Durga Saptashati Chapter 4: Shakradi Stuti

Durga Saptashati Chapter 4, known as Chaturtha Adhyaya or Shakradi Stuti – "The Praise by Indra and the Gods" – is the hymn with which the gods thank the Goddess after the death of Mahishasura. It closes the Madhyama Charitra of the Devi Mahatmya, presided over by Mahalakshmi.

Unlike the two chapters before it, Chapter 4 is not a battle but a prayer. The gods declare who the Goddess is – Shri in the homes of the good, Svaha and Svadha in the sacrifice, the three Vedas, Medha, Durga, Shri and Gauri – marvel that Mahishasura could strike at so beautiful a face, and praise the mercy by which even her slain enemies reach heaven. They end with the prayer for protection in every direction that is still recited in the Saptashati Nyasa, and the Goddess grants them a boon that covers every reader of the hymn: whoever praises her with these verses will prosper.

The chapter contains 42 textual units, traditionally counted as 5 uvacha lines, 2 half-verses and 35 full verses. Every one of them is given below in Sanskrit, with transliteration and a simple English meaning.

Durga Saptashati Chapter 4 at a Glance

Particular	Details
Chapter	Chaturtha Adhyaya (Fourth Chapter)
Traditional Name	Shakradi Stuti – The Praise by Shakra (Indra) and the Gods; also called the Devi Stuti
Charitra	Madhyama Charitra – Chapters 2, 3 and 4; this chapter completes it
Presiding Deity	Mahalakshmi
Rishi · Metre · Shakti · Bija · Tattva · Veda	Vishnu · Ushnik · Shakambhari · Durga · Vayu · Yajurveda – from the Viniyoga of the Madhyama Charitra, recited at Chapter 2; Chapter 4 has no separate Viniyoga
Dhyana	Durga called Jaya – dark as a rain cloud, seated on a lion, bearing conch, discus, sword and trident
Main Theme	The gods' hymn of praise, the prayer for protection, and the Goddess's boon
Narrator	Sage Medha ("Rishir Uvacha"), within Sage Markandeya's narration
Principal Figures	Indra and the gods; the Goddess as Ambika, Chandika, Durga and Bhadrakali; Mahishasura, recalled in the hymn
Traditional Count	42 textual units (259 from the beginning of the text)
Source	Markandeya Purana – Devi Mahatmya
Navratri	Read on Day 2 with Chapters 2 and 3 in the nine-day schedule; read alone on Day 3 in the seven-day schedule

Story of Durga Saptashati Chapter 4

With Mahishasura and his army destroyed, Indra and the gods bow before the Goddess, their bodies thrilling with joy, and begin to praise her. They bow to Ambika, whose own power pervades the world and whose body is the gathered power of all the gods; they confess that even Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva cannot describe her glory, and ask Chandika to protect the world.

The hymn then tells who she is. She is Shri in the homes of the good and Alakshmi in the homes of the wicked; intelligence in the wise, faith in the good, modesty in the well-born. She is the cause of all the worlds, beyond the three gunas, the primal Prakriti. She is Svaha, by which the gods are fed in sacrifice, and Svadha, by which the ancestors are fed. She is the supreme Vidya practised by sages who seek liberation, and she is the three Vedas themselves. She is Medha, Durga the boat across the sea of existence, Shri in Vishnu's heart and Gauri beside Shiva.

The gods then turn to what they have just seen. It is a wonder, they say, that Mahishasura could strike at a face so gentle and lovely – and a greater wonder that he survived a moment after seeing it angry, for who lives after seeing Death enraged? Those on whom she smiles prosper; remembered in danger she takes away fear; and her mercy reaches even her enemies, who, slain by her weapons, are purified and go to heaven. Compassion in the heart and sternness in battle are found together in her alone.

The hymn ends with the prayer every reciter of the Saptashati knows: protect us with your trident, your sword, the sound of your bell and the twang of your bow; protect us in the east, the west, the south and the north; with your gentle forms and your terrible forms, protect us and the earth.

Worshipped with flowers from Nandana and divine incense, the Goddess tells the gods to choose a boon. Nothing remains to be done, they answer – but let her remember them in every calamity, and let her be gracious to any mortal who praises her with these hymns, increasing his wealth and fortune. "So be it," says Bhadrakali, and vanishes. Medha closes the Charitra: this is how the Goddess first came from the bodies of the gods; now hear how she came from the body of Gauri to slay Shumbha and Nishumbha.

Who Appears in Chapter 4?

Figure	Role in the Chapter
Sage Medha	Narrates the chapter to King Suratha and the merchant Samadhi
Indra (Shakra) and the gods	Praise the Goddess after Mahishasura's death and receive her boon
The Goddess (Ambika, Chandika, Durga, Bhadrakali)	Hears the hymn, grants the boon and vanishes; Mahalakshmi is the presiding form of this Charitra
Mahishasura	Recalled in the hymn – the demon who struck at her gentle face and died at the sight of her anger
Gauri, Shumbha and Nishumbha	Named in the closing verses as the subject of the next Charitra

Structure of Chapter 4

The chapter can be understood in six parts:

1. The gods begin their praise – Verses 1–2
2. Who the Goddess is – Verses 3–11
3. Her deeds and her mercy – Verses 12–23
4. The prayer for protection – Verses 24–27
5. The boon – Verses 28–37
6. Medha closes the Madhyama Charitra – Verses 38–42

