The worship of the divine as the Mother of the universe is a profound and ancient tradition within Hinduism. One of the most significant texts that illustrate this practice is the Devi Sukta from the Rig Veda (10.125.1-8). This sukta, or hymn, is also known as the Vagambhrinisukta, attributed to the woman sage Vac, the daughter of the sage Ambhrina. This hymn, composed of eight mantras or stanzas, presents Vac's mystical experiences and her profound identification with the supreme reality, Paramatman, or God.
The Mantras of the Devi Sukta
Universal Presence of the Goddess: In the first verse, Vac
proclaims her presence through various Vedic deities, such as the eleven
Rudras, eight Vasus, twelve Adityas, and the Visvedevas. She declares herself
as the sustaining force behind the gods Mitra, Varuna, Indra, Agni, and the Ashwini Devatas.
Through this declaration, she emphasizes her omnipresence and essential role in
the cosmos.
Sustainer of Rituals and Deities: Vac continues by stating
that she sustains the soma juice, essential for Vedic rituals, and the deities
Tvasta, Bhaga, and Pusaan. She emphasizes her role in rewarding those who
perform sacrifices, highlighting her integral position in Vedic rituals and
worship practices.
Mistress of the Universe: She identifies herself as the
mistress of the entire world, bestowing rewards upon worshippers and being the
primary deity in Vedic sacrifices. This mantra underscores her supreme
authority and the veneration she receives in rituals.
Psycho-Physical Influence: Vac explains her influence over
all psycho-physical activities within living beings, indicating her intimate
connection with the functioning of life and consciousness. This verse reflects
her vital role in the existence and sustenance of life.
Elevator of Souls: Those who properly propitiate her can
ascend to the status of a rishi (sage) or even Brahma, the creator. This mantra
highlights her power to elevate devotees to higher spiritual planes,
demonstrating her role as a guide and benefactor in spiritual evolution.
Supporter of Divine Acts: Vac describes her role in
empowering Shiva by stringing his bow when he destroys the demons of the three
cities (Tripurasuras). This indicates her support in divine acts of destruction
aimed at maintaining cosmic order.
Creator and Pervader: She claims to have created the
svargaloka (heaven) and to have entered all worlds and beings. This verse
portrays her as both the creator and the immanent presence within creation,
further solidifying her status as the supreme deity.
Mover in the Universe: Vac concludes by stating that she
moves freely in the universe, akin to the wind. This final mantra celebrates
her dynamic and all-encompassing presence in the cosmos.
The Elusive Purport
Despite extensive commentary and interpretation over the
centuries, the true essence of the Devi Sukta remains somewhat elusive. The
hymn's profound mystical content, combined with its symbolic and metaphysical
language, has rendered it a subject of deep and varied interpretation. The
greatness of the Devi, as expounded in this hymn, lies in her omnipresence, her
role as the sustainer and creator, and her intimate connection with the
spiritual elevation of beings.
The Devi Sukta of the Rig Veda encapsulates the profound
reverence for the Goddess as the supreme, all-encompassing deity. Through the
mystical revelations of Vac, this hymn reveals the central role of the divine
feminine in the Vedic tradition, illustrating her as the sustainer, creator,
and ultimate reality. The hymn not only emphasizes the importance of the
Goddess in Vedic rituals but also highlights her dynamic and pervasive presence
in the universe.