While Tantra is subdivided into these divergent groups, Padoux nevertheless attempts a vague outline of the basic doctrinal aspects of Hindu tantra.
 <img src="involute.gif" width=300 height=300 border=0>
He defines this vague collection of texts and traditions as:

"a practical way to attain supernatural power and liberation in this life through the use of specific and complex techniques based on a particular ideology, that of a cosmic reintegration by means of a which the adept is established in a position of power, freed from worldly fetters, while remaining in this world and dominating it by union with (or proximity to) a godhead who is the supreme power itself"

 
Additionally, he is fond of reminding us that the tantric universe (while often non-dual) is based upon a conception of divinity as sexually polarized. That is, the universe comes about through the sexual intercourse of male and female gods.
NEXT