Durga Saptashati Chapter 4 Sanskrit with Meaning

॥ श्रीदुर्गासप्तशती – चतुर्थोऽध्यायः ॥

Dhyana

ॐ कालाभ्राभां कटाक्षैररिकुलभयदां मौलिबद्धेन्दुरेखां शङ्खं चक्रं कृपाणं त्रिशिखमपि करैरुद्वहन्तीं त्रिनेत्राम्।

सिंहस्कन्धाधिरूढां त्रिभुवनमखिलं तेजसा पूरयन्तीं ध्यायेद् दुर्गां जयाख्यां त्रिदशपरिवृतां सेवितां सिद्धिकामैः॥

Om Kalabhrabham Katakshair Arikula-Bhayadam Mauli-Baddhendu-Rekham Shankham Chakram Kripanam Trishikham Api Karair Udvahantim Trinetram |

Simha-Skandhadhirudham Tribhuvanam Akhilam Tejasa Purayantim Dhyayed Durgam Jayakhyam Tridasha-Parivritam Sevitam Siddhikamaih ||

Meaning: One should meditate on Durga, called Jaya – dark as a rain cloud, whose side-glances strike fear into the hosts of her enemies, with the crescent moon bound in her crown; carrying the conch, the discus, the sword and the trident in her hands; three-eyed; seated on the shoulder of a lion; filling all three worlds with her radiance; surrounded by the gods and served by those who seek siddhi.

Verse 1 – Rishir Uvacha

"ॐ" ऋषिरुवाच॥१॥

"Om" Rishir Uvacha || 1 ||

Meaning: With "Om", the sage Medha said:

Verse 2

शक्रादयः सुरगणा निहतेऽतिवीर्ये तस्मिन्दुरात्मनि सुरारिबले च देव्या।

तां तुष्टुवुः प्रणतिनम्रशिरोधरांसा वाग्भिः प्रहर्षपुलकोद्गमचारुदेहाः॥२॥

Shakradayah Suragana Nihate'tivirye Tasmin Duratmani Suraribale Cha Devya |

Tam Tushtuvuh Pranati-Namra-Shirodharamsa Vagbhih Praharsha-Pulakodgama-Charu-Dehah || 2 ||

Meaning: "When that mighty and wicked demon and his army had been slain by the Goddess, Indra and the other gods praised her with words – their heads and shoulders bowed in reverence, their bodies thrilling with joy."

Verse 3

देव्या यया ततमिदं जगदात्मशक्त्या निश्शेषदेवगणशक्तिसमूहमूर्त्या।

तामम्बिकामखिलदेवमहर्षिपूज्यां भक्त्या नताः स्म विदधातु शुभानि सा नः॥३॥

Devya Yaya Tatamidam Jagad Atmashaktya Nishshesha-Devagana-Shakti-Samuha-Murtya |

Tam Ambikam Akhila-Deva-Maharshi-Pujyam Bhaktya Natah Sma Vidadhatu Shubhani Sa Nah || 3 ||

Meaning: "We bow in devotion to Ambika, by whose own power this whole world is pervaded, whose body is the gathered power of all the gods, and whom all the gods and great sages worship. May she grant us what is good."

Verse 4

यस्याः प्रभावमतुलं भगवाननन्तो ब्रह्मा हरश्च न हि वक्तुमलं बलं च।

सा चण्डिकाखिलजगत्परिपालनाय नाशाय चाशुभभयस्य मतिं करोतु॥४॥

Yasyah Prabhavam Atulam Bhagavan Ananto Brahma Harashcha Na Hi Vaktumalam Balam Cha |

Sa Chandikakhila-Jagat-Paripalanaya Nashaya Chashubha-Bhayasya Matim Karotu || 4 ||

Meaning: "Even the infinite Lord Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva cannot describe her matchless glory and strength. May that Chandika set her mind on protecting the whole world and destroying the fear of evil."

Verse 5

या श्रीः स्वयं सुकृतिनां भवनेष्वलक्ष्मीः पापात्मनां कृतधियां हृदयेषु बुद्धिः।

श्रद्धा सतां कुलजनप्रभवस्य लज्जा तां त्वां नताः स्म परिपालय देवि विश्वम्॥५॥

Ya Shrih Svayam Sukritinam Bhavaneshv Alakshmih Papatmanam Kritadhiyam Hridayeshu Buddhih |

Shraddha Satam Kulajana-Prabhavasya Lajja Tam Tvam Natah Sma Paripalaya Devi Vishvam || 5 ||

Meaning: "You are Shri herself in the homes of those who do good, and Alakshmi, misfortune, in the homes of the wicked; you are intelligence in the hearts of the wise, faith in the good, and modesty in those of noble birth. We bow to you. Protect the universe, O Goddess."

Verse 6

किं वर्णयाम तव रूपमचिन्त्यमेतत् किं चातिवीर्यमसुरक्षयकारि भूरि।

किं चाहवेषु चरितानि तवाद्भुतानि सर्वेषु देव्यसुरदेवगणादिकेषु॥६॥

Kim Varnayama Tava Rupam Achintyam Etat Kim Chativiryam Asura-Kshaya-Kari Bhuri |

Kim Chahaveshu Charitani Tavadbhutani Sarveshu Devyasura-Devaganadikeshu || 6 ||

Meaning: "How can we describe this form of yours, which is beyond thought? Or your great valour that destroys the asuras? Or your wondrous deeds in battle, O Goddess, among all the hosts of gods and demons?"

