Means and methods of utilizing the mantras for one’s own good. (Glossary for the Vahinis)

‘Tantra’, means the means and methods of utilising the mantras for one’s own good. Man has physical and material power only. His Karma becomes holy and sacred when the mechanics (yantra) of life are ruled by Mantra and Tantra. The technique of this sadhana is in the Karma Kanda of the Vedas. The ancient sages became aware of this and have preserved it for mankind in the Four Vedas. (SSVahini, p. 182)

Tantra means only ‘that which saves well’ and so there is no reason to feel apologetic about it. It is just a means to achieve the aim of the merging of the Jiva with Brahman (individual soul with Supreme Soul); Tantra is a systematic discipline, which employs symbolism and sublimation to purify the instincts and control the mind; Tantra is the Spiritual Science based on the Shakti (Feminine aspect of Energy) that plays a central part in the spiritual progress of man. (AV, p. 188)