Tara Illuminated The Mandala of the 21 Taras

By Melissa Shubha 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 your life with the wisdom of the Goddess, the Female Buddha Tara.

 

Tara, a revered figure in the non-dual Vajrayana Buddhist tradition, offers teachings that are relevant and impactful for modern spiritual seekers of all genders. "Tara Illuminated - The Mandala of the 21 Taras" serves as an invaluable resource for those who wish to deepen their understanding of Tara's teachings and integrate her profound wisdom into their everyday lives.

 

Within the pages of this book, you will embark on a transformative exploration of Tara's feminine empowered energy and learn how to establish a deeper connection with her divine presence. Each chapter focuses on a different Tara in the Mandala, providing clear and accessible instructions on how to engage in the corresponding meditation or practice. Through these practices, you will discover the power of Tara's energy and how it can positively influence your life.

 

Whether you are new to Tara's teachings or have an existing connection with her, "Tara Illuminated" offers a wealth of knowledge and practical guidance to enhance your spiritual journey. This book invites you to embrace the transformative power of Tara's wisdom and experience the profound impact it can have on your life.

 

If you are ready to delve into the sacred teachings of Tara and unlock the potential for spiritual growth and empowerment, "Tara Illuminated - The Mandala of the Twenty-One Taras" is the perfect companion on your path. Open its pages and allow the radiant energy of Tara to illuminate your life. "Tara Illuminated - The Mandala of the Twenty-One Taras" is a comprehensive guide that delves into the practices and meditations of the Mandala of the Twenty-One Taras. This book comprises 22 meditations, mantras, praises, teachings, syllables, and practice sequences that empower and uplift your life with the Female Buddha Tara.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Easterly Media
• Release date: Oct 7, 2023
• ISBN: 9798218231255

Melissa Shubha Abbott

Melissa Abbott is a multi-talented individual with a lifelong passion for Meditation and Hatha Yoga. As an artist, sound healer, yoga and meditation podcaster, Shaiva Tantra practitioner, Vajrayana practitioner, Dakini practitioner, Tara practitioner, yogini, teacher, and writer, Melissa has dedicated her life to the practice and teachings of yoga. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, Melissa is committed to helping individuals discover the transformative power of hatha yoga, deity practices, feminine empowerment, and meditation. Her deep understanding of tantric meditation practices, yoga, and wellness has made her a sought-after guide and mentor in these fields. Melissa's unique blend of skills and expertise offers a holistic approach to spiritual growth and self-discovery. Through her hatha yoga and meditation classes, sound healing, podcasting, and feminine empowerment groups she creates immersive experiences that facilitate healing and inner exploration. Her writings delve into the depths of yogic philosophy, providing insightful guidance for those on the path of self-realization. Melissa's dedication to her practice and continuous learning shines through in her teachings. She combines ancient wisdom with modern insights, making her teachings accessible and relevant to today's world. Her compassionate and nurturing approach creates a safe space for individuals to explore their inner landscapes and cultivate a deeper connection with themselves. Melissa Abbott invites readers and practitioners to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and spiritual growth through her yoga, meditation, groups, art, sound healing, podcasting, or writing. Her passion for yoga, deity practices, feminine empowerment, and meditation shines through in all aspects of her work, inspiring and guiding others toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Book preview

Chapter 0 Green Tārā

Chapter 0 Green Tara

As we have stated in the Foreword to this book, Tārā's origins began in late 6th and early 7th century India, as part of the development of Hindu and Buddhist Tantra.

An early mention of Green and White Tārā in Tibet is about two princesses, one from Nepal and one from China who married a Tibetan King is of particular interest to Green Tārā.

In ancient times, before the arrival of Padmasambhava पद्मसम्भव and Atīśa (Atisha) आतीश, there exists an intriguing origin story surrounding the introduction of Tārā worship and Buddhism to Tibet. It revolves around the two wives of King Soṁtsen Gampo (Songten Gampo) सोंग्त्सेन् गम्पो, who reigned around the year 623 C.E. These two wives, Princess Bhṛkuti (Bhrikuti) भृकुटि and Princess Wencheng वेन्चेंग्, played a significant role in bringing the revered goddess Tārā to the land of Tibet, long before she became associated with Padmasambhava and later Atīśa (Atisha).

