Saundaryalahari, सौन्दर्यलहरी
by Jagadguru Shri Adi Shankaracharya
Shlokas 71-80
Shloka 71 (Getting of wealth)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- नखानाम् — Of the nails
- उद्द्योतैः — By the radiance or glow
- नवनलिनरागम् — The hue of a fresh lotus
- विहसतां — Smiling, beaming with color
- कराणाम् — Of the hands
- ते — Your
- कान्तिम् — The beauty
- कथय — Speak, describe
- कथयामः — How shall we speak?
- कथमुमे — O Umā (another name for Goddess Pārvatī)
- कयाचित् — By any means
- वा — Or
- साम्यम् — Similarity
- भजतु — May attain
- कलया — In some measure
- हन्त — Alas!
- कमलं — The lotus
- यदि — If
- क्रीडत्-लक्ष्मी — Lakshmi playing
- चरणतल-लाक्षा-रुण-दलम् — Petals reddened by the lac-dye of her feet
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
O Umā, how can we describe the radiant beauty of your hands, whose nails shimmer with a glow akin to the hue of a fresh lotus? The only possible comparison one could draw might be with a lotus flower, but even that would only be true if its petals were tinged red by the lac-dye adorning the playful feet of Goddess Lakshmi. Otherwise, there is no true comparison to the beauty of your hands.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
This verse reflects the deep admiration and wonder with which the devotee views the beauty of the Divine Mother’s hands. The poet finds it difficult to adequately describe their radiant and resplendent quality. The nails of the Goddess shine so brightly that they surpass the natural beauty of a fresh, red lotus, a symbol of purity and divine grace.
The comparison with the lotus subtly conveys the idea of divine beauty and auspiciousness, as the lotus is a common symbol associated with spiritual blossoming and purity. The imagery of Lakshmi’s feet adds an element of prosperity and divine playfulness. The statement suggests that the Goddess’s beauty is so unparalleled that even the most exquisite natural elements fall short unless transformed by the touch of another deity's divine essence.
The verse points to the transcendental nature of Devi’s form, highlighting that worldly comparisons often fall short when attempting to capture the essence of divine beauty. The glow of Devi’s nails, reminiscent of the dawn's radiance, represents the hope and illumination she brings to her devotees’ lives.
Additional Points
- Symbolism of the Lotus: The lotus symbolizes purity, divine creation, and beauty untouched by worldly imperfections.
- Imagery of Lakshmi: The verse incorporates Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, to elevate the comparison and emphasize that only the divine, touched by divinity itself, could match Devi's splendor.
- Nails as Light: The use of “नखानामुद्द्योतैः” (by the glow of the nails) suggests a light that shines through and beyond, representing both spiritual illumination and the nurturing aspect of the Goddess that extends protection and grace.
In essence, the verse underscores the incomparable and divine beauty of the Goddess, suggesting that human descriptions are inadequate to fully express her resplendent magnificence.
Shloka 72 (Conquering fear of darkness, Getting grace from Goddess, Making slave of Yakshini)
Let your two cool breasts,
Which have faces that always,
Give out milk,
And are simultaneously drunk deeply.
By Skanda and the elepahant faced Ganesha,,
Destroy all our sorrows.
Seeing them and getting confused,
The Herambha* feels for his two frontal globes,
To see whether they are there,
Making you both laugh.
