Devi Mahatmyam

The Devi Mahatmyam ('Glory of the Goddess'), also known as Durga Saptashati or Chandi Path, is a 700-verse text forming chapters 81-93 of the Markandeya Purana. It is the foundational scripture of Shaktism (worship of the Divine Feminine) and the primary liturgical text for Navaratri worship. The text narrates three episodes of the Goddess defeating demonic forces: Madhu-Kaitabha (killed by Maha Kali/Vishnu Maya), Mahishasura (slain by Maha Lakshmi/Durga), and Shumbha-Nishumbha (destroyed by Maha Saraswati/Chandika). These three episodes symbolize the triumph of divine feminine power over the forces of ignorance, ego, and delusion.

The Devi Mahatmyam is the most important text in the Shakta tradition and is recited daily by millions of devotees. During Navaratri, its 700 verses are chanted over nine nights in temples and homes across India. It establishes the philosophical foundation for understanding the Goddess as the supreme power of the universe.

Thirteen chapters in three episodes: the slaying of Madhu-Kaitabha by the primal sleep form of the Goddess, the destruction of Mahishasura by the combined power of all gods manifesting as Durga, and the annihilation of Shumbha-Nishumbha by Chandika and her emanations including Kali, along with hymns of praise and blessings.