Deity Yoga: In Action and Performance Tantra

Deity Yoga describes the profound process of meditation in Action and Performance Tantras. It is composed of three parts: Heart of Mantra by the Dalai Lama is a lucid exposition of the meditative rites of deity yoga—the distinctly tantric process in which yogis visualize themselves in the form of a Buddha's divine body as a manifestation of compassionate wisdom. The Great Exposition of Secret Mantra, parts 2 and 3 by Tsong-ka-pa, details the practices of Action and Performance Tantras.

Special deity yoga techniques for the development of the heart, mind, and physical form of a Buddha are presented in a coherent series of yogic exercises. The mudras (hand gestures) that accompany the meditations are clearly illustrated. A supplement by Jeffrey Hopkins outlines in detail the structure of Action Tantra practices, as well as the need for the development of special yogic powers.

This work forms the basis of higher tantric practices and explains the meditative rites of deity yoga. It is the sequel to Tantra in Tibet and is part of the "Wisdom of Tibet" series published under the auspices of the Dalai Lama, each volume of which has been specially chosen by His Holiness as revealing a true oral tradition.