1. Word-to-Word Meaning
- समम् — Symmetrical, equal
- देवि — O Goddess
- स्कन्द-द्विप-वदन-पीतम् — Suckled by Skanda (Kārtikeya) and the elephant-faced one (Ganesha)
- स्तनयुगम् — The pair of breasts
- तव — Your
- इदम् — This
- नः — For us
- खेदम् — Fatigue, suffering
- हरतु — May it remove
- सततम् — Always
- प्रस्नुतमुखम् — Overflowing with milk
- यत् — Which
- आलोक्य — Upon seeing
- आशङ्का — Doubt
- आकुलित-हृदयः — With a heart filled with confusion or concern
- हासजनकः — Causing laughter
- स्वकुम्भौ — His own pots (his cheeks, resembling pots)
- हेरम्बः — Ganesha
- परिमृशति — Touches
- हस्तेन — With his hand
- झडिति — Quickly, suddenly
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
O Goddess, let your symmetrical and ever-flowing breasts, which nourished both Skanda and the elephant-faced Ganesha, constantly remove our sorrows. The sight of these breasts, overflowing with the nectar of maternal love, causes Ganesha to touch his own pot-like cheeks in confusion, wondering if he has just consumed their essence. This playful scene brings joy and laughter to the hearts of your devotees.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
This verse glorifies the Divine Mother’s nurturing aspect, focusing on her role as the universal nourisher and the embodiment of compassion. The imagery of her "symmetrical, milk-overflowing breasts" is a metaphor for her boundless love and grace, which sustains all of creation. Skanda (Kārtikeya) and Ganesha, as her divine children, symbolize valor and wisdom, respectively, and their nourishment signifies how the universe draws sustenance from the Devi.
The playful depiction of Ganesha touching his cheeks reflects the innocence and joy that arise in divine play. This act of "self-touching" also symbolizes self-realization, as Ganesha represents the seeker who turns inward for wisdom and fulfillment.
The verse calls upon Devi's nurturing grace to alleviate the sorrows and struggles of devotees. Her compassion, ever-flowing and unending like milk, serves as a balm to heal the suffering of the world.
Additional Points
- Symbolism of Milk: Represents purity, nourishment, and selfless giving. Devi’s milk is likened to divine nectar, sustaining both her divine children and her devotees.
- Ganesha’s Humor: The image of Ganesha mistaking his cheeks for pots of nectar is both endearing and instructive, showing how divine leelas (playful acts) bring joy and ease to the hearts of devotees.
- Symmetry of Breasts: Reflects balance and equality, highlighting that Devi’s grace is impartial and universal.
- Dual Nourishment: Skanda and Ganesha drinking milk symbolizes both courage (Skanda’s valor) and intellect (Ganesha’s wisdom) being strengthened by Devi’s grace.
The verse, therefore, serves as a tender reminder of Devi's motherly nature, assuring devotees of her ceaseless care and affection.
Shloka 73 (Production of milk, Redemption)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- अमू — These
- ते — Your
- वक्षोजौ — Pair of breasts
- अमृतरस — Filled with nectar
- माणिक्यकुतुपौ — Resembling golden vessels adorned with rubies
- न संदेहस्पन्दः — No doubt or hesitation
- नगपतिपताके — O Banner of the Mountain King (Daughter of the Himalayas)
- मनसि नः — In our minds
- पिबन्तौ — Drinking
- तौ — Those two
- यस्मात् — Because of which
- अविदितवधूसङ्गरसिकौ — Unfamiliar with the pleasures of a wife’s company
- कुमारौ — The two youthful ones (Skanda and Ganesha)
- अद्यापि — Even now
- द्विरदवदन — The elephant-faced one (Ganesha)
- क्रौञ्चदलनौ — Slayer of Krauncha (Skanda, who pierced the demon Krauncha)
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
O Daughter of the Himalayas, your divine breasts, filled with nectar and resembling golden vessels adorned with rubies, leave no room for doubt in our minds about their divine significance. Skanda and Ganesha, your two youthful sons who have not yet known the pleasures of conjugal life, continue to drink their essence. Even now, they remain nourished by this nectar, symbolizing their strength and divine qualities—Ganesha as the elephant-faced remover of obstacles and Skanda as the slayer of the demon Krauncha.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
This verse poetically exalts the divine breasts of Devi as the source of nourishment and life for her children and the universe. The metaphor of "nectar-filled vessels adorned with rubies" reflects the purity, abundance, and spiritual energy that flow from the Mother’s grace.
Skanda (Kumāra) and Ganesha, her divine sons, symbolize courage and wisdom, respectively. Their eternal dependence on Devi’s nectar signifies that even the highest forms of power and intellect derive their sustenance from the universal source of Shakti. Their youth and lack of conjugal experience underscore their untainted divinity and single-minded devotion to their mother.
