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Ya Devi - Devi Suktam
Durga Mantra sanskrit

Ya Devi - Devi Suktam

The Ya Devi - Devi Suktam is a hymn from the Devi Mahatmya that honors the Divine Goddess (Devi) present in all beings and phenomena. Each verse identifies the Goddess with a fundamental quality or cosmic principle—from consciousness and intellect to sleep, hunger, memory, and compassion. The repeated refrain 'namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah' (I bow to her, I bow to her, I bow to her again and again) expresses complete surrender and profound reverence. This mantra reveals how Durga, in her transcendent and immanent forms, permeates every aspect of creation.

Spiritually, this suktam teaches that the Divine Mother is not distant or separate, but intimately woven into the fabric of all existence. Each verse enumerates her presence as Vishnu-maya (cosmic illusion), consciousness, intellect, sleep, hunger, shame, peace, faith, splendor, wealth, livelihood, memory, and compassion—recognizing that all experiences and faculties flow from the Goddess. In Vedantic and Tantric philosophy, this recognition dissolves the illusion of separation and reveals divinity in all beings. By invoking these names and forms of Durga, the devotee acknowledges her as the supreme creative, sustaining, and dissolving force that transcends material and spiritual realms alike.

Practitioners traditionally recite this mantra during morning meditation, evening prayers, or Navratri (the nine-night festival honoring Durga). Chant 108 times or in sets of 11 with sincere devotion and clear awareness of each quality invoked. Beginners should focus on proper pronunciation and maintain a calm, centered mind. Regular practice deepens connection with the Divine Mother within and around you, awakening recognition of her presence in all beings and circumstances.

Curated by The Mahakatha Team · Original Composition: Mahakatha · Lyric: Traditional / Vedic

Ya Devi - Devi Suktam

Durga · Preview · 2:00

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Lyrics

Sanskrit / English Tamil Hindi German Telugu Spanish Bengali Kannada Russian
1

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु विष्णुमयेति शब्दिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu vishnumayeti shabdita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

2

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु चेतनेत्यभिधीयते। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu chetanetyabhi dhiyate namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

3

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु बुद्धिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu buddhirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

4

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु निद्रारूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu nidrarupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

5

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु क्षुधारूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu kshudharupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

6

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु छायारूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu chhayarupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

7

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शक्तिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu shaktirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

8

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु तृष्णारूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu trishnarupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

9

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु क्षान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu kshantirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

10

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु जातिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu jatirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

11

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु लज्जारूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu lajjarupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

12

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु शान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu shantirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

13

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु श्रद्धारूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu shraddharupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

14

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु कान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu kantirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

15

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु लक्ष्मीरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu lakshmirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

16

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु वृत्तिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu vrittirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

17

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु स्मृतिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu smritirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

18

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु दयारूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu dayarupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

19

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु तुष्टिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu tushtirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

20

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु मातृरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu matrurupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

21

या देवी सर्वभूतेषु भ्रान्तिरूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

ya devi sarvabhuteshu bhrantirupena sansthita namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

22

इन्द्रियानामधिष्ठात्री भूतानां चाखिलेषु या। भूतेषु सततं तस्यै व्याप्तिदेव्यै नमो नमः॥

indriyanamadhishthatri bhutanam chakhileshu ya bhuteshu satatam tasyai vyaptidevyai namo namah

23

चितिरूपेण या कृत्स्नमेतद्व्याप्य स्थिता जगत्। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः॥

chitirupena ya kritsnama etat vyapya sthita jagat namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah

