ସରସ୍ଵତୀ ସହସ୍ର ନାମ ସ୍ତୋତ୍ରମ୍

Dhyana: May the goddess of speech (Vagdevi), the mother of the three worlds, dwell at the lotus of my mouth — her body radiant with sandal paste, clothed in white garments, her dark hair adorned with garlands of jasmine, graced with a lustrous pearl necklace, holding the book of all knowledge and a rosary of rudraksha beads, the repository of all wisdom, auspicious and all-knowing.

Dhyana: May the goddess of speech (Vagdevi), the mother of the three worlds, dwell at the lotus of my mouth — her body radiant with sandal paste, clothed in white garments, her dark hair adorned with garlands of jasmine, graced with a lustrous pearl necklace, holding the book of all knowledge and a rosary of rudraksha beads, the repository of all wisdom, auspicious and all-knowing.

Sri Narada said: O blessed one, supreme lord, sole guide of all the worlds — how did Sarasvati herself become pleased with Brahma the creator? (2)

How did Brahma continuously attain the great goddess of speech, she who is so exceedingly difficult to obtain? Tell me this in truth, O master of great yoga, O lord. (3)

Sri Sanatkumara said: Well have you asked, O Brahman — this is the most secret of all secrets, the most excellent. What I have carefully guarded is now being revealed to the worthy. (4)

In ancient times, Brahma the grandfather, beholding the world of moving and non-moving creatures, found it without feeling, without light, as if stunned and inert. (5)

Though he had created all the three worlds, they were devoid of speech — and because of this deficiency, the world-teacher Brahma, the supreme being, was troubled. (6)

He then performed supreme and difficult austerities for ten thousand divine years. Then at last the goddess of all-illumined speech appeared before him. (7)

She said: I am the great knowledge, the supreme mistress of all speech. I shall now impart to you the most excellent thousand names of mine. (8)

Praised by this, I shall become your consort forever. All the creation you have made will become endowed with speech. (9)

This supreme secret, my thousand names, destroys all masses of sin and bestows great eloquence and learning. (10)

It grants great poetic ability in this world and the lordship of speech. Whoever — be it you or any other person — pleases me with this hymn — (11)

I shall truly become their devoted servant — there is no doubt in this. Having spoken thus, the goddess of speech disappeared; from that time forward, Brahma — (12)

— having praised her with that divine hymn, attained her as his consort. From that time, O sage, all creation became endowed with voice and speech. (13)

That [thousand-name hymn] I shall now fully expound to you. Listen attentively, O Narada. Become pure of mind for a moment, O best among sages, with full concentration. (14)

(Mantra: aiṃ vada vada vāgvādinī svāhā.) Vāk (speech itself), Vāṇī (utterance), Varadā (giver of boons), Vandyā (the adorable), Varārohā (of beautiful form), Varapradā (bestower of the best), Vṛtti (the very turning of thought), Vāgīśvarī (mistress of speech), Vārtā (tidings), Varā (the excellent), Vāgīśavallabhā (beloved of the lord of speech).

Vishveshvari (mistress of the universe), Vishvavandya (adored by all), Vishveshapriyakarini (beloved of the lord of the universe), Vagvadini (she who makes speech speak), Vagdevi (goddess of speech), Vriddhida (giver of growth), Vriddhikarini (cause of prosperity). (2)

Vriddhi (prosperity), Vriddha (the ancient one), Vishaghni (destroyer of poison), Vrishti (rain), Vrishtipradadayini (bestower of rain), Vishvaradhya (adored by all), Vishvamata (mother of the universe), Vishvadhitri (sustainer of the universe), Vinayaka (guide). (3)

Vishvashakti (power of the universe), Vishvasara (essence of the universe), Vishva (the universe itself), Vishvavibhavari (splendour of the universe), Vedantavedini (knower of Vedanta), Vedya (to be known), Vitta (wealth), Vedatrayatmika (embodiment of the three Vedas). (4)

Vedajna (knower of the Vedas), Vedajanani (mother of the Vedas), Vishva (universal), Vishvavibhavari (resplendent over all), Varenya (most excellent), Vangmayi (composed of speech), Vriddha (ancient), Vishishtapriyakarini (beloved of the distinguished). (5)

