Women in Hindu Tantra

"Women are goddesses," say the tantras. What is the actual place of women in the ritual practice and life of the tantric community? This book is an attempt to answer this question, which increasingly concerns both academic researchers and spiritual seekers. Based on the texts of the tantras themselves and historical evidence, the author shows the complexity and diversity of women's roles in Hindu tantra, where she can be not only an essential participant in the most sacred rituals but also a mentor and guardian of tradition.