Matangi

This means the utterance of the Divine word, thus she is the Goddess who has presides over thought or the mind. She also relates to the ear and our ability to listen, which is the origin of true understanding, the origin of powerful thoughts. Matangi bestows knowledge, talent and expertise. She is the Goddess of the spoken word and any outward articulation of inner knowledge, including all forms of art, music and dance.

The Guru (spiritual teacher) instructs us through the spoken word. Hence his vehicle among the Goddesses is Matangi. She represents the teachings of the Guru, the tradition and the continuity of spiritual instruction in the world. By honouring her, we are also honouring the Guru. Those seeking to teach others, particularly to communicate a spiritual message to the masses, should seek the grace of Matangi.

Matha also means wild or passionate and a (female) elephant. In Hindu mythology the elephant is very much linked to the elephant-headed Lord Ganesha, the first son of Shiva and Parvati, who is similarly the Lord of word and knowledge. Thus Matangi is also related to Lord Ganesha.

The main traditional form of worship of Matangi is to recite the teachings, particularly great scriptures, like the Vedas, which embody the power of sound. It cannot be received through the recitation of mere translations. It is said that chanting the Sanskrit sounds is one of the best ways to worship Matangi. Another way to worship her is to reflect upon the meaning of the teachings and the words of the Guru.