Buddhist Philosophy/Esoteric Buddhism

Mahayana Dictum - "Emptiness is form and form is emptiness" can be expressed as a formula:

$\frac{\mathrm{\infty }=1=0}{2}$

Esoteric Buddhist Schools include: Tendai, Shingon, Tantric and are the antithesis of the [[../Yinyana/]] and other open systems. Often based on supernatural teachings incorporating traditional beliefs (and superstitions), they nonetheless integrate some depth psychology and healing methods.

Introduction

Esoteric Buddhism is generally classified under the Great Vehicle (Mahayana) Buddhism. There are two parts to it: the Exoteric and the Esoteric Buddhism. In order for us to understand Esoteric Buddhism, we need to explore the origin as well the the constituents philosophy and historical context how the school come about.

The Exoteric Buddhism is based on Madhyamika ('middle way') of Nagarjuna.

The Esoteric Buddhism is unique and requires the study of the Exoteric Buddhism as the foundation and puts the Esoteric Buddhism as the most advanced form of Buddhism. We assume that students have a basic theological knowledge of Buddhism as well as Exoteric Buddhism.

Doctrine

The doctrine of the Esoteric (or Tantric) Buddhism is based on Mahavairocana-sutra, and Kalacakraindriya-sutra. The following may best explain the doctrine:

• Taking the six elements as essence
• Five Wisdom Buddhas
• Taking the four mandalas as appearance
• Taking the three secrets as means
• Cause, base, final means
• Anger and fear

Reference

Lecture delivered by Master Sheng-yen on Esoteric and Exoteric Buddhism

Article by A. P. Sinnett Esoteric Buddhism