Final answer:
The World Womb Mandala depicting the Buddha at the center and the practice of using prayer wheels are prominent expressions of Vajrayana Buddhism, particularly within Tibetan Buddhism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most prominent expression of Vajrayana Buddhism is its meditation practices and the use of intricate rituals and evocative imagery to attain enlightenment. In Tibetan Buddhism, which is part of the Vajrayana tradition, a prime example can be seen in the iconic symbol of the World Womb Mandala, where the Buddha is depicted at the center surrounded by bodhisattvas, emphasizing the central figure and highlighting the idea of universal compassion and interconnectedness. Moreover, the practice of rotating prayer wheels as a form of sending out prayers, as seen in figure 13.1, is another distinct expression of Vajrayana Buddhism central to Tibetan culture and spiritual life. The most prominent expression of Vajrayana Buddhism is the practice of Tantra. Tantra is a set of esoteric and ritualistic practices within Vajrayana that aims to achieve enlightenment more swiftly. It involves intricate rituals, visualizations, and meditation techniques, often guided by a qualified teacher or guru. Central to Tantra is the concept of using the physical body, including its energies and senses, as a means to achieve spiritual realization. The use of mantras, mandalas, and various symbolic elements is also characteristic of Vajrayana Buddhism, distinguishing it from other forms of Buddhism.