Word-by-Word Meaning

Sanskrit Meaning
ya who, which; relative pronoun used to introduce a clause describing the divine feminine principle.
devi goddess; feminine form of 'dev' (divine), referring to the supreme feminine divine power.
sarvabhuteshu in all beings; 'sarva' (all) + 'bhuteshu' (in beings), indicating omnipresence in creation.
vishnumayeti known as Vishnu-maya; the divine power or illusion that is the creative force of Vishnu.
shabdita called, named, or designated; past participle indicating how the Devi is referred to or recognized.
namastasyai salutations/bows to her; 'namas' (bows) + 'tasyai' (to her), a reverential greeting.
namo I bow to, salutation; expression of respect and submission to the divine.
namah I bow, salutation; same as 'namo', used in mantric Sanskrit for reverent acknowledgment.
dhiyate is known, is said; passive voice form indicating 'she is recognized/known as'.
buddhirupena in the form of intellect/wisdom; 'buddhi' (intellect, discernment) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
sansthita established, situated, resides; indicates the Devi's presence or manifestation in a particular form.
nidrarupena in the form of sleep; 'nidra' (sleep) + 'rupena' (in the form of), representing her sleep manifestation.
kshudharupena in the form of hunger; 'kshudha' (hunger) + 'rupena' (in the form of), one of her manifestations.
chhayarupena in the form of shadow; 'chhaya' (shadow) + 'rupena' (in the form of), her shadow aspect.
shaktirupena in the form of power/energy; 'shakti' (power, cosmic energy) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
trishnarupena in the form of desire/thirst; 'trishna' (craving, desire) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
kshantirupena in the form of patience/forbearance; 'kshanti' (patience, tolerance) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
jatirupena in the form of birth/caste; 'jati' (birth, lineage, species) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
lajjarupena in the form of modesty/shame; 'lajja' (shame, modesty) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
shantirupena in the form of peace; 'shanti' (peace, tranquility) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
shraddharupena in the form of faith; 'shraddha' (faith, devotion) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
kantirupena in the form of radiance/beauty; 'kanti' (splendor, radiance, beauty) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
lakshmirupena in the form of Lakshmi/prosperity; 'lakshmi' (prosperity, fortune) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
vrittirupena in the form of activity/function; 'vritti' (activity, function, mode of being) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
smritirupena in the form of memory; 'smriti' (memory, recollection) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
dayarupena in the form of compassion; 'daya' (compassion, mercy) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
tushtirupena in the form of contentment; 'tushti' (contentment, satisfaction) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
matrurupena in the form of motherhood; 'matru' (mother) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
bhrantirupena in the form of delusion; 'bhranti' (confusion, delusion) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
indriyanamadhishthatri the presiding deity of the senses; she who rules over the sense organs and their functions.
bhutanam of beings, of creatures; genitive plural of 'bhuta' (element, being, creature).
bhuteshu in beings, in creatures; locative plural of 'bhuta' (element, being), indicating presence in all creation.
satatam constantly, perpetually, always; adverb indicating continuous or eternal presence.
tasyai to her; dative singular feminine, expressing devotion directed toward the Devi.
vyaptidevyai to the Devi who pervades; 'vyapti' (pervasion, omnipresence) + 'devyai' (to the goddess).
chitirupena in the form of consciousness; 'chiti' (pure consciousness) + 'rupena' (in the form of).
etat this; neuter demonstrative pronoun referring to the entire manifestation or concept being described.
vyapya pervading, spreading through; gerund of 'vyap' (to pervade), indicating omnipresence.
sthita established, situated, resides; indicates the Devi's presence and stability throughout creation.
jagat the world, the universe, moving creation; refers to the dynamic, manifest cosmos.

How to Chant Ya Devi - Devi Suktam

  1. 1

    Find a quiet, clean space

    Sit in a comfortable, undisturbed environment. Face east or north if possible. You may light incense or a candle to set a contemplative atmosphere.

  2. 2

    Settle into a comfortable posture

    Sit cross-legged on the floor or upright in a chair. Keep the spine erect and place the hands on the knees with palms facing upward.

  3. 3

    Take three cleansing breaths

    Inhale slowly through the nose, hold briefly, and exhale completely. Repeat three times to calm the mind and prepare for mantra recitation.

