Introduction to Tara

Tara (तारा), one of the Dasa Mahavidyas, is the goddess of compassion, guidance, and ultimate liberation. She is often called the Savior Goddess because she rescues devotees from suffering, ignorance, and illusion. Tara’s energy is both nurturing and fierce—she protects those on the spiritual path while destroying obstacles and fears.

Tara is deeply connected to both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. In Buddhism, she is revered as Green Tara and White Tara, symbols of mercy and protection. In Hindu Tantra, she is a fearsome yet motherly force, embodying raw cosmic wisdom.

She is for seekers who desire divine knowledge, guidance in life’s struggles, and the ultimate experience of spiritual freedom.

The Meaning and Origins of Tara

The name Tara means “The One Who Saves” or “The Star”, representing her role as the guiding light for spiritual seekers.

• “Tara” (तारा) comes from the Sanskrit root “tar”, meaning “to cross over.”
• She is the divine bridge that helps beings transcend suffering and reach enlightenment.
• In Tantra, she is the force that liberates one from bondage and leads them to ultimate wisdom.

Tara as the Goddess of Protection and Knowledge

• She is both a fierce warrior and a loving mother.
• She protects devotees from harm, guiding them through the darkness of ignorance.
• She grants wisdom, leading seekers toward spiritual realization.

Symbolism and Iconography of Tara

Tara’s form is a mix of fierce power and divine grace.

1. Dark Blue or Green Complexion – Representing boundless wisdom and the vast cosmic void.
2. Seated on a Lotus or Corpse – Symbolizing transcendence over illusion and death.
3. Four Hands Holding a Sword, Scissors, and a Bowl – Indicating cutting through illusion and nourishing spiritual awakening.
4. A Garland of Skulls – Representing her mastery over time and death.
5. A Serene Yet Fierce Expression – Showing her balance of mercy and destruction.

Tara’s Role in Tantra

Tara is both a guardian and a destroyer—she removes ignorance and grants ultimate liberation.

1. The Power of Divine Guidance

• Tara is the guiding force in the darkness, leading seekers toward truth.
• She grants clarity, wisdom, and the strength to overcome obstacles.
• Worshiping her removes fear and fills the mind with divine insight.

2. Tara and the Destruction of Ignorance

• She destroys false beliefs, mental blockages, and illusions.
• She is invoked to clear confusion and bring sharp spiritual understanding.
• Unlike Kali, who destroys time itself, Tara grants freedom from inner limitations.

3. Tara as the Mother of Compassion

• While fierce, she is also a deeply compassionate goddess.
• She protects those who call upon her, providing comfort and refuge.
• She grants fearlessness, dissolving suffering with unconditional love.

The Worship and Sadhana of Tara

Her worship is for seekers of truth, wisdom, and spiritual liberation.

1. The Mantras of Tara

Tara’s mantras remove ignorance, fear, and suffering.

• Main Tara Mantra:
  “Om Hreem Streem Hum Phat”
  (For protection, guidance, and spiritual clarity.)

• Tara Beej Mantra:
  “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Swaha”
  (For ultimate liberation and fearlessness.)

2. Meditation on Tara

• Visualize a radiant blue-green goddess, glowing with wisdom and power.
• See her sword cutting through illusion, clearing the path to truth.
• Let her energy dissolve all fears, opening the door to spiritual awakening.

3. Offerings to Tara

• Milk, Rice, and Honey – Representing her nurturing aspect.
• Red or Blue Flowers – Symbolizing divine love and wisdom.
• Sitting in Silent Meditation – The greatest offering is seeking truth with an open heart.

Tara’s Relevance in Modern Times

Her wisdom is more important than ever in today’s chaotic world.

• For those lost in confusion, she grants clarity.
• For those in fear, she brings strength.
• For those seeking wisdom, she reveals the ultimate truth.

She is the goddess for those who seek both knowledge and protection.

Final Realization: Becoming Tara’s Vessel

Tara is not just a deity—she is the force of wisdom within.

• If you seek truth, let her guide you beyond illusion.
• If you seek courage, call upon her fearless energy.
• If you seek liberation, allow her wisdom to dissolve all obstacles.

Then, her light will shine within you, revealing the ultimate realization—you are already free.

Tara is the cosmic guide, the compassionate savior, and the force of divine wisdom. If you are ready, she will lead you to enlightenment.

AUM.