Tara, the mother of liberation, is of Avalokitesvara, as she transforms from the tears of Avalokitesvara. According to The Origin of Tara, Avalokitesvara was in tears when she saw numerous mortals in misery and hardship. Her tears turned into a lotus blossom which then transformed into a total of twenty-one forms of Tara, including Green Tara, White Tara and Red Tara. The task of the twenty-one Taras was to save people from disaster, fulfill their wishes, and bring hope to them. Each Tara has its unique color. In addition, they are classified according to virtues into pacifying, fulfilling and wrathful action.

Green Tara is the first of the twenty-one Taras. Her green colour, representing life and hope, is the root of all human creations. Green Tara is mostly taken as a beautiful young girl. Her body is as green as imperial jade. Devout Buddhists believe that the practice of Green Tara conjuration and recital of Green Tara Dharma can free oneself from calamities and evils as a result of accumulation of virtues.

White Tara, also known as Tara of Longevity, has the power of protecting all mortals. The white color of her body signifies her purity. In the eyes of the Tibetans, she is elegant, honest and beautiful. Having an eye on each of her hands and feet, and three eyes on her face, White Tara is also known as Seven-eye Tara. Buddhists believe that the practice of White Tara conjuration can increase longevity and prevent sickness and calamities. She can fulfill all the entreaties and bring hope to mankind. Accordingly, White Tara is known as Relieving Tara.