Goddess Durga, revered as the embodiment of strength and protection, is often depicted carrying ten powerful weapons in her ten hands. Each of these weapons holds deep symbolic meaning, but what’s even more fascinating is that they were gifted to her by various Gods, each contributing to her role as the ultimate protector against evil forces. The significance of these divine gifts lies not just in their physical power but in the spiritual attributes they represent, making Durga an unparalleled force in the universe. Mythologist Dr Narendra Bahadur Singh from Ayodhya provides more in-depth details on the significance of these weapons. Dr Singh tells indianexpress.com, “Goddess Durga is depicted with ten weapons, each gifted by different deities, symbolising various powers and attributes that aid her in her battles against evil forces.” The 10 weapons for Goddess Durga Dr Singh provides a breakdown of these weapons: Trishul (Trident): Given by Lord Shiva, it represents the power to destroy evil and ignorance. The three prongs symbolise the three Gunas (Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas) and the balance between them. Sword: Gifted by the Goddess Saraswati, this weapon embodies knowledge and wisdom, emphasising the importance of education in overcoming darkness. Bow and Arrow: Bestowed by Lord Vishnu, they signify the need for focus and intention in overcoming challenges. The bow represents potential, while the arrow signifies action. Spear (Vajra): Given by Indra, the king of gods, the spear represents strength and protection, embodying the ability to pierce through ignorance and malevolence. Shield: Provided by Varuna, the god of water, it epitomises protection against external threats and encourages resilience. Mace (Gada): This weapon, given by Lord Hanuman, represents strength and loyalty, emphasising the need for unwavering dedication in the face of adversity. Dagger: Gifted by the demon Mahishasura, it symbolises the ability to cut through illusions and falsehoods. Thunderbolt (Vajra): This powerful weapon signifies divine energy and the ability to shatter obstacles with force. Lotus: Though not a weapon in the traditional sense, the lotus represents purity and spiritual awakening, emphasising the importance of maintaining inner peace amidst chaos. Flame: The flame symbolises transformation and the ability to purify, highlighting the importance of inner strength and resilience. Spiritual and symbolic meanings of these weapons in modern times Dr Singh tells indianexpress.com, “In contemporary times, the weapons of Goddess Durga represent empowerment, resilience, and the fight against injustice. They serve as symbols for individuals, particularly women, to harness their inner strength and combat challenges. Each weapon can be interpreted as a metaphor for the various struggles people face, reminding them to draw on their inner resources.” For instance, he adds, the trident symbolises the need for balance in life, while the sword represents the quest for knowledge and truth. In a world where challenges like gender inequality, social injustice, and personal hardships abound, Durga’s weapons inspire individuals to confront these issues with courage and conviction.