Vishvatovadana (facing all directions), Vyapta (all-pervading), Vyapini (pervader), Vyapakatmika (pervading essence), Vyalaghni (destroyer of serpents), Vyalabhushhangi (adorned with serpents), Viraja (without blemish), Vedanayika (guide of the Vedas). (6)

Vedavedantasamvedya (known through Veda and Vedanta), Vedantajnanarupini (embodiment of Vedantic knowledge), Vibhavari (luminous), Vikranta (courageous), Vishvamitra (friend of the universe), Vidhipriya (beloved of Brahma). (7)

Varishttha (supremely excellent), Viprakrishta (far-shining), Vipravaryaprapujita (worshipped by the best of the learned), Vedarupa (form of the Vedas), Vedamayi (pervaded by the Vedas), Vedamurti (embodiment of the Vedas), Vallabha (beloved). (8)

Gauri (fair one), Gunavati (endowed with qualities), Gopya (to be guarded), Gandharvanagarapriya (beloved in the city of celestial musicians), Gunamata (mother of all qualities), Gunantastha (dwelling at the end of qualities), Gururupa (form of the Guru), Gurupriya (beloved of the Guru). (9)

Guruvidya (knowledge of the Guru), Ganatushta (pleased by song), Gayakapriyakarini (beloved of singers), Gayatri (the Gayatri mantra), Girisharadhya (worshipped by Shiva), Girgirishipriyankari (bestowing what Shiva loves). (10)

Gijna (knower of mountains/speech), Jnanavidya (science of knowledge), Girirupa (form of the mountain), Girishvari (goddess of the mountain), Girmata (mother of eloquence), Ganasamsutya (praised by the hosts of gods), Gananiyagunanuita (endowed with countable virtues). (11)

Gudharupa (of hidden form), Guha (cave-dweller), Gopya (to be protected), Gorupa (of cow-form), Gaurgunatmika (of white/auspicious essence), Gurvi (weighty/revered), Gurvambika (great mother), Guhya (secret), Geyaja (born of song), Grihanashini (destroyer of household afflictions). (12)

Grihini (householder), Grihadoshghni (destroyer of household faults), Gavaghni (protector of cows), Guruvatsala (fond of the Guru), Grihatmika (the soul of the home), Griharadhya (worshipped in the home), Grihabadhavinalini (destroyer of afflictions in the home). (13)

Ganga (the river Ganga), Girisuta (daughter of the mountain), Gamya (attainable), Gajayana (riding an elephant), Guhastuta (praised in caves), Garudasanasamsevya (served by one on Garuda's seat), Gomati (full of cows), Gunashalini (filled with virtues). (14)

Sharada (autumnal goddess), Shashvati (eternal), Shaivi (belonging to Shiva), Shankari (cause of peace), Shankaratmika (essence of Shankara), Shrish (Lakshmi-like), Sharvani (wife of Sharva), Shataghni (destroyer of hundreds), Sharachchandranibhanana (face like the autumn moon). (15)

Sharmishttha (joy-filled), Shamanghni (destroyer of death/pain), Shatasahasrarupini (of a hundred-thousand forms), Shiva (auspicious), Shambhupriya (beloved of Shambhu), Shraddha (faith), Shrutirupan (form of the Vedic revelation), Shrutipriya (beloved of scripture). (16)

Shuchishmati (possessed of purity), Sharmakarini (bestower of happiness), Shuddhida (giver of purity), Shuddharupini (of pure form), Shiva (auspicious), Shivankari (maker of auspiciousness), Shuddha (pure), Shivaradhya (worshipped by Shiva), Shivatmika (essence of Shiva). (17)

Shrimati (auspicious), Shrimayi (pervaded by grace), Shravya (worth hearing), Shruti (Vedic revelation), Shravanavagochara (perceptible through hearing), Shanti (peace), Shantikarini (maker of peace), Shanta (peaceful), Shantacharapriyankari (beloved of peaceful conduct). (18)

Shilalabhya (attained through good conduct), Shilavati (of good character), Shrimata (auspicious mother), Shubhakarini (cause of auspiciousness), Shubhavani (of auspicious speech), Shuddhavidya (pure knowledge), Shuddhachittaprapujita (worshipped by the pure-hearted). (19)

Shrikari (bestower of prosperity), Shrutapapaghni (destroyer of sin once heard), Shubhakshi (auspicious-eyed), Shuchivallabha (beloved of the pure), Shivetaraghni (destroyer of that which is other than auspicious), Shibari (belonging to the hills), Shravaraiyagunanvita (endowed with qualities worth hearing). (20)

