‘THE ONE WHO HAS EIGHTEEN ARMS’
Maa in Her form with 18 arms symbolizes Her supreme power and the comprehensive control She has over the universe's creative and destructive forces.
Each of Her 18 arms holds a significant item or takes on a specific gesture (mudra), representing Her role as the protector, destroyer of evil, and giver of blessings.
• Sword – Represents divine knowledge that cuts through ignorance.
• Trident (Trishul) – Symbolizes the destruction of ego and evil.
• Severed Head – Represents the annihilation of ego and attachment.
• Mace (Gada) – Power and strength to crush demons and obstacles.
• Spear – Represents spiritual force and power.
• Shield – Protection from evil and negativity.
• Bow and Arrow – Represents focused intention and duality of creation and destruction.
• Lotus – Symbol of purity and spiritual awakening.
• Chakra (Discus) – Symbolizes the eternal cycle of time and cosmic law.
• Bell – Represents the sound of universal creation and destruction.
• Cup (Kapala) – Collects the blood of demons, symbolizing control over negative forces.
• Noose (Pasha) – Represents binding power over ignorance and desires.
• Conch (Shankha) – Symbol of victory and the sound of cosmic energy.
• Axe – Represents the removal of obstacles and harmful attachments.
• Drum (Damaru) – Symbolizes creation and rhythm of life.
• Fire – Represents transformation, purification, and destruction of the old.
• Thunderbolt (Vajra) – Symbolizes indestructible power and strength.
• Abhaya Mudra (Gesture of Fearlessness) – Blesses Her devotees with fearlessness and protection.
Maa’s 18 arms encompass Her ability to destroy evil, protect Her devotees, grant blessings, and maintain the cosmic balance of creation and destruction.
Hence the name Astadasabhuja tatha.