Research Objectives
Understand the need of unleashing the secret tantric tool- the Das Mahavidyas as a solution to today’s global societal crisis. It attempts to cover the need of the Divine Feminine energy in the world today.
Keywords
Kali Yuga, Divine, Feminine, Consciousness
Bio
Dr Manmit is a Spiritual Master, a gifted Psychic Medium. She pioneered Automatic Writing and Akashic Records in India. She works with international police agencies to find missing children. She is currently working on creating an online Spiritual School to promote energy work. Her passion is bringing Divine Feminine Consciousness through workshops on Maa Kaali and the Das Mahavidyas. She is the founder of Soul Miracles- a platform for empowerment.
Abstract
In the context of Kali Yuga, the age characterized by spiritual decline, chaos, and moral degradation according to Hindu cosmology, the energy of Maa Kali holds profound significance in overcoming the pervasive darkness and challenges of this era. Maa Kali is revered as the fierce and compassionate aspect of the divine mother, embodying the power to destroy ignorance, ego, and negativity while nurturing the seeds of spiritual awakening and transformation.
In Kali Yuga, where materialism, selfishness, and spiritual ignorance abound, the energy of Maa Kali serves as a potent force for liberation and renewal. Her fierce form represents the destruction of all that hinders spiritual evolution, including attachment, delusion, and egoism. By invoking the energy of Maa Kali, individuals are empowered to confront and transcend the darkness within themselves and in the world around them, paving the way for spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Moreover, Maa Kali’s compassionate nature ensures that even in the darkest of times, she remains a source of refuge and guidance for seekers on the path of righteousness. Her loving embrace provides solace and protection amidst the tumult of Kali Yuga, instilling hope and courage in the hearts of devotees as they navigate through life’s trials and tribulations.
In essence, the energy of Maa Kali is indispensable in overcoming the darkness of Kali Yuga, as she embodies the transformative power of divine grace and unconditional love. Through her fierce yet compassionate presence, individuals are inspired to confront their shadows, cultivate virtues such as courage and compassion, and ultimately transcend the limitations of the material world, attaining liberation and union with the divine.
Introduction
The paper emphasizes on the need of unleashing the secret tantric tool- the Das Mahavidyas as a solution to today’s global societal crisis. It attempts to cover the need of the Divine Feminine energy in the world today. It explains how we need to shift our consciousness towards balance by elevating our feminine qualities and how the worship of the Das Mahavidyas is instrumental in this shift. It covers the correct way of practice and encourages the reader to explore their own role as a Light worker, in the war between darkness and Light. It also covers the correct way of invoking them and the right deity to pray to.
The Das Mahavidyas, originating from the rich spiritual tapestry of India, embody profound universal truths and transformative energies that are relevant globally, especially in today’s complex world. These ten aspects of the divine feminine offer powerful tools for personal and collective healing, promoting balance, and confronting modern challenges with wisdom and strength. In an era marked by rapid change and global crises, the teachings and practices associated with the Mahavidyas could provide much-needed insight and resilience. By introducing these concepts onto the Source:(Pinterest) world stage, we can foster a greater understanding of inner transformation as a catalyst for external change, making them a vital resource for global spiritual and cultural enrichment. Their universal appeal and relevance can help address the spiritual void often felt in contemporary society, bridging diverse cultures through shared spiritual wisdom.
1.1 Why are the Das Mahavidyas the biggest tantric secret that has been kept away from the world?
The Das Mahavidyas, as central figures in Tantric practices, have historically been shrouded in secrecy, and there are profound reasons why these powerful forms of the divine feminine are not easily accessible to all. One significant reason is the intrinsic nature of Tantric knowledge itself, which delves deeply into the realms of mysticism, esoteric energies, and the transformation of consciousness. Such knowledge demands a high degree of spiritual maturity and preparation, as it involves techniques and insights that could be misunderstood or misused if not approached with the right intent and guidance. Thus, the guardians of this wisdom have traditionally kept these teachings somewhat concealed to protect both the integrity of the practices and the practitioners.
