Introduction: The Enigma of Durga

Durga is more than just a goddess; she is an energy, an enabler, and a force that shapes the universe. The Devi Mahatmyam, a sacred Hindu scripture, beautifully illustrates how the divine feminine intervenes in battles, empowers righteousness, and restores cosmic balance. This legend finds a remarkable parallel in the epic battle between Ram and Ravana, where the presence of Saraswati and Ambika played a decisive role.

The Battle Between Ram and Ravana: A Divine Intervention

During the war between Ram and Ravana, an unusual situation arose. Ravana, despite being the enemy, started making statements in favor of Ram. It was an awkward situation—why would an adversary suddenly glorify his opponent? Ram was perplexed, unable to decide whether it was right to slay someone who spoke like a devotee of God.

A high-level meeting was called among the Gods and Goddesses to decipher this mystery. The council concluded that Ravana’s words had to be strategically influenced, and for this, they sought the help of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom and speech.

The Role of Goddess Saraswati: Wisdom as a Weapon

Saraswati, known for her intellect, was assigned the task of resolving this crisis. She subtly ensured that Ravana’s statements would infuriate Ram enough to take action. As a result, Ram ultimately slew Ravana, cutting him into two halves.

But Ravana did not perish—he had a boon from Brahma, the divine creator, ensuring his survival. This moment was pivotal, as it made Ravana realize the true power of the feminine force.

Ravana’s Realization: The Power of the Divine Feminine

Ravana, one of the most learned Brahmins of his time, now understood that Gods and Goddesses were a team—one as the doer and the other as the enabler. He decided to invoke the strongest enabler of warfare—Ambika, another fierce form of the divine feminine. Through prayers and rituals, he successfully won her favor, and she agreed to support him in battle.

When Ram received this intelligence, he realized that defeating Ravana would now be nearly impossible unless he outdid him in divine grace.

The Significance of Ambika in Devi Mahatmyam

Ram learned that behind the fiery warrior goddess, there was a gentle and compassionate Ambika, who had a deep admiration for the rare blue lotus. As narrated in Devi Mahatmyam, Ram set out to gather 108 blue lotuses to honor Ambika.

Hanuman traveled far and wide, collecting the lotuses, but by Shashti (the sixth day of Navratri), they had gathered only 107. One was missing.

Determined to complete the ritual, Ram, known for his mesmerizing blue-lotus-like eyes, prepared to sacrifice one of his own eyes in place of the missing lotus. This act of pure devotion melted Ambika’s heart. She appeared before Ram and assured him that she would no longer support Ravana.

The battle soon turned in Ram’s favor.

• On Shashti (the sixth day), Ram began the ritual.
• On Ashtami (the eighth day), Ambika withdrew her blessings from Ravana.
• On Dashami (the tenth day), Ravana was finally slain.

This divine intervention symbolizes how true devotion and righteousness can invoke divine power to overcome any obstacle.

What is Durga? The Many Forms of the Divine Feminine

Durga is not just a deity; she is Shakti, the power that enables. The story above illustrates how different forms of Durga shape outcomes:

• Durga as Wisdom → Saraswati, who influenced Ravana’s words, enabling his fall.
• Durga as Strength → Ambika, who initially supported Ravana but was moved by Ram’s devotion.
• Durga as the Unseen Force → The divine feminine that ensures the rightful course of events.

But Durga is not limited to mythology.

Finding Durga in Everyday Life

Durga exists within every woman and every moment of feminine energy that enables life to move forward. She is present in:

• The wisdom in your mother’s advice.
• The deep sigh in your beloved’s heart.
• The silent courage in your daughter’s spirit.

Durga is the strength, the sorrow, the power, and the presence of the divine feminine everywhere.

Conclusion: The Eye to Find Durga

We often search for strength externally, but Durga is within us—in every challenge, every battle, and every moment of perseverance. The key is to recognize her presence. The question is:

Do you have the Eye to Find Durga?