<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p>It is the purpose of this paper to explore some aspects of Tantrism, an esoteric system of spiritual advancement by the cultivation of physical and psychic resources rooted in the ancient Hindu philosophical concept of <italic>shakti</italic>. Between 900 and the fifteenth century it not only contributed immensely to feminizing and galvanizing Hinduism, but it also gave rise to a scriptural corpus, rewriting goddess theology, her relation to male deity, her cosmic functions, being at the same time subversive of dominant Brahmanical values and speaking directly to women’s experiences.</p></abstract>

It is the purpose of this paper to explore some aspects of Tantrism, an esoteric system of spiritual advancement by the cultivation of physical and psychic resources rooted in the ancient Hindu philosophical concept of shakti. Between 900 and the fifteenth century it not only contributed immensely to feminizing and galvanizing Hinduism, but it also gave rise to a scriptural corpus, rewriting goddess theology, her relation to male deity, her cosmic functions, being at the same time subversive of dominant Brahmanical values and speaking directly to women’s experiences.

Tantrism and Women’s Empowerment in India

West University of Timişoara 4, Vasile Pârvan Blvd, 300223

Gender Studies

{"article-title":"Tantrism and Women\u2019s Empowerment in India"}

It is the purpose of this paper to explore some aspects of Tantrism, an esoteric system of spiritual advancement by the cultivation of physical and psychic...

Tantrism and Women’s Empowerment in India

Published Online: Dec 28, 2012

Page range: 220 - 234

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/v10320-012-0020-y

Keywords
Tantra, Buddhism, Hinduism, goddess, empowerment, shakti, bhakti

This content is open access.

Tantrism and Women’s Empowerment in India

Published Online: Dec 28, 2012

Page range: 220 - 234

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/v10320-012-0020-y

KeywordsTantra, Buddhism, Hinduism, goddess, empowerment, shakti, bhakti

This content is open access.

Keywords
Tantra, Buddhism, Hinduism, goddess, empowerment, shakti, bhakti