Roger R. Jackson

Roger R. Jackson, a Professor Emeritus at Carleton College and author of "Saraha: Poet of Blissful Awareness," discusses the enigmatic tenth-century yogin Saraha. He unpacks Saraha’s mystic songs, highlighting their enlightening yet confounding nature. Jackson explores Saraha's influence on the Mahamudra tradition and critiques societal norms through fascinating narratives, including the radish girl story. He also addresses translation challenges and the significance of Saraha's work in South Asian literature, revealing his profound legacy in Tibetan Buddhism and beyond.

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.