Tara Illuminated The Mandala of the 21 Taras: Includes 22 meditations, mantras, praises, teachings, syllables, and practice sequences that empower and uplift your life with the Female Buddha Tara

By Melissa Abbott

"Tara Illuminated - The Mandala of the Twenty-One Taras" is a transformative and comprehensive guide that takes you on a profound journey into the practices and meditations of the Mandala of the Twenty-One Taras. This illuminating book presents 22 meditations, mantras, praises, teachings, syllables, and practice sequences that empower and uplift

• Language: English
• Publisher: Easterly Media
• Release date: Aug 1, 2023
• ISBN: 9798218231255

Book preview

One

Red Swift Courageous Tara

The first Tara among the Mandala of the 21 Taras is undoubtedly a first-rate heroine. When I first began practicing her, I wondered why she held that Number one spot. However, a closer examination of her name provides some insight into her personality and mission. In Tibet, she is known as Noble Feminine Buddha Tara Nyurma Pamo or Jetsun Drolma Nyurma Pamo. Jetsun represents the supreme protector with feminine Buddha qualities in body, speech, and mind. Drolma denotes her role as a liberator or savior, guiding others away from suffering, fear, and negative thought patterns toward enlightenment. Nyurma highlights her swift and no-nonsense nature, always ready to act without delay. Pamo designates her as a heroine, committed to the liberation of all beings with unwavering dedication. She is always at the ready, never fatigued or uninterested, and responds instantly when called upon. As the first to be called upon, she embodies love, compassion, and power. In tough situations, Red Swift Courageous Tara empowers you to remain steadfast in your compassion, empathy, and kindness while also staying open-minded and resolute.

Red Swift Courageous Taras Appearance

Her body and face are in a vibrant red hue, and her expression is a mixture of determination, seriousness, and joy. Her teeth are visible, and her eyes, including her third eye, are open and emit a lightning-like flash. This flash is a symbol of the instantaneous sensation of her spiritual power and grace. In her left hand, Tara forms the three jewels mudra, where her thumb and forefinger rest at her heart center, and her other three fingers fan upwards. These fingers represent the refuge of the three jewels, including Buddha Nature, which is enlightened compassionate awareness like bodhicitta, Dharma, which is Buddha's teachings, and Sangha, which is the community of practitioners who take refuge. The readers here, you and I, are all part of the Sangha.

With compassion, she empathizes with your situation. Seated on a lotus throne, she holds a red vase that possesses the power to prevent and transform negativity. In the center of the throne lies a moon disc which is illuminating her like a