Devi’s breasts are described as free from worldly associations, highlighting her transcendent and selfless nature. This imagery reminds devotees that the nourishment provided by the Divine Mother is not limited to physical sustenance but extends to spiritual upliftment and liberation.
Additional Points
- Nectar as Divine Grace: The Amrita (nectar) flowing from Devi’s breasts symbolizes her boundless love and blessings, which sustain both the material and spiritual realms.
- Skanda and Ganesha: Their continued dependence on Devi shows the inseparability of power (Skanda) and wisdom (Ganesha) from Shakti (energy).
- Transcendental Motherhood: Devi’s motherhood is universal and untainted by the physical or worldly. She is the ultimate nourisher of creation.
- Symbolism of Rubies: Rubies signify preciousness and radiance, enhancing the description of Devi’s divine qualities.
This verse emphasizes the concept of Divine Motherhood, illustrating how all forms of strength and intellect are rooted in her infinite compassion and nurturing power.
Shloka 74 (Good fame)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- वहत्यम्ब — Bears, O Mother
- स्तम्बैः — Pillar-like (firm and upright)
- अमदनुजकुम्भप्रकृतिभिः — Resembling the shape of the frontal globes of Airavata, the elephant born from the churning of the ocean
- समारब्धाम् — Adorned or crafted
- मुक्तामणिभिः — With spotless pearls
- अमलाम् — Immaculate, pure
- हारलतिकाम् — Garland-like necklace
- कुचाभोगः — The fullness of your bosom
- बिम्बाधररुचिभिः — With the hue of your bimba-fruit-like lips
- अन्तः शबलिताम् — Internally tinged or interspersed
- प्रतापव्यामिश्राम् — Mixed with brilliance or glory
- पुरदमयितुः — Of the destroyer of Tripura (Lord Shiva)
- कीर्तिमिव ते — Like your glory
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
O Mother, your bosom, resembling the shape of Airavata’s frontal globes, bears a necklace crafted from spotless pearls, radiant and pure. This garland-like ornament is tinged with the hue of your bimba-fruit-like lips, giving it a subtle glow from within. This fullness, blending grace and grandeur, appears as though it symbolizes the fame and glory of Tripurari (Lord Shiva), enriched by your own splendor.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
This verse glorifies Devi's kuchabhoga (bosom) as a symbol of nurturing, divinity, and strength. The comparison to Airavata's globes invokes a sense of majesty, purity, and celestial significance. The pearls on her necklace are symbolic of unblemished purity and auspiciousness, while the subtle reddish glow (due to the hue of her lips) adds warmth and compassion to her divine radiance.
Devi is described as the source of Shiva’s glory (कीर्तिमिव ते पुरदमयितुः). This suggests that Shiva’s fame as the destroyer of evil and the upholder of dharma is inherently interwoven with Devi’s power and grace. The blending of strength (Airavata-like grandeur) and softness (the glow of bimba lips) reflects the dual aspects of Shakti as both fierce and nurturing.
The harmonious mix of colors and qualities in the imagery further symbolizes the union of Shiva and Shakti, emphasizing that neither glory nor action exists without the divine feminine energy.
Additional Points
- Symbolism of the Necklace: The necklace of pearls represents purity, auspiciousness, and Devi's untainted essence. Pearls, being born of the ocean, also evoke a connection to the primordial waters of creation.
- Airavata's Frontal Globes: These symbolize celestial might, grandeur, and regal splendor. Associating Devi's bosom with this imagery elevates her as a nourishing and protective force.
- Subtle Red Glow: This represents Devi’s compassion and her role as the nurturer of all beings.
- Shiva’s Fame Through Shakti: The verse reinforces the philosophical truth that Shiva, as the pure consciousness, achieves greatness and functionality through the dynamic power of Shakti.
This verse beautifully captures the transcendental relationship between Shiva and Shakti, illustrating how Devi’s nurturing and majestic aspects manifest as the glory that defines the cosmic order.
