Durga Maa is a warrior Goddess often depicted riding a lion or tiger. The word ‘Durga’ translates to ‘the one who protects and eliminates suffering’. She is usually portrayed riding a tiger or lion, which symbolizes her harnessing power, will, and determination. Yet, her face is always depicted as calm and serene because she acts out of necessity, not hatred, violence, or egoism.
She is depicted with many hands – each of which holds a weapon of one of the male gods of Hindu mythology. The weapons that Durga Maa carries represent the qualities that are to be developed through self-discipline and selfless service. Some of the weapons include the conch shell (symbolizing the OM), bow and arrow, lightening bolt, chakra sword, and trident. Some depictions now place a pen in one of her hands.
Durga Maa is terrifying and destructive when she has to be, but benevolent and nurturing. She points us toward a place of alignment and humble authority where truth and leadership call us to act on behalf of the greater good.
Durga Maa
Ignite in me the luminous strength of integrity.
Initiate me Mother, into a sisterhood of dignity.
I am willing now, at this time of turmoil and endless distraction,
to take my sovereign seat among the wisdom keepers.
Today I face my assignment fully, irreversibly, and I joyously leave behind
both unworthiness and inflated self-importance,
which keep me hostage in smallness.
I know in my heart and in my womb that we are all made of belonging,
and I can no longer tolerate the games of greed and arrogance,
nor look to others to define what is important, or what is real.
I bow, Mother, and I humbly accept my crown.
With trembling legs, rooting in the authority of love,
I will guard the torch of truth and goodness,
no matter what.
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