Tara, partner of Chenrezi, is the Goddess or Bodhisattva of Mercy & Compassion, when regarded as a deity, or Bodhisattva of Compassion when regarded in a non-theistic manner. She has many forms, the best known of which are White Tara and Green Tara. Green Tara is younger and represents dynamic energy itself. White Tara has seven eyes to see all suffering. She, like Chenrezi, responds to all who call. The Lotus is a symbol of wisdom and spiritual purity. Her open palm is a boon granting gesture, while the three upward fingers of the other hand represent the 3 Jewels: Buddha, Dharma (the teachings), Sanga (the community). The beatific smile on the faces of such statues is the face of true serenity, which is the promise of the Buddhist path. (FLG)
- Subject Matter: White Tara
- Inventory Number: 2014.1.121
- Collections: Sacred World Art Collection