Shloka 75 (Capacity to write poems)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- तव — Your
- स्तन्यम् — Breast milk
- मन्ये — I consider
- धरणिधरकन्ये — O Daughter of the Mountain (Devi Parvati)
- हृदयतः — From your heart
- पयःपारावारः — An ocean of milk
- परिवहति — Flows
- सारस्वतमिव — Like the essence of Saraswati (eloquence, knowledge, and wisdom)
- दयावत्या — Given out of compassion
- दत्तम् — Offered
- द्रविडशिशुः — The Tamil child (referring to Saint Tirujñāna Sambandar)
- आस्वाद्य — Having tasted
- तव यत् — That which is yours
- कवीनाम् — Of poets
- प्रौढानाम् — Profound, mature
- अजनि — Was born
- कमनीयः — Beautiful, charming
- कवयिता — Poetic genius
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
O Daughter of the Mountain, I consider your breast milk to be an ocean of divine nectar flowing directly from your compassionate heart. This nectar embodies the essence of Saraswati, bestowing knowledge, eloquence, and poetic wisdom. When the Tamil child (Tirujñāna Sambandar) tasted this milk, given by you out of compassion, he was blessed with poetic brilliance, becoming the most charming and profound of poets.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
This verse highlights the nurturing and enlightening nature of Devi. Her breast milk is described not just as nourishment for the body but as a metaphorical ocean of Saraswati’s essence—wisdom, creativity, and eloquence. This divine nourishment signifies Devi’s role as the universal mother who bestows knowledge and inspiration upon her devotees.
The reference to the Tamil child (Saint Tirujñāna Sambandar) reflects an incident from Indian spiritual history. As a child, Sambandar was blessed by Devi herself, who fed him her divine milk. This transformed him into a spiritually awakened poet of extraordinary brilliance, whose hymns continue to inspire devotion and wisdom.
The connection between nourishment and creativity is central here. Just as physical milk nurtures the body, Devi’s spiritual milk nourishes the intellect and soul, enabling devotees to excel in their respective fields, especially in the arts and literature.
The verse also subtly reminds devotees of Devi’s boundless compassion (दयावत्या), as she freely bestows her grace upon those who seek her. Her blessings transcend the barriers of age, ability, or background, exemplified by her act of nurturing a mere child into a master poet.
Additional Points
- Saraswati’s Essence: By associating the milk with Saraswati, the shloka emphasizes the role of Shakti as the source of all wisdom and artistic expression.
- Symbolism of Milk: Milk here symbolizes Devi’s grace, flowing unconditionally to nurture, protect, and inspire.
- Universal Motherhood: The verse reiterates Devi’s role as Jagat Janani (Universal Mother), who provides both physical and spiritual sustenance.
- Inspiration for Poets: The transformation of Sambandar into a great poet symbolizes how divine grace can elevate an individual to heights of excellence.
This shloka beautifully portrays Devi as the ultimate nurturer of both the material and the spiritual, weaving together themes of compassion, wisdom, and poetic brilliance.
Shloka 76 (Complete renunciation, Victory in love)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- हर-क्रोध-ज्वाला-अवलिभिः: By the flames of Lord Shiva's anger,
- अवलीढेन वपुषा: having been scorched,
- गभीरे ते नाभीसरसि: in the deep lake of Your navel,
- कृतसङ्गः मनसिजः: Cupid (Manmatha) took refuge,
- समुत्तस्थौ तस्मात्: and rose up from there,
- अचलतनये: O Daughter of the Mountain,
- धूमलतिका: as a wisp of smoke,
- जनः तां जानीते: people perceive that
- तव जननि रोमावलिः इति: it is the line of fine hair on Your body, O Mother.
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
This verse describes an imaginative and poetic depiction of the fine hairline on Devi's navel. It is said that when Lord Shiva burned Manmatha (the god of love) to ashes with his fiery gaze of anger, Manmatha sought refuge in the deep lake of Devi's navel. Rising from there in a subtle form, he appeared as a smoke-like wisp. This smoke is perceived by devotees as the delicate line of hair extending from Devi’s navel.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
This shloka highlights the mystical interplay of destruction and regeneration, reflecting the cyclical nature of cosmic processes.
- Manmatha’s Destruction and Regeneration: When Shiva annihilates Kama (Manmatha), it signifies the transcendence of desires. However, the imagery of Kama taking refuge in Devi’s navel signifies that desires are not wholly eradicated but transformed and sublimated within the divine feminine energy. The navel represents the center of creation, nourishment, and vitality.
