30 Sec Answer: The female form of the Buddha is known as Tara or Arya Tara. She is also known by different names such as Jetsun Dölma in Tibetan Buddhism, and Kuan Yin or Kannon in East Asian traditions.
What is the Female Buddha Called?
In Buddhism, there are many figures that embody spiritual energy and wisdom. One of them is the iconic figure of the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. This figure has been venerated for centuries by Buddhists across cultures and countries for his teachings about enlightenment. But what about a female version of the Buddha? Is there one, and if so, what is she called? Read on to learn more about the female version of the Buddha and her various incarnations.
Origins of Female Buddhas
The concept of female Buddhas first arose in Mahayana Buddhism sometime between 200 BCE and 100 CE. This period saw an influx of new ideas and practices into Buddhism which included teachings around female spiritual power and enlightenment. As part of this movement, stories began to emerge around powerful female figures who embodied aspects of the Buddha’s qualities. These figures would later come to be known as female Buddhas or "Bodhisattvas".
Who are Bodhisattvas?
A Bodhisattva is someone who seeks Enlightenment not only for themselves but for all sentient beings. This can manifest itself in any number of ways including meditation, teaching Dharma (the Buddhist path), compassionate acts towards others, or selfless service to society. They are sometimes referred to as "enlightened ones" due to their state of inner peace and understanding. The most famous Bodhisattva in Buddhism is Avalokiteshvara, who embodies compassion and kindness towards others – particularly those suffering from pain or distress.
Different Names for Female Buddhas
There are many names for the female form of the Buddha throughout Buddhist culture. In Tibet she is often referred to as Jetsun Dölma while in East Asian traditions she may be known as Kuan Yin or Kannon. Additionally, she is also referred to as Tara or Arya Tara – which literally translates as "She Who Saves". No matter what name she goes by, these different forms all represent aspects of enlightened feminine energy within Buddhism.
Appearance & Symbolism
Female Buddhas usually appear with a set of symbols associated with them that denote certain characteristics they possess such as wisdom, protection, healing and fertility. For example, Tara may be seen holding a lotus flower in her hand which symbolises purity amidst chaos or difficulty; whereas Avalokiteshvara might have multiple arms which signify his capacity for unconditional love and compassion towards all living things.
Functions & Practices
Female Buddhas are thought to function in many ways depending on how they are invoked during rituals or meditations. In some cases they can offer protection from danger or harm; while in other cases they can bring good luck and fortune upon those who pray to them regularly. Additionally, it is believed that invoking their presence can bring clarity during times of confusion and insight when making decisions.
Worship & Devotion
Different types of worship or devotion can be used when connecting with a female Buddha depending on one’s own spiritual practice or preference. Some examples include mantra recitation (such as repeating mantras dedicated to Avalokiteshvara 108 times), meditation practices focused on cultivating compassion, dedicating offerings such as flowers and incense, performing prostrations (or kneeling) before statues/images of a particular female Buddha figure, etc.. All these activities help deepen our connection with these powerful archetypes and allow us access to their benevolent energies.
Female Buddhas & Feminine Power
It’s no secret that women have long been marginalised throughout history when it comes to accessing power and having their voices heard within religious systems like Buddhism. However, by honouring these ancient goddesses we can begin to open up conversations around feminine energy within religion – enabling us to explore different ways of being empowered outside traditional patriarchal structures. Through recognising the existence and significance of these divine feminine figures we can start to tap into hidden reservoirs of strength within ourselves too!
Common Prayers & Mantras Dedicated To Female Buddhas
When worshipping or praying to a particular female Buddha figure it helps to recite special mantras associated with her particular attributes or energetic vibration:
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Tara: Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha!
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Kuan Yin: Namo Guan Shi Yin Pu Sa!
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Avalokiteshvara: Om Mani Padme Hum!
Representations Across Cultures & Traditions
Throughout its long history Buddhism has spread across Asia influencing cultures far beyond its Indian birthplace with each nation creating its own unique interpretation of certain teachings – including those surrounding goddess figures like Tara, Kuan Yin and Avalokiteshvara (to name just a few). In India she may take on the form of Parvati while in China she could manifest herself as Guanyin; likewise in Japan she may go by Kannon Bosatsu while Tibetans may refer to her as Dolma Lhamo (the White-Robed Liberator). Each region brings something unique to their representation whether through artistic depictions or rituals dedicated solely towards venerating these feminine deities; however ultimately they all share one common purpose – that of helping humanity reach its highest potential through understanding deep spiritual truths.
Conclusion
In conclusion we can see that there is indeed a female equivalent of the historical Buddha – known commonly today as either Tara, Kuan Yin or Avalokiteshvara amongst other names depending on geographical location/cultural context. Her presence offers an alternative view point from which we can draw inspiration from whilst exploring our own journey towards Enlightenment; enabling us access more deeply rooted reservoirs of wisdom within our selves so that we too can become liberated from suffering just like the original founder himself!