Who is Pratyangira Devi? What is the significance of Pratyangira Devi in Hindu mythology?
Introduction
Goddess Pratyangira, also known as Atharvana Bhadra Kali, holds a unique place in the realms of Tantra and Vedic traditions. Associated with the Atharva Veda, she safeguards its secret mantras, tantras, and yantras, preventing them from falling into malevolent hands. This formidable deity is renowned for her role in countering black magic and protecting seekers from tantric attacks.
Table of Contents
Who is Pratyangira Devi?
Significance of Pratyangira Devi in Hindu Mythology
Numerous Hindu texts narrate legends surrounding Narasimhi. In the Devi Mahatmyam, she emerges as one of the Saptamatrikas, uniting with six other mother goddesses to defeat the asuras Sumbha and Nisumbha, who had overrun heaven. Another tale from Puranas recounts the creation of a shield by the goddess Lakshmi to protect sages performing rituals, leading to the manifestation of Narasimhi who defeats the demon Vipulasura. In the Treta Yuga, Narasimha, Vishnu’s fourth avatar, annihilates the asura king Hiranyakashipu, incorporating his evil energies and eventually returning to Vaikuntha.
In Hindu Epic Ramayana
Pratyangira finds mention in the Ramayana, where Hanuman intervenes to stop Indrajita’s “Nikumbala yajna,” recognizing it as a ritual dedicated to Goddess Pratyangira. The interference prevents Indrajita from becoming invincible, leading to his defeat and death in the Battle of Lanka.
Role and Attributes of Pratyangira Devi
The name ‘Prati’ signifies reverse, and ‘Angiras’ refers to attacking, portraying Pratyangira as the one who counters black magic attacks. Depicted in various forms, she is often shown as dark-complexioned, riding a lion, wearing black garments, and adorned with a garland of human skulls. Holding a trident, a noose-shaped serpent, a hand-drum, and a skull in her hands, she is associated with Sharabha and possesses a variant form, Atharvana-Bhadra-Kali. Pratyangira is revered for her ability to repel witchcraft and punish those engaged in Adharma.
Forms and Associations of Pratyangira Devi
Pratyangira Devi’s origins trace back to the deep meditation of Rishis Pratyangira and Angiras, who discovered her through the ethereal waves of sound. She is revered as Sri Maha Pratyangira Devi, symbolizing the union of Shiva and Shakti. Often depicted with a male lion’s face and a female human body, she represents the delicate equilibrium between good and evil.
In diverse traditions, Pratyangira assumes different identities. In Shaktism, she is Siddhilakshmi, a form of Guhya Kali, while in Vaishnavism, she embodies Narasimhi, the power of Narasimha avatar. In the Durga tradition, she manifests as Purna Chandi, the fiery destructive power of Brahman. The Vedas hail her as Atharvana Bhadrakali, the goddess of magical spells.
Eight Kinds of Tantric Acts for Invoking Devi Pratyangira
Pratyangira can be invoked for eight types of acts, including appealing, growth, attraction, subduing, repealing dissention, and killing. Tantric scriptures provide detailed instructions on materials to be used, recitations, and the irreversibility of acts performed invoking Pratyangira, especially those related to subduing and killing. The worship of Pratyangira is a profound practice, demanding respect, and adherence to traditional Tantric principles.
Pratyangira Devi in Tantra
Tantra categorizes deities based on their nature, with Pratyangira classified as a teevra murti(तिव्र मूर्ति), representing the ferocious form. Worship of Pratyangira is intricate and strictly guided by Tantra principles. Initiates seek the guidance of a proficient Guru to engage in Pratyangira worship, ensuring adherence to the prescribed rituals and precautions. Devotees perform worships and homas dedicated to Pratyangira for general well-being and to counteract the influences of evil forces.
As a Teevra Devata in Tantra, Pratyangira guards against tantric attacks, neutralizing the powers of even Dhumavati Mahavidya. This mother goddess brings balance during times of imbalance, ushering in Satya Loka energies amid the challenges of Kali Yuga. Associated with Lord Bhairava, she is Bhairava Patni, protecting the universe and offering self-realization akin to Lord Shiva.
