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Introduction to Tantra: The Transformation of Desire

Description:

New edition of this perennial classic. “The best introductory work on Tibetan Buddhist tantra available today.”—Janet Gyatso, Harvard University

What is tantra? Who is qualified to practice it? How should it be practiced? What are the results? According to Buddhism, every human being has the potential to achieve profound and lasting happiness. And according to the tantric teachings of Buddhism, this remarkable transformation can be realized very quickly if we utilize all aspects of our human energy——especially the energy of our desires.
Introduction to Tantra is the best available clarification of a subject that is often misunderstood. Tantra recognizes that the powerful energy aroused by our desire is an indispensable resource for the spiritual path. It is precisely because our lives are so inseparably linked with desire that we must make use of desire's tremendous energy not just for pleasure, but to transform our lives. Lama Yeshe presents tantra as a practice leading to joy and self-discovery, with a vision of reality that is simple, clear, and relevant to 21st-century life.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"Introduction to Tantra, with its foreword by Philip Glass, deserves to be widely distributed—it will be very helpful to lots of people." -- Prof. Robert Thurman, Jey Tsong Khapa Chair in Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University

"No one has summarized the essence of tantra as well as Thubten Yeshe does here." -- Religious Studies Review

"The best introductory work on Tibetan Buddhist tantra available today." -- Professor Janet Gyatso, Hershey Chair of Buddhist Studies, Harvard University

"Lama Yeshe was one of the forefathers capable of translating Tibetan Buddhist thought not only through language, but by his presence, gestures and way of life. He was a wonderful person who had the unique quality of conveying the true message of the union of compassion and wisdom." -- Gehlek Rimpoche, author of Good Life, Good Death

"A lucid explanation of Buddhist tantra... a classic." -- Phillip Glass, composer, from the foreword

"Many years ago I heard a Dharma talk by Lama Yeshe. I was very impressed with his ability to communicate deep truths in very ordinary language, with a hilarious sense of humor that helped deliver such wisdom. But he died, so my attention eventually went elsewhere. Recently, I discovered his books--some very technical Tantra; some down-to-earth wisdom. Lama Yeshe's same gift was present in both modes. Although, my many years of Dharma training is in Theravadin Buddhism, especially the practice of vipassana meditation, I found his teaching once again to be of great value--so direct, so clear. Granted, some of his technical Tantra seemed to me, at first, of limited relevance to my interests. But upon closer reading, and in his hands, these teachings proved equally valuable. Lama Yeshe has given us a body of teaching of immense significance for practitioners of all schools of Buddhadharma." -- Larry Rosenberg, senior teacher and founder of Cambridge Insight Meditation Center; Senior and guiding teacher, Insight Meditation Society, and author of Living in the Light of Death and Breath by Breath

About the Author

Lama Thubten Yeshe (1935-1984) was born in Tibet and educated at the great Sera Monastic University. He fled the Chinese oppression in 1959 and in the late 1960s, with his chief disciple, Lama Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, began teaching Buddhism to Westerners at their Kopan Monastery, Kathmandu, Nepal. In 1975 they founded the international Buddhist organization, the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), which now has more than 160 centers, projects and services worldwide.

Jonathan Landaw was born in New Jersey and has traveled the world since 1970. He spent six years living in northern India studying Tibetan Buddhism and is the editor and author of a number of Buddhist books, including Wisdom Energy and Buddhism for Dummies. He lives in Santa Cruz, California.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing, Informative and insightful introduction to Tantra Philosophy

S.K. · July 1, 2024

I loved this book. Lama Yeshe is a clear, easy to read, delightful writer and he explains the ideas he is presenting perfectly. The 9 breath preparation for mediation is something I have incorporated into my practice and I found the discussion of 1) Renunciation of desire, 2) Boddhicitta and 3) the proper view of Emptiness to be as well explained and well conveyed as I have ever read. ( I ve been reading about Buddhism for 20 years). The way these ideas are explained have transformed my understanding of myself and my practice is ways I would never have expected from a simple book. Love this book, and if you are interested in the core foundational principles and practices of Tantra, this book is for you. It's not about the sexual aspects, but is much more profound because it gets at the core ideas!

