दुर्गा
Durga
(durgā)The invincible — goddess who defeats the forces of darkness and protects the universe
Full Meaning
Durgā means "the invincible" or "the one who is difficult to approach." She is the fierce form of the divine feminine — the combined power of all the gods manifested to defeat the buffalo demon Mahiṣāsura when no single god could do so. She rides a lion, holds weapons in her eight or ten hands, and embodies the protective power of the universe.
Etymology
Dur (difficult) + gā (to approach) = one who is difficult to access, the invincible. Also interpreted as "she who removes difficulties."
Usage in Sanskrit Texts
Navratri (nine nights) is dedicated to Durga in her nine forms (Navadurgā). Durga Puja in West Bengal is one of the largest festivals in India.
सर्वमङ्गलमाङ्गल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके — O auspicious one, auspiciousness of all auspicious things, with Shiva, fulfiller of all purposes. (Durgā Stuti)
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