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Sri Ramakrishna on Symbolism of Goddess Kali Standing on Shiva

Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa explains the symbolism of Goddess Kali Standing On Shiva.

Whatever you perceive in the universe is the outcome of the union of Purusha and Prakriti. Take the image of Shiva and Kali.


Kali stands on the bosom of Shiva; Shiva lies under Her feet like a corpse; Kali looks at Shiva. All this denotes the union of Purusha and Prakriti.

Purusha is inactive; therefore Shiva lies on the ground like a corpse.

Prakriti performs all Her activities in conjunction with Purusha. Thus She creates, preserves, and destroys.

Source - The Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna – (page 271 – 2)