Tara Buddha statues are revered representations of the divine figure known as Tara in Buddhism. Tara, also known as Ārya Tārā, Jetsun Dölma, or Shayama Tara, holds immense significance in Buddhist traditions, particularly in Tibetan Buddhism. These exquisite statues capture the essence of Tara, portraying her as a female bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism and a female Buddha in Vajrayana Buddhism. Through their intricate craftsmanship and symbolism, Tara Buddha statues serve as objects of veneration, inspiration, and spiritual practice.
These statues of Tara come in various forms, each carrying specific symbolism. The depictions may vary in colour, pose, and attributes, contributing to the rich tapestry of Tara's representations. For instance, the Green Tara statue symbolizes compassion, while White Tara represents serenity and long life. Other forms include Red Tara, Black Tara, the peaceful White Tara and fierce Green Tara.
Tara is hailed as the "mother of liberation," embodying the virtues of achievement, success, compassion, and wisdom. As a bodhisattva, she epitomizes the compassionate and enlightened qualities that practitioners aspire to cultivate on their spiritual journey. Tara is revered as a guiding light, offering protection, guidance, and swift assistance to those who seek her aid.
Tara Buddha statues are not mere artistic creations but are regarded as powerful objects of meditation and devotion. They hold a central role in the practices of Vajrayana Buddhism, where practitioners seek to develop inner qualities and deepen their understanding of profound teachings. Meditating upon these statues of Tara is believed to awaken the qualities of compassion, loving-kindness, and emptiness within oneself, leading to spiritual growth and realization.
The significance of Tara is further emphasized by the presence of twenty-one Tārās recognized in certain Buddhist schools. The practice text called "Praises to the Twenty-One Taras" holds paramount importance in Tibetan Buddhism, offering devotees a profound means to connect with Tara's various manifestations. Additionally, the Tantra Which is the Source for All the Functions of Tara, Mother of All the Tathagatas serves as a key text illuminating the immense power and wisdom associated with Tara.
A central mantra associated with Tara, "oṃ tāre tuttāre ture svāhā" (or pronounced as "oṃ tāre tu tāre ture soha" in Tibetan traditions), holds deep spiritual significance for both Buddhists and Hindus alike. Chanting this mantra invokes Tara's blessings and aligns practitioners with her enlightened qualities, offering solace, protection, and spiritual upliftment.
In conclusion, Tara Buddha statues encapsulate the profound symbolism and spiritual essence of Tara, the revered figure in Buddhism. They serve as tangible reminders of compassion, wisdom, and achievement on the path to enlightenment. Through their artistic beauty and sacred significance, Tara Buddha statues inspire practitioners, inviting them to embrace Tara's compassionate embrace and strive for liberation and awakening.
