Durga

Image: Durga by: Indra Sharma

Durga’s Three Eyes
The left eye represents desire (the moon), the right eye represents action (the sun), and the central eye knowledge (fire).

Durga’s Vehicle - the Lion
The lion represents power, will and determination.

Durga’s Many Weapons

• The conch shell in Durga’s hand symbolizes the ‘Pranava’ or the mystic word ‘Om’, 
• The bow and arrows represent energy - potential and kinetic. 
• The thunderbolt signifies firmness and confidence. 
• The lotus in Durga’s hand is not in fully bloomed, …stands for the continuous evolution of the spiritual quality… 
• The “Sudarshan-Chakra” or beautiful discus, …destroy evil and produce an environment conducive to the growth of righteousness. 
• The sword - knowledge, which has the sharpness of a sword. Knowledge which is free from all doubts, is symbolized by the shine of the sword. 
• Durga’s trident or “trishul” is a symbol of three qualities - Satva (inactivity), Rajas (activity) and Tamas (non-activity). 

Devi Durga stands on a lion in a fearless pose of “Abhay Mudra”, signifying assurance of freedom from fear.

Works cited
1. Shri Gyan Rajhans
2. In a World of Gods & Goddesses, Indra Sharma, James H. Bay