In this two part podcast Professor Thurman discusses the value of studying Tibetan Buddhist Vajrayana by anyone interested in improving their mind, relationships and the world around them with or without initiation or empowerment.
Opening with a succinct explanation of the different lineages, orders and sects of Tibetan Buddhism from a historical perspective, Robert A.F. Thurman leads a discussion of the common misconceptions of Vajrayana Buddhism since coming to the West giving rise to the appearance of sectarianism and abuses by non-traditional Guru figures.
Podcast includes: an overview of the Buddhist Inner Sciences, a short discussion of the distinctions between Mother, Father and Non-Dual Tantra and an introduction to the central channel practices including the Magic Body and Chakra symbolism.
Second half of the podcast includes an in-depth exploration of the the symbolism and use of the Bells, Dorjes and Vajra Ritual Implements in art and meditation practices.
Podcast concludes with a reading of Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s “Millennial Cities” by Gary Gach.
This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.


This podcast is apart of the Buddhist Inner Sciences 101 Podcast Series taken from the Bob Thurman & Tibet House US archives which are intended to provide an introduction to the yogic, meditative & theoretical practices of the tradition. These recordings are intended to be general overviews & one should be studying with a qualified teacher before attempting or engaging in the practices.
Buddhist Sciences : Mother & Father Tantras - Ep. 203 was recorded at the Indo-Tibetan Buddhist Sources Class Introduction of the Force for Good Series Class "Buddhist Science Vajrayana Part Three" on November 30th 2016 at Tibet House US in New York City.
This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.