The Tara Sara Upanishad (The Supreme Goddess and Her Cosmic Essence)

 The Tara Sara Upanishad  (The Supreme Goddess and Her Cosmic Essence)

That which is Om is the indestructible, the supreme, and the Brahman. That alone should be worshipped. It is this that is of the eight subtle syllables.

The Tara Sara Upanishad is classified as one of 14 Vaishnava Upanishads attached to the Shukla Yajurveda. This Upanishad delves into the worship, symbolism, and spiritual significance of Goddess Tara Sara, guiding seekers on the path of spiritual awakening and liberation. Rooted in the ancient Vedic tradition, this Upanishad continues to hold enduring significance as it unveils the divine mysteries of the cosmic feminine principle. Goddess Tara Sara is revered as the Supreme Goddess, transcending the dualities of existence and representing the ultimate reality. The origins of this Upanishad can be traced back to the ancient Vedic period which dates back to approximately 1500-500 BC. The text is notable for its discussion of Om for yogic meditation as Taraka or that which helps one cross from mundane into spiritual world. It is one of the texts which mentions the "Om Namo Narayana" mantra of Vaishnavism. The text has three chapters, with the first a repeat of the first chapter of the Jabala Upanishad. The second and third chapter focus on describing the Om mantra, it being the ultimate and highest reality Brahman, and its relationship to Narayana (Vishnu).

The Upanishad presents Goddess Tara Sara as the divine embodiment of cosmic power (Shakti) and wisdom. She is venerated as the Supreme Goddess, encompassing both creative and destructive aspects, symbolizing the cycles of life, death, and rebirth. The Upanishad expounds the significance of devotion and worship in attaining the grace of Goddess Tara Sara. Seekers are encouraged to engage in sincere and heartfelt worship, seeking her blessings and guidance on the spiritual path. It delves into the symbolic representation of Goddess Tara Sara. She is often depicted with multiple arms, each holding symbolic objects representing her various powers and attributes. Her imagery embodies the cosmic forces that sustain and govern the universe. It celebrates the divine feminine principle, acknowledging the transformative and nurturing aspects of the Goddess. It emphasizes the balance between the masculine and feminine energies in the cosmic order.

The Upanishad guides seekers on the path of liberation (moksha) and self-realization. It teaches that by meditating upon Goddess Tara Sara and surrendering to her divine grace, one can transcend the cycle of birth and death and attain union with the ultimate reality. As an exploration of the divine feminine principle, the Upanishad inspires devotion and reverence towards the Supreme Goddess. The Upanishad’s teachings on self-realization, liberation, and cosmic balance have also influenced the understanding of the cosmic order and the pursuit of spiritual wisdom. As an integral part of the Upanishadic tradition, this sacred scripture continues to guide and inspire individuals on their spiritual journey, fostering a deeper connection with the cosmic forces that govern the universe.