Maa Tara, the second of the ten Mahavidyas, is a revered deity in both Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. As a figure of profound significance, she embodies both gentle and fierce aspects, making her a complex and multifaceted symbol of divine energy and transformation.

The Divine Essence of Maa Tara

Tara’s role in the succession of the Mahavidyas follows that of Kali, reflecting a similar, yet distinct, aspect of divine power. Both goddesses share similarities in their iconography and attributes, which often lead to an overlap in their identities. However, Tara’s unique characteristics highlight her as a separate, pivotal force in the spiritual landscape.

The Many Faces of Tara

Tara’s manifestations are diverse, encompassing both tranquil (saumya) and formidable (ugra) forms. In Hindu Sakta Tantra, her fierce forms are particularly emphasized, showcasing her capacity to overcome obstacles and transform consciousness. The recurring theme in her depictions is her association with the primordial waters, symbolizing her role as the Mother of the three realms: the heavens, the atmosphere, and the earth.

Iconography and Symbolism

Tara is often portrayed seated on a white lotus, surrounded by the primordial waters that signify her encompassing nature. Her iconography bears a close resemblance to that of Kali, with notable distinctions. Tara is typically shown as four-armed, holding a sword in her upper left hand and a severed head in her lower left. The sword, known as the jnanakhadga, represents the power of knowledge to cut through ignorance and delusion, while the severed head symbolizes the ego—an illusion of individual selfhood that binds one to worldly existence.

In her upper right hand, Tara wields a pair of khadgas, emphasizing her ability to sever attachments and illusions. Her lower right hand often holds a blue lotus, symbolizing her open heart and purity.

Tara’s complexion is dark blue, akin to the night sky, which signifies her boundlessness and infinite nature. Unlike Kali, whose hair flows freely, Tara’s hair is neatly arranged in a topknot, symbolizing yogic discipline and mastery over the mind.

The Relationship with Lord Shiva

Tara is frequently depicted sitting upon the body of Lord Shiva, indicating the deep interconnection between her and Shiva. This posture highlights the mutual dependency of the dynamic and the static aspects of the divine: Shiva represents the unchanging, foundational consciousness, while Tara embodies the dynamic force that drives the universe’s activity. Their unity underscores the concept that consciousness and its power are inseparable and identical.

Symbolism of Akshobhya and Enlightenment

A halo of light surrounds Tara’s head, with the ten-headed serpent Akshobhya rising above it. This serpent symbolizes Siva-consciousness, representing a state of complete tranquillity and the ultimate reality of being-awareness-bliss (sacchidananda). This imagery reinforces Tara’s role in leading practitioners toward enlightenment and the dissolution of the ego.

Tara’s Association with Death and Transformation

Both Kali and Tara are associated with themes of death and dissolution. While Kali is often linked to time (kala) and the inevitable destruction of all forms, Tara is more closely associated with fire and the cremation ground. One of her names, Smasanabhairavi, translates to “the terrible one of the cremation ground,” reflecting her role in the purifying and transformative aspects of death.

Tara’s symbolism, including the girdle of severed arms and her tools like the sword and scissors, represents the dismantling of the ego and the release from karmic burdens. Her name, derived from “tri,” meaning “to cross,” and her epithet Samsaratarini, “she who takes across the ocean of worldly existence,” emphasizes her role as a liberator from the cycle of life and death.

Maternal Tenderness and Compassion

Beyond her formidable aspects, Tara also embodies maternal compassion and unconditional love. Her nurturing nature and liberating mantra offer guidance and support to all who seek her grace.

Conclusion

Maa Tara, with her rich symbolism and dual nature, represents a profound force of transformation and liberation. As a goddess who bridges the fierce and gentle aspects of divinity, she guides practitioners through both the challenges and the triumphs on their spiritual journey, leading them from ignorance to enlightenment and beyond.