Vajrayāna, also known as Esoteric Buddhism, is a form of Buddhism that originated in India and spread to Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and other parts of East Asia. It incorporates elements of Hinduism and the indigenous Tibetan Bon religion, creating a unique blend of spiritual practices and beliefs.

One of the main ways that Vajrayāna incorporates elements of Hinduism is through the use of deities. In Vajrayāna, deities are seen as manifestations of the enlightened mind and are used as objects of meditation and devotion. These deities often have similarities to Hindu gods and goddesses, such as Shiva, Vishnu, and Kali. This reflects the influence of Hinduism on Vajrayāna, as both religions share a belief in the power and importance of divine beings.

Another key element of Vajrayāna that is influenced by Hinduism is the practice of tantra. Tantra, which means "weaving" or "expansion," is a spiritual practice that involves the use of rituals, mantras, and visualizations to achieve enlightenment. This practice is also found in Hinduism, where it is known as Tantra Yoga. In both traditions, tantra is seen as a powerful and transformative practice that can lead to spiritual liberation.

Vajrayāna also incorporates elements of the indigenous Tibetan Bon religion, which existed in Tibet before the arrival of Buddhism. Bon beliefs and practices were integrated into Vajrayāna, creating a syncretic form of Buddhism that is unique to Tibet. One example of this is the use of shamanic practices in Vajrayāna, which are believed to have been influenced by Bon traditions.

In addition, Vajrayāna also incorporates elements of Bon cosmology, which includes the belief in different realms or worlds. This is similar to the Buddhist concept of the six realms of existence, which include the human realm, the animal realm, and the realm of the gods. This incorporation of Bon beliefs reflects the inclusive nature of Vajrayāna, which seeks to incorporate and honor different spiritual traditions.

Overall, the incorporation of elements from Hinduism and Tibetan Bon religion in Vajrayāna reflects the inclusive and adaptable nature of this form of Buddhism. It shows how Buddhism has evolved and adapted to different cultural contexts, while still maintaining its core teachings and principles. By incorporating these elements, Vajrayāna has created a rich and diverse spiritual tradition that continues to thrive and evolve to this day.