Meaning & Translation
Sanskrit
ॐ तारे तुत्तारे तुरे स्वाहा
Transliteration
Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha
Pronunciation
OHM TAH-ray too-TAH-ray TOO-ray SOH-hah
Deity / Quality Invoked
Tara
Full Translation
The most widely chanted mantra of Tibetan Buddhism, addressed to Tara — known as the "Mother of all Buddhas" and, in her green form, as the Buddha of compassion-in-action. Tara is a fearless protector who comes swiftly to relieve physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering. The mantra is traditionally understood as a progressive prayer for liberation: first from the cycle of suffering, then from the fears and dangers of life, and finally from the deepest sickness of ignorance itself.
Spiritual Significance
Tara embodies enlightened compassion that does not merely feel for others but acts to free them. Chanting her mantra is a practice of taking refuge in that active, motherly compassion and awakening it within oneself. His Holiness the Dalai Lama has recommended the Green Tara mantra as a support in times of fear and uncertainty.
Cultural Context & History
Tara is beloved across Tibet, Nepal, and the Himalayan world, where she is also called Dolma. In one popular tradition she appears in 21 forms, each addressing a different fear or obstacle. The mantra is recited on malas, in daily practice, and during illness or danger as a call for her swift help.
For Leaders
Chords and structure for leading this chant on harmonium or guitar — transcribed from the linked recording. New to leading? Read our guide to leading kirtan →
Original key
Bb
Tempo & feel
Slow and spacious (~52 bpm); a lullaby for Tara, sung in unison
Chord Chart
Strumming & rhythm (4/4)
D = downstrum, U = upstrum, · = let it ring. a lullaby for Tara: one gentle down, one breath of an up into the next bar.
Call & Response Structure
Sung as a group unison mantra rather than strict call-and-response. The four-line cycle repeats with the F appearing only in the final cadence — save it, so most cycles float on Bb–Gm–Eb and the F feels like Tara answering. Later verses open into an Eb–F–Dm passage; keep dynamics soft throughout.
Terms in the Glossary
Words from this page, explained in our A–Z reference.