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What are the different forms of the Divine Mother worshiped in Shaktism?
In Shaktism, the worship of the Divine Mother is central to the belief system. The Divine Mother, also known as Shakti or Devi, is considered the ultimate source of energy and power in the universe. She is seen as the embodiment of feminine energy and is revered as the primordial cosmic force.
There are many different forms of the Divine Mother worshiped in Shaktism. Each form represents a different aspect of her power and is associated with a specific deity or goddess. Some of the most prominent forms of the Divine Mother worshiped in Shaktism are:
Durga: Durga is one of the most popular forms of the Divine Mother worshiped in Shaktism. She is depicted as a fierce warrior goddess who rides a lion and is often shown slaying demons. She is seen as the protector of the universe and is believed to be the one who destroys evil and restores balance.
Kali: Kali is another powerful form of the Divine Mother in Shaktism. She is often depicted as a dark-skinned goddess with a fierce expression, standing on a demon or corpse. Kali is associated with destruction and is believed to be the one who destroys ignorance and ego to help one achieve spiritual enlightenment.
Lakshmi: Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. She is depicted as a beautiful and benevolent goddess, often seen with a lotus flower in one hand and showering blessings with the other. Lakshmi is believed to bring good luck and fortune to her devotees.
Saraswati: Saraswati is the goddess of knowledge, wisdom, and the arts. She is depicted as a serene and graceful deity, often seen playing a veena (musical instrument). Saraswati is believed to be the source of creativity and inspiration and is revered by students and artists.
Parvati: Parvati is the consort of Lord Shiva and is considered the gentle and nurturing form of the Divine Mother. She is often depicted as a loving and caring mother, holding her son Lord Ganesha in her lap. Parvati is seen as the embodiment of motherly love and is believed to bless her devotees with happiness and fulfillment.
In addition to these forms, there are many other manifestations of the Divine Mother worshiped in Shaktism, such as Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment, and Chamunda, the fierce and powerful form of the Divine Mother. Each form represents a different aspect of the Divine Mother's energy and is worshiped for specific purposes.
In conclusion, the worship of the Divine Mother in Shaktism is a multifaceted and diverse practice, with various forms of the goddess being revered and worshiped for their unique qualities and attributes. The devotion to the Divine Mother is seen as a way to connect with the feminine energy and tap into her infinite power and blessings.