- The Hairline as a Subtle Manifestation: The fine line of hair represents subtle energy (Kundalini Shakti) arising from the core of existence. It also symbolizes the interconnectedness of destruction (Shiva’s anger) and rejuvenation (Devi’s nurturing aspect).
- Philosophical Insight: The navel is considered the seat of prana (vital energy). The transformation of Kama into a delicate form of smoke shows the purification and refinement of base desires into higher spiritual aspirations through Devi’s grace.
Additional Points
- Poetic Beauty: Adi Shankaracharya uses vivid and striking imagery to blend mythology and philosophy, invoking both devotion and awe.
- Symbolism of Smoke: Smoke is ephemeral and intangible, much like subtle desires that persist even in spiritual seekers. Devi’s presence transforms even these residual desires into tools for spiritual ascent.
The delicate hairline extending from Devi’s navel is poetically likened to a wisp of smoke rising from the refuge taken by Manmatha after his annihilation by Shiva. This symbolizes the transformation of desires within the divine energy, portraying Devi as the ultimate source of both destruction and rejuvenation.
Shloka 77 (Gaining Micro sight, Attracting every one)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- यदेतत्: That which appears,
- कालिन्दी-तनुतर-तरङ्ग-आकृति: like the gentle ripples of the Kalindi River (Yamuna),
- शिवे: O Auspicious One,
- कृशे मध्ये: in Your slender midsection,
- किंचित्: something,
- जननि तव: O Mother, of Yours,
- यत् भाति सुधियाम्: which appears to the wise ones,
- विमर्दात् अन्यः अन्यं: as though the two pots (your breasts) are pressing against each other,
- कुचकलशयोः अन्तरगतं: the space in between the pots of Your breasts,
- तनूभूतं व्योम: a thin expanse of ether (space),
- प्रविशदिव: seems to enter,
- नाभिं कुहरिणीम्: into the cave of Your navel.
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
This verse describes the slender waist of Devi, which appears like the delicate ripples of the Yamuna River. The wise perceive the space between Devi's well-formed bosom as a thin, ether-like element that appears to converge and flow into the depth of her navel. The imagery emphasizes Devi's unparalleled beauty, divine proportions, and celestial charm.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
- Yamuna’s Ripples and Cosmic Flow: The comparison of Devi’s waist to the ripples of the Yamuna symbolizes the unending rhythm of creation and dissolution. Yamuna, often associated with purity and the flow of life, reflects the divine flow of energy in Devi’s form.
- Divine Geometry: The space between the breasts and its apparent merging into the navel through a slender waist indicates harmony and balance in creation. The concept of "tanubhuta vyoma" (refined ether) suggests the subtle nature of Devi’s form, transcending the material and representing the universal etheric energy.
- Spiritual Insights: The thin expanse of space signifies the subtle pathways through which spiritual energy (Shakti) flows. Devi’s waist, being delicate yet strong, metaphorically represents the bridge between gross physical existence and the subtler, higher spiritual realms. The navel, as the origin of life, is the focal point where these energies converge.
- Union of Shiva and Shakti: The space described in the shloka also symbolizes the mystical union of Shiva (consciousness) and Shakti (energy), which occurs within the seeker through the practice of meditation and devotion.
Additional Points
- Symbolism of Navel: In spiritual traditions, the navel (nabhi) is regarded as a central energy point (Manipura Chakra), representing willpower and transformation.
- Aesthetic and Philosophical Fusion: Adi Shankaracharya blends the appreciation of Devi’s divine beauty with profound metaphysical truths, making the shloka equally appealing to devotees and seekers of wisdom.
- Kalindi and Subtle Energy: The comparison to the Yamuna’s ripples evokes the soothing and rhythmic flow of life’s essence, encapsulated in Devi’s form.
Devi’s slender waist, resembling the ripples of the Yamuna, connects the space between her celestial bosom and the depth of her navel. This imagery reflects the cosmic harmony and the flow of subtle energies, portraying Devi as the embodiment of divine beauty and universal balance.
