Citation

Gray DB. Religion Compass 2007; 1(6): 695-710.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1749-8171.2007.00046.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This essay explores the history of the Cakrasamvara Tantra and its related practice traditions. Beginning with the traditional Cakrasamvara origin myths, it introduces evidence concerning social context in which it was likely composed, and explores the debate concerning the degree to which it was influenced by Hindu Shaiva tantric traditions. It argues that the development of this tradition cannot be fully understood without taking into consideration the political ramifications of the tradition's mythology and iconography. The essay also overviews both the major practices associated with this tradition, and provides a short history of its transmission to Nepal and Tibet.