Goddess Tara (तारा देवी) is the second Mahavidya among the Dasa Mahavidyas (Ten Great Wisdom Goddesses). Her name, Tara, comes from the Sanskrit root “√tṛ” meaning “to cross” — hence, she is the one who helps devotees cross the ocean of life and suffering (Bhavasagara).
Known as the Goddess of Compassion, Guidance, and Deliverance, Tara embodies both fierce power and maternal grace. She rescues devotees from fear, ignorance, and spiritual bondage, guiding them safely toward liberation (moksha).
In both Hindu Tantra and Buddhism, Tara is revered as the divine savior, showing her universal and timeless significance as the Mother of All Beings.
Iconography and Symbolism
Goddess Tara’s form is majestic yet deeply nurturing.
- Complexion:
She is often depicted in deep blue or green — representing infinite compassion and the vastness of the sky and ocean. - Posture:
Seated upon a lotus or standing on a corpse (symbolizing ego conquered), she holds a knife, skull cup, lotus, and sword of knowledge. - Crescent Moon on Her Forehead:
Signifies calmness and control over cosmic cycles. - Three Eyes:
Denote her mastery over past, present, and future. - Serpent Ornaments:
Represent her power to control life force (kundalini shakti).
She stands for the union of wisdom and compassion, balancing both the fierce and gentle aspects of the Divine Feminine.
Legends of Goddess Tara
According to the Devi Bhagavata Purana, when Lord Shiva drank the poison (Halahala) during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), he became unconscious. Goddess Tara appeared, took him in her lap, and nursed him back to life, earning her the title Neel Saraswati (Blue Goddess of Wisdom).
Another legend identifies Tara as the Tantric counterpart of Goddess Saraswati, the giver of speech, knowledge, and liberation. In Tibetan Buddhism, she manifests as Green Tara (active compassion) and White Tara (peace and longevity) — both rooted in the same Shakti principle of universal motherhood.
Spiritual Significance
Tara represents Divine Guidance in Darkness. When one feels lost, fearful, or directionless, Tara’s energy awakens as inner clarity and strength. She protects from dangers — both physical and spiritual — and grants wisdom that cuts through illusion (Maya).
Her worship is considered extremely potent for:
- Overcoming fear and anxiety
- Seeking knowledge and eloquence
- Attaining divine grace and liberation
- Receiving guidance through life’s storms
She is also known as Tarakā, the liberator — the one who ferries souls across the world of illusion to enlightenment.
Forms of Goddess Tara
- Ekajata Tara – Fierce protector, grants courage and victory.
- Ugra Tara (Nila Saraswati) – Destroys ignorance, ego, and illusion.
- Shukla Tara (White Tara) – Brings peace, health, and long life.
- Neela Tara (Blue Tara) – Bestows wisdom and fearlessness.
Mantra of Goddess Tara
ॐ तारे तुत्तारे तुरे स्वाहा॥
Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha
This universal Tara mantra, also used in Buddhist practice, invokes protection, peace, and deliverance.
Another Tantric version:
ॐ ह्रीं स्त्रीं ह्रीं फट्॥
Om Hreem Streem Hreem Phat
This mantra is powerful for removing obstacles and awakening divine wisdom within.
Worship and Puja Significance
- Tithi: Tara is worshipped especially on the Trayodashi (13th lunar day) or during Amavasya.
- Offerings: Blue flowers, jaggery, honey, and milk.
- Fasting and Meditation: Devotees chant her mantras and meditate upon her form seated on a lotus over a roaring ocean — symbolizing peace amidst chaos.
Tara’s worship is also common during Navratri, Guru Purnima, and during personal transformation rituals.
Philosophical Meaning
Goddess Tara reveals that true wisdom comes from compassion, and real strength lies in surrender. She teaches:
- Speak truth with love and wisdom.
- Stay calm amid turbulence.
- Seek clarity, not control.
- Let compassion guide every action.
FAQ – Goddess Tara Mahavidya
Q1. Who is Goddess Tara in Hinduism?
Tara is the second of the ten Mahavidyas, representing divine compassion, wisdom, and guidance through life’s challenges.
Q2. What is the meaning of the name “Tara”?
The name Tara means “Star” or “Savior” — one who helps devotees cross the ocean of worldly suffering.
Q3. What are the main forms of Goddess Tara?
Her forms include Ekajata Tara, Ugra Tara (Nila Saraswati), Shukla Tara (White Tara), and Neela Tara (Blue Tara).
Q4. What is the mantra of Goddess Tara?
“Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha” — this sacred mantra invokes her protection and compassion.
Q5. What does Goddess Tara teach her devotees?
She teaches fearlessness, compassion, clear communication, and spiritual wisdom that transcends ego and illusion.
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