Description
For serious students of Vajrayana Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, Alex Wayman’s Introduction to the Buddhist Tantric Systems remains an indispensable scholarly resource. This comprehensive 388-page study bridges ancient Tibetan texts with modern understanding, offering detailed analysis of the four classes of tantra, deity yoga practices, and the philosophical foundations underlying esoteric Buddhism. Wayman, one of the most respected Western scholars of Tibetan Buddhism, spent decades translating primary sources and studying under traditional masters. This book is ideal for graduate students, researchers, and advanced practitioners seeking rigorous academic treatment of tantric Buddhist systems. Published by Motilal Banarsidass, India’s premier publisher of Indological and Buddhist studies, this hardcover edition includes extensive notes, Sanskrit and Tibetan terminology, and carefully researched explanations that demystify complex concepts. If you’re moving beyond introductory texts and want scholarly depth on the Vajrayana path, this is an essential addition to your Buddhist studies library.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass Pub; Reprint edition (1 September 1993)
- Language : English, Tibetan, Tibetan
- Hardcover : 388 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120808347
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120808348
- Item Weight : 544 g
- Dimensions : 14.61 x 1.91 x 22.23 cm
- Country of Origin : India
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the author of Introduction to the Buddhist Tantric Systems?
The book is written by Alex Wayman, a renowned American scholar of Sanskrit and Tibetan Buddhism who taught at Columbia University. He is considered one of the pioneering Western academics in the field of Vajrayana Buddhist studies and spent decades translating tantric texts.
What topics are covered in Introduction to the Buddhist Tantric Systems?
This scholarly work covers the four classes of Buddhist tantra, deity yoga practices, mandala theory, initiation rituals, and the philosophical foundations of Vajrayana Buddhism. It includes detailed analysis of Tibetan and Sanskrit source texts with extensive scholarly commentary.
Is this book suitable for beginners in Buddhism?
No, this is an advanced academic text intended for graduate students, researchers, and serious practitioners with prior knowledge of Buddhist philosophy. Beginners should start with introductory books on Buddhism before tackling Wayman’s scholarly analysis of tantric systems.
Where can I buy Introduction to the Buddhist Tantric Systems in India?
You can buy this book online at The Bookish Owl (thebookishowl.in) for ₹625. This hardcover edition is published by Motilal Banarsidass, India’s leading publisher of Buddhist and Indological texts, and is currently in stock.
What makes Alex Wayman’s book on Buddhist tantra important?
Wayman’s work is considered foundational in Western Buddhist scholarship for its rigorous translation of primary Tibetan sources and systematic explanation of tantric classification systems. It remains widely cited in academic research and provides accessible scholarly analysis of complex esoteric Buddhist traditions.
