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Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a Timeless Tradition  By  cover art

Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a Timeless Tradition

By: Christopher D. Wallis
Narrated by: Christopher D. Wallis
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Publisher's summary

Tantra Illuminated takes the listener on a fascinating journey to the very heart of original Tantra: its key teachings, foundational lineages, and transformative practices. Since the West's discovery of Tantra 100 years ago, there has been considerable fascination, speculation, and more than a little misinformation about this spiritual movement. Now, for the first time in the English language, Tantra Illuminated presents an accessible introduction to this sacred tradition that began 1,500 years ago in the far north of India. Using translations from primary Sanskrit sources and offering a profound look at spiritual practice, this book reveals Tantra's rich history and powerful teachings.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2012 Christopher D. Wallis (P)2015 Christopher D. Wallis

What listeners say about Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a Timeless Tradition

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Tantric knowledge

I commend Christopher for this body of work. It is much needed.

Having that been said, I do feel for me personally it would be better to have another narrator that specializes in narration.

Not to be picky, but there is a massive body of intelligence and mystic history that is shared in the text and I personally would've preferred having a professional narrator dictate it.

Because sometimes I found myself listening more to the speaker than to the information. And in this case it wasn't a good experience. My Tantric powers were not at their best as a listener. But the information is well worth acquainting to. And I am glad to have listened.

Additionally I feel the fat needs to be cut out. There is a lot of redundancy, pontification and sense of superiority that is convened through choices of words. I will not provide specifics here but do feel with some edits, small trims and cleaner intentions this would make a strong resource text on Kashmir Shaivism Tantra, and Abinavagupta.

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48 people found this helpful

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Causes change from the inside out

Would you consider the audio edition of Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a Timeless Tradition to be better than the print version?

I haven't read the print version yet, but something comes alive when Christopher Wallis reads this text. I had to pause it several times or listen again because it was so powerful. The descriptions communicate the meaning and sense of what they signify - it's not just reading of words...Wallis brings life to sacred texts.

Who was your favorite character and why?

The narrator - his personal caring about the topic is very evident and comes through in the reading.

What does Christopher D. Wallis bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Hearing the book out loud was magical. Wallis deeply understands these texts in a personal way. When he reads them, he not only communicates his caring, but he is transmitting his experience of the texts coming to life in him, too.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Time travel to the seed of wisdom.

Any additional comments?

Wallis makes accessible ancient writings that would have remained unknown to me or absolutely inscrutable if I had somehow come across these writings - which most likely would not have happened. For me this was an experience of sitting in on an historical discussion on the other side of the world with sages who saw the world in an entirely different light.

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16 people found this helpful

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Great book on a misunderstood mystical tradition

If you truly wish to understand the history, development and practice of authentic Tantra then this book is for you. The audiobook brings out many aspects the written book doesn't and vice versa. Very long but very good info. Definitely one that will have to be read over and over. Too much info to digest at once but worth it.

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13 people found this helpful

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beautiful, calming voice, Wallis is the real deal

What made the experience of listening to Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a Timeless Tradition the most enjoyable?

Wallis is authentic and passionate about Tantra. You can tell from his presence and tone of voice that he practices what he preaches. This is a great book for the beginners mind to understand the beauty of tantra.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a Timeless Tradition?

I realized tantra is a great way to balance self-realization and being part of a community.

Any additional comments?

If you get a chance to meet Wallis, he is brilliant.

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11 people found this helpful

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phenominal!

This is honestly one of the best books I've had the privilege to encounter. I soaked up all 19+ hours like my spirit had been looking for this kind of material my entire life. The author's perspective and knowledge is superior, and utterly non-pretentious, like some westerners can come across in this type of material. Highly, Highly recommended as a spectacular introduction to the philosophy, as well as the author's excellent perspective. Much appreciation to the author for his hard work and dedication in putting this material together. Listened to the book three times already - and bought the Kindle edition to read along and take notes as well. Best book I've read in ages :)

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8 people found this helpful

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Tantra Illuminated is brilliant!

Tantra Illuminated is brilliant, and so is Hareesh (Christopher Wallis)! He is masterfully adept at transforming ancient wisdom, and it's historical and modern contexts, into a powerful download. Listening to this book is akin to a tantrik ritual, with Hareesh's beautiful oration, annunciation, and voice. While listening to this book, I feel like I am on a refreshing retreat for my spirit and self.

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8 people found this helpful

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excellent book !

For those Interested in the origins of yoga and how western yoga became separate from the spiritual path. It's academic, and its spiritual. It's wonderful!

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7 people found this helpful

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Amazing...

Iincredible book, i express my gratitude,
With humble pranams..
Read by Hareesh talks directly to your heart, inspiring beyond words

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7 people found this helpful

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A must read if you're interested in Tantra

this is Maybe the best modern work that we have on Tantra.

bringing all the traditional and academic work on the matter in a relatable day today modern language.

jai Maa

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6 people found this helpful

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Fascinating introduction to the world of tantra

I want to listen to this book again. There's so much information it was hard to retain it all on the first listen. It summarizes the philosophy, history, and practices of tantra, ending with a discussion on how those who are interested can go even further. Along the way it dives into topics such as "How do you choose a guru, or spiritual leader?" and "Is tantra even applicable in today's world?" A really thorough, comprehensive introduction to a subject that's too often sensationalized and misunderstood.

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6 people found this helpful