Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti-Buddhi-Lakshmi Rupena — Word-by-Word Meaning
या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्ति-बुद्धि-लक्ष्मीरूपेण
Every Sanskrit word explained in English
Word-by-Word Breakdown
या देवी
yā devī
that Goddess who
सर्वभूतेषु
sarvabhūteṣu
in all beings, in all living creatures
शक्तिरूपेण
śaktirūpeṇa
in the form of power, strength, energy (Shakti)
संस्थिता
saṃsthitā
abides, is established, is present
बुद्धिरूपेण
buddhirūpeṇa
in the form of intelligence and discernment (Buddhi)
लक्ष्मीरूपेण
lakṣmīrūpeṇa
in the form of fortune and prosperity (Lakshmi)
नमस्तस्यै
namastasyai
salutation to her
नमो नमः
namo namaḥ
salutation again and again
Complete Translation
To that Goddess who abides in all beings in the form of power (Shakti) — salutation to her, salutation to her, salutation to her, again and again. To that Goddess who abides in all beings in the form of intelligence (Buddhi) — salutation to her, salutation to her, salutation to her, again and again. To that Goddess who abides in all beings in the form of fortune (Lakshmi) — salutation to her, salutation to her, salutation to her, again and again.
Origin & History
Source: Durga Saptashati Chapter 5
Author: Sage Markandeya (Rishi Markandeya)
Period: Ancient (c. 400–600 CE, Markandeya Purana)
In Chapter 5 of the Devi Mahatmya, the gods, oppressed by the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha, sing the Tantrokta Devi Suktam. Recognising the one Goddess as the inner essence of all beings, they salute her form by form — as Vishnumaya, consciousness, intelligence, sleep, hunger, power, peace, mother, fortune and more. These verses praising her as Shakti, Buddhi and Lakshmi are among the most cherished of that hymn.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the source of 'Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti-rupena'?▼
It is from the Tantrokta Devi Suktam in Chapter 5 of the Durga Saptashati (Devi Mahatmya). The gods praise the one Goddess as dwelling in all beings in many forms; this triad salutes her as Shakti, Buddhi and Lakshmi.
Why are Shakti, Buddhi and Lakshmi grouped together?▼
They are three of the most essential forms in which the Goddess sustains life — power that energises, intelligence that guides, and fortune that nourishes. Devotees love this triad as a compact prayer for strength, wisdom and prosperity all at once.
Can these verses be chanted on their own?▼
Yes. While they belong to the longer 'Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu' hymn, this triad is often recited by itself, especially before study, work or new ventures, to invoke inner strength, clear thinking and abundance.
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