The Twelve Tenma Goddesses hold a significant place in Tibetan Buddhism. They are also known as the Twelve Eternal Mothers of the Earth. These goddesses were originally local deities of the Bon religion. Their territories spanned across Tibet. Later, Guru Padmasambhava subdued them. He then bestowed secret Dharma names upon them. Consequently, they became protectors of Buddhism.
The Three Groups of Tenma Goddesses
These twelve goddesses divide into three distinct groups. First, there are the four demon goddesses. These include the Renowned Earth Mother, the Shale Sustaining Earth Mother, the Samantabhadra Earth Mother, and the Queen of Demons Earth Mother. Second, the four Yaksha goddesses consist of the One-Eyed Earth Mother, the Virtuous Consort Earth Mother, the Fierce Victorious Earth Mother, and the White Dragon Queen Earth Mother. Finally, the four medicine goddesses are the Tibetan Sustaining Earth Mother, the Great Universal Savior Earth Mother, the Beautiful Ice Heart Earth Mother, and the Emerald Clever Earth Mother. Each of these goddesses has a unique role and symbolism in Tibetan Buddhism.
The Renowned Earth Mother
The Renowned Earth Mother is one of the four demon goddesses. She is often depicted riding a red horse. In her right hand, she holds a dragon serpent. Moreover, she holds a treasure vase in her left hand. This goddess protects Lake Namtso, a sacred site in Tibet. Her imagery embodies power and abundance, and her role as a protector.
Shale Sustaining Earth Mother
Next, the Shale Sustaining Earth Mother is another demon goddess. She rides a white snow lion, displaying her strength. This goddess holds a lotus scepter in her right hand. Additionally, she holds a nectar vase in her left. The Shale Sustaining Earth Mother is known for her protection of Mount Everest. Therefore, she is associated with resilience and purity.
Samantabhadra Earth Mother
The Samantabhadra Earth Mother is also a demon goddess. She is typically shown riding a brown wolf, symbolizing her connection to the wild. This goddess holds a vajra club in her right hand. Furthermore, she holds a plate filled with jewels in her left hand. The Samantabhadra Earth Mother protects Mount Lha-ri, a place of spiritual significance. Her image reflects wisdom and wealth.
Queen of Demons Earth Mother
The final demon goddess is the Queen of Demons Earth Mother. She rides a garuda, a mythical bird, signifying her soaring spirit. In her right hand, she holds a drum, representing sound and rhythm. Also, she holds a treasure mirror in her left hand. The Queen of Demons Earth Mother safeguards Lake Yamdrok. Her symbols relate to transformation and reflection.
One-Eyed Earth Mother
The One-Eyed Earth Mother is the first of the four Yaksha goddesses. She is shown riding a grey mule. In her right hand, she holds a treasure sword, symbolizing her ability to cut through obstacles. Furthermore, she holds a rein in her left hand. This goddess protects Mount Lapche, a place of spiritual power. Her imagery represents courage and control.
Virtuous Consort Earth Mother
The next Yaksha goddess is the Virtuous Consort Earth Mother. She is depicted riding a divine deer. In her right hand, she holds a sickle, which can represent both harvest and cutting away illusion. She also holds a nectar vase in her left hand. The Virtuous Consort Earth Mother protects Mount Karri. Her image portrays compassion and nourishment.
Fierce Victorious Earth Mother
The Fierce Victorious Earth Mother is another Yaksha goddess. She rides a grey donkey, signifying her grounded nature. In her right hand, she holds a mani jewel, a symbol of enlightenment. Additionally, she holds a vajra lasso in her left hand. She protects Mount Machen Pomra, a sacred site. Her symbolism suggests triumph over adversity.
White Dragon Queen Earth Mother
The last of the Yaksha goddesses is the White Dragon Queen Earth Mother. She rides a tiger, denoting her ferocity and strength. She holds a blue lotus in her right hand, symbolizing purity and spiritual awakening. She also holds a vajra bell in her left hand. The White Dragon Queen Earth Mother protects Lake Dromar. Her image suggests transformation and wisdom.
