This week’s meditation session is led by Sharon Salzberg and the theme is Lovingkindness. The guided meditation begins at 13:22.

Tara is a completely enlightened buddha, who has promised to appear in the future in the form of a female bodhisattva and deity for the benefit of all beings. She typically appears in the form of a radiant young woman. The green form of Tara is known for bestowing protection from the Eight Fears, and she helps us overcome internal and external states of turmoil. 

This object was created by Choying Dorje (1604–1674), the Tenth Karmapa, head of the Karma Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. Not only was the Tenth Karmapa a revered spiritual leader, he was also a remarkable artist. His love of animals is often subtly  incorporated into his works. Here, a pair of birds can be found nestled in a leafy bower above Tara’s head.

Tara is beloved in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism. She embodies lovingkindness and the willingness to embrace all beings without judgment. Tara’s ten-syllable mantra Om tare tuttare ture svaha is memorized and recited by Tibetans from early childhood. Reciting this mantra with devotion strengthens our connection to Tara, bestows us with protection, and helps us accrue merit.