Worship of Maa Durga has special significance in Shardiya Navratri. During these nine days, devotees worship nine forms of the Goddess. During this time, reciting Durga Saptashati is also considered very auspicious. According to religious beliefs, its regular recitation brings peace to the mind, increases self-confidence and infuses positive energy in the person.
However, while reciting Durga Saptashati, it is considered important to take care of the preparation of puja, order of recitation and correct pronunciation. Let us know what is Durga Saptashati, the method of its recitation and the religious importance associated with it.
What is Durga Saptashati?
The description of Durga Saptashati is found in Markandeya Purana. It has a total of 700 verses and 13 chapters. It is divided into three major characters – the first character is related to Mahakali, the middle character is related to Mahalakshmi and the best character is related to Mahasaraswati. It describes the glory of Mother Durga, her powers and the victory of the Goddess over the demons. Its recitation during Navratri is considered an important medium of worshiping the Goddess.
Rules for recitation of Durga Saptashati
Before starting the recitation of Durga Saptashati, clean the place of worship thoroughly. If possible, prepare for it a day in advance, so that there is no haste at the time of the lesson.
2. Take bath and wear clean clothes
Before starting the lesson, take bath and wear clean clothes. After this, sit on a clean seat in front of the idol or picture of Maa Durga and meditate on the Goddess.
3. Start with Durga Kavach
According to the traditional method, Durga Kavach is recited before reciting Durga Saptashati. After this, Argala Stotra, Kilak Stotra and chapters of Saptashati are recited in the prescribed order. Follow the method of recitation as per your tradition.
4. Meditate on the Goddess by lighting a lamp
Light a lamp in front of the idol or picture of Maa Durga. While reciting, keep your mind concentrated and chant the mantras and shlokas with devotion.
5. Do Aarti and Bhog after the lesson
After completion of Durga Saptashati recitation, perform Aarti of Maa Durga. You can offer fruits, sweets or sweets to the Goddess. After this, distribute the Prasad among the family members and other devotees.
6. Take care of correct pronunciation and concentration
While reciting Durga Saptashati, it is considered important to take care of the correct pronunciation of the verses and the order of the chapters. Keep your mind calm during the recitation and remember the Goddess with devotion. If it is not possible to do the entire lesson in one go, then according to your tradition you can get information about the method from a qualified scholar.
Religious importance of reading Durga Saptashati
According to religious beliefs, by reciting Durga Saptashati, the devotee feels mental peace and self-confidence. It is also considered a medium to develop courage and positive thinking to face difficult situations. During Navratri, devotees recite Durga Saptashati to seek the blessings of Mother Durga, family happiness and prosperity and happiness in life. It is believed that worshiping the Goddess with true heart and devotion gives spiritual strength to the devotees.