Princess Bhṛkuti, hailing from Nepal, was known for her deep devotion to Buddhism. It is said that she brought with her a sacred statue of the goddess Tārā when she married King Soṁtsen Gampo. This statue, believed to be a manifestation of Green Tārā, became highly revered by the people of Tibet. They began to recognize Princess Bhṛkuti as a living embodiment of Green Tārā herself, attributing her presence to the divine intervention of this compassionate goddess.

Princess Wencheng, on the other hand, was from China and was also a devoted Buddhist. She was regarded as a manifestation of White Tārā, another revered form of the goddess. Her marriage to King Soṁtsen Gampo further solidified the presence of Tārā worship in Tibet, as she brought her sacred relics and teachings to the land.

At the time, the predominant religion in Tibet was the Bon religion, yet the people embraced the introduction of Tārā worship and Buddhism brought by the two princesses. The acceptance of these new beliefs and practices can be attributed to the profound faith and influence of Princess Bhṛkuti and Princess Wencheng. Their marriage to King Soṁtsen Gampo catalyzed the dissemination of Buddhism and the veneration of Tārā throughout Tibet, even in the face of the existing religious traditions.

This early origin story sheds light on the significant role played by Princess Bhṛkuti and Princess Wencheng in the introduction of Tārā worship and Buddhism to Tibet. Their devotion, marriage, and the symbolic association with Green Tārā and White Tārā respectively, paved the way for the transformation and acceptance of these spiritual practices in a land where the Bon religion had previously held sway. The influence of these two princesses, and their connection to the divine through the forms of Tārā, remains an integral part of Tibet's spiritual and cultural heritage.

Green Tārā is one of the most popular of all the Tārās and that may be because her energies are all about accomplishing, leading the way, and getting things done. She has the flavor of the miraculousness of the natural world and her place in the universal matrix is one of elemental power. Devotees often turn to Green Tārā for guidance, protection, and assistance in navigating life's challenges. Her compassionate nature and ability to swiftly respond to prayers make her a beloved figure in the form of a forest goddess or a compassionate deity. Green Tārā is revered for her ability to bring about transformation, renewal, and liberation from suffering, offering solace and a sense of connection to the natural world.

In terms of the Māndala of the 21 Tārās, Green Tārā is considered the leader of the Māndala and a revered deity in Vājrayāna Tibetan Buddhism. She is actually the 22 Tārā and then other 21 Tārās surround her in the Māndala. She is often portrayed as a compassionate and powerful goddess with a radiant green hue and she occupies the center of the Māndala in depictions she is often in the center with all the other colored Tārās in bubbles of colored light surrounding her in the Circle of energy called the Māndala. Her name, Tārā, translates to star or she who ferries across, symbolizing her role in guiding beings to enlightenment.

She has roots in history as a forest goddess, she embodies the natural world and its transformative energies. As a forest goddess, Green Tārā is closely associated with nature and its transformative powers. She is believed to reside in lush, verdant forests or Khādira wood, symbolizing her connection to growth, renewal, and the cycles of life. The forest represents a sanctuary where beings can seek solace, clarity, and spiritual guidance. In this context, Green Tārā serves as a guardian and protector of the natural world, while also providing inspiration and support on the path to enlightenment. There are still to this day many shrines made up of trees that are worshiped in Northern India and Kashmir as representations of the mother elemental goddess.

Green Tārā's history is deeply rooted in ancient mythology and folklore. According to legend, she was born from a lotus flower that emerged from a tear shed by the compassionate Bodhisattva Avalōkitēśvara. She vowed to assist all sentient beings in their journey towards liberation from suffering. Green Tārā is considered the embodiment of active compassion, tirelessly working to alleviate the suffering of beings and helping them overcome obstacles.