5.0 out of 5 stars Essential knowledge

P.P. · May 17, 2023

Lama Yeshe seems to have had a way of expressing important things clearly with no waste of words. Brilliant.

5.0 out of 5 stars This is THE introduction to Tantra Book

j.g. · September 27, 2017

This is the introduction to tantra book to get. Lama Yeshe's teaching style was direct and useable. This is a transformational book and a book I am often recommending to friends who are interested in Buddhism and in Tantra. Anyone interested in Buddhist tantra should read this. I have just read it again 17 years after reading it my first time (a previous printing of course) and it was still helpful. And if you like this one and want to go into a more in depth book on Buddhist Tantra, Lama Yeshe's book, The Bliss of Inner Fire, is a perfect follow up to this book to go into the practical depths of Buddhist Tantric (Vajrayana) practice, another that I just read for a second time after over a decade.

4.0 out of 5 stars but it gives a good flavor and allows to understand the concepts of Tantric ...

b. · November 7, 2014

It is only an introduction, but it gives a good flavor and allows to understand the concepts of Tantric philosophy.There is an effort to make it simple and clear, devoid of cultural traditionalism. Obviously written with westerners in mind, this is a rational mapping of Tantra that avoids intimidation and, above all, naïve misinterpretations and stereotypes. It points to a deeper meaning that is universal and transcendent.

5.0 out of 5 stars A must have for anyone interested in the Tantras

T.L.S. · April 3, 2019

I teach Tantra and this is the first book we read in the teacher certification course. Such a great introduction to traditional Tantra. I’m grateful tia book is available and Lama Yeshe’s messages are easily understood in the way it’s written for westerners.

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect for beginners in Buddhism or Vajrayana!

G.C. · January 30, 2018

This book express in clear and not too much technical words the path of Tantra, giving the prerequisites (the 3 principal aspects of the path), a brief description of the process of death-bardo-rebirth and concise explanations of the generation and completion stages!Of course this is not all there is to know about Tantra but it is perfect to begin!

5.0 out of 5 stars An Easy to read introductory text

L. · November 3, 2015

This is an easy to read explanation of Tantra for those who are new to it. The book clearly outlines the purpose of Tantra and why it is practiced. You won't find in-depth detail about the actual practices in this introductory text but it serves to provide an easy to understand background to the practices.

5.0 out of 5 stars Although the book is written for westerners, it is ...

D.G. · April 7, 2018

Although the book is written for westerners, it is not the easiest reading. However if you read slowly enough, it offers really deep insights into tantric psychology and gives not only theoretical but also very practical knowledge. For sure it will affect your life.

Espectacular

C.d.A. · August 14, 2018

Comprender mejor la filosofía del budismo

Easy reading and useful knowledge

f.l. · August 28, 2018

No regret, a book of reference

Wonderful wisdom and Insider knowledge

A.T. · June 6, 2016

Lama Yeshe gives here wonderful explanations for the spiritual path and it is all clearly understandable. I love the book very much and read it several times.

Essential reading for native English speakers on the tantric path

G.O. · April 3, 2015

This book, being written in my native English language, brought greater clarity to the three or four translations of highest tantric yoga texts that I have been studying. Many terms that I thought I was clear about were made so much clearer to me through reading this book. It is also written in a more conversational manner than the traditional texts, making it an enjoyable, relatively free-wheeling read, while retaining the integrity of the underlying content.

