Do you ever feel like you need a little bit of extra help in your life? Like you need someone to guide you towards your goals and protect you from harm? If so, you might want to turn to Green Tara. She’s a powerful Buddhist symbol who represents the divine feminine energy of compassion and protection.
Green Tara is one of the most popular and beloved figures in the Buddhist pantheon. She’s often depicted with one leg tucked in and one leg extended, ready to spring into action and help those who call upon her. With her right hand, she bestows blessings, while her left hand holds a blue lotus flower, symbolizing wisdom.
Many people turn to Green Tara for help with specific problems or challenges in their lives. She’s believed to have the ability to swiftly respond to the requests of her devotees and provide them with the assistance they need. Whether you’re struggling with a difficult decision, facing a tough situation, or simply need a boost of confidence, Green Tara is there for you.
Green Tara’s Origin and History
Green Tara is a goddess from the Buddhist tradition who is highly revered and worshipped across many cultures. The word Tara means ‘star’ or ‘planet’, the goddess itself symbolizes compassion and strength. It is believed that Tara is the female version of Avalokitesvara, the bodhisattva of compassion in the Mahayana Buddhist tradition.
The origin of Green Tara is believed to be in Hindu goddesses of mythology, where she was initially the goddess of the earth and fertility. As the story goes, Green Tara was born from the tears of Avalokitesvara as he witnessed the suffering of sentient beings. It is believed that in the 6th century she was recognized as the consort of Amoghapasa, a bodhisattva. Over time, Tara became one of the most popular and widely worshipped goddesses in the Buddhist tradition.
- Green Tara is known for her compassion and her willingness to protect people in times of need.
- According to legend, when the Buddha was meditating under the Bodhi tree, Mara, the demon of temptation appeared and tried to distract him by making him doubt his own worthiness. The Buddha called out to the heavens, where a thousand Taras appeared, and together they helped him dispel the demon’s temptation.
- Green Tara is also known for her swift action and ability to navigate difficult situations – her right foot is always extended as if she is ready to leap into action at a moment’s notice.
Green Tara continues to be an important figure in the Buddhist tradition today. Many practitioners believe that by invoking her name and repeating her mantra, they can evoke her qualities of compassion, strength, and protection in their own lives.
There are many different versions of Green Tara’s origin and her role in Buddhist practice, but one thing is clear – she is a beloved and highly respected figure who continues to inspire and guide people around the world.
The Meaning of the Color Green in Buddhism
In Buddhism, colors symbolize different aspects of the religion, spirituality, and life. Green is one of the most significant colors in Buddhism, representing several elements in the religion.
- Renewal and Growth: Green is the color of growth and renewal, symbolizing vitality, freshness, and energy.
- Nature and Harmony: The color green represents nature and harmony in Buddhism. Buddha spent time meditating under a green fig tree, which became known as the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India. The tree symbolizes Buddha’s enlightenment and is considered a sacred tree in Buddhist tradition.
- Healing: Green is also known to have healing qualities, representing balance, harmony, and well-being in Buddhism.
Green Tara, a revered Buddhist figure, embodies the symbolism of the color green. Green Tara is one of the most popular and well-known Buddhist deities, revered as the mother of liberation and compassion.
Green Tara is represented as a female figure, often depicted sitting on a lotus flower and surrounded by green light. She is known for her compassion, protection, and swift action in helping those who call upon her for assistance. Green Tara is believed to be a source of healing and preservation, offering her help and guidance to those who need it.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lotus Flower | The lotus flower symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and spiritual growth. |
| Green Light | Green light is believed to represent the healing energy of Tara and is known to have a calming effect on the mind. |
| Compassion | Green Tara embodies compassion and is considered the mother of liberation. |
By meditating on Green Tara, Buddhists seek her guidance and protection to overcome obstacles and challenges in their lives. Green Tara symbolizes the renewal and growth of nature, healing, compassion, and harmony, making it a significant representation of the core values of Buddhism.
