The tantric Buddhist traditions emerged in India beginning in the seventh century CE and flourished there until the demise of Buddhism in India circa the fifteenth century. Over the past twenty years there has been considerable growth in the study of tantras as well as translations of these works into Western languages. This volume provides a detailed introduction to the Buddhist tantras. It addresses their development in India, their dissemination to Central, East and Southeast Asia, and their reception in these contexts. It introduces the key teachings in the tantras, as well as the history of their interpretation, and their connection to traditions of ritual, and contemplative practices.

David B. Gray is the Bernard J. Hanley Professor of Religious Studies at Santa Clara University, in Santa Clara, California, where he teaches a wide range of Asian religions courses. His research explores the development of tantric Buddhist traditions in South Asia, and their dissemination in Tibet and East Asia, with a focus on the Yoginitantras, a genre of Buddhist tantric literature that focused on female deities and yogic practices involving the subtle body. His publications include numerous books, journal articles and book chapters, focusing on the Buddhist tantras and their exegesis.

• Preface


• Introduction: Introducing the Buddhist Tantras


• 1. Dates, Authorship, and Historical Contexts


• 2. Structure and Contents


• 3. Dissemination and Reception of the Tantras


• 4. Canonical Status of the Tantras


• 5. Transgression, Censorship and Interpretation


• Index