Shashthi Goddess is a Hindu deity who is primarily worshipped for fertility, childbirth, and the protection of children. She is also known as Shashti, Sashti, Shasti, and Shashthi Devi. In this article, we will explore the origins, mythology, and worship of Shashthi Goddess.
Origins and Mythology
The origin of Shashthi Goddess can be traced back to ancient Hindu mythology. According to the Puranas, she is the daughter of Lord Brahma and the consort of Lord Shiva. She is also considered to be the mother of Lord Kartikeya, the Hindu god of war and victory.
In Hindu mythology, Shashthi is also associated with the birth of Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom and prosperity. It is believed that when Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were away, Shashthi took care of Ganesha. Hence, she is also known as the “mother of Ganesha”.
Shashthi is depicted as a young woman with four or six arms, holding a variety of objects such as a sword, a trident, a shield, and a baby. She is often accompanied by a cat, which is considered to be her vehicle. In some parts of India, Shashthi is also associated with snakes and is worshipped as the protector of snakes.
Worship of Shashthi Goddess
Shashthi Goddess is primarily worshipped by women who are seeking fertility and protection for their children. Her worship is also common during the six-day festival of Durga Puja, which is celebrated in many parts of India.
The worship of Shashthi is usually done by performing puja or offering prayers, fruits, and sweets. In some regions, women observe a fast on the sixth day of every lunar month to seek her blessings. During the festival of Durga Puja, Shashthi is worshipped on the sixth day, which is known as Shashthi Puja.
In some parts of India, Shashthi is also worshipped as a protector of snakes. Her worship is associated with the Nag Panchami festival, which is celebrated to honour snakes.
Significance of Shashthi Goddess
The worship of Shashthi Goddess holds immense significance in Hinduism. She is considered to be the divine mother of fertility, childbirth, and children. Her blessings are sought by women who are trying to conceive or seeking protection for their children. She is also worshipped as the protector of snakes, which hold great significance in Hindu mythology.
In addition, the worship of Shashthi is also believed to bring good health, prosperity, and happiness in the lives of her devotees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shashthi Goddess is a significant Hindu deity who is primarily worshipped for fertility, childbirth, and the protection of children. Her origins can be traced back to ancient Hindu mythology, where she is associated with Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya. Her worship is performed by women seeking fertility and protection for their children, and is also associated with the Nag Panchami and Durga Puja festivals.
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Overall, the worship of Shashthi Goddess holds great significance in Hinduism, particularly for women seeking fertility and protection for their children. Her nurturing and protective nature towards children, as well as her association with Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya, make her an important deity in Hindu mythology.