The story of how Green Tara was born
Green Tara is a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism and is worshipped as a deity known for her compassion and willingness to assist those in need. The legend of her birth features several variations, but it always involves a Bodhisattva named Avalokiteshvara.
- One version tells of Avalokiteshvara noticing the suffering of sentient beings and crying tears, which fell to the ground and formed a lotus. From the lotus sprouted Green Tara, fully formed and ready to help those in need.
- Another version tells of Avalokiteshvara uttering a compassionate mantra that formed a lake. A lotus flower emerged from the lake, and inside the lotus was the young and radiant Green Tara.
- A third version tells of a princess named Jnanachandra, who meditated upon a great compassion deity named Amitabha. In her meditation, she became one with Amitabha and then manifested as Green Tara.
The common thread through all of the versions is that Green Tara embodies the compassion and wisdom of the bodhisattvas and is eager to help those in need. Her green color is said to represent her activity, which is always in motion and always seeking to alleviate suffering.
Many Tibetan Buddhists turn to Green Tara when faced with difficult situations, hoping to tap into her wisdom and protection. Her captivating story and compassionate nature continue to inspire Buddhist practitioners to this day.
Different Depictions of Green Tara in Art
Green Tara is a popular Buddhist goddess who represents compassion, protection, and enlightenment. In Buddhist art, she is depicted in various forms, each with unique symbolism and meaning.
One of the most common depictions of Green Tara is with one leg outstretched and one leg folded, ready to rise and protect those in need. She is often portrayed as a young, beautiful woman with eyes full of kindness and a serene expression on her face.
- Green Tara with Two Arms: In this form, Green Tara is depicted with two arms, holding a blue lotus flower in one hand and making the mudra of fearlessness with the other. This form represents her willingness to help those in need and the fearlessness needed to face challenges.
- Green Tara with Four Arms: This form of Green Tara is depicted with four arms, each holding a specific object that provides protection and guidance. Her right-hand arms hold a lotus flower and a crystal mala (prayer beads), while her left-hand arms hold a blooming utpala flower and a sword. This form represents her ability to provide complete protection and to cut through delusions and obstacles that prevent spiritual growth.
- Green Tara with Eight Arms: This complex form of Green Tara has eight arms, each holding a powerful symbol. Her first two arms are in the namaste mudra, and the others hold a lotus flower, a conch shell, a crystal mala, a bow, an arrow, and a sword. Each symbol represents a different aspect of enlightenment and the power to overcome difficulties.
Another unique aspect of Green Tara’s depictions is her association with the natural world. In many images, she is surrounded by blooming lotus flowers, butterflies, and birds, all of which represent her connection to the Earth and her nurturing spirit.
| Depiction of Green Tara | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| One Leg Outstretched | Readiness to protect and compassion |
| Green Tara with Two Arms | Willingness to help and fearlessness |
| Green Tara with Four Arms | Complete protection and cutting through delusions |
| Green Tara with Eight Arms | Ability to overcome difficulties and achieve enlightenment |
Overall, the different depictions of Green Tara in art reflect her multifaceted nature and the many roles she plays in Buddhist beliefs and practices. Her images are a reminder of the power of compassion and protection, and the need to overcome obstacles to achieve spiritual growth.
The different mudras (hand gestures) associated with Green Tara
Green Tara is frequently depicted with different mudras (hand gestures) that symbolize various aspects of her nature and actions.
Here are the five most common mudras associated with Green Tara and their meanings:
- The gesture of blessing: Tara’s right hand is held palm outwards, with all five fingers extended. This mudra symbolizes her ability to remove obstacles and bestow blessings.
- The gesture of fearlessness: Tara’s right hand is held up in front of her chest, with the palm facing outwards and the thumb and index finger touching. This mudra symbolizes Tara’s fearlessness in the face of all obstacles and her protection against danger.
- The gesture of granting wishes: Tara’s right hand is held in front of her heart, with the palm facing outwards and all fingers extended. This mudra symbolizes Tara’s willingness to grant the wishes of her devotees.
