What does Each Element of Goddess Durga Symbolise?

The nation has already started to bask in the joy and celebration cheers of Durga Puja. The five-day-long festival celebrates the triumph of Maa Durga over evil Mahishasura. According to the legends, she triumphed over the evil spirits during the nine days, now known as Navratri. In Vedas, she symbolises feminine prowess, grit, wisdom and above all, the victory of good over evil. And when we talk about her representation, she is armed with different weapons. Here’s what each weapon denotes:

Conch Shell

The Conch Shell or Shankh emits the soothing and enchanting sound of ‘Om’. It represents an omnipresent sound resonating with the sound of the omnipotent supreme power. Also, the conch shell has the power to destroy all the negative energies by its positive vibrations.

Sudarshan Chakra

The Sudarshan Chakra (disc) that spins on the index finger of Maa Durga symbolises dharma, karma and righteousness. It was bestowed upon her by Lord Vishnu and also represents the centre of creation.

Vajra (Thunderbolt)

Vajra represents the supreme goddesses’ firmness of character, determination and strong resolving power. Maa Durga blesses her believers or bhakta with indomitable spirit, confidence and willpower.

Sword (Khanda)

The sword in her right hand, with which she slayed Mahishasur, symbolises both wisdom and the elimination of vices. Knowledge is the most powerful weapon that outshines all; similarly, a sword shines in all its glory above all other weapons. This element that denotes cosmic intelligence was bestowed upon her by Lord Ganesha.

Trident (Trishul)

The powerful weapon of Lord Shiva, Trishul is a symbol of great courage, bravery and perseverance. Its three pointed ends are ‘trigun’ or three qualities i.e., Sattva (inactivity), Tamas (nonactivity) and Rajas (activity) of every living being on Earth.

Lotus Flower

In literal terms, Pankaj or Lotus flower means ‘born of mud’. Though the flower grows in the mud, it still radiates bewitching beauty and divine fragrance leaving everyone in awe. It gives out the message that despite negativity or our circumstances, we should redirect our energies into becoming a better version of ourselves.

Club (Axe)

The Axe or club was given to Maa Durga by Lord Vishwakarma. It is believed to have the power to eliminate all the evils and choke them to death.

Snake

Though most of the incarnations of Maa Durga show one hand raised in blessing or with a Trishul, in reality, the tenth hand is supposed to have a snake. It was gifted to her by Lord Shiva and symbolises his consciousness and masculine energy.

Tir and Dhanush (Bow & Arrow)

The arrow represents the ability to remain steady, resolute and focused even amidst the chaos. One should have a clear focus and direction to walk down the path that leads to their goal.

Bharji (Spear)

While a spear represents auspiciousness, it also portrays the fiery and hidden powers of living beings to overcome all sorts of hindrances & obstacles. It also signifies one’s ability to be righteous and destroy all evil energies.