  4. 4

    Begin chanting Ya Devi - Devi Suktam

    Chant the mantra clearly and with devotion — aloud, in a whisper, or silently. Use a mala (108 beads) to count repetitions. Aim for a consistent, unhurried rhythm throughout the session.

  5. 5

    Rest in stillness

    After completing your chanting, sit quietly for two to five minutes. Allow the vibration of the mantra to settle within. Close the practice with a moment of gratitude.

Benefits of Ya Devi - Devi Suktam

  • Cultivates recognition of divine presence in all beings, dissolving illusions of separation and fostering universal compassion.

    Source: Devi Mahatmya (Markandeya Purana)

  • Strengthens mental clarity, intuition, and inner wisdom by invoking Buddhi (intellectual principle) as the Goddess.

    Source: Traditional Vedantic practice and Tantra Shastra

  • Brings emotional balance and inner peace by awakening qualities of forgiveness, patience, memory, and tender compassion.

    Source: Devi Mahatmya teachings on divine attributes

  • Attracts abundance, prosperity, and material sustenance through invoking the Lakshmi aspect of the Divine Mother.

    Source: Traditional practice and Lakshmi Tantra

  • Heals trauma and transforms suffering by acknowledging all experiences as divine expressions and vehicles for growth.

    Source: Advaita Vedanta and Kashmir Shaivism teachings

  • Strengthens feminine energy, intuition, and shakti (power) in both men and women, balancing masculine and feminine principles.

    Source: Tantra Shastra and contemporary Devi worship

Deity Durga
Composition Mahakatha (Original) · Traditional / Vedic (Lyric)
Also called Devi Suktam Mantra · Durga Suktam · Devi Kavach · Durga Stotram
Durga also known as Devi · Shakti · Amba · Bhavani · Chandika

Story & Symbolism

The Ya Devi - Devi Suktam emerges from the Devi Mahatmya, the 700-verse scripture embedded in the Markandeya Purana, composed by sage Markandeya around the 5th century BCE. This text represents the apex of Shakta philosophy, celebrating the Divine Feminine (Shakti or Devi) as the supreme cosmic principle underlying all existence. The Ya Devi verses form the concluding hymn of the Devi Mahatmya, traditionally recited after hearing or reading the complete scripture. Sage Markandeya composed these verses to synthesize the profound teachings about Durga's cosmic manifestations, transforming abstract theology into a practical devotional formula that could be memorized and chanted by all seekers regardless of literacy or spiritual sophistication.

Spiritual significance lies in the mantra's systematic revelation of how the Divine Mother manifests as every quality and principle in creation. Rather than treating divinity as distant or transcendent only, these verses teach that Durga permeates existence as consciousness, intellect, compassion, memory, shame, peace, faith, and every other fundamental force. In Vedantic philosophy, this reflects the non-dual teaching that Brahman (ultimate reality) expresses itself through infinite names and forms. In Tantric practice, invoking these divine qualities awakens corresponding powers (siddhi) within the practitioner. This mantra bridges devotion and wisdom, emotion and intellect, by making the abstract principle of divine immanence tangible and chantable.

Today, the Ya Devi - Devi Suktam remains central to Navratri observances worldwide and daily Devi worship in homes and temples. Its transmission has been preserved through oral lineages, temple traditions, and classical Sanskrit texts. Modern spiritual teachers and recorded versions by accomplished musicians have made this mantra accessible to global audiences, while maintaining its authenticity and transformative power. The mantra's enduring relevance speaks to its universal teaching: that divinity resides not in distant heavens but in every breath, thought, and being around us.

How to Use in Daily Life

🌅

Morning Practice

Chant this mantra at dawn (brahma muhurta, 4-6 AM) for 21-108 repetitions. Face east, sit with spine upright, and begin with three deep breaths. Morning practice activates intuition and clarity for the entire day.

