Green Tara

Green Tara

The Green Tara (Sanskrit: Shyamatara; Tibetan: Sgrol-Ijang) was believed to be incarnated as the Nepali princess. She is considered by some to be the original Tara and is the female consort of Amoghasiddhi, one of the “self-born” Buddhas. She is generally shown seated on a lotus throne with her right leg hanging down, wearing the ornaments of a Bodhisattva and holding the closed blue lotus (Utpala).

“Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha”, is an ancient mantra that is related to Tara, the “Mother of all Buddhas”, and especially to her manifestation as Green Tara. Green Tara mantra is one of the three main mantras Tibetan monks and lamas recite upon praying. By reciting the mantra, one is said to be able to invoke the blessings of Tara and request her protection.

Green Tara is adorned in silken garments and jeweled ornaments. The main difference in the iconography between the Green Tara and the White Tara is the position of the legs. Green Tara sits in a posture of ease, with one leg drawn towards her and the other resting on a lotus bud that springs from the pedestal. Her hands are in the Mudra of perfect generosity, holding the stems of blue lotus showing a peaceful and smiling expression.