Tantra is that Asian body of beliefs and practices which, working from the principle that the universe we experience is nothing other than the concrete manifestation of the divine energy of the Godhead that creates and maintains that universe, seeks to ritually appropriate and channel that energy, within the human microcosm, in creative and emancipatory ways.
— David Gordon White
To prepare for our second Hindu tantra class, please read and contemplate the following three resources:
- “Hindu Tantrism” by Brian K. Smith: an entry in the Encyclopedia of Religion
- “Definition of Nondual Shaiva Tantra” from Tantra Illuminated by Chris Wallis
- Class handout: “Quotes on tantra“
Using the understanding that you have gained from your reading and thoughtful contemplation, write a 2-page paper that describes your own understanding of the quote at the top of this page by David Gordon White. Make sure that you include information from the Smith and the Wallis readings to support your interpretation of tantra. Please bring a printout of your paper to class and be prepared to share it with your fellow classmates.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns about this assignment, please email me at karen.harris@post.harvard.edu.
Thou Art That 