Verse 7

हेतुः समस्तजगतां त्रिगुणापि दोषै- र्न ज्ञायसे हरिहरादिभिरप्यपारा।

सर्वाश्रयाखिलमिदं जगदंशभूत- मव्याकृता हि परमा प्रकृतिस्त्वमाद्या॥७॥

Hetuh Samasta-Jagatam Trigunapi Doshai- Rna Jnayase Hariharadibhir Apy Apara |

Sarvashrayakhilam Idam Jagad-Amsha-Bhuta- Mavyakrita Hi Parama Prakritis Tvam Adya || 7 ||

Meaning: "You are the cause of all the worlds; though the three gunas are in you, their faults do not touch you. Even Vishnu, Shiva and the rest cannot fathom you, for you have no limit. You are the refuge of all; this whole world is but a part of you; you are the unmanifest, supreme, primal Prakriti."

Verse 8

यस्याः समस्तसुरता समुदीरणेन तृप्तिं प्रयाति सकलेषु मखेषु देवि।

स्वाहासि वै पितृगणस्य च तृप्तिहेतु- रुच्चार्यसे त्वमत एव जनैः स्वधा च॥८॥

Yasyah Samasta-Surata Samudiranena Triptim Prayati Sakaleshu Makheshu Devi |

Svahasi Vai Pitriganasya Cha Triptihetu- Ruchcharyase Tvamata Eva Janaih Svadha Cha || 8 ||

Meaning: "You are Svaha, at whose utterance the whole host of gods is satisfied in every sacrifice, O Goddess. And because you are the cause of the ancestors' satisfaction, people pronounce you as Svadha too."

Verse 9

या मुक्तिहेतुरविचिन्त्यमहाव्रता त्व- मभ्यस्यसे सुनियतेन्द्रियतत्त्वसारैः।

मोक्षार्थिभिर्मुनिभिरस्तसमस्तदोषै- र्विद्यासि सा भगवती परमा हि देवि॥९॥

Ya Mukti-Hetur Avichintya-Mahavrata Tva- Mabhyasyase Suniyatendriya-Tattvasaraih |

Moksharthibhir Munibhir Asta-Samasta-Doshai- Rvidyasi Sa Bhagavati Parama Hi Devi || 9 ||

Meaning: "You are the cause of liberation, the unthinkable great vow. The sages who seek liberation – who control their senses, hold to the essence of truth and have cast off every fault – practise you. You are that supreme Vidya, O Bhagavati."

Verse 10

शब्दात्मिका सुविमलर्ग्यजुषां निधान- मुद्गीथरम्यपदपाठवतां च साम्नाम्।

देवी त्रयी भगवती भवभावनाय वार्ता च सर्वजगतां परमार्तिहन्त्री॥१०॥

Shabdatmika Suvimalarg-Yajusham Nidhana- Mudgitha-Ramya-Padapathavatam Cha Samnam |

Devi Trayi Bhagavati Bhava-Bhavanaya Varta Cha Sarvajagatam Paramarti-Hantri || 10 ||

Meaning: "You are sound itself – the treasury of the pure Rig and Yajur hymns and of the Sama chants with their lovely Udgitha. You are the three Vedas, O Bhagavati, who bring the world into being and sustain it, and you are the destroyer of the world's greatest sorrows."

Verse 11

मेधासि देवि विदिताखिलशास्त्रसारा दुर्गासि दुर्गभवसागरनौरसङ्गा।

श्रीः कैटभारिहृदयैककृताधिवासा गौरी त्वमेव शशिमौलिकृतप्रतिष्ठा॥११॥

Medhasi Devi Viditakhila-Shastrasara Durgasi Durga-Bhavasagara-Naur Asanga |

Shrih Kaitabhari-Hridayaika-Kritadhivasa Gauri Tvameva Shashimauli-Krita-Pratishtha || 11 ||

Meaning: "You are Medha, O Goddess, who knows the essence of all the scriptures. You are Durga, the boat that carries us, unattached, across the hard ocean of worldly existence. You are Shri, who has made her only home in the heart of Vishnu, the enemy of Kaitabha. And you alone are Gauri, established beside Shiva, who wears the moon."

Verse 12

ईषत्सहासममलं परिपूर्णचन्द्र- बिम्बानुकारि कनकोत्तमकान्तिकान्तम्।

अत्यद्भुतं प्रहृतमात्तरुषा तथापि वक्त्रं विलोक्य सहसा महिषासुरेण॥१२॥

Ishat-Sahasam Amalam Paripurna-Chandra- Bimbanukari Kanakottama-Kanti-Kantam |

Atyadbhutam Prahritam Attarusha Tathapi Vaktram Vilokya Sahasa Mahishasurena || 12 ||

Meaning: "Faintly smiling, spotless, like the orb of the full moon, lovely with the lustre of the finest gold – such was your face. And yet, what a wonder: when Mahishasura suddenly saw it, he struck at it in anger."

