Question: It is said that in the Tantric tradition, when the relationship between the Guru and shishya becomes intimate and sacred, there could be a closeness that could even be sexual. The shishya-guru attraction β as evident in the Krishna-gopi tradition of amorousness β might manifest as sexual union. So what is Tantra really and how does it relate to our sexuality? This is an inner technology. These are subjective methods not objective methods.
But in the current understanding in society, the word "Tantra" refers to very unorthodox or socially unacceptable methods. It is just that certain aspects are used in a certain way. It is not any different from Yoga. It is a limb of Yoga called Tantra Yoga. The human mechanism is a composite of the physical body β an accumulation of food consumed; the mental body β the software and memory part that makes individuals function in specific ways; and the energy body β the fundamental upon which these two are housed.
What is beyond this is non-physical. The compulsive and cyclical nature of the body and mind render themselves a barrier for higher possibilities. Tantra is to go beyond, so that compulsiveness of the body and mind does not keep us trapped in our limitations. It is about learning to use the body, not as oneself, but as a stepping-stone to deliver this being to the highest possible dimension. Tantra is not about unbridled sexuality, as assumed by many. Sexuality is a fundamental instinct instilled in our bodies to ensure the species perpetuates itself.
This is a basic requirement. At the same time, one must know the limitations beyond which it will not carry us. It is only upon recognising the limitations, and when the longing to touch other dimensions comes, that Yoga and Tantra become relevant.
In Tantra, it is not that someone is using just sexuality to grow. They are using every aspect to grow. Unfortunately, there may be people who are attracted to such a path for the wrong reasons.
