Green Tara Symbolism
Green Tara’s name has several meanings; Star, She who Ferries Across (the ocean of existence), She who saves, The Liberator, Saviouress.
Green Color: Symbolizes youthful vigor and activity. Karma. Secondary Color: Red (Her primary color is obviously Green, but as she is from the Western Buddha Lotus line, her 2nd color would be Red.) Blue Lotus Utpala flowers: Utpala open at sunset, bloom and release their fragrance. They are associated with the Moon. This flower is also a symbol of longevity. This Lotus promises relief from suffering by day and night. Green Tara holds the stem of an Utpala flower in each hand. The Lotus in her left hand symbolizes purity and power.
Mudras (Hand Postures): Tara’s Right hand is outstretched in the the boundless gesture of giving, of granting sublime realizations. This is called Varada Mudra. Her Left hand is positioned so that all of her fingers are extended upward, except for her ring finger, which is bent to touch the tip of the thumb. This is Vitarka Mudra. This Mudra is described in different ways, best as: the Three jewels Mudra (Sangha,Dharma,Buddha) or of Giving Refuge.
Leg Postures: Green Tara is seated, with her left leg tucked up. This left leg symbolizes wisdom and art. With it pulled in, she is holding merit and wisdom. Her right leg is extended, as if she is getting ready to step down off of her Lotus throne. She is a Goddess of Action, and this posture shows it. Her right foot is stepping down on to a smaller Lotus, but she could also be seen as holding down, or subduing with that foot.
Direction: West. (She is of the Lotus Buddha lineage, which is of the western line.)
Stars: Some say that the Star Tarot card in the Major Arcana is linked to her… probably because the base of her name means “Star”. Because of this, Stars are sacred to her as well.
Stones/Gems: Diamonds/Clear crystal, Malachite, Emerald, Rose quartz Watermelon Tourmaline (all pink or green stones)
Element(s): Water and the Cremation Fires
Cutting implements: Scissors, swords. These are used to cut the bonds of illusion and attachment.
Mirrors: for self examination
Animals: Sow, Raven, Mare, Owl
Perfumes/Incense: Green Tara or Nag Champa. My personal incense used in offering is Lotus (a symbol of her purity in thought word and deed), Night Jasmine (A symbol of the night and her connection the stars and moon) and Nag Champa (A spiritual vehicle for my prayers to her and her blessings returning to me) combined.
