When it comes to Hindu goddesses, each one is representative of a specific aspect regarding the Supreme Being. Depending on the occasion or circumstances, a variety of deities are worshipped or serve a purpose. In this article, you are introduced to Devi , one of the most important Hindu goddesses in history.
Devi
The meaning of ‘Devi’ translates into the Sanskrit word for goddess, which is mostly used within the Hindu belief system. In some circles, Devi is referred to as Shakti, which is the female aspect of the divine in Hinduism. Essentially, Devi is seen as the “core form of every Hindu goddess.” It is she that balanced out her male counterpart. Devi is known by many other names and associations (literally thousands), including The Great Goddess or the ‘mother figure.’
Featured in songs, poems, and art, Devi is one of the most celebrated of Hindu deities. She is seen in many different lights, from powerful to nurturing. A few ways that Devi is perceived within Hinduism include:
Cosmic Force
Seen as a cosmic force, Devi targets demonic forces and destroys those that pose a threat to the balance of the world. One of her traits is the ability to use a multitude of weapons to complete many tasks at one time. She is also associated with creating, destroying, and recreating the universe. When her gentle nature shines through, she provides wealth, good fortune, success, and other benefits to the worthy. To the women on earth, Devi is revered as an inspiration and serves as a heroine to the people. Sometimes, she appears in many different forms as the cosmic force, including:
· Durga (slayer of the buffalo demon): Known as the great Warrior Goddess, Durga is representative of the “lethal energy of divine anger” when fighting against evil. Many tales surround the story of Durga, including Durga riding on top of a lion to face an evil demon in the form of a buffalo. Every fall, the people of India celebrate the power and success of Durga in the Durga Puja. As one of the most widespread of visuals associated with Devi, Durga has been immortalized in bronze, wood, clay, stone, and paintings.
· Black Kali: Representing the darker side of Devi’s power, Kali appears when a fiery rupture of energy comes out of Devi’s forehead. The goddess Kali emerges and is seen as a dark skeletal form. She is known for overpowering and beheading two demon generals. When she carries the heads back to Devi, she is referred to as”¦
· The emaciated Chamunda: Often seen as a thin, black individual wearing a necklace made out of skulls.
Protector
In local circles, Devi is a protector of villages, towns, and individuals. Focused on local affairs, she watches over the people.
Semi-Divine Force
Associated with fertility spirits, Devi can appear in many other supernatural forms.