The University of Nalanda c10.201

c10.201

(1) Scholars are not unanimous as to the number of subdivisions of the Tantras. Indian scholars know only of four subdivisions, viz., (1) Kriyātantra, (2) Caryātantra, (3) Yogatantra, (4) Anuttarayogatantra. But Kazi Dawsam Dup gives us a sixfold classification of Vajrayāna. To the list above set forth, he adds two more: (i) Mahāyogatantrayāna and (ii) Atiyogatantrayāna. Freshers into the Vajrayāna doctrine were admitted in the Kriyātantra, the lowest of all the Yānas. Here they were required to observe strict rules of discipline and celibacy. In the Yogatantra they were given more latitude in their conduct and were allowed to mix with the Śaktis; while immunity from all restrictions, moral and others was granted to those who were promoted to the Anuttara, the highest of all the Yānas. Those who were lucky and capable of reaching this lofty level were called Siddhas, persons who had obtained miraculous powers.