GODDESS SARASWATI
Saraswati is one of the most revered figures in Hinduism and a mythical representation of
one of the most important rivers in India. Her specific energy represents knowledge and
wisdom and helps to keep the universe in the order it is presented.
ORIGIN
The story of Saraswati is an extremely important one in Indian mythology, because without
her it is said that life would not exist in the organised way it is present today. After creating
the universe, Brahma was looking over what was made and realised it was unformed and
utterly lacking in concept.
To help him with this monumental task of creating form, Brahma decided to create the
embodiment of knowledge. So from his mouth emerged the Saraswati- the goddess of
knowledge and wisdom. Saraswati emerged from Brahma and began to give him direction
on how to create order in the cosmos; the sun, moon, and stars all came into being. She
later became the bride of Brahma, as their matching created the order we see today.
SYMBOLISM
Typically, Saraswati is depicted in a white outfit sitting in lotus posture. This symbolises that
she is grounded in absolute truth and has pure knowledge. Her four arms represent mind,
intellect, intelligence, and ego. They also represent the 4 Vedas, the most sacred books of
Hindus.
In her hands, she holds:
• A book of the Vedas.
• Crystal malas, representing meditation and spirituality.
• A pot of water, representing creative and purification powers.
• A musical instrument that represents her perfection in all arts in sciences.
Saraswati is considered to be one of the most important stories in Hinduism, and often she
is described as one of the most powerful goddesses in the Hindu mythology structure. Many
festivals and rituals ask for her blessing when undertaking anything such as schooling or
rigorous academics. In fact, the Indian tradition dictates that if you step on a book (a symbol
of knowledge and therefore Saraswati), you must perform a mudra of apology with the right
hand.
During the unprecedented times of Covid-19 and worldwide lockdown, parents have taken
on the role as teachers for nearly six months. We pray to Goddess Saraswati to support our
children’s transition to nurseries and school for the new year school year.