Green Tārās Appearance

In terms of her physical appearance, Green Tārā is typically depicted as a young and beautiful goddess, adorned with ornate jewelry and garments. She has a slender figure and is often portrayed in a seated or standing posture, exuding grace and serenity. Her skin is radiant green, symbolizing vitality, growth, and the life force present in nature.

She is draped in resplendent rainbow silks, woven from a silk fabric so delicate it could be concealed within the palm of one's hand, Green Tārā radiates a regal presence. Adorned with jewels that bear witness to the myriad experiences accumulated through countless lifetimes, she sits gracefully, her left leg bent in the pose of meditation. With her right foot extended, she symbolizes readiness to spring into action on behalf of those who seek her aid.

Nestled within the heart of an open, many-petaled lotus, a cushion resembling the full moon acts as a luminous spotlight that transmits light from the depth of her being. Green Tārā emanates radiant rays of healing light, and they extend to you, enveloping you, in their healing embrace. Her gaze, filled with profound compassion and wisdom, penetrates your very soul, offering new guidance and profound understanding in your journey. In other words, her gaze makes the truth apparent.

In the presence of Green Tārā, resting upon the lotus throne, you are enveloped in a sense of peace and serenity, knowing that her compassionate energy is always there to guide and support you.

A crown or diadem rests upon her head, signifying her elevated position and spiritual light. In her left hand, she forms the mudrā of refuge, creating a small circle with her t ḥum b and ring finger in front of her heart. This sacred gesture or mudrā represents the union of wisdom and compassion, intertwining their divine essence within Tārā's being. Her other three fingers extend upwards towards the sky, symbolizing the Three Jewels: the enlightened consciousness of the Buddha, the teachings of the Buddha called Dharma, and the spiritual community of the Saṅgha. This simple yet profound mudrā serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all aspects of existence and emphasizes the importance of that convergence. Within Tārā's heart, enlightened consciousness, the teachings, the teachers, countless sentient beings, and supportive communities merge seamlessly.

Tārā's right hand, open and with palm facing downward, rests upon her right knee. This open-palmed mudrā represents ultimate generous giving, signifying that she bestows upon you everything you seek, including the gift of complete non-dual awareness or enlightenment. With this gesture, Tārā signifies her generosity and her willingness to provide unconditionally for those who turn to her.

In the presence of Green Tārā, adorned in her vibrant silks and illuminating jewels, she can awaken anyone to the profound truth that they are never alone. She embodies the universal matrix of all beings and offers her open and kind assistance to all who seek her guidance. Within her divine presence, there is a deep connection that opens up new pathways of awakening, inspiration and the assurance that Tārā's giving encompasses every aspect of existence, offering the gift of the ultimate wisdom.

Chapter 0 Green Tara Praise and Mantra

Green Tārās Praise

All divine and non-divine beings bow their heads to your lotus feet. You are the one who eliminates all forms of poverty, both physical and spiritual. I ḥum bly bow down to you, Exalted Mother Tārā. Om, I revere the Venerable Tārā! I revere you, Tare, the Liberator and Deliverer, quick and brave, who using Tuttāre removes fear and using Ture bestows all benefits and wisdom knowledge

Meaning of the Green Tārā Praise

First and foremost both the Green Tārā Praise and Green Tārā Mantra are repeated in each of the Māndala of the 21 Tārās practices. so it is important to fully imbibe its meanings as we call on Green Tārā to open the doors to our practice, she paves the way, and her elemental radiance and power which leads us to refine our journey throughout the Māndala. The Māndala represents a circle of experience and is a roadmap for feminine empowerment and the spiritual journey.

Across countless realms and dimensions, beings of all kinds acknowledge and revere Green Tārā as an enlightened female Buddha. Her divine consciousness encompasses the entirety of existence, surpassing the limitations of any individual being. In her boundless wisdom and compassion, Green Tārā extends her assistance to us in every aspect of our lives. To express our deep reverence and gratitude for her immense power and unwavering commitment to aiding us, we ḥum bly prostrate ourselves before her divine presence. Such is the magnitude of Green Tārā's benevolence, encompassing all realms and offering solace and guidance to those who seek her divine intervention.

