In Hinduism, Tantras refer to a diverse set of esoteric texts and practices that emphasize the worship of deities, rituals, and the attainment of spiritual power (siddhis) through various means, including mantra, yantra, meditation, and ritual. The term “Tantra” is derived from the Sanskrit root “tan,” meaning “to weave” or “to expand,” suggesting the weaving together of teachings and practices to expand consciousness.

The origins of Tantra are ancient and complex, with roots in both Hinduism and Buddhism. Tantric practices emerged around the 5th century CE, but some elements of Tantra can be traced back even earlier.

Tantric texts, known as Tantras, cover a wide range of subjects including philosophy, cosmology, theology, rituals, and techniques for spiritual development. These texts are often characterized by their use of symbolism, allegory, and metaphors to convey spiritual truths.

Tantric practices often involve the use of sacred sounds (mantras), geometric diagrams (yantras), and symbolic gestures (mudras) to invoke spiritual energies, purify the mind, and cultivate awareness. Tantric traditions can be broadly categorized into Hindu Tantra and Buddhist Tantra, each with its own texts, practices, and lineages. Within Hindu Tantra, there are further subdivisions based on the deity worshiped, such as Shaiva Tantra (worship of Shiv), Shakta Tantra (worship of Shakti), and Vaishnava Tantra (worship of Vishnu).

There are several categories of Tantras, including:

1. Shaiva Tantras: These are texts dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiv. They include the Rudrayamala Tantra, the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra, and the Shiv Sutras.
2. Shakta Tantras: These focus on the worship of the Divine Mother, known as Shakti or Devi. Some prominent Shakta Tantras include the Devi Mahatmya (also known as Durga Saptashati), the Lalita Sahasranama, and the Tripura Sundari Tantra.
3. Vaishnava Tantras: These are texts devoted to the worship of Lord Vishnu and his avatars. They include texts such as the Pancaratra Agamas and the Narad Pancharatra.
4. Ganapatya Tantras: These focus on the worship of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed deity.
5. Saur Tantras: It is a branch of Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Surya, the Sun God. It is considered one of the ancient tantric traditions within Hinduism.
6. Kaula Tantras: These are a subgroup of Tantras that often involve more esoteric practices, including the use of taboo substances and sexual rituals. The Kaula Tantras are associated with the worship of various deities, including Shiv and Shakti.
7. Mantra and Yantra Tantras: These focus on the use of sacred sounds (mantras) and geometric diagrams (yantras) for spiritual practice and ritual worship.

Tantra also encompasses a wide range of spiritual practices, including meditation, yoga, mantra chanting, ritual worship (puja), and the use of ritual objects such as yantras and murtis (sacred images). The ultimate goal of Tantra is to attain liberation (moksha) by realizing the divine nature of the self and the interconnectedness of all existence. These practices may include breath control (pranayam), visualization, concentration, and physical postures (asans).

Tantra has sometimes been associated with controversial practices, including rituals involving alcohol, meat, and sexual union. However, it’s important to note that these practices are often misunderstood or misrepresented, and not all Tantric traditions advocate such behaviors. Many Tantric practitioners focus instead on inner transformation and spiritual growth.

Overall, Tantras are rich repositories of spiritual wisdom and practices that continue to inspire and guide practitioners seeking deeper understanding and realization of the divine within themselves and the universe.