Verse 13

दृष्ट्वा तु देवि कुपितं भ्रुकुटीकराल- मुद्यच्छशाङ्कसदृशच्छवि यन्न सद्यः।

प्राणान्मुमोच महिषस्तदतीव चित्रं कैर्जीव्यते हि कुपितान्तकदर्शनेन॥१३॥

Drishtva Tu Devi Kupitam Bhrukuti-Karala- Mudyach Chhashanka-Sadrishach Chhavi Yanna Sadyah |

Pranan Mumocha Mahishas Tad Ativa Chitram Kairjivyate Hi Kupitantaka-Darshanena || 13 ||

Meaning: "But a greater wonder still, O Goddess, is that when Mahisha saw your face angry – terrible with its frown, red as the rising moon – he did not give up his life that very instant. For who can go on living after seeing Death enraged?"

Verse 14

देवि प्रसीद परमा भवती भवाय सद्यो विनाशयसि कोपवती कुलानि।

विज्ञातमेतदधुनैव यदस्तमेत- न्नीतं बलं सुविपुलं महिषासुरस्य॥१४॥

Devi Prasida Parama Bhavati Bhavaya Sadyo Vinashayasi Kopavati Kulani |

Vijnatam Etad Adhunaiva Yadastameta- Nnitam Balam Suvipulam Mahishasurasya || 14 ||

Meaning: "Be gracious, O supreme Goddess, for the good of the world. When you are angry you destroy whole clans in an instant – we have learnt this just now, seeing the vast army of Mahishasura brought to its end."

Verse 15

ते सम्मता जनपदेषु धनानि तेषां तेषां यशांसि न च सीदति धर्मवर्गः।

धन्यास्त एव निभृतात्मजभृत्यदारा येषां सदाभ्युदयदा भवती प्रसन्ना॥१५॥

Te Sammata Janapadeshu Dhanani Tesham Tesham Yashamsi Na Cha Sidati Dharmavargah |

Dhanyasta Eva Nibhritatmaja-Bhritya-Dara Yesham Sadabhyudayada Bhavati Prasanna || 15 ||

Meaning: "Those to whom you, the giver of prosperity, are gracious are honoured among the people; wealth and fame are theirs; their righteousness never fails; and they are blessed in their devoted sons, servants and wives."

Verse 16

धर्म्याणि देवि सकलानि सदैव कर्मा- ण्यत्यादृतः प्रतिदिनं सुकृती करोति।

स्वर्गं प्रयाति च ततो भवतीप्रसादा- ल्लोकत्रयेऽपि फलदा ननु देवि तेन॥१६॥

Dharmyani Devi Sakalani Sadaiva Karma- Nyatyadritah Pratidinam Sukriti Karoti |

Svargam Prayati Cha Tato Bhavati-Prasada- Llokatraye'pi Phalada Nanu Devi Tena || 16 ||

Meaning: "By your grace, O Goddess, the person of merit performs every righteous deed with care, day after day, and so reaches heaven. Thus it is you who give the fruit of good deeds in all three worlds."

Verse 17

दुर्गे स्मृता हरसि भीतिमशेषजन्तोः स्वस्थैः स्मृता मतिमतीव शुभां ददासि।

दारिद्र्यदुःखभयहारिणि का त्वदन्या सर्वोपकारकरणाय सदाऽऽर्द्रचित्ता॥१७॥

Durge Smrita Harasi Bhitim Ashesha-Jantoh Svasthaih Smrita Matimativa Shubham Dadasi |

Daridrya-Duhkha-Bhaya-Harini Ka Tvadanya Sarvopakara-Karanaya Sada''rdra-Chitta || 17 ||

Meaning: "O Durga, remembered in danger you take away the fear of every creature; remembered by those at peace you grant a mind that is truly good. Who but you destroys poverty, sorrow and fear? Your heart is always soft with the wish to help all."

Verse 18

एभिर्हतैर्जगदुपैति सुखं तथैते कुर्वन्तु नाम नरकाय चिराय पापम्।

सङ्ग्राममृत्युमधिगम्य दिवं प्रयान्तु मत्वेति नूनमहितान् विनिहंसि देवि॥१८॥

Ebhir Hatair Jagad Upaiti Sukham Tathaite Kurvantu Nama Narakaya Chiraya Papam |

Sangrama-Mrityum Adhigamya Divam Prayantu Matveti Nunamahitan Vinihamsi Devi || 18 ||

Meaning: "By the death of these demons the world gains happiness; and though they had sinned enough to stay long in hell, by dying in battle they go to heaven. Surely it is with this thought that you slay your enemies, O Goddess."

Verse 19

दृष्ट्वैव किं न भवती प्रकरोति भस्म सर्वासुरानरिषु यत्प्रहिणोषि शस्त्रम्।

लोकान् प्रयान्तु रिपवोऽपि हि शस्त्रपूता इत्थं मतिर्भवति तेष्वपि तेऽतिसाध्वी॥१९॥

Drishtvaiva Kim Na Bhavati Prakaroti Bhasma Sarvasuran Arishu Yat Prahinoshi Shastram |

Lokan Prayantu Ripavo'pi Hi Shastraputa Ittham Matirbhavati Teshvapi Te'tisadhvi || 19 ||

Meaning: "Why do you not burn all the asuras to ashes with a mere glance? Why do you turn your weapons on your enemies? Because, purified by your weapons, even your enemies may go to the higher worlds – so kind is your intention even towards them."

