What is the relationship between bodhicitta and tantra?
"Jamgon Kongtrul defines rgyud (tantra) as the continuity of natural clear-light awareness (’od gsal), the ever-perfect (samantabhadra, kun tu bzang po) mind of awakening (bodhicitta, byang chub kyi sems) that knows no beginning or end. The clear light’s continuity is ever-present from time without beginning and knows no interruption." Page 449 of Buddhist Ethics, TOK Volume 5 (Kalu Rinpoche Translation Group, Snow Lion Publications, 1998).
Bodhicitta (Sanskrit) or "byang chub kyi sems" (Tibetan) refers to the awakened mind or "the mind of enlightenment" - specifically the altruistic intention to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings. This concept is foundational to Mahayana Buddhism, of which Tibetan Buddhism is a part.
Tantra, or "rgyud" in Tibetan, refers to a set of esoteric practices and texts that offer an expedited path to enlightenment. The word "rgyud" literally means "continuum" or "stream," suggesting the unbroken lineage of teachings as well as the continuous nature of mind.
The relationship between these concepts is multifaceted:
- Bodhicitta as foundation: In Tibetan Buddhism, bodhicitta is considered the essential foundation for tantric practice. Without the altruistic motivation to benefit all beings, tantric practices are considered potentially dangerous or ineffective.
- Complementary paths: While bodhicitta represents the motivation and aspiration, tantra provides specific methodologies and techniques to realize that aspiration more quickly.
- Transformation: Tantra works with transforming ordinary experiences and emotions rather than rejecting them. Bodhicitta provides the ethical framework and motivation that guides this transformation.
- Different levels of bodhicitta in tantric practice: Tibetan Buddhism distinguishes between relative bodhicitta (the aspiration and application of compassionate action) and absolute bodhicitta (direct insight into emptiness). Tantric practices often work with both aspects simultaneously.
- Integration in practice: In the highest yoga tantras (anuttarayoga tantra), practitioners visualize themselves as enlightened deities - this is not done from a place of ego but as an expression of bodhicitta, recognizing the buddha-nature within all beings.
The relationship between these concepts is often explained through the metaphor of a journey: bodhicitta is the motivation and destination, while tantra provides the swift vehicle to reach that destination.
