Meaning And Symbolism In Nine Names of Devi
1- Shailaputri : Besides mountain in Vedic terminology
Mountain also represents our material body.
It also means Sun.
If mountain represents the matter
Sun represents the active truth or power of entire Cosmos.
The combined flavor gives us one of two side of Devi!
The first of two cosmic principles-
Know it as Para Shakti , Supreme Nature or Cosmic Force.
2- Brahmacharini: Dwells in Brahman or performs Brahmanic action.
Devi as Brahamcharini or bearer of cosmic consciousness
Dwells in cosmos as well as in us performing all kinds of actions.
She is Chit-Shakti, Mahamaya beyond the grasp of mortals!
3- Chandraghanta: Crescent moon-bell, signifies Nature’s calm, tranquil and mellow phase.
4- Kushmanda: Glowing heat or energy. The substratum of Universe,
Imagined as the Cosmic Egg.
5- Skanda: Upward rise, jumping upward, power to ascent.
6- Katyayan: Sad feeling or expression. By association it invokes
A hint of downward trend or power to descend. Apposite of Skanda.
As Skanda Mata and Katyayni Mother goddess is instrumental
Of cosmic evolution and dissolution.
7- Kaalratri: Dark night of death and destruction.
8- Mahagauri: Great shining white form! What could be a better symbol
For the Cosmic re-emergence of Life.
9- Siddhidatri: Bestower of siddhis or accomplishments.
The above eight principles of Mother Nature are pivotal in the workings of life. Understanding, achieving, and working through these divine forces, guided by their influences and protected with their grace, a human being achieves satisfaction from daily activities to lead a happy life.
Such is the power of these nine names of Devi contained in Devi Kavacham.
Note: Devi Kavacham is part of Devi Mahatamyam, also called Durga Saptashati for it has 700 verses. The names above are part of 61 verses of Devi Kavacham. These beautiful verses are recited by devotees specially during Navaratre wishing for Devi’s protection.
Savita Tyagi
11.10. 2022
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