Description: Since the earliest encounters between tantric traditions and Western scholars, the representation of tantra has typically emphasizd the antinomian, decadent aspects, which created a one-dimensional understanding, and hampered the study of the field. The Oxford Handbook of Tantric Studies is intended to overcome these obstacles, with a topical framework that covers the major topics in the field, including the concept of action (rituals, meditation, chanting, and pilgrimage) transformation, embodiment, "extraordinary" beings, art, literature, social organizations, and history. With a global pool of contributors, and over 40 chapters, the Handbook aims to provide the definitive reference work in this dynamic field.
Review Quotes: "...the handbook is not just aimed at one-upping previous monumental works on tantric thought, history, and practice. It helps readers move toward a more nuanced and sophisticated perspective on the world and history of tantra, from its origins in the sixth to seventh centuries right up to today. It manages to fulfill its purpose magnificently. Taken together, the assembled contributions, important in their own right, come together to form a masterclass in theoretical reorientation." -- Raymond Lam, Buddhistdoor Global