Tantra Across the Buddhist Cosmopolis

Richard K. Payne's 'Tantra Across the Buddhist Cosmopolis' explores the historical development, transmission, and coherence of tantric Buddhist traditions from early medieval India through Central, South, Southeast, and East Asia.

Payne argues for tantric Buddhism's pervasive but often invisible presence across Buddhist cultures and examines how ritual forms, texts, and practices were adapted in different regional contexts.

Drawing on his expertise as both a scholar and a Shingon practitioner, he integrates textual analysis, ritual study, and embodied practice to challenge common misconceptions about tantra.

The book emphasizes delineation over rigid definition, using context, use, and designation to identify tantric elements.

It is aimed at both specialists and informed readers interested in Buddhist history and ritual practice.