Adding to the complexity, there is a thematic “war” between the forces of light and darkness, which is a recurrent motif in many spiritual traditions, including those that venerate the Das Mahavidyas. This metaphorical battle represents the ongoing struggle between knowledge and ignorance, creation and destruction, and elevation versus degradation within the cosmic order. It is suggested that dark forces, representing ignorance and chaos, resist the dissemination of profound spiritual knowledge like that of the Mahavidyas because such wisdom has the power to liberate individuals and transform societies by illuminating the darkness with the light of awareness and understanding. By keeping such powerful transformative knowledge obscured, these dark forces maintain a kind of status quo that favors disarray and spiritual stagnation.
Therefore, the relative obscurity of the Das Mahavidyas is not just a matter of tradition or the complexities of their worship but also a reflection of this larger cosmic battle between enlightenment and ignorance. Those who seek to engage with the Mahavidyas must not only be prepared to face these spiritual challenges but also contribute positively to the cosmic balance, using the profound energies and insights gained to foster light, knowledge, and harmony in a world often veiled in spiritual darkness. This dynamic ensures that the teachings of the Das Mahavidyas remain both sacred and potent, accessible only to those who are ready to undertake such significant spiritual responsibility.
1.1.1 The need for rise of The Divine Feminine:
In today’s global society, there’s a marked predominance of masculine energies characterized by competition, aggression, and individualism. This imbalance contributes significantly to various forms of conflict, environmental degradation, and a pervasive sense of disconnection among communities. The masculine qualities, while essential in certain contexts for progress and protection, have overshadowed the nurturing and cooperative spirit that is equally vital for the sustainability of our world. The resultant imbalance has led to a skewed approach to development and problem-solving, often at the expense of holistic well-being and environmental health. This underscores the necessity for reintegrating the feminine principle, which emphasizes care, empathy, and interconnectedness.
The need for the divine feminine is more pronounced now as the world faces complex challenges that cannot be resolved through force or competition alone. Qualities traditionally associated with the feminine, such as intuition, inclusivity, and collaboration, are crucial for creating solutions that are sustainable and equitable. Rebalancing with the divine feminine allows for a more comprehensive approach to global issues, where the focus shifts from merely exploiting resources to nurturing them, and from dominating others to understanding and supporting them. This shift is not about replacing one with the other but about harmonizing the masculine and feminine energies within societies to foster a more resilient and compassionate world.
1.1.2 Shiva and Shakti- the Divine Balance
In the Hindu Tantric system, Shiva and Shakti epitomize the cosmic dance of masculine and feminine energies, integral to the universe’s dynamic equilibrium. An evocative story that illustrates their union is the tale of the Ardhanarishvara, the composite form of Shiva and Shakti. This form symbolizes the perfect synthesis of male and female, where Shiva, the embodiment of consciousness and passivity, and Shakti, the personification of energy and action, merge into a single entity. This confluence of energies teaches that neither force is effective without the other, mirroring the essential balance needed for creation and destruction, demonstrating the universe’s profound interconnectedness and dual nature. Another compelling narrative is that of Shiva’s deep meditation and how Shakti comes to awaken him, necessary for the creation of the world. Shakti, in the form of Sati, wins Shiva’s affection and construction, and hospitality, leading to debates about labour rights, wages, and job competition among native workers.
Addressing illegal immigration requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing border security measures, immigration reforms, diplomatic cooperation, and efforts to address root causes such as poverty, inequality, and political instability. Collaborative initiatives between India, the USA, and Canada are essential to manage migration flows, enhance information sharing, and promote legal pathways for migration while combating human trafficking and smuggling networks.
Historically, factors such as economic disparities, political instability, social unrest, and regional conflicts have been primary drivers of illegal immigration from India. These factors have prompted individuals and families to seek better opportunities and living conditions abroad, often resorting to irregular means due to limited legal pathways for migration.
During the mid-20th century, events such as the partition of India in 1947 and subsequent communal tensions led to population movements within the Indian subcontinent. Additionally, economic hardships in post-independence India prompted some individuals to seek opportunities in other countries, including those in Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
In more recent decades, globalisation, advancements in transportation and communication technology, and increasing interconnectedness have facilitated greater mobility and migration from India to various parts of the world. However, alongside legal channels of migration, there has also been a continued flow of illegal migrants seeking better economic prospects, employment opportunities, and social welfare benefits in destination countries. While illegal immigration from India is not a recent phenomenon, its scale and dynamics have evolved over time in response to changing socio-economic and geopolitical conditions both within India and in destination countries.
