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 Tara
in 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. Tara is 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.