Vak itself is Shakti. With the correct recitation, Shakti manifests in the person. It’s effect is the connection between the physical universal form, the form of Devi as we know in this world and the divine formless. Here, it is very important to know that the physical universal form refers to the world we know and live in. Where we know things and feel as we touch, see and sense. We also think that only these are the only realities. But, Both are realities. Devi mahatmya is not mere words, but the embodiment of the divine presence in the form of Vak. That is why recitation should be very precise and perfect. That is also a reason why professional chanters are invited during Navratri time.
Devi Mahatmya/ Durga SaptaShati is the easiest way, in the present time, to achieve bhukti and mukti.
Durga SaptaShati has 3 dhyana slokas. Chapter 1 has the dhyana sloka for Durga devi. Madhyama keelaka, is a dhyana sloka in the second chapter, for Goddess MahaLakshmi. Fifth chapter has the dhyana sloka for MahaSaraswati.
There is a slight difference in the numbering of chapters in many puranas. But, In Markandeya purana, thirteen chapters are from chapter 81 to 85 is a must. This is when Devi Mahatmya starts. There is no dhyana sloka in any puranas. Nor there are any mantras or chandas.
Slowly the six angas were introduced – Hrudaya sloka. Kavacha, Argala and kiilaka are preparatory ritual sloka. The remaining 3 slokas are optional namely Pradhyanica rahasya, Vaikrithika rahasya and Murthy rahasya. They give the vedanta, philosophy and formal worship. Rig veda gives Ratri suktam and Devi suktam. They are the shravya kavya, jewel box of poetry. Devi suktam is given by Devi herself. Ratri suktam is literally praying to Devi to protect us in the night time. Recitations of these are highly recommended to get the greatest benefits.
Note: The article is based on the Jnana Yajna sessions conducted by ‘Atmanandanatha’ guruji.
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