- The gesture of teaching: Tara’s right hand is held in front of her chest, with the palm facing inwards and the thumb and index finger touching. This mudra symbolizes Tara’s willingness to offer her teachings to all who seek them.
- The gesture of protection: Tara’s right hand is held down by her side, with the palm facing outwards. This mudra symbolizes Tara’s protection and her ability to dispel negative forces and energies.
The significance of mudras in Green Tara’s iconography
The use of mudras in Green Tara’s iconography serves to enhance the symbolic meaning of her image. Each mudra is imbued with a specific meaning that represents one of Tara’s qualities or actions. When combined with other aspects of her iconography, such as her color, posture, and the objects she holds, the mudras contribute to a rich and multifaceted representation of this important Buddhist deity.
Conclusion
The mudras associated with Green Tara are an important aspect of her iconography and serve to enhance the symbolic meaning of her image. Each mudra represents one of Tara’s qualities or actions and contributes to a rich and multifaceted representation of this important Buddhist deity.
| Mudra | Meaning |
|---|---|
| The gesture of blessing | Tara’s ability to remove obstacles and bestow blessings |
| The gesture of fearlessness | Tara’s fearlessness in the face of all obstacles and her protection against danger |
| The gesture of granting wishes | Tara’s willingness to grant the wishes of her devotees |
| The gesture of teaching | Tara’s willingness to offer her teachings to all who seek them |
| The gesture of protection | Tara’s protection and her ability to dispel negative forces and energies |
By understanding the significance of these mudras, we can deepen our appreciation for the rich symbolism associated with Green Tara and enhance our understanding of this important Buddhist deity.
The symbolism of Green Tara’s lotus flower
Green Tara is a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, known for her compassionate nature and speedy assistance to those who seek her help. She is often depicted sitting on a lotus flower, which holds great significance in Buddhist symbolism. The lotus flower symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and detachment from the material world.
- Purity: The lotus flower is often associated with purity because it emerges from muddy waters but remains untouched by the dirt and mud in which it grows. Similarly, Green Tara, who represents purity of mind and heart, sits on the lotus flower as a symbol of her unchanging and pure nature.
- Enlightenment: The lotus flower is believed to represent the path towards enlightenment that every Buddhist must follow. The gradual blooming of the lotus flower from a tiny bud to a full bloom is seen as a metaphor for the slow realization of the Buddha’s teachings in one’s life. In other words, as the lotus flower unfurls, a person unfurls their understanding of the nature of reality.
- Detachment: The lotus flower is also a symbol of detachment from the material world. It grows in water but remains untouched by it, and so represents the ability to remain undisturbed by the ups and downs of life. Similarly, Green Tara, who is free from the attachments and desires of this world, is also depicted sitting on the lotus.
Furthermore, the number of petals on the lotus flower also carries significance in Buddhist symbolism. The lotus depicted under Green Tara usually has six petals, which represent the six paramitas or virtues that a Buddhist must cultivate on the path to enlightenment.
| Paramita | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Dana | Generosity |
| Sila | Ethical conduct |
| Kshanti | Patience |
| Virya | Diligence |
| Dhyana | Meditation |
| Prajna | Wisdom |
In summary, the lotus flower symbolizes purity, enlightenment, and detachment from the material world, and is often depicted under Green Tara, who represents these qualities. The number of petals on the lotus, which are usually six in Green Tara’s case, represents the six virtues that a Buddhist must cultivate to attain enlightenment.
The Mantra Associated with Green Tara
Green Tara is one of the most beloved deities in Tibetan Buddhism, and she is revered as the Mother of Liberation. Her name, Tara, means “star” in Sanskrit, and she is often depicted as a beautiful woman sitting on a lotus throne, with one leg crossed over the other. The Green Tara mantra is one of the most powerful mantras in Buddhism, and it is said to grant protection, healing, and spiritual awakening to those who recite it.