🧘

Meditation Focus

Use the mantra during meditation to anchor awareness on the Divine Mother's omnipresence. With each verse, visualize that specific quality (consciousness, intellect, compassion) flowing through all beings. Deepen your recognition of divinity everywhere.

🙏

Navratri Devotion

Recite this entire suktam during the nine nights of Navratri for maximum potency. Chant in the evening after dinner or before sleep. Many practitioners complete 108 cycles over all nine days, one day per Durga form.

💤

Evening Closure

Chant before sleep to invoke peace, forgiveness, and compassion. This practice transforms sleep into spiritual rest and invites protective, healing dreams. End with three prostrations and gratitude to the Divine Mother.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra?
The Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra is a sacred hymn dedicated to Goddess Durga, drawn from the Devi Mahatmya, an ancient Sanskrit text that forms part of the Markandeya Purana. This mantra is composed of verses that celebrate the divine feminine energy, or Shakti, embodied by Durga in her various forms. The Devi Suktam is considered one of the most powerful invocations to the Goddess, traditionally recited during Navaratri festivals and other auspicious occasions. The mantra acknowledges Durga's role as the supreme protector and destroyer of evil forces, emphasizing her cosmic significance beyond individual worship. According to Puranic texts, these verses were composed by celestial beings and sages to invoke the Goddess's blessings and protection. The Ya Devi mantra specifically focuses on recognizing the divine consciousness that pervades all existence through the Goddess's manifestation. This hymn is believed to connect the devotee directly with Durga's transformative and protective energy. The mantra serves both as a devotional practice and as a spiritual tool for meditation, making it central to many Hindu worship traditions. Its recitation is traditionally believed to purify the mind, invoke divine protection, and establish a profound spiritual connection with the feminine divine principle.
What are the spiritual and practical benefits of chanting Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra?
Devotees and scholars traditionally believe that regular chanting of the Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra offers numerous spiritual and practical benefits. Spiritually, the mantra is believed to strengthen one's connection with divine consciousness and activate inner wisdom and intuition. Many practitioners report experiencing increased mental clarity, emotional stability, and a sense of inner peace following consistent recitation. According to traditional texts, chanting this mantra is said to invoke Durga's protective energy, creating a spiritual shield against negative influences and obstacles. The mantra is traditionally believed to enhance courage, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges and inner demons. Practitioners often experience a heightened sense of purpose and spiritual direction in their lives. On a psychological level, the rhythmic recitation and contemplative aspects of the mantra are thought to reduce anxiety and promote emotional well-being. Many devotees report improved focus and concentration during meditation when incorporating this mantra into their practice. Scholars suggest that the vibrational frequency of the Sanskrit syllables may have subtle effects on the nervous system and overall consciousness. Additionally, the mantra is traditionally associated with attracting prosperity, health, and positive circumstances. Many practitioners believe that regular chanting creates a harmonious environment and strengthens their capacity for self-transformation and personal growth.
How should I properly chant the Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra?
Proper chanting of the Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra involves several important practices to maximize its spiritual effectiveness. Begin by finding a clean, quiet space where you can sit comfortably in a meditative posture, preferably early morning or during evening twilight hours. It is traditionally recommended to face east or north while chanting. Before beginning, take a few deep breaths to center yourself and set a clear intention for your practice. The mantra should be chanted with proper pronunciation, maintaining a steady rhythm and melodic flow. Many practitioners find it beneficial to chant aloud initially to engage the vocal vibrations, though silent recitation is also effective once you are familiar with the mantra's sound patterns. A mala or prayer beads can help maintain focus and count repetitions; traditionally, practitioners complete 108 repetitions or multiples thereof. Approach the practice with reverence and devotion, maintaining awareness of the mantra's meaning and the presence of the Goddess. It is advisable to maintain consistency, ideally practicing at the same time daily for optimal results. Some traditions suggest chanting during Navaratri or on Tuesdays and Fridays, considered auspicious for Durga worship. Scholars suggest that understanding the Sanskrit meaning enhances the mantra's impact on consciousness. If possible, learning proper pronunciation from an experienced guide or authentic audio recording is highly recommended to ensure the mantra's vibrational integrity and effectiveness.