Shloka 78 (Attracting all the universe)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- स्थिरः गङ्गा-अवर्तः: Like the steady whirlpool of the Ganges,
- स्तन-मुकुल-रोमावली-लता: adorned by the creeper-like line of hair rising towards the buds of Your breasts,
- कलावालं कुण्डं: resembling a fine whirlpool,
- कुसुमशर-तेजः-हुतभुजः: the sacrificial fire of Manmatha’s (Cupid’s) energy,
- रतेः लीलागारं: the playful abode of Rati (goddess of love),
- किमपि तव नाभिः: Your navel is beyond description,
- गिरिसुते: O Daughter of the Mountain,
- बिलद्वारं सिद्धेः: the gateway to ultimate realization,
- गिरिश-नयनानां विजयते: and triumphs as the object of Girisha’s (Shiva’s) vision.
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
The navel of Devi, the daughter of the Himalayas, is compared to a steady whirlpool in the Ganges, surrounded by the delicate creeper of hair rising towards her breasts. It is depicted as the sacrificial fire fueled by the energy of Manmatha and as the playful abode of Rati. Beyond this poetic description, it is also revered as the gateway to ultimate realization, celebrated even by the divine gaze of Lord Shiva.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
- The Navel as the Source of Creation: The navel is a central point symbolizing the origin of life and the creative energies of the cosmos. Its whirlpool-like nature evokes the dynamic forces of creation and dissolution, constantly at play in the universe.
- Union of Kama and Rati: The reference to Manmatha (Kama) and Rati portrays the interplay of desire and fulfillment, which is elevated from physical passion to spiritual longing when directed towards Devi.
- Siddhi and Liberation: The navel is called the “gateway to ultimate realization,” indicating its connection to the Manipura Chakra, where transformative energy resides. By focusing on this energy center, a seeker can rise beyond worldly distractions to achieve spiritual triumph.
- Shiva’s Gaze: The triumph of Devi’s navel over the gaze of Girisha (Shiva) suggests that even the supreme consciousness (Shiva) is captivated by the creative and sustaining energy (Shakti). It emphasizes the unity of Shiva and Shakti as complementary forces in the cosmos.
Additional Points
- Symbolism of the Creeper and Whirlpool: The upward creeper-like hair represents the ascension of energy from the navel to higher realms, while the whirlpool symbolizes the gathering and redistribution of divine energy.
- Aesthetic and Metaphysical Duality: Adi Shankaracharya blends an exquisite description of beauty with profound metaphysical symbolism, illustrating how Devi’s form is both enchanting and spiritually significant.
Devi’s navel, likened to a whirlpool in the Ganges and surrounded by a delicate line of hair, is a source of cosmic energy and the abode of divine play. It represents the gateway to ultimate realization and captivates even the divine gaze of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the union of creative and conscious forces in the universe.
Shloka 79 (Getting magical capability, Bewitching all others)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- निसर्ग-क्षीणस्य: naturally slender,
- स्तन-तट-भरेण: due to the weight of the bosom,
- क्लम-जुषः: experiencing fatigue,
- नमन्मूर्तेः: of the bent form,
- नारीतिलक: O crest jewel among women,
- शनकैः त्रुट्यत इव: seems to be breaking slowly,
- चिरं ते मध्यस्य: may Your waist always,
- त्रुटित-तटिनी-तीर-तरुणा: like a young tree on the eroded bank of a river,
- समावस्था-स्थेम्नः: remain stable in its delicate balance,
- भवतु कुशलं: and be safe,
- शैलतनये: O Daughter of the Mountain.
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
The shloka poetically describes Devi’s extremely slender waist, which appears fragile under the weight of her bosom. It is compared to a young tree standing on the edge of an eroding riverbank, barely maintaining its balance. The poet prays that her delicate waist may always remain steady and safe, reflecting both admiration and concern for her divine form.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
- The Slender Waist as Symbolic of Balance: The fragile appearance of Devi’s waist symbolizes the fine balance required to sustain the cosmos. Shakti’s role as the divine feminine energy is one of maintaining harmony amidst the dynamic forces of creation and dissolution.