Verse 20

खड्गप्रभानिकरविस्फुरणैस्तथोग्रैः शूलाग्रकान्तिनिवहेन दृशोऽसुराणाम्।

यन्नागता विलयमंशुमदिन्दुखण्ड- योग्याननं तव विलोकयतां तदेतत्॥२०॥

Khadga-Prabha-Nikara-Visphuranais Tathograih Shulagra-Kanti-Nivahena Drisho'suranam |

Yannagata Vilayam Amshumad-Indu-Khanda- Yogyananam Tava Vilokayatam Tadetat || 20 ||

Meaning: "If the eyes of the asuras were not destroyed by the terrible flashing of your sword and the blaze of your trident's point, it was because they were gazing on your face, lovely as a piece of the radiant moon."

Verse 21

दुर्वृत्तवृत्तशमनं तव देवि शीलं रूपं तथैतदविचिन्त्यमतुल्यमन्यैः।

वीर्यं च हन्तृहृतदेवपराक्रमाणां वैरिष्वपि प्रकटितैव दया त्वयेत्थम्॥२१॥

Durvritta-Vritta-Shamanam Tava Devi Shilam

Rupam Tathaitad Avichintyam Atulyam Anyaih |

Viryam Cha Hantri-Hrita-Deva-Parakramanam Vairishvapi Prakatitaiva Daya Tvayettham || 21 ||

Meaning: "Your nature, O Goddess, is to subdue the conduct of the wicked; your form is beyond thought and matched by no other; your valour destroyed those who had robbed the gods of their strength; and in this way you have shown your compassion even to your enemies."

Verse 22

केनोपमा भवतु तेऽस्य पराक्रमस्य रूपं च शत्रुभयकार्यतिहारि कुत्र।

चित्ते कृपा समरनिष्ठुरता च दृष्टा त्वय्येव देवि वरदे भुवनत्रयेऽपि॥२२॥

Kenopama Bhavatu Te'sya Parakramasya Rupam Cha Shatru-Bhaya-Karyati-Hari Kutra |

Chitte Kripa Samara-Nishthurata Cha Drishta Tvayyeva Devi Varade Bhuvanatraye'pi || 22 ||

Meaning: "With what can this valour of yours be compared? Where is there a form so beautiful and yet so terrifying to enemies? Compassion in the heart and sternness in battle are seen together in you alone, O Goddess, giver of boons, in all the three worlds."

Verse 23

त्रैलोक्यमेतदखिलं रिपुनाशनेन त्रातं त्वया समरमूर्धनि तेऽपि हत्वा।

नीता दिवं रिपुगणा भयमप्यपास्त- मस्माकमुन्मदसुरारिभवं नमस्ते॥२३॥

Trailokyam Etad Akhilam Ripu-Nashanena Tratam Tvaya Samara-Murdhani Te'pi Hatva |

Nita Divam Ripugana Bhayam Apy Apasta- Masmakam Unmada-Surari-Bhavam Namaste || 23 ||

Meaning: "By destroying the enemies you have saved these three worlds entire; by slaying them at the front of the battle you have sent even them to heaven; and you have dispelled our fear of the maddened enemies of the gods. Salutations to you."

Verse 24

शूलेन पाहि नो देवि पाहि खड्गेन चाम्बिके। घण्टास्वनेन नः पाहि चापज्यानिःस्वनेन च॥२४॥

Shulena Pahi No Devi Pahi Khadgena Chambike | Ghanta-Svanena Nah Pahi Chapa-Jya-Nihsvanena Cha || 24 ||

Meaning: "Protect us with your trident, O Goddess; protect us with your sword, O Ambika; protect us with the sound of your bell and with the twang of your bowstring."

Verse 25

प्राच्यां रक्ष प्रतीच्यां च चण्डिके रक्ष दक्षिणे। भ्रामणेनात्मशूलस्य उत्तरस्यां तथेश्वरि॥२५॥

Prachyam Raksha Pratichyam Cha Chandike Raksha Dakshine | Bhramanenatma-Shulasya Uttarasyam Tatheshvari || 25 ||

Meaning: "Protect us in the east, in the west and in the south, O Chandika; and in the north too, O Ishvari, by whirling your trident."

Verse 26

सौम्यानि यानि रूपाणि त्रैलोक्ये विचरन्ति ते। यानि चात्यर्थघोराणि तै रक्षास्मांस्तथा भुवम्॥२६॥

Saumyani Yani Rupani Trailokye Vicharanti Te | Yani Chatyartha-Ghorani Tai Rakshasmams Tatha Bhuvam || 26 ||

Meaning: "With your gentle forms that move through the three worlds, and with those that are exceedingly terrible, protect us and the earth."

Verse 27

खड्गशूलगदादीनि यानि चास्त्राणि तेऽम्बिके। करपल्लवसङ्गीनि तैरस्मान् रक्ष सर्वतः॥२७॥

Khadga-Shula-Gadadini Yani Chastrani Te'mbike | Karapallava-Sangini Tairasman Raksha Sarvatah || 27 ||

Meaning: "With the sword, the trident, the mace and all the other weapons that rest in your tender hands, O Ambika, protect us on every side."