Tibetan Sustaining Earth Mother
Moving to the medicine goddesses, the Tibetan Sustaining Earth Mother is the first. She rides a horse, representing energy and movement. In her right hand, she holds a colorful arrow, symbolizing direction and precision. She also holds a treasure vase in her left hand. This goddess protects Mount Kongpo Gampo, a sacred mountain. Her image reflects vitality and abundance.
Great Universal Savior Earth Mother
The Great Universal Savior Earth Mother is another medicine goddess. She is depicted riding a green dragon. She holds a makara staff in her right hand. This staff represents the power to overcome obstacles. Also, she holds a dharma wheel in her left hand. The Great Universal Savior Earth Mother protects Mount Loro, a place of spiritual importance. Her symbols indicate liberation and wisdom.
Beautiful Ice Heart Earth Mother
The Beautiful Ice Heart Earth Mother is also one of the medicine goddesses. She rides a grey mule. In her right hand, she holds a long spear banner. This represents protection and victory. Moreover, she holds a lasso in her left hand. This powerful goddess protects Nagalingshan, a sacred site. Her imagery relates to strength and clarity.
Emerald Clever Earth Mother
Finally, the Emerald Clever Earth Mother is the last of the medicine goddesses. She rides a yak, an animal known for its strength and hardiness. In her right hand, she holds a long silk scarf, representing compassion and gentleness. Furthermore, she holds a plate of five sense offerings in her left hand. This goddess protects Mount Yufeng. She embodies wisdom and skillful means.
Red-Tongued Dakini
Beyond the Twelve Tenma Goddesses, other significant protector deities exist. The Red-Tongued Dakini is one such figure. She is one of the eight offering goddesses of Kongpo Shang. Moreover, she is a worldly protector related to Tibetan medicine. She has a wolf’s head with three eyes and red hair. She also wears a skull crown, which is a symbol of transformation. She is adorned with ornaments. Her four hands hold a vajra chopper, a vajra hook, a human head, and a kapala bowl. Additionally, she rides a white nine-headed bird, making her image both fierce and compassionate.
Mount Yala Shampo Deity
Another notable deity is the Mount Yala Shampo Deity. He is dressed in traditional Tibetan robes. He holds a mongoose in his left hand. This symbolizes his ability to bring wealth and abundance. In his right hand, he holds a long spear. He sits sideways on a yellow treasure horse. This imagery shows his role as a protector and bestower of fortune. These different deities each have their unique representations and roles within the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhism.
The Role of Deities in Tibetan Buddhism
In Tibetan Buddhism, deities are not simply gods and goddesses. They represent different aspects of enlightened qualities. These qualities include wisdom, compassion, and skillful means. Many of these deities, including the Tenma Goddesses, were originally local protectors. They were later integrated into the Buddhist pantheon. Guru Padmasambhava is often credited with subduing these deities. He then transformed them into protectors of the Dharma. These deities are part of the broader tantric system. They serve as guides for practitioners. Therefore, they hold a very important role in Tibetan Buddhism.
The Importance of the Tenma Goddesses
The Tenma Goddesses, with their diverse forms and roles, exemplify the complexity of Tibetan Buddhist practice. Their stories blend indigenous beliefs with Buddhist teachings. Each goddess protects specific places. They also represent unique qualities. In essence, they are more than just protectors. They are a pathway to understanding our potential. They serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all beings. Therefore, the Tenma Goddesses remain an integral part of Tibetan Buddhism.
Conclusion
The deities of Tibetan Buddhism, including the Twelve Tenma Goddesses, offer a deep and varied path towards enlightenment. They are protectors and guides. Furthermore, they represent the many aspects of wisdom and compassion. Their stories demonstrate the transformative power of Buddhist teachings. Understanding their roles and symbolism can enrich one’s own spiritual journey. Consequently, these deities offer valuable lessons for all practitioners.
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