Can Sex Lead to Enlightenment?

What are the Tantric and Buddhist views on the connection between sex and enlightenment? Can sex lead to enlightenment?

Tantra, which originated in post-vedic India, may be defined as a form of yoga that teaches the attainment of spiritual ecstasy via esoteric and erotic techniques. One of its goals is to further spiritual evolution through sexual energy.

The practice of tantric sex has been growing in the West. This is often referred to as pop tantra because it is bereft of the other more important aspects of the practice. Many are attempting to attain enlightenment through this ancient practice. But the majority are interested in either enhancing sexual pleasure or creating "spiritual bonds" with their lovers. Read more

The Relationship between Buddhist Tantra and Hindu Tantra

Tantra can be a confusing term. If you read about Tibetan Tantra, it seems completely different from Hindu Tantra. Why does the same term cover such a wide range of practices? Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche explains the relationship between Buddhist Tantra and Hindu Tantra. (I don't agree that Buddhist Tantra is superior, however.)

Although some scholars have maintained that Buddhist tantra was derived from Hinduism, this is not correct. The theory, prevalent among those who adhere to the tenets of the Hinayana, is based on a superficial resemblance of various elements of the two systems, such as the forms of the deities, the meditations on psychic veins and airs, the fire rituals, etc. Though certain practices, like the repetition of mantras, are common to both Hindu and Buddhist tantric traditions their interpretation, i.e. the inner meaning, is vastly different. Furthermore, Buddhist tantra is superior because, unlike Hinduism, it contains the three principal aspects of the Path: renunciation, the enlightened attitude and the right philosophy. Read more