Shari (one who removes), Shirisha-pushpabha (lustrous like shirisha flowers), Shaminishtha (steadfast in equanimity), Shamatmika (essence of serenity), Shamanvita (endowed with equanimity), Shamaradhya (worshipped through serenity), Shitikanthhaprapujita (worshipped by the blue-throated one, Shiva). (21)

Shuddhi (purification), Shuddhibkarini (cause of purification), Shreshtha (the best), Shrutananta (infinite Vedic wisdom), Shubhavaha (carrier of auspiciousness), Sarasvati (flowing one, goddess of knowledge), Sarvajna (omniscient), Sarvasiddhipradayini (bestower of all perfections). (22)

Sarasvati (goddess of knowledge), Savitri (solar goddess), Sandhya (twilight), Sarvepsitaprada (giver of all desired things), Sarvartighni (destroyer of all afflictions), Sarvamayi (pervading all), Sarvavidyapradayini (bestower of all knowledge). (23)

Sarveshvari (mistress of all), Sarvapunya (all-holy), Sargasthityantakarini (causing creation, sustenance, and dissolution), Sarvaradhya (worshipped by all), Sarvamata (mother of all), Sarvadevanishevita (served by all the gods). (24)

Sarvaishhvaryaprada (bestower of all sovereignty), Satya (truth), Sati (the devoted one), Satvagunaashraya (refuge of the quality of purity), Sarvakramapadakara (taking the form of all words in proper order), Sarvadoshanishudini (purifier of all faults). (25)

(Mantra: svara-krama-padākārā — she whose form is the vowels, the krama and the words.) Thousand-eyed, thousand-faced, joined with a thousand feet, thousand-handed; her body adorned with a thousand excellences.

Sahasrashirsha (thousand-headed), Sadrupa (of true form), Svadha (offering to ancestors), Svaha (oblation to the gods), Sudhamayi (filled with nectar), Shadgranthhibhedini (piercer of the six knots/chakras), Sevya (worthy of service), Sarvalokaiikaipujita (worshipped as the sole deity by all worlds). (27)

Stutya (worthy of praise), Stutimayi (composed of hymns of praise), Sadhya (to be attained), Savitripriyakarini (beloved of Savitri), Samshayacchhedini (cutter of doubt), Sankhyavedya (known through Sankhya philosophy), Sankhi (the enumerated), Sadishvari (ever-sovereign). (28)

Siddhida (bestower of perfection), Siddhasampujya (worshipped by the perfected ones), Sarvasiddhipradayini (bestower of all accomplishments), Sarvajna (all-knowing), Sarvashakti (all-powerful), Sarvasampatpradayini (bestower of all wealth). (29)

Sarvashubhaghni (destroyer of all inauspiciousness), Sukhada (giver of joy), Sukhasamvitsvarupini (whose nature is the awareness of joy), Sarvasambhashani (conversing with all), Sarvajagatsammohinini (enchantress of all the world). (30)

Sarvapriyankari (beloved of all), Sarvashubhada (giver of all auspiciousness), Sarvamanggala (all-auspicious), Sarvamantaramayi (composed of all mantras), Sarvatirthapunyaphalaprada (bestower of the merit of all sacred pilgrimages). (31)

Sarvapunyamayi (all-meritorious), Sarvavyadhighni (destroyer of all disease), Sarvakamada (fulfiller of all desires), Sarvavighnahari (remover of all obstacles), Sarvavanidita (praised by all), Sarvamanggala (all-auspicious). (32)

Sarvamantrakarini (performer of all mantras), Sarvalakshmi (all-prosperity), Sarvagunanuita (endowed with all virtues), Sarvanandamayi (filled with all bliss), Sarvajnaanda (bestower of all knowledge), Satyanayika (guide of truth). (33)

Sarvajnaanamayi (composed of all knowledge), Sarvarajyada (giver of all kingdoms), Sarvamuktida (bestower of all liberation), Suprabha (of auspicious radiance), Sarvada (ever-giving), Sarva (the all), Sarvalokavashankari (bringer of all worlds under sway). (34)