Gentleness and fearlessness go together

a.j. · May 9, 2019

Brilliant book - most insightful

Introduction to Tantra: The Transformation of Desire

Product ID: U1614291551
Condition: New

4.6

AED13415

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

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Introduction to Tantra: The Transformation of Desire

Product ID: U1614291551
Condition: New

4.6

Introduction to Tantra: The Transformation of Desire-0
Type: Paperback

AED13415

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

New edition of this perennial classic. “The best introductory work on Tibetan Buddhist tantra available today.”—Janet Gyatso, Harvard University

What is tantra? Who is qualified to practice it? How should it be practiced? What are the results? According to Buddhism, every human being has the potential to achieve profound and lasting happiness. And according to the tantric teachings of Buddhism, this remarkable transformation can be realized very quickly if we utilize all aspects of our human energy——especially the energy of our desires.
Introduction to Tantra is the best available clarification of a subject that is often misunderstood. Tantra recognizes that the powerful energy aroused by our desire is an indispensable resource for the spiritual path. It is precisely because our lives are so inseparably linked with desire that we must make use of desire's tremendous energy not just for pleasure, but to transform our lives. Lama Yeshe presents tantra as a practice leading to joy and self-discovery, with a vision of reality that is simple, clear, and relevant to 21st-century life.


Editorial Reviews

Review

"Introduction to Tantra, with its foreword by Philip Glass, deserves to be widely distributed—it will be very helpful to lots of people." -- Prof. Robert Thurman, Jey Tsong Khapa Chair in Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Studies at Columbia University

"No one has summarized the essence of tantra as well as Thubten Yeshe does here." -- Religious Studies Review

"The best introductory work on Tibetan Buddhist tantra available today." -- Professor Janet Gyatso, Hershey Chair of Buddhist Studies, Harvard University

"Lama Yeshe was one of the forefathers capable of translating Tibetan Buddhist thought not only through language, but by his presence, gestures and way of life. He was a wonderful person who had the unique quality of conveying the true message of the union of compassion and wisdom." -- Gehlek Rimpoche, author of Good Life, Good Death

"A lucid explanation of Buddhist tantra... a classic." -- Phillip Glass, composer, from the foreword

"Many years ago I heard a Dharma talk by Lama Yeshe. I was very impressed with his ability to communicate deep truths in very ordinary language, with a hilarious sense of humor that helped deliver such wisdom. But he died, so my attention eventually went elsewhere. Recently, I discovered his books--some very technical Tantra; some down-to-earth wisdom. Lama Yeshe's same gift was present in both modes. Although, my many years of Dharma training is in Theravadin Buddhism, especially the practice of vipassana meditation, I found his teaching once again to be of great value--so direct, so clear. Granted, some of his technical Tantra seemed to me, at first, of limited relevance to my interests. But upon closer reading, and in his hands, these teachings proved equally valuable. Lama Yeshe has given us a body of teaching of immense significance for practitioners of all schools of Buddhadharma." -- Larry Rosenberg, senior teacher and founder of Cambridge Insight Meditation Center; Senior and guiding teacher, Insight Meditation Society, and author of Living in the Light of Death and Breath by Breath

About the Author

Lama Thubten Yeshe (1935-1984) was born in Tibet and educated at the great Sera Monastic University. He fled the Chinese oppression in 1959 and in the late 1960s, with his chief disciple, Lama Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, began teaching Buddhism to Westerners at their Kopan Monastery, Kathmandu, Nepal. In 1975 they founded the international Buddhist organization, the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), which now has more than 160 centers, projects and services worldwide.

Jonathan Landaw was born in New Jersey and has traveled the world since 1970. He spent six years living in northern India studying Tibetan Buddhism and is the editor and author of a number of Buddhist books, including Wisdom Energy and Buddhism for Dummies. He lives in Santa Cruz, California.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing, Informative and insightful introduction to Tantra Philosophy

S.K. · July 1, 2024

I loved this book. Lama Yeshe is a clear, easy to read, delightful writer and he explains the ideas he is presenting perfectly. The 9 breath preparation for mediation is something I have incorporated into my practice and I found the discussion of 1) Renunciation of desire, 2) Boddhicitta and 3) the proper view of Emptiness to be as well explained and well conveyed as I have ever read. ( I ve been reading about Buddhism for 20 years). The way these ideas are explained have transformed my understanding of myself and my practice is ways I would never have expected from a simple book. Love this book, and if you are interested in the core foundational principles and practices of Tantra, this book is for you. It's not about the sexual aspects, but is much more profound because it gets at the core ideas!

