Connecting with the Compassionate Goddess Tara: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Practice

We turn our attention to Tara this moonth, a goddess revered for her compassion, wisdom, and protective nature. Honoured in both Buddhist and Hindu traditions, Tara offers profound insights and spiritual practices that resonate with modern pagans. In this post, we'll explore her origins, the various aspects of her mythology, her connections to the natural world, and how contemporary practitioners can respectfully incorporate her into their spiritual practices. We'll also provide historical context and reputable sources for further reading.

The Origins of Tara

Tara is a complex and multifaceted goddess whose worship spans several cultures and traditions. She is primarily known from Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism, where she is venerated as a saviour, a compassionate guide, and a protector.

Historical Context

Tara's origins can be traced back to ancient Indian and Tibetan traditions. In Hinduism, she is often considered an aspect of the goddess Parvati, the consort of Shiva. In Tibetan Buddhism, Tara is believed to have emerged from the compassionate tears of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. Her name, derived from the Sanskrit root "tri," means "to cross," symbolising her role in helping devotees cross the ocean of samsara (the cycle of birth and rebirth).

Tara in Buddhist Tradition

In Buddhist tradition, Tara is often depicted in 21 different forms, each representing a unique aspect of her compassion and power. The two most commonly worshipped forms are Green Tara and White Tara. Green Tara is associated with active compassion and protection, while White Tara is linked to maternal compassion, healing, and longevity. Each form of Tara is invoked for different purposes, from overcoming obstacles to seeking protection and guidance.

Respecting a Living Tradition

While Tara's stories and practices are ancient, it's crucial to recognise that she remains a central figure in contemporary Buddhist and Hindu worship. For modern pagans and spiritual seekers, it’s essential to approach Tara with respect and mindfulness, honouring her cultural and religious significance.

Connecting with Tara in Modern Pagan Practice

Tara's themes of compassion, protection, and wisdom offer valuable insights for contemporary practice. Here are some ways to connect with her during this lunar cycle:

1. Tracking Moon Phases and Personal Growth:

   • Lunar Journaling: Keep a journal to track the phases of the moon and your corresponding emotional and spiritual growth. Reflect on how you can embody Tara's compassion and wisdom in your daily life.
   • Moon Meditation: During the new moon, set intentions for growth and healing. As the moon waxes, focus on developing these qualities, and during the full moon, celebrate your progress. Use the waning moon for introspection and release.

2. Working with Tara's Energy:

   • Mantras and Meditation: Incorporate Tara's mantras into your meditation practice. The most well-known mantra for Green Tara is "Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha," which invokes her protective and compassionate energy.
   • Visualisations: Visualise Tara's presence during meditation. Imagine her serene and compassionate gaze, and feel her protective energy surrounding you.

3. Nature and Herbal Magic:

   • Herbs and Crystals: Use herbs like lotus, sandalwood, and jasmine, which are associated with Tara. Incorporate crystals such as jade, emerald, and moonstone to enhance your connection with her.
   • Nature Walks: Spend time in nature, particularly in places where you feel a strong sense of peace and protection. Collect natural items like leaves, stones, and flowers that you feel drawn to, and use them in your spiritual practice.

4. Compassion and Healing Practices:

   • Acts of Compassion: Perform acts of compassion and kindness in your daily life. Volunteer, help a friend in need, or simply practise mindfulness and empathy in your interactions.
   • Healing Rituals: Create rituals focused on healing yourself and others. Use Tara's energy to guide you in these practices, and incorporate her mantras and visualisations.

5. Creative Expression:

   • Art and Writing: Channel Tara's inspiration into your creative projects. Paint, draw, or write poetry that reflects her qualities and your connection to her.
   • Storytelling: Share Tara’s myths and their meanings with others. This can be done through storytelling circles, blogs, or social media, fostering a deeper communal appreciation for her legend.

Themes with Modern Relevance

Tara’s mythology offers timeless themes that can be relevant to our lives today:

• Compassion: Tara’s boundless compassion is a reminder of the importance of empathy and kindness. Strive to embody these qualities in your interactions with others.
• Protection: As a protector, Tara symbolises the power of spiritual and physical protection. Invoke her energy when you need strength and guidance.
• Wisdom: Tara’s wisdom is a source of inspiration for overcoming obstacles and achieving spiritual growth. Seek her guidance in times of uncertainty and challenge.

Sources for Further Reading

To deepen your understanding of Tara and her cultural significance, consider exploring the following resources:

• The British Museum - Tara - An overview of artefacts and historical data related to Tara.
• FPMT - Tara - Resources on Tara’s role in Tibetan Buddhism.
• Tara’s Colouring Book by Jonathan Landaw - A detailed book that includes illustrations and explanations of Tara’s various forms.
• Ancient Origins - Tara - An article discussing the myth of Tara and its historical context.

As we honour Tara during this lunar cycle, let us approach her as a symbol of compassion, protection, and wisdom. By connecting with her respectfully and mindfully, we can draw on her ancient wisdom to enrich our modern spiritual practices. May her presence inspire your journey and illuminate your path.

If you’re looking to deepen your connection with the moon and explore more about powerful goddesses like Tara, consider joining our Moonwise Membership. Together, we can journey through each lunar cycle, honouring different goddesses and growing in our spiritual practices.