Kriya and Charya Tantras
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by Alexander Berzin
Kriya and Charya Tantras
Kriya and charya, the first two classes of tantra, have three Buddha-family traits:
The Tathagata or Buddha family, with the main Buddha-figures (yi-dam, deities) Shakyamuni and Manjushri.
The lotus (Skt. padma) family, with the main Buddha-figures Amitabha, Avalokiteshvara, and Tara.
The vajra family, with the main Buddha-figures Akshobhya and Vajrapani.
On the broadest level:
Manjushri represents body.
Amitabha and Avalokiteshvara represent speech.
Vajrapani represents mind.
In terms of the mind:
Manjushri represents understanding (wisdom).
Amitabha and Avalokiteshvara represent compassion.
Vajrapani represents powerful abilities.