Verse 28 – Rishir Uvacha

ऋषिरुवाच॥२८॥

Rishir Uvacha || 28 ||

Meaning: The sage said:

Verse 29

एवं स्तुता सुरैर्दिव्यैः कुसुमैर्नन्दनोद्भवैः। अर्चिता जगतां धात्री तथा गन्धानुलेपनैः॥२९॥

Evam Stuta Surair Divyaih Kusumair Nandanodbhavaih |

Archita Jagatam Dhatri Tatha Gandhanulepanaih || 29 ||

Meaning: "Praised in this way by the gods, the Mother of the worlds was worshipped with divine flowers from the garden of Nandana and with fragrant pastes,"

Verse 30

भक्त्या समस्तैस्त्रिदशैर्दिव्यैर्धूपैस्तु धूपिता। प्राह प्रसादसुमुखी समस्तान् प्रणतान् सुरान्॥३०॥

Bhaktya Samastais Tridashair Divyair Dhupais Tu Dhupita | Praha Prasada-Sumukhi Samastan Pranatan Suran || 30 ||

Meaning: "and all the gods devoutly offered her divine incense. Then, her face full of grace, she spoke to all the gods bowing before her."

Verse 31 – Devyuvacha

देव्युवाच॥३१॥

Devyuvacha || 31 ||

Meaning: The Goddess said:

Verse 32

व्रियतां त्रिदशाः सर्वे यदस्मत्तोऽभिवाञ्छितम्॥३२॥

Vriyatam Tridashah Sarve Yad Asmatto'bhivanchhitam || 32 ||

Meaning: "Choose, all you gods, whatever you desire from me."

Verse 33 – Deva Uchuh

देवा ऊचुः॥३३॥

Deva Uchuh || 33 ||

Meaning: The gods said:

Verse 34

भगवत्या कृतं सर्वं न किञ्चिदवशिष्यते॥३४॥

Bhagavatya Kritam Sarvam Na Kinchid Avashishyate || 34 ||

Meaning: "Bhagavati has done everything; nothing remains to be done."

Verse 35

यदयं निहतः शत्रुरस्माकं महिषासुरः। यदि चापि वरो देयस्त्वयास्माकं महेश्वरि॥३५॥

Yadayam Nihatah Shatrur Asmakam Mahishasurah | Yadi Chapi Varo Deyas Tvayasmakam Maheshvari || 35 ||

Meaning: "Our enemy Mahishasura has been slain. Yet if a boon is to be given to us by you, O Maheshvari –"

Verse 36

संस्मृता संस्मृता त्वं नो हिंसेथाः परमापदः। यश्च मर्त्यः स्तवैरेभिस्त्वां स्तोष्यत्यमलानने॥३६॥

Samsmrita Samsmrita Tvam No Himsethah Paramapadah | Yashcha Martyah Stavair Ebhis Tvam Stoshyaty Amalanane || 36 ||

Meaning: "– then whenever we remember you, destroy our greatest calamities. And whatever mortal praises you with these hymns, O Goddess of spotless face,"

Verse 37

तस्य वित्तर्द्धिविभवैर्धनदारादिसम्पदाम्। वृद्धयेऽस्मत्प्रसन्ना त्वं भवेथाः सर्वदाम्बिके॥३७॥

Tasya Vittarddhi-Vibhavair Dhana-Daradi-Sampadam | Vriddhaye'smat-Prasanna Tvam Bhavethah Sarvadambike || 37 ||

Meaning: "be always gracious to him, O Ambika, as you are to us, for the increase of his wealth and prosperity, his riches, his family and every fortune."

Verse 38 – Rishir Uvacha

ऋषिरुवाच॥३८॥

Rishir Uvacha || 38 ||

Meaning: The sage said:

Verse 39

इति प्रसादिता देवैर्जगतोऽर्थे तथाऽऽत्मनः। तथेत्युक्त्वा भद्रकाली बभूवान्तर्हिता नृप॥३९॥

Iti Prasadita Devair Jagato'rthe Tatha''tmanah | Tathetyuktva Bhadrakali Babhuvantarhita Nripa || 39 ||

Meaning: "Thus propitiated by the gods for the sake of the world and for their own sake, Bhadrakali said 'So be it', O King, and vanished."

Verse 40

इत्येतत्कथितं भूप सम्भूता सा यथा पुरा। देवी देवशरीरेभ्यो जगत्त्रयहितैषिणी॥४०॥

Ity Etat Kathitam Bhupa Sambhuta Sa Yatha Pura | Devi Deva-Sharirebhyo Jagattraya-Hitaishini || 40 ||

Meaning: "Thus, O King, I have told you how the Goddess, who wishes the good of the three worlds, first came forth from the bodies of the gods."

Verse 41

पुनश्च गौरीदेहात्सा समुद्भूता यथाभवत्। वधाय दुष्टदैत्यानां तथा शुम्भनिशुम्भयोः॥४१॥

Punashcha Gauridehatsa Samudbhuta Yathabhavat | Vadhaya Dushta-Daityanam Tatha Shumbha-Nishumbhayoh || 41 ||

Meaning: "Hear now how she appeared once more, from the body of Gauri, to slay the wicked demons, and Shumbha and Nishumbha in particular,"

Verse 42

रक्षणाय च लोकानां देवानामुपकारिणी। तच्छृणुष्व मयाऽऽख्यातं यथावत्कथयामि ते॥ ह्रीं ॐ॥४२॥

Rakshanaya Cha Lokanam Devanam Upakarini | Tach Chhrinushva Maya''khyatam Yathavat Kathayami Te || Hreem Om || 42 ||

Meaning: "for the protection of the worlds and the good of the gods. Listen to it as I tell it; I shall relate it exactly as it happened." Hreem Om.

