The Gods' Praise and the Devi's Boon

In the fourth adhyay, after Mahishasur's end, Indra and all the gods bowed their heads and began to praise the Devi. Indra is also called 'Shakra', so this prayer is called the 'Shakradi Stuti', the praise of Indra and the other gods. Their bodies thrilled with joy and their voices trembled with devotion.

The gods said, 'O Devi, by your power you have spread out this whole world. You are Lakshmi in the homes of the virtuous and want in the homes of wrongdoers. You are wisdom, modesty and faith. Even Brahma, Vishnu and Shiv cannot fully describe your glory.'

They went on, 'You struck down even your enemies and sent them to heaven, for touched by your weapons they too were freed. Your heart is full of kindness, yet in battle you are fierce. O Ambika, protect us in every direction, east, west, north and south, with your spear, your sword, the sound of your bell and the twang of your bow.'

The gods worshipped the Devi with divine flowers, sandalwood and incense. Pleased, she said, 'Ask for whatever you wish.' The gods replied, 'By ending Mahishasur you have given us everything. Still, grant us this: whenever we remember you, take away our greatest troubles.'

The gods also asked that the Devi bless any person who worships her with these hymns. 'So be it,' said the Devi, and vanished. The sage Medha told the king, 'Later, that same Devi came forth from the body of Mother Parvati to save the world from Shumbh and Nishumbh. Hear that story now.'