Tara

Definition

Tara is a female bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism, often considered a compassionate figure who assists beings in overcoming obstacles and achieving enlightenment. She embodies qualities such as wisdom, compassion, and protection, and is revered for her ability to respond quickly to the needs of those who call upon her. Tara's significance in the spiritual practice highlights the evolving role of women within religious traditions and emphasizes the importance of female figures in providing guidance and support.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tara is often depicted in various forms, with Green Tara representing action and protection, while White Tara symbolizes purity and serenity.
2. The practice of calling upon Tara for assistance has become a popular devotional practice among Buddhists, emphasizing her role as a protector and guide.
3. Tara is believed to have originated from the Tibetan Buddhist tradition but has since been embraced by various forms of Mahayana Buddhism across Asia.
4. Her mantra, "Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha," is widely recited for protection and to remove obstacles on one's spiritual path.
5. The veneration of Tara highlights the evolving understanding of women's roles within Buddhism, showcasing how female figures can embody empowerment and spiritual authority.

Review Questions

• How does Tara exemplify the qualities associated with bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism?
  • Tara exemplifies the qualities of a bodhisattva through her deep compassion and commitment to assisting others on their path to enlightenment. As a female figure, she represents the nurturing aspect of bodhisattvas while actively engaging in protecting individuals from obstacles they face. Her swift responses to prayers illustrate her dedication to alleviating suffering, making her an ideal role model for those seeking to embody bodhisattva principles.
• In what ways does Tara's existence reflect changing perceptions of women's roles in religious traditions?
  • Tara's existence reflects changing perceptions of women's roles by highlighting the importance of female figures in spiritual leadership and guidance within Mahayana Buddhism. As a powerful bodhisattva, she provides an alternative narrative to traditional patriarchal views by embodying wisdom and compassion. The reverence for Tara demonstrates how women's spiritual authority has been recognized and celebrated, challenging historical constraints placed on women in religious contexts.
• Evaluate the impact of Tara's worship on contemporary Buddhist practices and beliefs regarding female representation.
  • The worship of Tara has significantly impacted contemporary Buddhist practices by promoting the recognition and empowerment of female representation within religious life. As more practitioners turn to Tara for guidance, this reverence encourages a more inclusive understanding of spirituality that values both male and female figures equally. Consequently, her veneration serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on gender equality within Buddhism, influencing how communities approach the role of women in both spiritual leadership and everyday practice.

Related terms

Bodhisattva: A being who seeks enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings, often delaying their own nirvana to assist others on their spiritual journey.

Mahayana Buddhism: A major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes the path of the bodhisattva and the importance of compassion and wisdom in attaining enlightenment.

Avalokiteshvara: A male bodhisattva known for his compassion, often depicted as Tara's counterpart in Mahayana Buddhism, illustrating the balance of gender within spiritual practice.