Chapter Colophon

॥ इति श्रीमार्कण्डेयपुराणे सावर्णिके मन्वन्तरे देवीमाहात्म्ये शक्रादिस्तुतिर्नाम चतुर्थोऽध्यायः॥४॥

|| Iti Shri-Markandeya-Purane Savarnike Manvantare Devimahatmye Shakradi-Stutir Nama Chaturtho'dhyayah || 4 ||

Meaning: Thus ends the fourth chapter, named "The Praise by Shakra and the Other Gods", of the Devi Mahatmya in the account of the Savarnika manvantara in the Shri Markandeya Purana.

उवाच ५, अर्धश्लोकाः २, श्लोकाः ३५, एवम् ४२, एवमादितः॥२५९॥

Uvacha 5, Ardhashlokah 2, Shlokah 35, Evam 42, Evamaditah || 259 ||

Meaning: Five uvacha lines, 2 half-verses and 35 full verses – 42 textual units in this chapter, and 259 from the beginning of the text.

Significance of Durga Saptashati Chapter 4

Durga Saptashati Chapter 4 is the first of the great hymns of the Devi Mahatmya. Chapters 2 and 3 showed what the Goddess did; Chapter 4 says what it means. The gods who could not defeat Mahishasura, and whose gathered light became the Goddess, now put into words who she is – and in doing so give the Saptashati some of its most recited verses.

The hymn is remarkable for what it says about the Goddess's enemies. The gods do not simply celebrate the demons' deaths; they wonder why she used weapons at all when a glance could have burnt them, and answer that it was so that even the asuras, purified by her weapons, might reach heaven. "Compassion in the heart and sternness in battle" are seen together in her alone.

The chapter also carries the first promise of the Saptashati to its own readers. When the gods ask for a boon, they ask not only for themselves but for "whatever mortal praises you with these hymns" – and the Goddess grants it. The protective verses that close the hymn (24–27) are the same ones placed on the hands and body in the Saptashati Nyasa before every recitation.

Main Teachings of Chapter 4

• The Goddess is present as every quality: Shri in the homes of the good, Alakshmi in the homes of the wicked, intelligence, faith and modesty in human hearts (Verse 5).
• She is the sacrifice and the Vedas themselves: Svaha and Svadha, the Rig, Yajur and Sama (Verses 8 and 10).
• One Goddess, many forms: Medha, Durga, Shri and Gauri are one (Verse 11).
• Her anger is Death itself: no one lives after seeing it, as Mahishasura learnt (Verses 13–14).
• Her mercy reaches even her enemies: slain by her weapons, they are purified and go to heaven (Verses 18–19).
• Remembering her is enough: remembered in danger she removes fear; remembered in peace she gives a good mind (Verse 17).
• The hymn carries its own promise: whoever praises her with these verses receives her grace and prosperity (Verses 36–37).

The Names and Forms of the Goddess in the Shakradi Stuti

Name or form	What the hymn says	Verse
Ambika	Whose own power pervades the world; whose body is the gathered power of the gods	3
Chandika	Whose glory even Vishnu, Brahma and Shiva cannot describe	4
Shri and Alakshmi	Prosperity in the homes of the good, misfortune in the homes of the wicked	5
Buddhi, Shraddha, Lajja	Intelligence in the wise, faith in the good, modesty in the well-born	5
Parama Prakriti	The cause of all the worlds, beyond the three gunas, the refuge of all	7
Svaha and Svadha	The offerings that satisfy the gods and the ancestors	8
Vidya	The supreme knowledge practised by sages who seek liberation	9
Trayi	The three Vedas; the sound of the Rig, Yajur and Sama	10
Medha	The intelligence that knows the essence of all scriptures	11
Durga	The boat across the hard ocean of worldly existence	11
Shri	Who dwells in the heart of Vishnu	11
Gauri	Established beside Shiva, who wears the moon	11
Bhadrakali	The form in which she grants the boon and vanishes	39

The Four Protective Verses (24–27)

The hymn ends with four verses that ask the Goddess to protect the reciter with her weapons, in every direction, and with every form:

• Verse 24 – with her trident, her sword, the sound of her bell and the twang of her bow
• Verse 25 – in the east, the west, the south and, by whirling her trident, the north
• Verse 26 – with her gentle forms and her terrible forms, protecting us and the earth
• Verse 27 – with the sword, trident, mace and every weapon in her hands, on every side

These same four verses, together with "Sarvasvarupe Sarveshe" from Chapter 11 and "Khadgini Shulini Ghora" from Chapter 1, are placed on the hands and body in the Saptashati Nyasa before the Path begins. A reciter of the Saptashati has therefore already recited them twice by the time Chapter 4 is reached.

Why Is Chapter 4 Called Shakradi Stuti?

The fourth chapter is traditionally known as Shakradi Stuti – "the praise (stuti) by Shakra and the others (adi)" – because it consists of the hymn offered to the Goddess by Indra, whose name Shakra heads the list, and the other gods. It is also called the Devi Stuti, the first of the Saptashati's four great hymns to the Goddess (the others being Brahma's hymn in Chapter 1, the Aparajita Stuti of Chapter 5 and the Narayani Stuti of Chapter 11).

Traditional Recitation of Chapter 4

Chapter 4 completes the Madhyama Charitra of the Devi Mahatmya, which runs through Chapters 2, 3 and 4 under Mahalakshmi. It has no separate Viniyoga; the Viniyoga of the Madhyama Charitra is recited at the start of Chapter 2, and Chapter 4 opens with its own Dhyana, given above.

