The Sapta Matrika

(Sapta = seven; Matrika = matriarch)

Inspired by — and made possible — through the 7 beautiful priestesses of our recent Shakti Retreat in Siwa. Drawing upon the shakti of Pleiades and the Big Dipper hanging over us in the desert.

Brought forth by the mantras and bhakti of us all.

“At the most crucial moment, surrounded by countless demons of ignorance, Durga shook Her body, and from Her third eye, Chamunda the Frightening emerged.

From the fanged mouth of Chamunda, the pristine Brahmani emerged riding her swan.

From the gaze of Brahmani, the powerful Maheshwari came forth astride on her Lion.

From the roar of her Lion, the splendid Kaumari emerged riding on her peacock.

From the hand of Kaumari, came forth the glorious Vaishnavi.

From Vaishnavi, the mystical Boar Goddess Varahi emerged. And from Varahi, the thousand-eyed lightning-wielder Indrani came forth.

Thus the Seven emerged from the One, the Sapta Matrika, the seven Celestial Matriarchs, and the battlefield thundered and filled with resplendent light, and victory over the asuras was inevitable.”

In Egypt, they are known as the 7 Hathors of Pleiades; in Greeece they are the 7 Sisters.

Each represents the shakti — power principle — of all the gods.

S.

9/6/2023