What are the 21 Taras in Buddhism?

The 21 Forms of Tara in Tibetan Buddhism: A Complete Guide

Tara, known as Drolma (卓玛) in Tibetan Buddhism, is one of the most revered deities, considered to be a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Tara is also called Tārā in Sanskrit and is known as Dolma or Guan Yin in China. She appears in many forms, but her most famous incarnations are the 21 Taras, each representing different aspects of protection and compassion.

Who is Tara?

Tara is a female Bodhisattva, and her name means “savior” or “deliverer.” She is known for her swift action in rescuing beings from physical, mental, and emotional suffering. Among her 21 forms, she takes on six distinct colors, each representing a different aspect of her abilities:

• White: Her physical body
• Red: Her speech
• Blue/Black: Her mind
• Yellow: Her merits
• Green: Her enlightened actions

In Tibetan regions, the 21 Taras are widely worshipped by laypeople and monks alike for their ability to protect against the eight and sixteen great fears and disasters.

The 21 Taras and Their Meanings

Each Tara serves a specific purpose in delivering beings from suffering. Here are some of the most important aspects of the 21 Forms of Tara:

1. Green Tara – The central figure of the 21 Taras, Green Tara, known as the “Savior from Eight Fears,” is worshipped for her ability to protect from dangers such as lions, elephants, fire, and thieves. Her emerald green color symbolizes her action in quickly responding to the prayers of devotees.
2. White Tara – This Tara is associated with long life and healing. She is said to offer protection from illness and danger.
3. Blue Tara – Also known as the “Earth-Rescuing Tara,” she offers protection from natural disasters and challenges related to the earth.
4. Yellow Tara – The Tara of Wealth, who is often invoked to provide material wealth and good fortune. She is usually depicted holding a treasure vase filled with jewels.
5. Red Tara – Known as the Tara of Love and Compassion, Red Tara represents the energy of enlightened speech and is invoked for harmonious relationships.
6. Black Tara – This form of Tara offers protection from spiritual and magical dangers, often depicted with a wrathful expression to symbolize her fierce compassion.

Tara’s Powers in Tibetan Buddhism

The Tibetan people believe that Tara has the ability to protect from 16 types of fears and disasters, such as:

• Attacks by wild animals
• Fire and water hazards
• Disease and poison
• Poverty and imprisonment
• Threats from enemies, thieves, and evil spirits

The Green Tara mantra is often chanted to invoke her swift action:
“Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha”

Tara in Daily Life and Practice

Many Tibetan women are named “Drolma” after the goddess, symbolizing the deep cultural reverence for her compassionate protection. It is said that those who pray and meditate on Tara with devotion will receive her blessings, helping them overcome challenges in life.

Tara’s swift action and powerful compassion have made her one of the most beloved deities in Tibetan Buddhism. The 21 Taras are a central focus of devotion, offering protection, healing, and prosperity to all who seek her guidance. Whether you are dealing with personal suffering or seeking protection from external dangers, Tara’s prayers are a powerful tool in the Buddhist practice.

How to Invoke Tara’s Blessings

By chanting her mantras and offering prayers, devotees believe they can receive Tara’s blessings for protection, healing, and spiritual growth. Tara’s protective powers become even stronger as the world becomes more turbulent, and her influence increases with the rise of suffering.

Tara as the Embodiment of Compassion

Tara is the embodiment of all the Buddhas’ enlightened activities. Whether invoked in times of danger or through daily prayers, her role is to lead beings out of the cycle of suffering and into a state of lasting peace and happiness. As the “Mother of Liberation,” she holds a unique place in the hearts of Tibetan Buddhists.

Key Takeaways:

• 21 Taras are manifestations of Avalokiteshvara, each serving different protective and compassionate functions.
• Green Tara is the most commonly worshipped form, providing protection from the eight great fears.
• Tara’s mantra is a powerful tool for invoking her protection and blessings.

