Yidam

The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions | 1997 | 625 words | Copyright

Yidam (Tib., yi.dam., ‘bound in thought’). A class of tutelary deities in Tibetan Buddhism corresponding to the Indian Iṣṭadevatā. It also parallels the Western concept of the guardian angel, in that the yidam inspires, guides, and protects, although restricted in role to the context of Tantric practice. The yidam selected by the yogin may be that of his school or monastery, but often the choice is determined by personal feeling. Yidams are classified in appearance as wrathful, semi-wrathful, and peaceful, and are often considered as ‘aspects’ of well-known bodhisattvas.

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JOHN BOWKER. "Yidam." The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. 10 Feb. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

JOHN BOWKER. "Yidam." The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. 1997. Encyclopedia.com. (February 10, 2012). http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O101-Yidam.html

JOHN BOWKER. "Yidam." The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions. 1997. Retrieved February 10, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O101-Yidam.html

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