Page 158 - Popular Deities of Chinese Buddhism (Illustrated) and Symbols

C XVI

ajrayana

ibetan uddhism

e third vehicle of Buddhism is Vajrayana, often known as Lama-

ism, which originated in Tibet in the eighth century and gradually

spread to its neighbouring countries. Vajrayana is part of Maha-

yana Buddhism, an offshoot, developed out of Mahayana philoso-

phy which is also regarded as Tantric or Esoteric Buddhism. To

practise it, one must have the skilful guidance of an accomplished

Lama because its emphasis is mainly on ritualistic ceremonial ac-

tions and practices which involve the body, speech and mind; the

body being valued as the proper vehicle for salvation.

is brief account is meant as a general introduction to the ird

Vehicle or ‘Yana’, which, together with the Hinayana and the

Mahayana, make up the ree Yanas of Buddhism. Beginners

to Buddhism are advised to have a thorough knowledge on the

teachings of the Buddha as contained in the Hinayana before

moving into Mahayana practices. Only when their founda-

tions are strong enough and they have gained sufficient wisdom

should they consider entering the Vajrayana. It may be a vehicle

that promises enlightenment within a single-life-time and many

are therefore likely to be attracted to it. However, it must be

stressed that the slow and gradual paths of the Hinayana and

the Mahayana should be preferred as they, have lesser pitfalls

and are therefore much more suitable for the average person.

 