2.0 Data of migrants that illegally crossed borders
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) last year in December 2023 disclosed in Parliament that US authorities encountered more than 200,000 illegal Indian immigrants over the past five years (Economictimes, 2023). The data presented by Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan revealed a significant increase, with the highest number of cases, 96,917, reported in 2022-23 (Dieterich, 2023). The figures indicate a notable rise from previous years, with 8,027 encounters in 2018-19, 1,227 in 2019-20, and a substantial surge to 30,662 in 2020-21. The number in 2021-22 was 63,927 while 96,917 cases were reported in 2022-23 (Patel, 2024). The total number of illegal Indian immigrants encountered by the American authorities comes to 200,760
(Economictimes, 2023). Figure 1 illustrates the number of migrant deaths in the Americas in 2022, rouses him from his deep yogic trance. Their marriage symbolizes the union necessary for the universe’s cyclical processes, such as creation, preservation, and destruction. This story not only highlights the dependence of passive elements (Shiva) on dynamic forces (Shakti) to bring balance and activity into existence but also underlines the concept that the divine feminine is indispensable in prompting action within the sphere of divine consciousness.
The Das Mahavidyas
All “Names” And Forms Are of The Divine Mother. ‘I Am Alone Here In the world. Who Else Is There Besides Me? Behold, o vile one! These Are but Projections Of My Own Power, Now Entering Back Into Me.’ (Jewel, 2023)
Top of Form
The Das Mahavidyas represents a profound and essential pathway to invoke the divine feminine consciousness, encapsulating the multifaceted nature of Shakti within Tantric practices. Each goddess in this group embodies a distinct aspect of the divine feminine, offering unique insights and transformative powers that are pivotal for spiritual awakening. These deities challenge the practitioner to engage with aspects of the self and the universe that are often overlooked or suppressed in more orthodox spiritual practices. Through rituals, meditation, and mantra chanting associated with each Mahavidya, devotees not only honor these divine figures but also tap into deep reservoirs of feminine energy. This process is not merely about seeking blessings but involves an experiential understanding and integration of these energies into one’s spiritual journey, thereby enhancing one’s consciousness and encouraging a holistic embrace of both the material and spiritual realms. Moreover, the worship of the Das Mahavidyas in Tantra is not just a religious practice but a dynamic engagement with the living forces of the universe, seen as manifestations of the divine feminine.
This engagement is characterized by an acceptance and celebration of the complexity of life, including its darker and more mysterious aspects. Each Mahavidya, from the ferocity of Kali to the serene bounty of Kamala, provides a specific lens through which the divine is realized and internalized, making the abstract intensely personal and experientially accessible. In doing so, these ten goddesses facilitate a deeper communion with the divine feminine, unlocking layers of consciousness that foster a profound understanding of existence itself. This transformative process is crucial for those on the Tantric path, as it empowers individuals to transcend traditional boundaries, harness inner spiritual forces, and ultimately achieve a state of unity with the cosmos.
2.1 Tantra and the Das Mahavidyas:
Tantra is deeply linked to the Das Mahavidyas in several profound ways, reflecting a symbiotic relationship between the esoteric practices of Tantra and the worship of these ten powerful goddesses.
1. Integral Part of Tantric Practice:
The Das Mahavidyas are central to many Tantric rituals and practices. They are often invoked through specific mantras, yantras (mystical diagrams), and rituals which are intrinsic to Tantric methodology. Each Mahavidya has a specific set of practices that are used to invoke her energy and blessings, often involving complex rituals that include offerings, meditations, and the recitation of specific verses.
2. Embodiment of Transcendent Wisdom:
Each of the Mahavidyas represents a particular aspect of cosmic wisdom that challenges conventional perceptions of reality. Tantra, with its emphasis on seeing beyond the surface to the deeper truths of existence, utilizes the Mahavidyas as embodiments of these transformative insights. For instance, Kali represents time and the inevitable decay all beings face, encouraging devotees to look beyond their fears of mortality.