What is the historical origin and significance of the Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra?
The Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra originates from the Devi Mahatmya, a sacred text within the Markandeya Purana, traditionally believed to have been composed between the 5th and 8th centuries CE. According to Puranic texts, this hymn was created by divine beings and celestial sages to invoke the blessings and protection of the Supreme Goddess in her form as Durga. The Devi Mahatmya narrates several mythological accounts of Durga's victories over powerful demons, and the Ya Devi verses celebrate these cosmic triumphs. Scholars suggest that the mantra encapsulates ancient Vedic traditions of feminine divine worship while incorporating later Puranic philosophy. The text emphasizes the concept of Shakti—the universal cosmic energy—as the fundamental force underlying all creation and existence. Historically, this mantra gained prominence in Hindu devotional practices, particularly during the development of Shakta traditions that recognize the Goddess as the supreme reality. The recitation of this mantra became integral to Navaratri celebrations, which commemorate Durga's nine-day battle against evil forces. Traditional scholars believe that the mantra's composition reflects an advanced understanding of spiritual philosophy and cosmology. Over centuries, the Ya Devi - Devi Suktam has maintained its significance across various Hindu communities and regions, becoming one of the most revered invocations in Goddess worship traditions. Its enduring popularity demonstrates the profound spiritual resonance of its verses.
What is the correct pronunciation of Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra and practical tips for beginners?
The Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra should be pronounced with careful attention to Sanskrit phonetics and proper accent placement. The opening words 'Ya Devi' are pronounced as 'Yah De-vee,' with emphasis on the second syllable. Sanskrit pronunciation requires clear enunciation of each syllable, as the vibrational qualities of the sounds are believed to carry spiritual significance. Beginners are traditionally advised to listen to authentic recordings by experienced Sanskrit scholars or gurus to internalize the proper melody and rhythm before attempting independent practice. Many traditional resources and online platforms now offer high-quality audio guides that demonstrate correct pronunciation of the complete mantra. A practical tip for beginners is to start with shorter verses or repetitive sections before attempting the full mantra, gradually building confidence and familiarity with the Sanskrit sounds. Writing out the transliteration in your native script can be helpful for reference during practice. Scholars suggest that consistency and patience are more valuable than rushed perfection; regular practice naturally improves pronunciation over time. Consider joining local Sanskrit study groups or finding a qualified teacher who can provide personalized guidance on proper articulation. It is important to approach learning with respect for the language's sacred nature. Using a Sanskrit pronunciation guide alongside audio resources ensures you develop accurate mouth position and breath control. Many practitioners find that their pronunciation naturally improves as their devotion deepens and they become more familiar with the mantra's rhythmic patterns and spiritual essence.
What happens if we chant Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra?
Regular chanting of Ya Devi - Devi Suktam Mantra creates measurable shifts in your mental, emotional, and spiritual state. Cultivates recognition of divine presence in all beings, dissolving illusions of separation and fostering universal compassion.. Strengthens mental clarity, intuition, and inner wisdom by invoking Buddhi (intellectual principle) as the Goddess.. Brings emotional balance and inner peace by awakening qualities of forgiveness, patience, memory, and tender compassion.. Most practitioners notice a tangible difference within the first week of daily practice — start with 108 repetitions using a mala and observe how your inner state transforms.

Related Prayers & Chants

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Durga Aarti — Jai Durge Durghat Bhari
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Jai Ambe Gauri
kavach

Durga Kavach
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Devi Kavacham (from Chandi Path)
stotram

Mahishasura Mardini Stotram (Aigiri Nandini)

🪘

From the Bhagavad Gita

9.22

BG 9.22

I Carry What They Lack

For those who worship me with devotion, I carry what they lack and preserve what they have.

Read full verse →

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