Schedule	When Chapter 4 is read	Context
3-day Path (by Charitra)	Day 2, with Chapters 2 and 3	Day 1: Chapter 1 · Day 3: Chapters 5–13
7-day Path	Day 3, on its own	Day 1: 1 · Day 2: 2–3 · Day 4: 5–8 · Day 5: 9–10 · Day 6: 11 · Day 7: 12–13
9-day Navratri Path	Day 2, with Chapters 2 and 3	Day 1: 1 · Day 3: 5–6 · Day 4: 7 · Day 5: 8 · Day 6: 9–10 · Day 7: 11 · Day 8: 12 · Day 9: 13

The chapter is read through to its colophon in one sitting; a chapter is never left unfinished. The exact procedure varies by tradition, lineage and method, and devotees should follow the method prescribed by their Guru or family tradition.

Traditional Spiritual Significance

In the chapter-wise tradition of the Path, the fourth chapter is read to receive the gracious glance of the Goddess and for the removal of all sorrows – fitting for the chapter in which the Goddess, pleased, offers the gods whatever they wish. The hymn itself states its promise: the Goddess will be gracious to whoever praises her with these verses, for the increase of wealth, family and every fortune (Verses 36–37); remembered in danger she takes away fear (Verse 17); and those to whom she is gracious are honoured, prosperous and blessed in their households (Verse 15). Devotees traditionally approach it for:

• Devotion towards Goddess Mahalakshmi and the Goddess as Durga, Ambika and Chandika
• The Goddess's grace and the removal of sorrow
• Protection in every direction, through the four closing verses
• Prosperity, honour and well-being of the family, as the boon promises
• Reflection on the Goddess's compassion, which reaches even her enemies

These are traditional devotional associations and should not be understood as guaranteed worldly or medical outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Durga Saptashati Chapter 4 called?

Durga Saptashati Chapter 4 is called Chaturtha Adhyaya and is traditionally known as Shakradi Stuti, "The Praise by Shakra (Indra) and the Other Gods". It is also called the Devi Stuti, and it completes the Madhyama Charitra.

What happens in Chapter 4 of Durga Saptashati?

After Mahishasura's death, Indra and the gods praise the Goddess: who she is, the wonder of the demon's end, and the mercy by which even her slain enemies reach heaven. They pray for her protection in every direction, she offers them a boon, and they ask that she be gracious to them and to any mortal who praises her with these hymns. She grants it and vanishes, and Sage Medha closes the Charitra.

Who is the main Goddess in Durga Saptashati Chapter 4?

The presiding deity of the Madhyama Charitra is Mahalakshmi. In the hymn the Goddess is addressed as Ambika, Chandika and Durga, is identified with Shri, Medha and Gauri among others, and is called Bhadrakali at the end. The Dhyana at the head of the chapter describes Durga called Jaya, dark as a rain cloud, seated on a lion.

Which are the most famous verses of Chapter 4?

Verse 5, "Ya Shrih Svayam Sukritinam", on the Goddess as Shri in the homes of the good; Verse 11, "Medhasi Devi", on her as Medha, Durga, Shri and Gauri; Verse 17, "Durge Smrita Harasi Bhitim", on remembering her in danger; and the four protective verses, 24–27, beginning "Shulena Pahi No Devi", which are also recited in the Saptashati Nyasa.

What boon does the Goddess grant in Chapter 4?

The gods ask that whenever they remember her she destroy their greatest calamities, and that she be always gracious to any mortal who praises her with these hymns, increasing his wealth, prosperity, family and every fortune. The Goddess says "So be it" (Verses 32–39). The promise is thus made to every reciter of the hymn.

Why does the hymn praise the Goddess for using weapons instead of a glance?

Because, the gods reason, she could have burnt the asuras to ashes with a mere look; she used weapons so that her enemies, purified by them and dying in battle, would go to heaven instead of to hell (Verses 18–19). The hymn sees her compassion in the very way she kills.

How many verses are there in Durga Saptashati Chapter 4?

The traditional count gives 42 textual units: 5 uvacha lines, 2 half-verses and 35 full verses. Together with Chapters 1 to 3 this makes 259 units from the beginning of the text.

Can Chapter 4 be recited on its own?

Yes. It is a complete hymn of praise, and in the seven-day schedule it is read by itself on the third day. Its own Dhyana is recited first; its Viniyoga is that of the Madhyama Charitra, recited at Chapter 2; and the preliminaries of the Path Vidhi are performed before it as for the whole Path.

Continue Reading Durga Saptashati

After Chapter 4, the Uttama Charitra begins under Mahasaraswati.

Next: Durga Saptashati Chapter 5 – The Goddess and the Messenger (Devi Duta Samvada)

Previous: Durga Saptashati Chapter 3 – Mahishasura-Vadha

• Durga Saptashati Chapter 1 – Madhu-Kaitabha Vadha
• Durga Saptashati Chapter 2 – Mahishasura-Sainya-Vadha
• Durga Saptashati Path Vidhi
• Devi Kavacham · Argala Stotram · Keelakam Stotram
• Vedoktam Ratri Suktam · Tantroktam Ratri Suktam
• Shri Devi Atharvashirsham · Navarna Vidhi · Saptashati Nyasa

For the complete Durga Saptashati, readers can continue through all 13 chapters of the Devi Mahatmya.