Original Publication: Nov. 19, 2013 at theimportant1111blog.wordpress.com
Tantra is a form of spirituality that is practiced mainly through sex. This kind of sex is considered sacred and divine; however, all acts of sex or passion that come from the heart, that come from love, are sacred and divine.
It is from the many beliefs and practices of Tantra that the Kama Sutra comes to us. The book and Tantra originate from India. Although Tantra or sacred sex is known to the world as originating from India, sacred sex can also be found in other ancient spiritual paths. It is also still practiced in those spiritual paths that have survived the changes and tumults of humanity.
The Kama Sutra is a manual, one that details the proper practices of courtship and seduction. It defines proper behavior for men and women. It provides names for specific sexual acts and gestures; such as, the tiger's claw, a line curving inwards, traced near the breasts or on the face. Also, it discusses sex positions, infidelity, marriage, and sexual energy.
One thing to remember when reading the Kama Sutra is that it is a really really old book. Therefore, its social customs and views of women are not what a modern reader may be used to.
The path of sacred sex without ties to Tantra specifically is more focused on internal harmony and harmony with a partner and the world. To practice sacred sex without Tantra, or any other spiritual connection, is especially difficult because when we look within us we find the universe and the universe itself is not something that has bounds. To focus only on the sexual aspects of the Kama Sutra is to put limits upon yourself when you are limitless. To focus only on the physical benefits of the Kama Sutra is to cut off the divine part of yourself.
Namaste.