Goddess Durga can be depicted with 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16 or
18 arms. Each of her arms holds auspicious things and weapons. Her hands will
show a particular mudra. Here are the symbolic meaning of things and weapons
held by Goddess Durga.
- Shankh or Conch – It symbolizes the sound Aum. The first sound that appeared which led to creation.
- Bow and Arrow – It represents single-minded focus.
- Vajra or Lightening – It symbolizes unparalleled energy and strength.
- Lotus – Success can be only achieved through nonattachment.
- Sudarshana Chakra – Invokes fear in the mind of those who follow Adharma.
- Sword – Symbolically represents sharp knowledge, which can cut asunder any form of ignorance.
- Abhaya Mudra – It gives confidence to a devotee to remove all forms of fear and to move ahead – Mother Durga is always with you.
As per some interpretation,
- lion represents courage
- red color of the dress of Durga represents passion,
- abhya mudra represents forgiveness and blessing,
- gada or club represents loyalty,
- sword discrimination,
- chakra righteousness,
- conch happiness
- trident control of inertia, passion and purity.
- bow and arrow good character
- lotus detachment
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