Discover the Sacred Symbolism of Green Tara in Thangka Jewelry and Tibetan Buddhism
Green Tara (绿度母), known in Sanskrit as Tara, is a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, embodying boundless compassion and wisdom. As an emanation of Avalokiteshvara (观世音菩萨), Green Tara represents the power of salvation and protection from life’s struggles. In Tibetan Buddhism, she is regarded as the primary form of all the Tara manifestations, encompassing the virtues of the other twenty forms.
Adorned in exquisite ornaments, she is often depicted in Thangka art and jewelry as a symbol of protection and guidance. This blog explores the significance of Green Tara and how her essence is captured in Thangka pendant necklaces and Thangka jewelry
The Divine Appearance of Green Tara
Green Tara is typically shown in bodhisattva attire, seated gracefully with a serene expression. Her entire body is a vibrant green, symbolizing the energy of nature and renewal. She is depicted with one face and two arms, adorned with a small crown of five Buddhas and precious jewelry. Her upper body is dressed in celestial garments, and her lower half is covered by a heavy skirt. She sits on a lotus throne, with her left leg bent and her right leg extended, symbolizing her readiness to rise and rescue beings from suffering.
Green Tara’s Powers and Symbolism
Green Tara's blessings focus on saving sentient beings from eight types of suffering: fire, lions, elephants, snakes, water, prison, thieves, and non-human beings. This earned her the name “Savior from the Eight Fears (救八难度母).” Her heart mantra, Oṃ Tāre Tuttāre Ture Svāhā, is believed to possess potent transformative energy, helping to eliminate suffering and leading to ultimate enlightenment.
Historical Connections to Green Tara
Throughout Tibetan history, Green Tara has been associated with significant figures. For example, the Nepalese princess Bhrikuti and the Chinese princess Wencheng (文成公主) are regarded as manifestations of White Tara and Green Tara, respectively. Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo is said to have consecrated them as the embodiments of these divine forms before his death.
Additionally, the revered Atisha (阿底峡尊者) sought guidance from Green Tara before embarking on his journey to spread Buddhism in Tibet, receiving her blessings for his mission.
Green Tara's Sacred Sites
One of the sacred sites associated with Green Tara is Pharping in Nepal, where numerous holy relics linked to her are found. Notably, a naturally occurring stone relief of Green Tara is enshrined in a cave at Pharping, revered as a miraculous manifestation.
In China, Xi’an's Guangren Temple (广仁寺) is considered a primary center of Green Tara worship, home to a centuries-old statue of her that continues to attract countless devotees.
Green Tara in Thangka Jewelry and Tibetan Art
Green Tara’s image is often portrayed in Thangka paintings, sculptures, and Thangka pendant necklaces. In art, her divine characteristics include:
- Body color: Her green hue represents the energy of accomplishment and the unyielding resolve to help sentient beings.
- Facial expression: A youthful, radiant face with a compassionate smile, symbolizing both beauty and wisdom.
- Crown and Jewelry: She is adorned with a crown of five Buddhas, and her body is encrusted with precious ornaments, reflecting her divine status.
- Attire: She wears brightly colored celestial garments, with an ornate heavy skirt below.
- Hand gestures: Seated in a bodhisattva posture, Green Tara holds a blooming blue lotus in her right hand while her left hand is raised, displaying the mudra of protection and granting of wishes.
- Posture: Her pose signifies her readiness to rise and aid suffering beings, like a loving mother eager to protect her children.
The Significance of Green Tara in Tibetan Jewelry
In Thangka jewelry, Green Tara is a profound symbol of compassion, protection, and wisdom. Wearing a Thangka pendant necklace of Green Tara is believed to invoke her blessings, offering spiritual guidance and protection from harm. Green Tara is also regarded as a special guardian of women and children, making her particularly revered as a protective deity for families.
Through the practice of Green Tara's teachings, devotees believe they can remove obstacles, attain longevity, and increase both spiritual and material blessings. Ultimately, following her path is seen as a way to achieve enlightenment and rebirth in the Pure Land.
The powerful symbolism of Green Tara resonates deeply in Tibetan Buddhism and is intricately captured in Thangka jewelry and Thangka pendant necklaces. Her divine qualities of compassion and wisdom make her a beloved figure for those seeking protection and spiritual awakening. Wearing her image in jewelry serves as a personal connection to her blessings, inviting her protection and guidance into daily life.
By exploring the sacred history and teachings of Green Tara, we can understand how she continues to inspire devotion and offer refuge to those in need of compassion and enlightenment.
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