In Vajrayana Buddhism, dakinis are female deities. Called khandroma “sky-goers” in Tibetan, they are thought to be embodiments of enlightened wisdom and can appear in various forms. In tantric texts and practices, they are described as consorts and sources of wisdom and insight for yogic practitioners. Some dakinis appear wrathful, and are thought to drink blood and visit charnel grounds, where they encounter and instruct tantric practitioners. Tantras and biographies mention them as consorts and sources of enlightening wisdom for yogic practitioners.

Published November 10, 2022

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