Path to Knowledge

In the tradition of Tantric worship, the "Path to Knowledge" is guided by powerful mantras that invoke divine energies. One such mantra is "ओं नमस्तारिन्यै" (oṁ namastārinyai), a sacred invocation that is the signature mantra of the Tārā Tantra. This mantra initiates the seven chapters, known as paṭalas, that comprise the Tārā Tantra. Known as the Tāriṇī ṣaḍākṣarī mantra, it invokes Tārā’s blessings and guidance for spiritual elevation and enlightenment.

Tārā is worshipped in many forms—Ugratārā (the fierce aspect), Tāriṇī (the savior), Sarasvatī (goddess of wisdom), Nīla Sarasvatī, and Ekajaṭā. Each form embodies a different aspect of divine intelligence and compassion. The siddha mantra of Tārā was imparted by Kula-Bhairava to Buddha-Vasiṣṭha, where the use of "Buddha" might symbolize a deeper esoteric meaning. Tārā sādhanā involves integrating the disciple into the kula (family or lineage), with Bhairava associated with the Lagna—the seat of intelligence and the foundation of self-awareness. Kula-Bhairava was worshipped by Vasiṣṭha before admitting a disciple into the lineage, emphasizing the importance of sacred initiation.

Lord Śiva, in his form as Bhairava, holds a central role, particularly through the mṛtyuṅjaya mantra from the Ṛg Veda, a sacred chant meant to transcend death and ignorance through the power of divine knowledge. This quest aligns with Tārā’s teachings, as she guides seekers from the darkness of ignorance into the light of wisdom.

Tārā is associated with all devatās (deities) because she embodies the knowledge that gives a deity its significance. The word "deva" is derived from "div," meaning light or knowledge. Thus, every deity is a bringer of light, and Tārā represents that knowledge. Anyone who embarks on a journey to gain knowledge is essentially seeking Tārā, as she is the guiding force behind the pursuit and mastery of all forms of wisdom.

The process of acquiring knowledge is seen as sacred and consists of five stages, ultimately leading to siddhi, or mastery. Tārā's influence begins when an individual is drawn to a field of study; she becomes the inspiration and guide in their pursuit. True learning is thus a spiritual journey, one that Tārā, as the embodiment of divine wisdom, illuminates at every stage. Her role emphasizes that the pursuit of knowledge is not merely intellectual but a profound spiritual endeavor. The invocation of the Tāriṇī ṣaḍākṣarī mantra symbolizes the initiation of this sacred journey, moving the seeker from ignorance to enlightenment under Tārā’s compassionate guidance.

Image: By Chore Bagan Art Studio - https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_2003-1022-0-53, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9951394

Om Tat Sat