Tara Dhyana (Goddess Tara Meditation)
Tara Dhyana is a Buddhist and Hindu meditation practice focused on the goddess Tara, the embodiment of compassion and swift protection.
Overview
Tara is a female bodhisattva/deity revered in both Mahayana Buddhism and Hindu Shaktism. In Buddhism, she is the goddess of compassion and protection, known for her swift response to the calls of those in distress. In Hinduism, she is one of the ten Mahavidyas (great wisdom goddesses) and an aspect of Parvati/Durga. Meditation on Tara cultivates compassion, removes fears, and provides spiritual protection.
Method/Content
The practitioner sits in a meditative posture and invokes Tara’s presence through her mantra: “Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha” (Buddhist) or “Om Hreem Tara Yai Namah” (Hindu). The meditation involves visualizing Tara seated on a lotus, green or white in color, with one leg extended in readiness to help. The practitioner requests her blessings, contemplates her compassionate nature, and absorbs her qualities of fearlessness and swift action. The practice may include the recitation of her 100 or 1,000 names.
Purpose/Benefits
Tara Dhyana cultivates compassion, removes fears and obstacles, and provides swift protection from dangers. It is believed to enhance loving-kindness, develop courage, and connect the practitioner with Tara’s enlightened activity. The practice is especially recommended for those facing difficult circumstances, emotional distress, or spiritual obstacles.
Verification Notes
- Revered in Tibetan Buddhism as one of the most important deities
- In Hinduism, Tara is one of the Dasa Mahavidyas
- The Green Tara mantra is one of the most widely chanted Buddhist mantras