Tantrayana

Tantrayana ('The Vehicle of the Tantra'), popular for its usage of Tantra, is the form of Mahayana Buddhism developed from the earlier Theravada tradition. It is also known as Mantrayana, 'The Vehicle of Spells' (see mantra).

Tantrayana is one of the forms of Buddhism currently associated with Tibet, the other being Vajrayana.

Once the Hinayana and Mahayana philosophy is understood properly, Tantrayana seeks to help individuals quickly achieve Buddhahood through tantric practice. Once Buddhahood is achieved, the practitioner can use these qualities to help others.

Tantrayana developed in Bengal from the 7th century AD in Bengal. It florished in Burma, Thailand, and minimally in Sri Lanka until being replaced by the Theravada tradition.