Green Tārā Mantra

ॐ तारे तुत्तारे तुरे स्वाहा

Oṁ Tāre Tuttāre Ture Svāhā

Meaning of The Green Tārā Mantra

Oṁ - Sound of Enlightened Consciousness Om is not merely a sound or vibration, but the very essence of enlightened consciousness itself. It encompasses the entirety of existence and resonates with the profound wisdom and divine energy that underlies all creation.

Tāre - Saviouress, Star, Liberator - Tare, derived from the name Tārā, represents an active and dynamic aspect of her being. It holds multiple meanings, including Star, symbolizing her illuminating guidance; Saviouress, denoting her role as the one who liberates beings from suffering; and Liberator, signifying her ability to free us from the shackles of ignorance and delusion.

Tuttāre - Supreme Joy from having glimpsed the Enlightened State - Tuttāre, the next syllable, encapsulates the essence of Supreme Joy. It refers to the profound and indescribable bliss that arises when we catch glimpses of the enlightened state. It is a joy that is not bound by worldly conditions but emerges from the profound realization of the interdependent nature of all existence.

Ture - Swift, Remover of Fear - Ture, the following component, signifies swiftness. It reflects the rapid and efficient nature of Tārā's assistance and support. With her swift and decisive actions, she swiftly comes to our aid whenever we call upon her, guiding us toward liberation and enlightenment.

Svāhā - So be it, Svāhā serves as a concluding affirmation, an expression of surrender and acceptance. It encapsulates the sentiment of So be it; let it be so! It is a seal and an invocation of our trust and faith in Tārā's transformative powers.

When reciting these mantras, it is encouraged to do so with your resolute intention, allowing the vibrations to resonate deeply within your being, connecting, to the profound universal vibrations of Green Tārā.

The Practice:

We will be starting with an Invitation and visualization of Tārā in our imagination. If imagining is difficult for you, then you can just feel the feeling of this Tārā within yourself.

To begin, we visualize or imagine large Spaciousness - night sky, open ocean, vast space, Hubble telescope, and in that vast space is a circle of the Māndala of the 21 Tārā’s with Green Tārā at the center and orbs of the different colored Tārās surrounding her in a circle.

Invite Green Tārā to take form before us. She appears as a luminous subtle body of green light, seated on a moon cushion in the center of her lotus throne. Surrounding her are our teachers and their teachers, with all twenty-one emanations of Tārā in the background, appearing in varying colors. We imagine ourselves surrounded by friends, loved ones, and supporters, who are also surrounded by their friends. The visualization continues until an infinite number of beings receive the blessings of Tārā's practice, with her light pouring into us and those around us.

We start by invoking the Green Tārā Praise begins with an homāge to Green Tārā and the root mantra. Oṁ Tāre Tuttāre Ture Svāhā

Repeat the Green Tārā Praise:

All gods and non-gods bow down, touching their crowns to her lotus feet. She removes all forms of poverty, both material and spiritual. We prostrate to Mother Tārā and praise the Venerable Exalted Tārā. Tare, the Liberator, is swift and courageous, removing all fear through Tuttāre and bestowing all benefits through Ture.

Repeat Green Tārā Mantra 1X

ॐ तारे तुत्तारे तुरे स्वाहा

Oṁ Tāre Tuttāre Ture Svāhā

The Green Tārā Mantra can be broken down as follows:

Oṁ is the sound of Enlightened Consciousness

Tāre is an active form of the word Tārā, meaning Star, Navigator, Saviouress, and Liberator

Tuttāre means supreme joy from having glimpses of the enlightened state

Ture is the swift, remover of fear

Svāhā so be it or let it be so

Speak the Refuge Prayer either verbally or internally to yourself.

For all of these beings and with all of these beings, I take refuge in the loving energy of Tārā, in the wisdom teachings from all traditions, and in the communities of spiritual practitioners around the world who have sought enlightenment in the past and are here now. May I be filled with love, compassion, equanimity, and joy, May I embrace true wisdom and understanding, and may I be surrounded by peace and compassion.