Sadhana and Forms in Pratyangira Devi Worship (Upasana)
Pratyangira Devi is invoked through various sadhanas, classified as one of the most powerful yet challenging vidyas. Her forms range from the commonly seen goddess seated on a lion to the formidable Maha Pratyangira Devi with multiple lion faces and numerous hands. Sadhakas undertake her worship for defensive and offensive power, seeking protection from doshas, enemies, diseases, and obstacles.
Global Recognition of Pratyangira Devi
Pratyangira’s influence extends beyond the Indian subcontinent, finding acknowledgment in ancient Egyptian and Tibetan cultures. Referred to as Sekhmet and Simhamukha respectively, these traditions recognize the potent energy of Pratyangira Devi. In Vajrayana Buddhism, she is worshipped as ‘Simhamukha Dakini,’ holding a significant place in the spiritual journey.
Frequently Asked Questions about “Pratyangira Devi”
1. Who is Pratyangira Devi?
Pratyangira Devi is a powerful Hindu goddess associated with Shaktism. Also known as Atharvana Bhadrakali, Narasimhi, and Simhamukhi, she is considered the consort of Narasimha and is revered as the pure manifestation of the wrath of Tripura Sundari.
2. What is the significance of Pratyangira Devi in Hindu mythology?
Pratyangira Devi holds significance in various Hindu legends. She is portrayed as a formidable force against asuras in the Devi Mahatmyam and plays a pivotal role in the Ramayana, where her worship is connected to preventing invincibility.
3. How is Pratyangira Devi depicted?
Pratyangira Devi is often depicted with a dark complexion, riding a lion, and adorned with black garments. She may have a lion’s face with reddened eyes, wear a garland of human skulls, and hold a trident, a noose-shaped serpent, a hand-drum, and a skull in her four hands.
4. What is the association of Pratyangira Devi with black magic?
The name ‘Prati’ means reverse, and ‘Angiras’ means attacking, symbolizing Pratyangira Devi’s role in countering black magic attacks. Temples in South India eulogize her as Atharvana Bhadrakali, the embodiment of the Atharva Veda, representing protection against black magic.
5. How is Pratyangira Devi worshiped?
Worship of Pratyangira Devi is considered intricate and is strictly guided by Tantra principles. It is advised to seek the guidance of a proficient Guru in Tantra for proper initiation and adherence to rituals. Devotees perform worships, homams, and other rituals for general well-being and protection.
6. What are the different forms of Pratyangira Devi?
Pratyangira Devi is depicted in various forms, including the commonly seen form with four hands seated on a lion and a greater form called Maha Pratyangira Devi with multiple faces of lions and numerous hands. Other forms include Aghora Pratyangira, Baggala Pratyangira, Lakshmi, Narayani Pratyangira, and Pancha-Vimsatyakshari.
7. What is the role of Pratyangira Devi in the Sri Vidya tradition?
In the Sri Vidya tradition, Pratyangira is recognized as one of the chief warrior goddesses of Lalita Tripura Sundari’s army called Shakthi Sena. She is believed to have received boons from Adi Parashakthi, ensuring invincible protection and superiority over adversaries.
8. Can Pratyangira Devi be invoked for specific acts?
Yes, Pratyangira Devi can be invoked for eight kinds of acts, including appealing, growth, increasing, attracting, subduing, repealing dissention, and killing. Tantric scriptures provide detailed instructions on materials and recitations for each specific act.
9. Is Pratyangira Devi worship suitable for everyone?
Pratyangira worship is strictly prohibited for those who engage in namesake Bhakti. It is recommended to seek the guidance of a Guru proficient in Tantra for proper initiation and adherence to rituals. Attempting Pratyangira worship without proper guidance is considered risky.
Conclusion
Goddess Pratyangira, the guardian of mystic wisdom, stands as a formidable force in the spiritual pantheon. Her multifaceted forms and associations across traditions underscore the universal recognition of her transformative power. Practitioners, under the guidance of a competent Guru, engage in her intricate sadhana, unlocking the invincible protection she offers against the forces of imbalance and malevolence.
Reference
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