Navratri is a spiritual journey that honors the Divine Feminine in her many forms that shape the universe. Navratri reminds us of life’s cycles, encouraging us to overcome challenges, pursue our goals, and seek knowledge and not just a festival. It induces people to seek strength, prosperity, and wisdom by worshiping Devi Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati, while recognizing the feminine energies and higher understanding.
The Legend of Saptashrungi Devi:
The Saptashrungi (Goddess of seven peaks) temple in Nashik, Maharashtra, stands as a significant place of worship. In Devi Bhagwat Puran these seven peaks of Saptashrungi are considered as one of a Shaktipeeth.
Mahishasura, a shape-shifting demon, was granted a boon that made him invincible to men and deities. He terrorized the earth and heavenly realms, driving the gods out of their own abodes.
To restore balance and bring an end to Mahishasura’s reign, the Gods combined their powers and invoked the Divine Feminine energy. This led to the creation of Devi Saptashrungi, a fierce and powerful form of Durga. Armed with 18 weapons bestowed upon her by various gods, including a trident, sword, and bow, she set out to confront Mahishasura. The Devi is also known as Mahishasur Mardini and Ashtadasha Devi (one who has 18 hands and has been mentioned in the Devi Mahatmya Akhyayika as well).
Relevance and Significance:
The New Moon in Virgo and Hasta Nakshatra brings a significant theme related to daily routines. The 10th from Virgo (court cases, challenges) is Gemini (representing skill sets and listening). The 10th from the 6th house is the 3rd house, which correlates (As 10th from any house/sign is the highest order of the karma assigned).
We will use the Karak planets of the 6th house to help us with simple rituals that pave the way to our enlightenment.
Ritual:
Chant the Siddha Kunjika Stotram three times while lighting a diya in the North or South-East direction. The diya should be made of dough, mustard oil, a red cotton wick, and add a few sabut urad grains.
This ritual should be performed continuously during these 9 nights of divinity.
