This creation depends on and moves between dual principles of unity and multiplicity, which is a keynote of Rishi culture. Para Brahman stands for unity and the Parashakti constitutes the principle of multiplicity. Why should Parabrahman who is formless create this world of forms? Because he was compelled by his Para Shakti, who is essentially his potentiality and the ground underlying this expression of cosmic panorama is nothing save self-delight. Parananda – the outcome of profound intimacy and loving communion between Para Brahman and Para Shakti.
Another significant function of Para Shakti consists in her merciful mediation
between creator and created, God and man. Human personality is a wave of the
ocean of power of spirit. Shakti is always near to mankind. One can feel the
presence of power in oneself. She is the go-between – she takes man up to the
divine and brings down His blessings and grace. This aspect of Para Shakti is
called Yogamaya or Lila Shakti.
The seers have recognized four great aspects of the Parashakti – Maheswari,
Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati. These powers bring with them wisdom,
strength, harmony, and perfection unto us. Maheswari is the embodiment of all
wisdom. She opens us to the supramental infinitude and cosmic vastness.
Mahakali comprehends all strength. In her there are mighty possessions and
force. Her anger is dreadful to the hostile. She is loved and worshipped by the
devotees. Mahalakshmi is the fountainhead of all graceful charm and tenderness
even as the sun is the source of light. A miraculous stream of entrancing
ananda flows from her feet. She is the presiding deity of harmony and beauty.
Mahasaraswati is the divine power of perfection. All other powers lean on her
for completeness. For the fullness of creation Mahasaraswati is ready to face
eternity. Through our unreserved surrender divine grace comes to us pouring. We
receive it as luminous blessedness from Mahasaraswati. The gopis of Vrindavan
worshipped her for having Sri Krishna as their lover.
May She, Mahasaraswati, the deity of perfection, Sri Yogamaya of Brindavan,
bring down for the weary world, the supramental region of the Lord of Love,
Purusottama. May the great emancipation, Maha Uddharan of Bandhu Hari come down
to us through the benignant grace of Parashakti, Our Mother, Sri Durga.
Source – based on a book by Mahanambrata Brahmachari - The second chapter called ‘Reality: Para Brahman & Para Shakti.’