Green Tara: Mother of Liberation and Compassion in Buddhist Thangka Art

Introduction to Green Tara

Green Tara is one of the most beloved female bodhisattvas in Buddhism, widely known as the “Mother of Liberation” and the embodiment of compassionate action. In Tibetan Buddhism, she is often called the “Mother of all Buddhas,” as she represents the wisdom of ultimate reality—the source from which all enlightened beings arise.

As a self-born Buddha, Green Tara symbolizes the perfect union of wisdom and compassion, guiding all sentient beings toward liberation from samsara (cycle of suffering). Her presence in Thangka paintings reflects both spiritual beauty and powerful protective energy.

Origin of Green Tara

The Tears of Avalokiteshvara

One of the most well-known origins of Green Tara is linked to Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion.

As he gazed upon the suffering of all beings, tears fell from his eyes and formed a sacred lake. From a blooming lotus within that lake emerged:

• Green Tara – the active force of compassion
• White Tara – the aspect of healing and longevity

Both vowed to assist in the liberation of all sentient beings. From that moment, Green Tara became a swift and fearless savior, always ready to respond to suffering.

The Story of Princess Moon of Wisdom

Another important account comes from the teachings of Taranatha Kunga Nyingpo.

In this story, Green Tara was once a devoted princess named Moon of Wisdom, who generated bodhichitta—the aspiration to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.

When monks advised her to pray for rebirth as a male, she replied:

“There is no man, no woman, no self, no person… these labels have no true essence.”

With this profound realization, she vowed to attain enlightenment in a female form and continue helping beings. Through her unwavering compassion, she became Tara—the Liberator.

Green Tara in Thangka Paintings

Click here to view Green Tara Thangka

In Green Tara Thangka art, she is portrayed as a youthful, radiant goddess embodying grace, compassion, and readiness to act.

Appearance and Symbolism

• Green complexion – symbolizes active compassion and swift action
• Peaceful, loving expression – reflects motherly care for all beings
• Royal attire and ornaments – represent mastery of generosity and virtue
• Jeweled crown – often features a red jewel symbolizing Amitabha Buddha, her spiritual lineage

Posture and Mudras

Green Tara’s posture in Thangka paintings carries deep meaning:

• Right leg extended – readiness to step into the world and help beings
• Left leg folded – meditative stability and inner realization

Her hand gestures (mudras):

• Right hand (Varada Mudra) – gesture of generosity and wish-fulfilling blessings
• Left hand (Refuge Mudra) – symbolizing protection and spiritual refuge

She holds utpala (blue lotus flowers) in both hands, representing:

• Purity
• Spiritual awakening
• Compassion blooming even in suffering

Green Tara Mantra and Its Meaning

The most powerful way to connect with Green Tara is through her sacred mantra:

“Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha”

Meaning of the Mantra:

• Om – sacred body, speech, and mind
• Tare – liberation from samsara (cycle of suffering)
• Tuttare – protection from the eight fears
• Ture – removal of illness and obstacles
• Soha – establishing blessings in the heart

The Eight Fears:

Green Tara protects from both external and internal fears:

• Pride (lion)
• Ignorance (elephant)
• Anger (fire)
• Jealousy (snake)
• Attachment (flood)
• Miserliness (imprisonment)
• Wrong views (thieves)
• Doubt (cannibals)

Chanting this mantra helps cultivate:

• Inner peace and clarity
• Courage and protection
• Compassion and wisdom

Green Tara Meditation Practice

To deepen your connection:

1. Visualize Green Tara in front of you or above your head
2. Imagine sacred syllables:
• Om (white) at her crown
• Ah (red) at her throat
• Hum (blue) at her heart
3. As you chant, visualize light radiating from these points
4. Let the light purify your body, speech, and mind

Regular practice helps remove negative karma, fear, and mental obstacles, guiding you toward enlightenment.

Spiritual Importance of Green Tara Thangka

A Green Tara Thangka painting is a powerful spiritual support used for:

• Protection from fears and obstacles
• Healing and emotional balance
• Meditation and visualization practices
• Bringing compassion and positive energy into your space

Her image serves as a constant reminder of swift compassion and fearless action.