White Tara is a revered figure in Tibetan Buddhism, known as a female Bodhisattva of compassion, healing, and longevity. She is often depicted as a beautiful, serene figure with a white body, symbolizing purity and wisdom. White Tara is associated with long life and is believed to have the power to overcome obstacles and heal diseases.
Here are some key aspects of White Tara's iconography and symbolism:
Seven Eyes: White Tara is often depicted with seven eyes, including one on her forehead, two on her palms, two on her soles, and her regular two eyes. These eyes symbolize her ability to see all the suffering in the world and to bestow blessings of compassion and protection.
Lotus Flower: She is frequently portrayed seated on a lotus flower, which represents purity and spiritual awakening. The lotus often has multiple layers, symbolizing the depth of wisdom and compassion.
Posture: White Tara is usually shown sitting in a meditative pose with one leg extended, signifying her readiness to respond to the suffering of sentient beings. Her right hand is often in the gesture of granting boons (varada mudra), while her left hand holds a lotus or is in the gesture of protection (abhaya mudra).
White Color: The white color of her body signifies purity, clarity of mind, and the transcendence of ignorance.
Mantra: The mantra associated with White Tara is "Om Tare Tuttare Ture Mama Ayur Pune Gyan Pustim Kuru Svaha." This mantra is recited for healing, protection, and long life.
White Tara is venerated as a compassionate protector who responds to the needs of devotees, offering blessings of health, longevity, and spiritual growth. She is one of the most popular deities in Tibetan Buddhism and is particularly invoked for healing practices and to overcome obstacles in life.