The Tara Tantra

Tara's Fundamental Ritual Text (Tara-mula-kalpa)

Susan A. Landesman

• Publisher: Wisdom Publications
• Year: 2020
• Print ISBN: 9781949163124
• eBook ISBN: 9781949163131
• Topic: Theology & Religion
• Subtopic: Buddhism

A groundbreaking English translation of a key tantric text in the history of Indo-Tibetan Buddhism. This volume contains an English translation of the "root text" of the Tara-mula-kalpa, a scripture-ritual compendium that captures an important Buddhist tantric tradition in mid-formation. In this regard it is utterly unique and unlike any other text in the Buddhist canon. Its contents document the emergence of the quintessential female Buddha Tarain seventh-century India. As her popularity grew, her cult spread throughout Southeast Asia, as well as Tibet, where she became revered as the "Mother" of the Tibetan people. Tarais worshiped for a variety of reasons, from health and long life, to wealth, protection from enemies, and ultimately, the mind of enlightenment. Her presence pervades the evolution of Buddhism in Tibet, including within royal circles, as well as mentor and guide to many important Buddhist scholars, practitioners, and lineage holders.

Table of contents

• Cover Page
• Title Page
• Dedication
• Contents
• Series Editor’s Preface
• Author’s Preface
• Abbreviations
• Part One: Introduction
• Part Two: Translation: Tārā-mūla-kalpa
• Appendixes
• Bibliography
• Index
• Copyright