Exploring the Qualities of Each Tara

Here are the 21 Taras with their unique attributes and the areas they assist with:

1. Green Tara (Shyama Tara): Central to the 21 Taras, Green Tara is the epitome of compassionate action. She swiftly aids those in distress, offering protection from fear and danger.
2. White Tara (Sita Tara): Represents purity, long life, and healing. She is invoked for health and longevity, providing comfort and relief.
3. Yellow Tara (Pitta Tara): Symbolizes abundance, wealth, and prosperity. Her golden-yellow hue signifies the ripening of good fortune and life’s enrichment.
4. Red Tara (Kurukulla): Embodies the power of love and magnetism. She is invoked to subdue enemies and transform anger into wisdom.
5. Blue Tara (Ekajati): Represents fierce protection and wrathful compassion. She is a guardian against dangers and obstacles.
6. Black Tara (Ugra Tara): Known for her power to dispel evil and protect against dark forces, especially in times of intense need.
7. Golden Tara (Kanaka Tara): Associated with increasing wealth and spiritual richness. Her blessings bring prosperity and success.
8. Orange Tara (Rinjung Lhantab): Symbolizes the removal of obstacles and the cultivation of inner strength and determination.
9. Cittamani Tara: Embodies the wish-fulfilling aspects of Tara, granting desires and aiding in spiritual growth.
10. Vajra Tara (Dorje Tara): Represents the indestructible nature of compassion and wisdom, offering protection and support in overcoming ignorance.
11. Mahashanti Tara: Brings great peace and serenity. She is invoked for calmness and mental clarity.
12. Trailokya Vijaya Tara: Known for her power to conquer the three realms and overcome obstacles.
13. Vajra Tara (Rigjema): Another form of Vajra Tara, emphasizing her protective and wrathful aspects.
14. Usnisa Vijaya Tara: Associated with victory over obstacles and the attainment of enlightenment.
15. Prasanna Tara: Embodies clarity and insight, helping devotees achieve clear understanding and perception.
16. Achala Tara: Represents immovability and steadfastness. She offers support in maintaining focus and determination.
17. Sita Tara (Bhrikuti): Another form of White Tara, emphasizing her role in providing long life and dispelling illnesses.
18. Paripurna Tara: Embodies completeness and fulfillment, aiding in the attainment of goals and aspirations.
19. Muktahara Tara: Symbolizes liberation and freedom, offering release from suffering and attachments.
20. Janguli Tara: Known for her healing powers, especially in overcoming poison and illness.
21. Vasudhari Tara: Represents the flow of abundance and prosperity, often invoked for material and spiritual wealth.

Practices and Rituals Related to the Taras

Devotees of Tara engage in various practices and rituals to connect with her energy and seek her blessings. These practices include reciting Tara mantras, performing Tara pujas, making offerings, and visualizing her radiant presence. Such practices purify negative karma, dispel obstacles, and bring swift assistance and guidance.

Understanding the Symbolism Behind the Taras

The symbolism of the Taras is rich with meaning. The various attributes, colors, and hand gestures of the Taras convey teachings on compassion, wisdom, and the path to enlightenment. For example, the peaceful and wrathful aspects of Tara represent the compassionate and fierce aspects of enlightened awareness, while the lotus and moon symbols signify purity and transcendence.

Historical Context and Evolution of the Taras in Buddhism

The worship of Tara dates back to ancient India and has evolved as Buddhism spread across regions. Today, Tara remains a beloved and revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, central to the spiritual path.

Modern Interpretations and Applications of the Taras

Today, Tara continues to inspire practitioners worldwide. Her teachings on compassion, wisdom, and protection are relevant to contemporary life, offering guidance and solace. The Taras remind us of our innate goodness and potential for awakening, encouraging us to cultivate these qualities for the benefit of all beings.

The 21 Taras in Buddhism represent a vast reservoir of compassionate energy that nurtures, protects, and liberates. By invoking and meditating on these Taras, practitioners receive their blessings, find strength, peace, and guidance, and are illuminated on the path to enlightenment.

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