photo by Manuel Bauer from www.dalailama.com.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

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