What is Tantra?   We hear the term increasingly, but what does it actually mean?

To start with we need to know that Buddha’s teachings can be divided into Sutra and Tantra.  Practising Sutra teachings is the basic foundation for practising Tantric teachings, and the practice of Tantra is the quick method to fulfil the ultimate goal of Sutra teachings.  The meaning of this will be clearly explained in this workshop.

But what does this mean practically?  In general, our experience of pleasure or enjoyments gives rise to attachment, which is the source of all suffering. However, through practising Tantra we can transform our experience of worldly pleasure into the supreme happiness of enlightenment.  Through the practice of “correct imagination”, we can purify and transform our mind very quickly.   The term “correct imagination” will also be explained.

In this workshop, we will receive an introduction to the practical nature of Buddha’s Tantric teachings which allows us to transform all our enjoyments into the spiritual path.   This workshop will also function as an introduction to the Kadampa International Summer Festival, where it will be possible to receive the empowerments of Highest Yoga Tantra and associated teachings.   Everyone is welcome to both this workshop and to join the Summer Festival in the UK.

“Although Tantra is very popular, not many people understand its true meaning.  Some people deny Buddha’s Tantric teachings, whereas others use them for worldly attainments, and many people are confused about the union of Sutra and Tantra, mistakenly believing that Sutra and Tantra are contradictory” – Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche