Tara: The Feminine Divine

by Bokar Rinpoche

Tara, the most famous female deity in Tibetan Buddhism, is a personification of the Prajnaparamita and a mother dedicated to protecting her followers. Bokar Rinpoche presents the various aspects of Tara and the origin of her tantra, relates contemporary examples of her benevolent activity, provides an explanation of her praise, offers instruction for devotional practice, and discusses remarkable women in Indian and Tibetan Buddism. An extensive iconography completes the text.

Genres: Buddhism, Religion

176 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

About the author

Bokar Tulku Rinpoche, Karma Shedrup Yongdu Pel Zangpo, was heart-son of the Kalu Rinpoche and a holder of the Karma Kagyü and Shangpa Kagyü lineages. He was later one of the principle teachers of the Kalu Yangzi, held to be the reincarnation of H.E. Kalu Rinpoche, and served as director of the Kalu Rinpoche Translation Group.

Reviews

[Lorena Díaz]

It's an excellent overview of goddess Tara. At the beginning there is a subtle warning that you cannot read this book using your Western beliefs and mentality and it becomes very clear why they say that. It's really full of tibetan customs and beliefs, stories, history and the tibetan cultural background.
If you are really devoted to know more about Tara you will find very valuable information here, but be aware, your beliefs and thoughts will be challenged if you are used to the Western style and rituals =). I loved it.

[Mark Bourdon]

Tara: The Feminine Divine is really a book for Tara practitioners. The first chapter reviews Tara, the second chapter discusses Tantra and the relationship to Tara. The third and fourth chapters outline the Invocation and The 21 Praises. The fifth chapter discusses Women and Buddhism, which was very helpful, and the last chapter shows and explains the Iconography of the 21 Taras.

Every tradition has different terminology but the practice is always Tara, so I always appreciate the knowledge, insights and inspiration I gain from each practice. Tara: The Feminine Divine did not disappoint.

[Judy]

Excellent support for Tara practice... Anecdotes about how Tara practitioners benefit, and stories about the plight of Tibetan practitioners.

[Sonnie]

Good for Tara practice.

[Beth R]

A bit difficult to read but very informative about Tara and women in Tibetan Buddhism.