Many people have doubt as to Goddess Durga rides a lion or tiger. Frankly, lion or tiger should be of no matter to a devotee. It is not the animal that matters but the symbolism. Lion is mentioned as the vahana or vehicle in the Devi Mahatmya – the story of Goddess Durga is based on it. But Devi Mahatmya was composed during the sixth century AD. Goddess Durga was worshipped for several hundred years before the composition of the scripture. History The lion first appeared along with Goddess Durga during the late Kushan Period (2nd Century BC to 3rd century AD). Lion is the king of animals and Goddess Durga is the primordial Goddess. She is the all-powerful and her mount had to be of similar qualities. Thus, lion was chosen. The forest tribes of Bharat who worshipped Goddess Durga from time immemorial associated her with tiger. Large relief panels began to appear from the 5th century AD in which Goddess Durga is depicted along with lion. Calendars with image of Godde
In Hindu philosophy, the concept of form leading to the formless is deeply rooted in the understanding of the universe and the ultimate reality, often referred to as Brahman . This concept is intricately tied to the idea of manifestation and transcendence, which are fundamental aspects of Hindu spirituality. At its core, Hinduism acknowledges the diversity and multiplicity of forms in the universe, which are seen as manifestations of the one ultimate reality, Brahman. This understanding is expressed through the concept of "maya," which suggests that the material world is a manifestation of Brahman, but it is also illusory in nature. Forms, in this context, represent the tangible, visible aspects of the universe. They include physical objects, living beings, thoughts, emotions, and everything that can be perceived by the senses. While forms are essential for human experience and interaction with the world, they are considered transient and impermanent. However, according