A Theosophical definition of Tantra(s) :
 
Tantra(s)
(Sanskrit) A word literally meaning a "loom" or the warp or threads in a loom, and, by extension of meaning, signifying a rule or ritual for ceremonial rites. The Hindu Tantras are numerous works or religious treatises teaching mystical and magical formulae or formularies for the attainment of magical or quasi-magical powers, and for the worship of the gods. They are mostly composed in the form of dialogs between Siva and his divine consort Durga, these two divinities being the peculiar objects of the adoration of the Tantrins.
 
In many parts of India the authority of the Tantras seems almost to have superseded the clean and poetical hymns of the Vedas.
 
Most tantric works are supposed to contain five different subjects: (1) the manifestation or evolution of the universe; (2) its destruction; (3) the worship or adoration of the divinities; (4) the achievement or attainment of desired objects and especially of six superhuman faculties; (5) modes or methods of union, usually enumerated as four, with the supreme divinity of the kosmos by means of contemplative meditation.
 
Unfortunately, while there is much of interest in the tantric works, their tendency for long ages has been distinctly towards what in occultism is known as sorcery or black magic. Some of the rites or ceremonies practiced have to do with revolting details connected with sex.
 
Durga, the consort of Siva, his sakti or energy, is worshiped by the Tantrins as a distinct personified female power.
 
The origin of the Tantras unquestionably goes back to a very remote antiquity, and there seems to be little doubt that these works, or their originals, were heirlooms handed down from originally debased or degenerate Atlantean racial offshoots. There is, of course, a certain amount of profoundly philosophical and mystical thought running through the more important tantric works, but the tantric worship in many cases is highly licentious and immoral.

 
See also: Tantra(s, Mysticism, Body Mind and Soul )

Willi.
 
See VILI

 
(See also: Willi, Mysticism, Mysticism Dictionary, Body mind and Soul )

Wittoba.
 
See VITTHALA

 
(See also: Wittoba, Mysticism, Mysticism Dictionary, Body mind and Soul )

Werewolf.
 
See LYCANTHROPY

 
(See also: Werewolf, Mysticism, Mysticism Dictionary, Body mind and Soul )

Wodan, Woden.
 
See ODIN

 
(See also: Wodan, Woden, Mysticism, Mysticism Dictionary, Body mind and Soul )

We.
 
See VE

 
(See also: We, Mysticism, Mysticism Dictionary, Body mind and Soul )

Wisdom-eye.
 
See PINEAL GLAND

 
(See also: Wisdom-eye, Mysticism, Mysticism Dictionary, Body mind and Soul )