3. Pathways to Liberation:
In Tantra, the ultimate goal is moksha (liberation) or spiritual enlightenment, achieved by transcending the ego and the dualities of existence. Each Mahavidya offers a unique path to this enlightenment, embodying both the challenges and the spiritual tools necessary for overcoming them. For example, Chhinnamasta’s act of self-decapitation symbolizes the ego’s surrender, a crucial step in achieving spiritual awakening.
4. Integration of the Feminine Divine:
Tantra significantly emphasizes the divine feminine or Shakti as a fundamental cosmic force. The Mahavidyas, as ten aspects of the divine feminine, represent various dimensions of Shakti’s power and wisdom. Their worship in Tantra underscores the importance of acknowledging and venerating the feminine as integral to spiritual development.
5. Challenge to Orthodox Practices:
Both Tantra and the worship of the Mahavidyas often challenge conventional religious practices and societal norms. The Mahavidyas, with their sometimes fierce and untamed forms, encourage practitioners to question and transcend traditional boundaries and limitations, much like Tantric practices do.
6. Esoteric Knowledge and Secrets:
Tantric texts often detail secretive and esoteric practices associated with each Mahavidya, accessible only to initiated practitioners. These practices are believed to unlock profound spiritual powers and insights, offering direct encounters with deep truths about the universe and one’s own consciousness. In essence, the Das Mahavidyas are not just worshiped within Tantric traditions; they are integral to understanding and practicing Tantra itself, providing a structured yet profound approach to engaging with the spiritual and material complexities of life.
7. Dhumavati – Despair:
Often depicted as an old widow, Dhumavati embodies the principle of overcoming despair and hopelessness. Her solitary state teaches the resilience and inner strength required to face life’s challenges and adversities.
8. BAGALAMUKHI– DECEIT:
Bagalamukhi, known for her power to paralyze enemies, symbolically combats the vice of deceit. She freezes negative speech and actions, promoting transparency and honesty in interactions and dealings.
9. Matangi – Pollution:
Matangi, who is associated with the outcast and the polluted, teaches purification from spiritual and physical pollution. Her domain over the marginalized aspects of society challenges norms and purifies devotees through acceptance and integration.
10. Kamala – Greed:
Kamala, a form of Lakshmi and associated with wealth and prosperity, helps devotees overcome greed by fostering a sense of contentment and generosity. Her nurturing presence encourages the sharing of wealth and the recognition of abundance in all forms of life. These Mahavidyas exist within our consciousness, and through awareness, we can shift between them, depending on what we are facing.
Story of the Das Mahavidyas
Here’s a brief look at the story or the symbolic significance behind each Mahavidya:
1. Kali:
Kali is about the darker aspects of nature and our own human nature, yet she also speaks to us of love, for she became the consort of Shiva, adopted by tantric practitioners of the Kaula path (Odier, 2016). Kali first appeared from the brow of Goddess Durga during a battle with the demons. In a fierce form, she defeated the demon Raktabija by consuming his blood, preventing him from replicating. Kali’s untamed energy and wild demeanor symbolize the ultimate reality of time and the transformative power of destruction, which clears the path for new creation.
2. Tara:
Similar to Kali, Tara is believed to have emerged during a cosmic crisis. When Shiva drank the poison Halahala, which emerged from the ocean during the churning of the Milky Ocean, he fell unconscious. Tara then appeared and took Shiva on her lap, sucking the poison from his body and saving the universe. She represents compassion and offers guidance and protection to her devotees.
3. Tripura Sundari:
Also known as Sodashi, Tripura Sundari is considered the most beautiful in all three worlds. Her beauty and grace seduce all creation to unify with her divine essence. She represents the perfected or idealized beauty in nature and the arts, encompassing the truth that lies beyond the cosmic illusion (Maya).
4. Bhuvane shvari:
Bhuvaneshvari means the ruler of the world. According to mythology, she is the divine spatial aspect of the universe and represents the infinite space in which all creation happens. Her worship implies a realization of one’s own potential and power as being infinite.
