Tantra: What It Is — Swami Bhaskarananda

Recorded at the Vedanta Society of Western Washington on February 28, 2016.In this lecture, Swami Bhaskarananda explains the meaning, history, and philosophical foundations of Tantra within the broader context of Hinduism and Vedanta. He describes Tantra not as a separate religion, but as an integral stream of spiritual discipline and practice that developed alongside the Vedic tradition. The talk examines the meaning of the word “Tantra,” the different schools and classifications of Tantric practice, and the role of symbolism, ritual, mantra, meditation, and spiritual discipline in Tantric teachings. Swami Bhaskarananda also discusses the Tantric understanding of God as both Shiva and Shakti, emphasizing that the Divine Mother and the ultimate reality are understood as inseparable aspects of the same divine truth.The lecture further explores traditional Tantric concepts such as spiritual energy, the chakras, mantra practice, and the gradual awakening of higher spiritual awareness. Swami Bhaskarananda addresses common misunderstandings surrounding Tantra and explains how certain symbolic teachings have often been misinterpreted when separated from their deeper spiritual meaning. Drawing from historical examples, scriptural references, and stories from Hindu and Buddhist traditions, he presents Tantra as a disciplined spiritual path intended to help seekers purify the mind, transcend fear and attachment, and ultimately realize the divine reality underlying all existence.