Tara: The Only One Pure, The Primordial Buddha of Wisdom
In the vast pantheon of Buddhist deities, Tara, known as the ‘Savioress’, holds a unique and profound position. She is revered as the embodiment of enlightened wisdom and compassionate action, guiding beings towards liberation from suffering and samsara, the cycle of rebirth.
Tara’s name, derived from Sanskrit, translates to “star” or “she who ferries across,” a testament to her role as a beacon of hope and a spiritual protector. She is often depicted with a serene expression, seated in a graceful posture, her right hand extended in a gesture of granting protection and her left hand holding a lotus flower, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.
According to Buddhist teachings, Tara emerged as a spontaneous manifestation of the compassion of all the Buddhas, particularly Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. She is believed to have taken countless incarnations to assist sentient beings in overcoming obstacles and attaining spiritual realization.
One of the most famous stories about Tara’s origin is the “Twenty-One Taras.” It is said that when Avalokiteshvara witnessed the suffering of beings in the world, he shed tears of compassion. Each tear transformed into a Tara, creating twenty-one manifestations, each with unique attributes and abilities to aid beings in specific situations.
Tara’s iconography and symbolism vary across different Buddhist traditions. In Tibetan Buddhism, she is often depicted with a green body, representing her active nature and ability to manifest in various forms. In East Asian traditions, she may be portrayed with a serene white body, emphasizing her purity and transcendent wisdom.
Regardless of her manifestation, Tara embodies the qualities of enlightenment and compassion. She is the embodiment of prajnaparamita, the perfection of wisdom, realizing the ultimate nature of reality and guiding beings towards the path to liberation. Her compassion extends to all beings, regardless of their beliefs or circumstances, offering protection, guidance, and inspiration.
Tara’s mantra, “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha,” is widely recited by Buddhist practitioners as a powerful invocation of her blessings and protection. Chanting the mantra is believed to purify negative karma, cultivate merit, and enhance wisdom and compassion.
In conclusion, Tara, the Only One Pure, is the Primordial Buddha of Wisdom, a symbol of enlightened wisdom and compassionate action. Her presence in Buddhist iconography and practices serves as a constant reminder of the boundless compassion and wisdom available to all beings on their spiritual journey. By invoking her name, chanting her mantra, and embodying her qualities, practitioners can cultivate Tara’s wisdom, compassion, and protection, leading them towards the ultimate goal of liberation.