5. Chhinnamasta:
The self-decapitated goddess, Chhinnamasta stands for the immediate and direct perception of reality, which is beyond the dualities of life, such as sex, death, and creation. The legend has it that while bathing with her attendants, she decapitated herself to feed them with her own blood, symbolizing the self-sacrifice and the cycle of life.
6. Bhairavi:
As per legends, Bhairavi is the fierce and terrifying aspect of the Goddess who guards the boundaries of the universe. Her story revolves around her role as the protector of the realm and the leader in times of cosmic instability. She teaches resilience and the transformation through trials.
7. Dhumavati:
She is depicted as an old and ugly widow, and her story is associated with loss and inauspiciousness. Dhumavati is said to have manifested from the smoke when Sati, the consort of Shiva, immolated herself. She represents the unavoidable and harsh realities of life, such as isolation and poverty.
8. Bagalamukhi:
The legend goes that during a cosmic storm that threatened creation, Bagalamukhi emerged from a cosmic yellow lake, and calmed the storm by gripping the demon’s tongue who was causing it. She symbolizes the power to control and paralyze enemies, representing dominance over our foes, whether external or internal dialogues.
9. Matangi:
Matangi is said to be born from the thoughts of Lord Shiva. She is considered an outcaste or the “Chandalini”, symbolizing the breaking of societal norms and purity laws. She represents inner thought and wisdom, and her worship is particularly favored by those who seek supernatural powers.
10. Kamala:
Kamala is essentially a form of Lakshmi and emerged from the churning of the ocean, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and fertility. Her story teaches about the importance of material and spiritual wealth and the cleansing of spiritual impurities.
According to Kinsley (1997), “The Mahavidyas might be also understood as symbols of the stages of consciousness experienced by aspirants in their spiritual development. Each goddess confers a certain type of perfections, blessing of awareness. These perfections might be understood as progressive, some pre supposing or being more inclusive than others.”
These stories and symbols of the Das Mahavidyas not only depict their divine functions and powers but also reflect deeper philosophical and existential insights into life, making them central figures in Tantric worship.
This also depicts that divinity incorporates both creation and destruction, gentleness and fierceness. By embracing these paradoxes, devotees are encouraged to transcend dualistic thinking and perceive the underlying unity in all aspects of live (Rashinker, 2023)
INVOCATION OF THE GODDESSES
The Das Mahavidyas are each associated with specific mantras that are used in rituals and meditation to invoke their energies and blessings. The ten Goddesses can be categorized as below in terms of their energy (Rashinker, 2023): Soumya (docile)- Lalita Tripurasundari, Bhuvaneshwari, Matangi, Kamalatmika Ugra (ferocious)- Kali, Chinnamastika, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi Soumya-Ugra (docile-fierce)- Tara, Bhairavi
Below is a brief description of each goddess and her corresponding mantra:
- Kali: Known for her power over time and transformation, Kali’s mantra is often chanted to seek protection and the strength to overcome obstacles and negativity.Mantra: Om Krim Kalikayai Namah
- Tara: Tara is considered a source of compassion and a provider of salvation. Her mantra is used to gain wisdom and understanding.Mantra: Om Hrim Strim Hum Phat
- Tripura Sundari: As the goddess of beauty and truth, her mantra is used to attract all types of good fortune and to realize divine truth . Mantra – Om Aim Hreem Shreem Sri Lalita Tripurasundari Padukam Poojayami Namah.
- Bhuvaneshvari: Governing the material world, her mantra is chanted for harmony and spiritual growth.
Mantra: Om Hreem Bhuvaneshwaryai Namah
5. Chhinnamasta: Her mantra is used to cut through obstacles and personal limitations, representing self-sacrifice and transformation.
Mantra: Om Shrim Hrim Klim Aim Vajra Vairochaniye Hum Hum Phat Swaha
6. Bhairavi: Bhairavi’s mantra invokes her protective energies and is used to conquer fear and negative influences.
Mantra: Om Hrim Bhairavayai Namah
7. Dhumavati: Invoked for overcoming sadness, conflicts, and quarrels, her mantra is also used for protection from all sorts of adversities.
