Synopsis Vajrayana Buddhism received its name from the Sanskrit word vajra, which represents the thunderbolt wielded by Indra, the god of war and weather. This word also loosely translates to mean 'diamond', denoting unbreakable strength. As such, Vajrayana Buddhism is often called the Diamond Vechicle and Indestructible Path of Buddhism. It is also synonymous with various other names, including Thunderbolt Vechicle, True Words Sect, Esoteric Buddhism, Tantric Buddhism, Mantrayana, and Secret Mantra Among others.

The goal of spiritual practice within the Mahayana and Vajrayana traditions is to become a bodhisattva, whereas the goal for Theravada practice is not specific to which type of enlightened being to become. As with the Mahayana, motivation is a vital compnent of Vajrayana practice, and Vajrayana teaches that all practices are to be undertaken with the motivation to achieve Buddha hood for the benefit of all sentient beings.