- The Mantra: Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha
- Pronunciation: ohm tar-ay toot-ar-ay tour-ay so-ha
- Meaning: There are many interpretations of the Green Tara mantra, but it is generally understood to mean “I prostrate to the liberator, the mother of all the conquerors.”
The Green Tara mantra is a powerful tool for anyone who is seeking to overcome obstacles, manifest abundance, or cultivate compassion and wisdom. When you recite the mantra with faith and devotion, it helps to transform negative energy into positive energy, and it can also help you to connect with the divine feminine energy of the universe.
According to legend, Tara was born from the tears of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, and she embodies the compassionate aspect of enlightenment. The Green Tara mantra is a way to connect with her energy and to invoke her blessings for yourself and others.
| Number | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| 1 | Represents Tara’s perfect, enlightened mind |
| 2 | Represents Tara’s duality, her ability to manifest as either peaceful or wrathful |
| 3 | Represents Tara’s body, speech, and mind, or the three jewels of Buddhism — the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha |
| 7 | Represents the seven eyes of the deity, which symbolize her ability to see and understand the suffering of all beings |
The number 7 is a significant symbol in the Green Tara mantra, as it refers to the seven eyes of the deity. These eyes are said to represent Tara’s ability to see and understand the suffering of all beings, and to respond with compassion and wisdom. By reciting the Green Tara mantra with reverence and sincerity, we can awaken these same qualities within ourselves, and transform our own suffering into wisdom and compassion.
How Green Tara is worshipped in Buddhism
Green Tara is a beloved Buddhist deity known as the “Mother of all Buddhas” and the “Great Liberator.” She is worshipped by millions of Buddhists around the world, especially in Tibet and the Himalayan regions. Here are some ways in which Green Tara is worshipped in Buddhism:
Worship Practices
- Chanting: Buddhists often recite the mantra “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha” while focusing on an image or statue of Green Tara. This mantra is said to bring protection, healing, and liberation.
- Meditation: Practitioners may also meditate on Green Tara to connect with her energy and receive her blessings. Meditating on her may bring courage, wisdom, and compassion.
- Puja: A puja is a ritual that involves prayer, offering, and homage to a deity. Buddhists may perform a puja to Green Tara to ask for her blessings or to express gratitude.
Symbolism of the Number 8
The number 8 is significant in Buddhism and is often associated with Green Tara. There are eight primary forms of Tara, each representing a different aspect of enlightenment and compassion. Additionally, the eight spokes of the Dharma wheel symbolize the Eightfold Path, which is the path to liberation from suffering.
| Aspect of Tara | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| White Tara | Long life, healing, compassion |
| Green Tara | Protection, swift action, courage |
| Red Tara | Power, passion, magnetism |
| Black Tara | Destruction of negativity, transformation |
| Yellow Tara | Wealth, prosperity, abundance |
| Blue Tara | Transcendence, knowledge, wisdom |
| Gold Tara | Enlightenment, spiritual wealth |
| Silver Tara | Peace, harmony, balance |
Conclusion
Green Tara is a powerful and compassionate deity in Buddhism. Worshipping her can bring protection, healing, and liberation from suffering. The number 8 is significant in Buddhism and is associated with Green Tara, representing the eight primary forms of Tara and the Eightfold Path to enlightenment. By connecting with Green Tara’s energy and symbolism, practitioners can cultivate courage, wisdom, and compassion in their own lives.
Stories of Miracles Attributed to Green Tara
As a powerful embodiment of compassion and protection, Green Tara is revered by Buddhists across the globe. According to legends, Green Tara possesses the ability to grant wishes and protect her devotees from harm. Here are some of the miraculous events attributed to her:
- Protection from a storm: In one story, a group of travelers was caught in a fierce storm while crossing a river. They prayed to Green Tara for protection, and miraculously, a giant lotus flower appeared and sheltered them from the storm.
