White Tara: The Embodiment of Longevity and Compassionate Wisdom
White Tara,
the serene bestower of long life and wisdom, embodies the healing power of compassion that soothes suffering and extends the precious human lifespan.
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Introduction to White Tara
White Tara (Sanskrit: Sitatara; Tibetan: སྒྲོལ་དཀར་) stands as one of the most revered longevity deities in Tibetan Buddhism. Known as the "Mother of Compassionate Wisdom," she represents the nurturing aspect of enlightenment that grants protection from untimely death and bestows the wisdom to make life meaningful. Her radiant white color symbolizes purity, peace, and the healing nature of Dharma.
The Origins and History of White Tara
White Tara's origins trace back to the same sacred source as Green Tara - born from Avalokiteshvara's compassionate tears. While Green Tara manifests active compassion, White Tara embodies the peaceful, sustaining aspect. She is particularly revered in all Tibetan Buddhist traditions, with her practice emphasized for healing and longevity.
The Symbolism of White Tara
Color (White): Represents purity, peace, and the complete perfection of all Buddha qualities
Seven Eyes (on face, palms, and soles): Symbolize her watchful compassion seeing all suffering in every realm
Lotus Posture: Signifies her unwavering stability in meditation
Hand Gestures:
Right hand in varada mudra - granting blessings and protection
Left hand in vitarka mudra - turning the wheel of Dharma
Lotus Flowers: Pure enlightenment arising from worldly existence
The White Tara Mantra
The powerful mantra associated with White Tara is:
"Om Tare Tuttare Ture Mama Ayuh Punya Jñana Pustim Kuru Svaha"
Meaning of the Mantra:
Om Tare Tuttare Ture: Same as Green Tara's - liberation from suffering
Mama: "My"
Ayuh: "Life"
Punya: "Merit"
Jñana: "Wisdom"
Pustim Kuru: "Increase"
Svaha: "So be it"
Chanting this mantra brings longevity, healing, and the wisdom to live meaningfully.
How to Connect with White Tara
Meditation: Visualize her radiant white light filling your body with healing energy
Mantra Recitation: Chant her mantra 21 or 108 times daily, especially in the morning
Long-life Practices: Engage in practices that honor and preserve life
Offerings: Offer white flowers, milk, or rice to create positive connections
Conclusion
White Tara teaches us that true longevity means not just adding years to life, but adding life to years through wisdom and compassion. Her peaceful presence reminds us that every moment of life is precious and meaningful.
May White Tara's blessings grant you long life, wisdom, and compassionate heart!
Have you practiced White Tara's meditation or experienced her healing blessings?
Share your journey in the comments below!
