Green Tara, goddess of compassion in Tibetan Buddhism
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Of all the deities in the Tibetan Buddhist pantheon, Green Tara holds a special place. An emblematic female deity of the Vajrayana tradition, she embodies compassion in action , protective strength, and awakened wisdom. Known for responding immediately to the pleas of those who are suffering, she is one of the most prayed-to deities in Tibet. But who is she really? And how can her presence accompany us in our daily spiritual lives?
A female deity at the heart of Tibetan tradition
Green Tara (Sanskrit: Syamatara ) is a female manifestation of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara , the one who embodies infinite compassion. It is said that her tears of pain at seeing the suffering of the world gave birth to Tara. Unlike some deities who observe from a distance, Tara acts: she rises, she protects, she heals.
Its green color symbolizes youth, regeneration, nature, and above all, active energy . Where others meditate, Tara rises. She is the right action in the service of good.
An inspiring legend: the wish for female incarnation
An ancient legend tells of a past life when Tara was a princess named the Star of Wisdom. After countless acts of kindness, she was offered rebirth as a man to continue her spiritual path. She replied:
"In the awakened world, there is neither man nor woman. My aspiration is to always be reborn as a woman, in order to teach the way of compassion."
This vow made her a deeply inspiring figure for practitioners, and in particular for women, who find in her a model of feminine spiritual accomplishment.
Green Tara, protector of the living
In Buddhist tradition, Green Tara is invoked for protection, healing, and overcoming fears . She is known to free us from eight great fears: lions, elephants, fires, snakes, thieves, chains, floods, and demons. These symbols allude to our inner fears : anger, pride, jealousy, ignorance, etc.
She is depicted sitting, but with her right leg forward , ready to rise to help sentient beings. In her hand she holds a blue lotus (utpala) , a symbol of purity born in the mud, and of wisdom that emerges from the ordinary world.
The Green Tara Mantra: A Protective Breath
One of the most widespread practices in Tibetan Buddhism is the recitation of the Green Tara mantra :
Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha
Each word is a vibrational key:
Tare : liberation from suffering
Tuttare : protection against fears
Ture : quick realization
Soha : anchoring energy within oneself
This mantra is often recited with a 108-bead mala , in order to invite Tara to accompany our thoughts, actions and intentions.
How to connect with Green Tara on a daily basis?
You don't need to be a monk to connect with Tara. Her wisdom is accessible to all. Here are some simple ideas for inviting her into your life:
Recite his mantra every morning to set an intention of kindness and protection.
Light a candle or incense in front of a statue or image of Tara.
Meditate with a green stone like aventurine , associated with the heart chakra.
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Wear a symbolic piece of jewelry (pendant or bracelet ) to keep its energy close to you.
Our articles dedicated to Green Tara
At Univers Tibet , we are committed to offering you objects that carry meaning:
Dancing Green Tara Statue : Perfect for your altar or meditation space.
Green Tara Prayer Wheels : to recite sacred mantras and sow peace in every gesture.
Green Tara Tibetan Singing Bowls: to harmonize energies and calm the mind during your meditations.
Green Tara: Compassion in Action
At a time when our world is undergoing upheaval, Green Tara's wisdom resonates like a call to stay connected to our hearts. She doesn't ask us to be perfect, but to rise up, like her, whenever love must triumph over fear.
It is a reminder that true spirituality is active , embodied, and focused on service and caring for others. It teaches us that gentleness is a strength, and that compassion is a daily choice. Discover our collection of Tibetan items in our store to cultivate serenity, wisdom, and compassion every day.
