Roger R. Jackson, Professor Emeritus at Carleton College, explores the enigmatic Indian yogin Saraha, who has inspired Buddhist practitioners for centuries. They discuss Saraha's historical ambiguity, his penetrating mystic songs, and his dual role as poet and social critic. Jackson delves into the influences of feminine wisdom in early Buddhism and the impact of yoginis on social equality. The conversation also touches upon Saraha's legacy and the intersection of Buddhism with the Beat Generation, revealing the complex poetic landscape of this influential figure.

Roger R. Jackson, a scholar and professor emeritus of Asian Studies and Religion at Carleton College, delves into the captivating life of Saraha, a 10th-century mystic and a foundational figure in Vajrayana Buddhism. They explore Saraha's fierce critiques of delusion, his legacy in Tibetan Buddhism, and the significance of his poetic form, the Doha. Jackson emphasizes the transformative role of the body in tantric awakening and discusses Saraha's radical insights on compassion and emptiness, making ancient wisdom accessible for contemporary audiences.