In Hinduism, the word which is the foremost expression of Divinity is "Om". Om is the original, uncreated foundation from which manifest phenomena springs. In India, the Hindu yogis meditate on Om, and they start all other mantras or prayers with Om. Indeed, Om could be considered the very essence of their metaphysical doctrines.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God". These are the opening words to the Gospel of John, from the New Testament. The mystical truth this statement so succinctly expresses is also held in high regard by other major world religions. Even modern science concurs, "all is vibration", and we all know that vibration creates sound.

Tantric Buddhism and Tantric Hinduism vary on a few fundamental doctrinal points, but they hold much in common as well. The Hindu and Buddhist systems both regard the mystic syllable "Om" as the "Word" that was there in the beginning. This simple word is regarded as containing within it great mysteries and is hence worthy of contemplation.

The Kalachakra cycle of teachings are a tantric practice that is interwoven with Tibetan Buddhist cosmology and astrology, and has to do with the Buddhist Pure Land, Shambala. First given by the Buddha himself, the Kalachakra teachings have had a great influence on Tibetan religion and culture, and are practiced by all the major sects of Tibetan Buddhism.   His Holiness the Dalai Lama has placed special emphasis on these teachings as being of great benefit during the times we are now living in and has given this initiation to many people in various locations around the world. These teachings propagate peace, tolerance and understanding between nations as well as individuals.

One of the eight auspicious symbols - the "endless knot", known as the "knot of eternity". A symbol with multi-layered meaning, it is most often interpreted as being a metaphor for the inseparability of compassion and wisdom. It also symbolizes the inter-being and mutual dependence of consciousness and phenomena.

Yin and Yang represent the polar energies and qualities of which the world is composed: Light and dark, male and female, heaven and earth, birth and death, matter and sprit. The two forces, Yin and Yang, are complementary though contrasting principles. Each makes up for what the other lacks and the wholeness of the world would be incomplete if there were a deficiency of either. This symbol of harmony is also an important Feng Shui emblem.