We are exploring the meaning of the Devi Mahatmyam, Durga Saptashati.

The 32nd shloka of the 5th chapter:
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु भ्रान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता ।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः ॥
भ्रान्तिरप्रमा - Bhranti means incorrect knowledge, false notion, insufficient knowledge.

This is the effect of maya shakti. Maya creates a veil over reality, making the world function. This illusion is what makes the world operate. Parents believe they are responsible for the upbringing of their children and, therefore, work hard. If they had real knowledge, they would know that children would grow up even without their efforts. Then, like jnanis (those with true knowledge), they would sit silently.

Jnanis understand that the world continues without their personal involvement. They see through the illusion and recognize the self-sustaining nature of existence. However, this sense of duty, driven by bhranti, is necessary for the world to work. Incorrect and incomplete knowledge motivates actions and responsibilities that sustain societal and familial structures. Rulers think that the welfare of the people is their responsibility. Without rulers, people will not be able to survive. Is that true? I am not sure. But this false notion creates huge systems of administration and governance with trillions of activities every day. That's what the world is all about.

So, wherever you see this bhranti, this incorrect knowledge - I am this, he is that, I am responsible, I am not responsible, I know, I don't know, this is mine, this is not mine - each piece of incorrect knowledge triggers thousands of actions, each with its own cascading effects. Just as Devi is jnana (knowledge) personified, she is also ajnana (ignorance) personified. She maintains the world's order through this illusion. Bhranti is not a negative force but a necessary aspect of the divine play (lila) that ensures the functioning of the world. Each piece of false knowledge is her—नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः।

Recognizing that delusion (bhranti) is a natural part of life can help you accept the imperfections and uncertainties in your own knowledge and experiences. Acceptance of this can lead to a more compassionate and understanding attitude toward yourself and others. Knowing that the sense of duty and responsibility is influenced by delusion can help you approach your roles with more detachment and clarity. This can prevent burnout and help you perform your duties more effectively without being overwhelmed by them.

Realizing that everyone operates under some level of delusion encourages humility. You become more aware of your own limitations and more forgiving of others' shortcomings. Understand that their actions are influenced by their own misconceptions as a result of the universal bhranti. This fosters better relationships and a more harmonious social life. This understanding can be a step towards deeper spiritual insights, recognizing the interplay between maya (illusion) and the ultimate reality. Cultivate a sense of detachment from the fruits of your actions. Understand that while you perform your duties, the outcomes are decided by a larger divine play. This does not mean abandoning responsibilities but approaching them with a balanced mindset.

If society is aware of the divine presence of Devi even in false knowledge, they will be more understanding and less judgmental. They will achieve higher levels of cooperation and mutual support. Understanding that many social and personal struggles stem from delusions can lead to actions driven by fairness and justice rather than ego and greed.

Knowledge Bank

When to start Pradosha Puja?

The time for puja starts 3 ghatikas before sunset. 3 ghatikas means 72 minutes, roughly one and a quarter hours. If sunset is at 6:30, then puja should start at 5:15.

The Unparalleled Devotion and Virtues of Hanuman Ji

Lord Hanuman Ji exemplified the highest standards of service, duty, unwavering devotion, celibacy, valor, patience, and humility. Despite possessing immense strength and power, he was adorned with virtuous qualities like humility, politeness, and modesty. His infinite strength was always utilized for executing divine works, thus embodying divine greatness. If one uses their power for public welfare and divine purposes, the Supreme Being endows them with divine and spiritual powers. If strength is used without desire and attachment, it becomes a divine quality. Hanuman Ji never used his power for petty desires or under the influence of attachment and aversion. He never succumbed to ego. Hanuman Ji is the only deity who was never afflicted by ego. He always performed his duties selflessly, constantly remembering Lord Rama.