Mantra: Om Dhum Dhum Dhumavati Swaha
8. Bagalamukhi: Known for her power to paralyze enemies and manage difficult situations, her mantra is chanted for dominance over adversaries.
Mantra: Om Hleem Bagalamukhi Sarvadustanam Vacham Mukham Padam Stambhaya
Jivham Kilaya Buddhim Vinashaya Hleem Om Swaha
9. Matangi: The goddess of the spoken word and arts, her mantra is used to attract and charm others, enhancing the devotee’s communication skills.
Mantra: Om Hreem Aim Shreem Namo Bhagavati Ucchishta Chandalini Saraswataye Hreem Swaha
10. Kamala: As a form of Lakshmi, Kamala’s mantra is chanted for prosperity, purity, and elevation in life.
Mantra: Om Shrim Hrim Shrim
Kamalatmika Mahalakshmyai Namah
These mantras should be used with respect and proper guidance, ideally under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner, as they are powerful spiritual tools and form an integral part of Tantric worship.
4.1 Can anyone worship the Das Mahavidyas?
Yes, anyone can worship the Das Mahavidyas, but there are several important considerations and preparations that should be taken into account due to the complex and powerful nature of these deities within the Tantric tradition:
1. Guidance from a Qualified Guru:
It is highly recommended that worship of the Das Mahavidyas be undertaken under the guidance of a knowledgeable and experienced guru. These deities represent profound and often intense aspects of the divine feminine, and their energies are not only powerful but can be difficult to understand and integrate without proper guidance.
2. Understanding and Respect:
Before beginning worship, one should seek to understand the significance, symbolism, and stories associated with each of the Mahavidyas. Respect for their distinct characteristics and what they represent is crucial. This respect also involves recognizing the cultural and religious context from which these deities emerge.
3. Preparatory Practices:
Engaging in preparatory practices such as purification rituals, regular meditation, and study of Tantric texts can help prepare the mind and body for worship. These practices help in developing the spiritual maturity necessary to engage with such powerful energies.
4. Ethical Living and Intent:
Tantra emphasizes ethical living as a foundation for spiritual growth. The intent behind worship should align with principles of selflessness, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment, rather than selfish gains. A pure intention is crucial when dealing with the potent energies of the Mahavidyas.
5. Ritual Adherence:
There are specific rituals and offerings associated with each Mahavidya, and these should be followed carefully. Deviations or incorrect practices not only reduce the effectiveness of the worship but can also lead to undesirable outcomes.
6. Psychological Readiness:
The path of Tantra is not just spiritually demanding; it is also psychologically intense. Potential worshippers should be prepared to face and integrate their shadows and subconscious fears, which the Mahavidyas can bring to the surface.
7. Universal Accessibility:
While the above conditions may seem daunting, it is important to note that Tantra, at its core, teaches that the divine is accessible to everyone, regardless of social status, gender, or previous spiritual experience. The key is to approach with humility, proper preparation, and genuine devotion.
Conclusion
In summary, while the worship of the Das Mahavidyas is open to everyone, it requires a significant level of preparation, respect, and understanding due to the intense and transformative nature of these deities. Proper guidance and adherence to traditional practices enhance the safety and efficacy of engaging with these powerful aspects of the divine feminine.
Furthermore, when these practices are embraced at a societal level, the potential for global change becomes palpable. Through a sincere and thoughtful engagement withthe Das Mahavidyas, humanity can catalyze a significant shift towards healing, unity, and sustainability, demonstrating the transformative power of the divine feminine in guiding us towards a harmonious future.
References
Jewel, R. (2023). Devi Mahatmaya. Discover the Divine consciousness. Retrieved April 25, 2024 from https://devimahatmya.com/the-divine-mother-alone- is-here/
Kinsley, D. (1997). Tantric Visions of the Divine Feminine. The Regents of the University of California, pp. 1451.
Odier, D. (2016). Tantric Kali. Secret Practices and Rituals. Inner Traditions, ISBN13: 9781620555590, pp.6.
Rashinker, V. (2023). Dasa Mahavidya: The Ten Great Tantric Wisdom Goddesses. Notion Press.com, pp. 27-28.
