Sharad Navratri 2017: Weapons Maa Durga used to destroy enemies of Humanity

Navratri 2017

Navratri 2017 begins today, Goddess Durga a super powerful deity ‘ Shakti’ in Hindu mythology is worshiped in various forms for nine days. Maa Durga is Uma, "glow"; Gauri, "white or brilliant"; Parvati, "the mountaineer"; and Jagatmata, "the-mother-of-the-world" in her milder guise The terrible appearance are Durga "the inaccessible"; Kali, "the black"; Chandi, "the fierce"; and Bhairavi, "the terrible." Goddess Durga is multi-limbed so that she may always be ready to battle evil from any direction. In most depictions, she has between eight and 18 arms and holds a symbolic object in each hand. Maa Durga is frequently depicted standing on top or riding a tiger or lion, which represents power, will, and determination. Durga symbolizes her mastery over all these qualities. Her bold pose is called Abhay Mudra, which means "freedom from fear." Hindu scripture teaches, so too should Hindu faithful conduct themselves in a righteous, courageous way. Durga carries a variety of weapons and other items that she uses in her fight against evil.

Navratri 2017

# The conch shell symbolizes the Pranava or in other word 'OM', which indicates her holding on to God in the form of sound.

Navratri 2017

# The bow and arrows represent energy, Maa Durga holds the bow and arrows both in one hand demonstrating her control over both aspects of energy—potential and kinetic.

Navratri 2017

#The thunderbolt signifies firmness in one's convictions. Just as a real bolt of lightning can destroy anything it strikes, Durga reminds Hindus to attack a challenge without losing confidence.

Navratri 2017

# The lotus in Durga's hand, not yet fully in bloom, represents the certainty of success but not finality. The lotus in Sanskrit is called Pankaj, which means "born of mud," reminding the faithful to stay true to their spiritual quest amid the worldly mud of lust and greed.

Navratri 2017

# The Sudarshan-Chakra or beautiful discus, which spins around the index finger of the Goddess, signifies that the entire world is subservient to the will of Durga and is at her command. She uses this unfailing weapon to destroy evil and produce an environment conducive to the growth of righteousness.

Navratri 2017

# The sword that Durga holds in one of her hands symbolizes knowledge, which has the sharpness of a sword. Knowledge free from all doubts is symbolized by the shine of the sword.

Navratri 2017

# The trident or Trishul is a symbol of three qualities: Satwa (inactivity), Rajas (activity), and Tamas (nonactivity). Deva uses these to alleviate physical, mental, and spiritual suffering.