May I take refuge in the Buddha Tārā’s teachings and take refuge in the community of Tārā's Saṅgha or community. May my practice bring benefit to all beings everywhere throughout the entire world

Simple Version Refuge Prayer

I take refuge in the Buddha Tārā, the Dharma teachings, and the Saṅgha, a spiritual community of followers

Recite the Bodhichitta Prayer

Through the practice of giving, ethical conduct, patience, diligence, concentration, and wisdom, may I reach full enlightenment to be of benefit to all living beings? May I be filled with compassion and kindness, may I be an instrument of peace, and may I work for the benefit of all those around me. May my actions be pure and motivated by love, so that every corner of this world is touched by its radiance. May we all cultivate our inner light and use it to spread joy, understanding, and unity in this world.

Recite Four Immeasurable’s

May all beings have happiness and the causes of happiness. May all beings be free from sorrow and the causes of sorrow. May all beings never be separated from the sacred happiness which is sorrow-less. May all beings live in equanimity, without attachment for those we hold close or aversion for those we hold at a distance, and live believing in the equality of all that lives.

Optionally: Visualize the Seed Syllables in your Tārā

The ṭam टं in the Heart, The Oṁ ॐ in the Crown: ॐ , the aḥ अः in the Throat, and the ḥum हुं below the ṭam टं in the Heart area.

Traditional Offerings

Make offerings to Tārā: Imagine placing in front of Tārā the traditional offerings of water to drink, essential oils flowers, incense, lights, bells, food, and music

Inner Offerings

You can offer any aspect of your life to Tārā for transformation. Whether you're struggling in your personal life or feeling distressed about the state of humanity, you can give those things to Tārā. Give your fears, shame, needs, ideas, problems, and situations - anything can be offered to Tārā.

Blessings and Transformations

Imagine Tārā sending you her blessings and insights, transforming the offerings you've given her into unobstructed wisdom blessings that you can use for your transformation but can then pass on to others.

Recite Green Tārā Praise

All gods and non-gods bow down, touching their crowns to her lotus feet. She removes all forms of poverty, both material and spiritual. We prostrate to Mother Tārā and praise the Venerable Exalted Tārā. Tare, the Liberator, is swift and courageous, removing all fear through Tuttāre and bestowing all benefits through Ture.

Recite Green Tārā Mantra

ॐ तारे तुत्तारे तुरे स्वाहा

Oṁ Tāre Tuttāre Ture Svāhā

Repeat the mantra for Green Tārā at least 21 times or 108 times whenever possible. You can use a Prayer Bead Mālā if you have one or use your fingers. Relax in the tranquility of repeating your mantra and allow its energy to envelop you both internally and externally. Take notice and absorb its essence.

Meditation

Dedicate a portion of your time to meditation and reflecting on the genuine, deep-rooted bond you have with Tārā. This portion of the sequence is very important as it allows the energies and vibrations of the mantra to penetrate your being.

Dissolving the Visualization

Envision Tārā's emanation gracefully receding to its original place within the Māndala. Watch as the Māndala of Tārā dissolves into a luminous light and directs itself towards your heart, where a miniature form of Tārā is seated upon a lotus throne. Feel the light travel through your body in a counterclockwise swirl and out of your heart, permeating the cosmos. Remind yourself that Tārā is always with you

Offer the Merit

May the positive energy or merit produced by this practice spread throughout the vast universe. Dedicate the merits of your practice to the greater collective consciousness of the world, with the intent of bringing healing and enlightenment not only to yourself but to all beings.

Repeat the Green Tārā Mantra One More Time to seal your practice.

ॐ तारे तुत्तारे तुरे स्वाहा

Oṁ Tāre Tuttāre Ture Svāhā

Chapter 1 Red Swift Courageous Tārā

Chapter 1 Red Swift Courageous Tara

The first Tārā among the Māndala of the 21 Tārās 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 Tārā 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 Tārā empowers you to remain steadfast in your compassion, empathy, and kindness while also staying open-minded and resolute.

Red Swift Courageous Tārās 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, Tārā forms the three jewels mūdra, where her t ḥum b 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 Saṅgha, which is the community of practitioners who take refuge. The readers here, you and I, are all part of the