6 divine forms of Tara
Tara, also known as “Jetsün Dölma,” is a revered figure in Buddhism, embodying compassion and protection. She is often described as the “Mother of Liberation,” who hears the cries of human beings and swiftly comes to their aid. Tara’s energy is dynamic, representing an active and nurturing force that saves practitioners from both worldly and spiritual dangers. In Buddhist traditions, she is worshipped as a bodhisattva and goddess who bestows blessings, guidance, and protection.
As a savior deity, Tara appears in various forms to address the different needs of sentient beings. Her multiple manifestations reflect diverse qualities such as compassion, wisdom, and power. Among these, six forms of Tara are widely recognized and revered, each symbolizing a unique aspect of her divine nature and fulfilling specific spiritual purposes.
What Are the 6 divine forms of Tara ?
Tara manifests in countless forms, each embodying different virtues and blessings. In this blog, we will explore six main types of Tara that are most commonly venerated in Buddhism.
Green Tara
Green Tara is one of the most beloved forms of Tara, representing compassion in action. She is often depicted seated in a dynamic pose, with one leg extended, symbolizing her readiness to assist those in need. Green Tara embodies swift action and is invoked to overcome obstacles, fears, and negative energies. Her green color signifies growth, healing, and vitality.
Historically, Green Tara has been worshipped across Buddhist traditions for her protective and nurturing qualities. She is believed to have emerged from the compassionate tears of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. A Green Tara Thangka is a powerful meditative tool, often used for invoking her energy to promote healing and resilience. Explore our collection of Green Tara Thangka.
White Tara
White Tara symbolizes purity, healing, and longevity. She is often depicted with a serene expression and seven eyes, representing her vigilance and compassionate gaze over all beings. White Tara is especially revered for her ability to grant health, long life, and spiritual peace.
Her origins are tied to legends of her dedication to preserving the Dharma and protecting practitioners. Worshippers of White Tara often seek her blessings for health and protection. A White Tara Thangka is commonly used in meditation practices to enhance vitality and serenity. Discover more in our White Tara Thangka collection.
Red Tara
Red Tara is a powerful manifestation symbolizing magnetism and passion. Her vibrant red hue represents the transformative energy of desire into spiritual awakening. Red Tara is often invoked for love, compassion, and the ability to attract positive influences into one’s life.
Historically, Red Tara has been worshipped for her empowering qualities and her ability to bring harmony to relationships. A Red Tara Thangka is a vibrant depiction often used in rituals and meditative practices for cultivating compassion and attracting positive energies. Explore our Red Tara Thangka.
Yellow Tara
Yellow Tara is associated with wealth, prosperity, and abundance. Her golden-yellow hue symbolizes the flourishing of both material and spiritual riches. She is often invoked by those seeking success, financial stability, or the removal of poverty.
In Buddhist tradition, Yellow Tara’s blessings extend to spiritual wealth, encouraging practitioners to cultivate generosity and wisdom. A Yellow Tara Thangka is frequently used in ceremonies and meditations to invoke her blessings of abundance and growth. Check out our collection of Yellow Tara Thangka.
Blue Tara (Ekajati)
Blue Tara, also known as Ekajati, represents fierce protection and the destruction of negative forces. Her blue color signifies power, stability, and wisdom. She is especially venerated in Vajrayana Buddhism for her ability to eliminate obstacles and protect practitioners from harm.
Blue Tara is often depicted in a wrathful form, embodying compassion through her fierce resolve to eliminate suffering. Worshippers use her thangkas and mantras to seek protection and inner strength.
Black Tara
Black Tara symbolizes power, fearlessness, and the ability to conquer ignorance and negativity. Her dark hue represents the void, a space of transformation and rebirth. Black Tara is often invoked for removing spiritual darkness and for protection during difficult times.
In Buddhist practice, Black Tara is revered as a fierce guardian who destroys obstacles and clears the path for enlightenment. Her thangkas are used in rituals to invoke her protective energies.
Popular Practices of Tara
One of the most popular practices involving Tara is meditation using her thangka. A Tara Thangka serves as a visual aid, helping practitioners focus on her compassionate energy and qualities. Meditating on her image fosters inner peace, courage, and spiritual growth. Discover our collection of Tara Thangkas.
Chanting Tara mantras, such as “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha,” is another widely practiced ritual. This mantra invokes her blessings for protection, healing, and guidance. Making offerings to Tara, such as flowers, incense, or candles, is also a common practice, symbolizing devotion and gratitude.
Conclusion
Tara, in her many forms, represents the compassionate and transformative energy of the Buddhist path. Each manifestation, from Green Tara’s swift action to Black Tara’s fierce protection, fulfills a unique role in guiding practitioners toward enlightenment. Through meditation, chanting, and offerings, devotees can connect with Tara’s energy and incorporate her blessings into their spiritual journey.
FAQs
1. Who is Tara in Buddhism?
Tara is a Buddhist goddess known as the "Mother of Liberation," who protects and guides practitioners through worldly and spiritual challenges.
2. What does Green Tara symbolize?
Green Tara symbolizes compassion in action, offering protection and removing obstacles in the lives of her devotees.
3. How is a Tara Thangka used?
A Tara Thangka is used in meditation and rituals to focus on Tara’s qualities, invoke her blessings, and enhance spiritual practices.
4. What is the meaning of Tara’s mantra?
Tara’s mantra, “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha,” invokes her blessings for protection, healing, and overcoming fear.
5. Why are there different types of Tara?
Each form of Tara represents a unique aspect of her compassionate and transformative energy, addressing the diverse needs of sentient beings.