- Tara’s guidance: One tale recounts the story of a monk who was lost in the forest and had no idea which way to go. He prayed to Green Tara for guidance and saw a vision of her pointing the way.
- Healing power: There are many examples of Tara’s healing powers. In one such case, a young girl was gravely ill, and her parents prayed to Green Tara for her recovery. Soon after, a stranger arrived and gave the girl a medicine that healed her completely. The stranger vanished without a trace, leading many to believe that it was Green Tara herself who had intervened.
The beautiful stories of Green Tara’s miracles continue to inspire and provide hope to people all over the world.
The role of Green Tara in helping one achieve enlightenment
Green Tara is one of the most popular bodhisattvas in Buddhism and is revered across various traditions as a symbol of compassion, protection, and enlightenment. Here, we will be focusing on the role of Green Tara in helping one achieve enlightenment.
- She represents the activity of wisdom: Green Tara is often depicted with one leg ready to spring into action, signifying the swiftness of wisdom. She is associated with the energy of transformation, which is necessary for enlightenment.
- She provides protection and guidance: It is believed that Green Tara guides and protects those who seek enlightenment. Her outstretched hand offers comfort and assurance, while her other hand holds a lotus, signifying the purity of her intention.
- She embodies the divine feminine: Green Tara is often seen as the divine embodiment of the feminine aspect of compassion and wisdom. She represents the Mother Goddess, nurturing and compassionate, who helps her devotees on the path to enlightenment.
One of the most important aspects of Green Tara’s role in achieving enlightenment is her ability to grant wishes and fulfill desires. Devotees pray to Green Tara for help with worldly pursuits, such as success in business or finding a life partner. These requests are not seen as frivolous by practitioners but rather as a means to help them focus on their spiritual journey free from distractions.
Various texts mention that Green Tara can help overcome fear, anxiety, and obstacles, both internal and external, that prevent practitioners from realizing their true potential. She is also associated with healing, both physical and emotional.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lotus | Purity and divine birth |
| Third eye | Inner wisdom and clairvoyance |
| Outstretched hand | Offering protection and comfort |
To sum it up, Green Tara plays a significant role in helping one achieve enlightenment by offering guidance, protection, and fulfilling wishes. Her symbolism represents various virtues and attributes that aid in the spiritual journey towards realization and understanding.
What Does Green Tara Symbolize: 7 FAQs
Q: Who is Green Tara?
A: Green Tara is a female deity in Tibetan Buddhism. She is sometimes called the “Mother of Liberation” and is often depicted as a beautiful green-skinned goddess with one foot extended, ready to jump into action.
Q: What does Green Tara symbolize?
A: Green Tara symbolizes many things, including compassion, action, protection, and fearlessness. She is often called upon for help with both spiritual and worldly problems.
Q: How do I connect with Green Tara?
A: You can connect with Green Tara through meditation, prayer, or visualization. You can also recite her mantra, which is “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha.”
Q: Why is Green Tara important?
A: Green Tara is important because she represents the active, compassionate aspect of enlightenment. She is considered a powerful aid on the path to spiritual realization and is said to be able to quickly dispel obstacles and grant wishes.
Q: What are some offerings that can be made to Green Tara?
A: Some traditional offerings to Green Tara include flowers, incense, candles, fruit, and water. You can also offer your own prayers and aspirations.
Q: How can Green Tara help me in my daily life?
A: Green Tara can help you in many ways, including removing obstacles, providing protection, and granting blessings. She is also said to help with physical ailments and emotional difficulties.
Q: Can anyone connect with Green Tara, or do I have to be Buddhist?
A: Anyone can connect with Green Tara, regardless of their religious beliefs or background. The practice of Green Tara meditation and mantra recitation is open to all who seek her guidance and assistance.
Thanks for Learning About Green Tara!
We hope this introduction to Green Tara has been informative and inspiring. Remember, you can always connect with her through meditation, prayer, or visualization. Thank you for reading, and please visit again soon for more articles on spirituality and personal growth.