Symbolism Of Goddess Durga's Ten Hands

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Goddess Durga is a popular figure in Hindu mythology. The Goddess is depicted with ten hands holding weapons, three eyes and riding a lion. Goddess Durga is regarded as the Supreme Power which is the driving force behind all the acts of creation, preservation and destruction.

The word 'Durga' means the invincible. Durga is the one who eliminates all the miseries and sufferings of the human beings. The most striking part of Goddess Durga is Her ten hands in which She holds different weapons. The ten hands of the Goddess has always been a matter of curiosity among people. Children often ask storytellers as to why Goddess Durga has ten hands and what does these hands symbolise?

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So, if you are one among those who are not familiar with the symbolism of Goddess Durga's ten hands, then read on. Each weapon in the hands of the Goddess has a particular symbolism attached to it. Take a look.

Conch Shell

The conch emanates the root sound of the Universe "Om". Therefore, the conch symbolises that the sound of God is dominant among all the sounds of this Universe.

Bows & Arrows

The bows and arrows in the hands of the Goddess are symbols of energy. As Goddess Durga holds both the bow and arrows in Her hands, it shows that She is the one who controls all the sources of energy in the Universe.

Thunderbolt

The thunderbolt in the hands of the Goddess symbolises firmness. It inspires the devotees that when faced with challenges, one must have the conviction of the thunderbolt to strike it without being affected.

Half Bloomed Lotus

The lotus in half bloom in the hand of Goddess Durga symbolises that though success is certain, yet it is not final. It also symbolises that as the lotus grows amidst mud, human mind also has to continuously evolve spiritually amidst the mud of worldly pleasures.

Sword

The sword in the hand of Goddess Durga symbolises knowledge. The shine and sharpness of the sword depict that knowledge is the most powerful thing in the world and it does not get rusted.

Sudarshan Chakra

The beautiful Sudarshan Chakra (discus) which spins on the index finger of the Goddess symbolises that the world is controlled by Her. Goddess Durga uses this unfailing weapon to destroy evil.

Trishul

The 'Trishul' or the trident is the symbol of three qualities - Satva, Rajas and Tamas. One must have a perfect balance of all the three qualities in order to attain peace and salvation.

Abhaya Mudra

The Goddess' one hand is always in mode of blessing her devotees or 'Abhaya Mudra'. It signifies that the Goddess would always keep Her devotees free from fear.