The Kulacudamani Tantra and the Vamakesvara Tantra

Both tantras relate to the cult of the Indian Mother Goddess and are translated from the original Sanskrit texts. They appear to date from the 9th to 11th century AD and are important source material for the study of the Goddess in Hinduism. The Kulacudamani Tandra is a manual that describes with candour sexual and magical rituals for which the Goddess cult became notorious. The Vamakesvara Tantra deals with similar ritual procedures, but its 13th century commentary by Jayaratha emphasizes the philosophical tenor of the text. Together the two texts cover a wide range of Shakta thought and practice. The translations are comprehensively annotated and are preceded by introductions which place the texts in their historical context, suggest likely dates of composition, and discuss in outline the philosophy of Shaktism. Philosophic terms specific to the texts are explained in detail. The translations should appeal to students of Hindu religious cults and to all those interested in comparative religion.