- Weight of Responsibility: The "weight of the bosom" metaphorically represents the responsibilities and powers Devi carries as the nurturing and sustaining force of the universe. Despite her seemingly delicate form, she holds immense strength and poise.
- Tree on the Riverbank: The comparison to a tree on an eroding riverbank highlights impermanence and the delicate balance of existence. In spiritual terms, it reflects the transient nature of life and the need for divine grace to maintain stability amidst challenges.
- Prayer for Protection: The prayer for the safety of Devi’s waist is an indirect invocation for the stability and protection of the entire creation, as Devi’s form represents the microcosm of the universe.
Additional Points
- Fusion of Beauty and Strength: Adi Shankaracharya masterfully portrays Devi’s delicate beauty alongside her cosmic strength, evoking both admiration and reverence.
- Spiritual Allegory: The slender waist represents the connection between the higher and lower realms of existence, emphasizing the need for balance in spiritual practice.
- Devotee’s Concern: The poet’s concern for Devi’s form reflects a devotee’s intimate and loving relationship with the Divine, blending awe with a sense of personal care.
Devi’s slender waist, fragile under the weight of her divine bosom, is likened to a young tree on an eroding riverbank, balancing delicately. This imagery symbolizes the cosmic balance Devi upholds. The poet prays for the stability and safety of her waist, which metaphorically represents the harmony and endurance of the universe.
Shloka 80 (Getting remarkable beauty, Becoming expert in magic)
Word-to-Word Meaning
- कुचौ: Your bosom,
- सद्यः स्विद्यत्: slightly perspiring,
- तट-घटित-कूर्पास-भिदुरौ: barely contained by the tightly stretched garment,
- कषन्तौ दोर्मूले: pressing against the base of Your arms,
- कनक-कलशाभौ: resembling golden pots,
- कलयता: by the creator (Brahma) contemplating,
- तव त्रातुं भङ्गात्: to save Your form from breaking,
- अलम् इति वलग्नं: he seems to have tied firmly,
- तनु-भुवा: with his subtle creative energy,
- त्रिधा नद्धं देवि: three folds are formed,
- त्रिवलि-लवली-वल्लिभिः इव: like the creepers of delicate triple folds.
Overall Meaning of the Shloka
This shloka describes the divine beauty of Devi’s bosom, which is compared to golden pots barely contained by her garment and pressing against the base of her arms. Her midsection appears fragile, and to protect it from breaking, the Creator seems to have tied three delicate folds (trivali) around her waist with divine energy, making her form appear even more enchanting.
Expanded Spiritual Commentary
- Golden Pots and Abundance: The comparison of Devi’s bosom to golden pots represents abundance, nourishment, and the sustaining aspect of the Divine Mother, who nurtures the entire creation.
- Trivali as Balance of Energies: The triple folds (trivali) symbolize the three primary aspects of existence — creation (Srishti), preservation (Sthiti), and dissolution (Samhara). These folds maintain the harmony of the cosmos and reflect the perfection of Devi’s form.
- Divine Grace of Protection: The imagery of Brahma tying the triple folds indicates the divine grace that upholds and protects the balance of creation. It conveys that even the most delicate aspects of Devi’s form are safeguarded by divine will.
- Union of Beauty and Spiritual Energy: The physical description is an allegory for the balance of spiritual energies within Devi’s form. Her beauty captivates, but it also signifies the underlying power and stability she brings to the cosmos.
Additional Points
- Subtle Power in Fragility: The poetic concern for the fragility of Devi’s form symbolizes how even the seemingly delicate aspects of divine creation are imbued with immense strength and resilience.
- Trivali as Spiritual Pathways: The three folds can also represent the Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna nadis (subtle energy channels), emphasizing the balance required for spiritual ascension.
- Devotee’s Admiration: The intimate depiction reflects the devotee’s awe and tender concern for Devi, blending reverence with devotion.
Devi’s bosom, compared to golden pots, radiates divine beauty and abundance. Her waist, adorned with delicate triple folds tied by the Creator, reflects the cosmic balance she upholds. This imagery symbolizes both the nurturing grace and the profound stability Devi brings to creation, captivating the hearts of devotees.
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