Shakta Tantra
How is the Divine Mother worshipped in Shakta Tantra?
In Shakta Tantra, the Divine Mother is worshipped as the ultimate source of all creation and the embodiment of divine energy. She is seen as the primordial force that gives birth to the entire universe and sustains all beings within it. The worship of the Divine Mother is centered around devotion and rituals that seek to connect with her and receive her blessings.
The most common form of worship in Shakta Tantra is through the use of mantras and yantras. Mantras are sacred chants that are believed to have a powerful effect on the mind and body, while yantras are geometric diagrams that represent the energy of the Divine Mother. These are used in meditation and ritual practices to invoke the presence of the Divine Mother and seek her blessings.
Another important aspect of Shakta Tantra worship is the use of puja, or ritual worship. This involves offering various items such as flowers, incense, and food to the Divine Mother, as a way of expressing devotion and gratitude. Puja is often performed in front of a sacred image or statue of the Divine Mother, which is believed to be a physical representation of her divine form.
In addition to these practices, devotees of the Divine Mother also engage in fasting and penance as a way of purifying the mind and body. This is seen as a way of preparing oneself for the experience of the Divine Mother's presence and receiving her blessings.
One of the most unique aspects of Shakta Tantra worship is the emphasis on the feminine aspect of divinity. In this tradition, the Divine Mother is seen as the ultimate power and is worshipped as such. This is in contrast to many other Hindu traditions where the male deities are often given more prominence.
The Divine Mother is also worshipped through various festivals and celebrations, such as Navratri and Durga Puja. These festivals are dedicated to honoring the different forms and aspects of the Divine Mother and are celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by devotees.
In conclusion, the worship of the Divine Mother in Shakta Tantra is centered around devotion and ritual practices that seek to connect with her and receive her blessings. Through the use of mantras, yantras, puja, fasting, and festivals, devotees seek to experience the presence of the Divine Mother and receive her grace and blessings in their lives.