5.0 out of 5 stars Essential knowledge

P.P. · May 17, 2023

Lama Yeshe seems to have had a way of expressing important things clearly with no waste of words. Brilliant.

5.0 out of 5 stars This is THE introduction to Tantra Book

j.g. · September 27, 2017

This is the introduction to tantra book to get. Lama Yeshe's teaching style was direct and useable. This is a transformational book and a book I am often recommending to friends who are interested in Buddhism and in Tantra. Anyone interested in Buddhist tantra should read this. I have just read it again 17 years after reading it my first time (a previous printing of course) and it was still helpful. And if you like this one and want to go into a more in depth book on Buddhist Tantra, Lama Yeshe's book, The Bliss of Inner Fire, is a perfect follow up to this book to go into the practical depths of Buddhist Tantric (Vajrayana) practice, another that I just read for a second time after over a decade.

4.0 out of 5 stars but it gives a good flavor and allows to understand the concepts of Tantric ...

b. · November 7, 2014

It is only an introduction, but it gives a good flavor and allows to understand the concepts of Tantric philosophy.There is an effort to make it simple and clear, devoid of cultural traditionalism. Obviously written with westerners in mind, this is a rational mapping of Tantra that avoids intimidation and, above all, naïve misinterpretations and stereotypes. It points to a deeper meaning that is universal and transcendent.

5.0 out of 5 stars A must have for anyone interested in the Tantras

T.L.S. · April 3, 2019

I teach Tantra and this is the first book we read in the teacher certification course. Such a great introduction to traditional Tantra. I’m grateful tia book is available and Lama Yeshe’s messages are easily understood in the way it’s written for westerners.

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect for beginners in Buddhism or Vajrayana!

G.C. · January 30, 2018

This book express in clear and not too much technical words the path of Tantra, giving the prerequisites (the 3 principal aspects of the path), a brief description of the process of death-bardo-rebirth and concise explanations of the generation and completion stages!Of course this is not all there is to know about Tantra but it is perfect to begin!

5.0 out of 5 stars An Easy to read introductory text

L. · November 3, 2015

This is an easy to read explanation of Tantra for those who are new to it. The book clearly outlines the purpose of Tantra and why it is practiced. You won't find in-depth detail about the actual practices in this introductory text but it serves to provide an easy to understand background to the practices.

5.0 out of 5 stars Although the book is written for westerners, it is ...

D.G. · April 7, 2018

Although the book is written for westerners, it is not the easiest reading. However if you read slowly enough, it offers really deep insights into tantric psychology and gives not only theoretical but also very practical knowledge. For sure it will affect your life.

Espectacular

C.d.A. · August 14, 2018

Comprender mejor la filosofía del budismo

Easy reading and useful knowledge

f.l. · August 28, 2018

No regret, a book of reference

Wonderful wisdom and Insider knowledge

A.T. · June 6, 2016

Lama Yeshe gives here wonderful explanations for the spiritual path and it is all clearly understandable. I love the book very much and read it several times.

Essential reading for native English speakers on the tantric path

G.O. · April 3, 2015

This book, being written in my native English language, brought greater clarity to the three or four translations of highest tantric yoga texts that I have been studying. Many terms that I thought I was clear about were made so much clearer to me through reading this book. It is also written in a more conversational manner than the traditional texts, making it an enjoyable, relatively free-wheeling read, while retaining the integrity of the underlying content.

Gentleness and fearlessness go together

a.j. · May 9, 2019

Brilliant book - most insightful

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Rituals & Practice”