Subhaga (fortunate), Sundari (beautiful), Siddha (perfected), Siddhamba (mother of the perfected), Siddhamatrika (perfected mother), Siddhamata (mother who is perfect), Siddhavidya (perfected knowledge), Siddheshi (mistress of the perfected), Siddharupini (of perfected form). (35)

Surupini (of beautiful form), Sukhamayi (filled with joy), Sevakapriyakarini (beloved of devotees), Svamini (sovereign), Sarvada (ever-giving), Sevya (worthy of service), Sthulasukshmaparambika (the great mother, both gross and subtle). (36)

Sararupa (of essential form), Sarorupa (of lake-like form), Satyabhuta (truly existent), Samashhraya (universal refuge), Sita-asita (white and dark), Sarojakshi (lotus-eyed), Sarojasanavallabha (beloved of the one enthroned on a lotus). (37)

Radiant as the lotus, perfect in every limb, worshipped by Indra and the gods. (Mantra: oṃ hrīṃ aiṃ mahāsarasvati sārasvata-prade aiṃ vada vada vāgvādinī svāhā.) The great Goddess, the great sovereign, giver of the great gift of learning.

Mahasarasvati (great Sarasvati), Mukta (liberated), Muktida (bestower of liberation), Mohanashini (destroyer of delusion), Maheshvari (great mistress), Mahananda (great bliss), Mahamantaramayi (composed of great mantras), Mahi (the earth). (39)

Mahalakshmi (great Lakshmi), Mahavidya (great knowledge), Mata (mother), Mandaravasini (dweller on Mount Mandara), Mantragamya (reached through mantra), Mantramata (mother of mantras), Mahamantraphalaprada (bestower of the fruit of great mantras). (40)

Mahamukti (great liberation), Mahanitya (greatly eternal), Mahasiddhipradayini (bestower of great accomplishments), Mahasiddha (greatly perfected), Mahamata (great mother), Mahadakarasamyuta (endowed with a great form). (41)

Mahi (the earth), Maheshvari (great sovereign), Murti (form), Mokshada (bestower of liberation), Manibhushana (jewel-adorned), Menaka (the apsara Menaka), Manini (high-minded), Manya (worthy of respect), Mrityughni (destroyer of death), Merurupini (of Meru form). (42)

Madirakshi (wine-eyed), Madavasa (abode of intoxicating joy), Makharupa (of sacrificial form), Makheshvari (mistress of sacrifice), Mahahmoha (great delusion), Mahamaya (great illusion), Matrinam murddhnisamasthita (established at the apex of the Divine Mothers). (43)

Mahapunya (greatly meritorious), Mudavasa (abode of joy), Mahasampatpradayini (bestower of great prosperity), Manipuraikanilaya (dwelling solely in the Manipura chakra), Madhurupa (of sweet/beautiful form), Madotkata (overflowing with bliss). (44)

Mahasukshma (greatly subtle), Mahashanta (of great peace), Mahashantipradayini (bestower of great peace), Munistuta (praised by sages), Mohahamtri (destroyer of delusion), Madhavi (vernal, spring-like), Madhavapriya (beloved of Madhava/Vishnu). (45)

Ma (the syllable Ma), Mahadevasamstutya (praised by Mahadeva/Shiva), Mahishiganapujita (worshipped by the foremost among the hosts), Mrishtannada (giver of delicious food), Mahendri (great Indra-like), Mahendrapadadayini (bestower of the station of great Indra). (46)

Mati (intelligence), Matiprada (bestower of intelligence), Medha (retentive intellect), Martyyalokanivasini (dwelling in the mortal world), Mukhya (foremost), Mahanivasa (of great abode), Mahabhagyajanashrrita (the refuge of those of great fortune). (47)

Mahila (woman/noble), Mahima (greatness), Mrityuhari (remover of death), Meddhapradayini (bestower of sharp intellect), Medhya (pure/worthy of offering), Mahavegavati (of great speed), Mahahmokshaphalaprada (bestower of the fruit of great liberation). (48)

Mahaprabhhabha (radiant with great light), Mahati (the great one), Mahadevapriyankari (beloved of Mahadeva), Mahaposha (greatly nourishing), Mahardhi (of great wealth), Muktaharavibhushana (adorned with a pearl necklace). (49)

Manikyabhushana (adorned with rubies), Mantra (the mantra itself), Mukhyachandrardhashekara (whose crown is the chief crescent moon), Manorupa (mind-formed), Manashsshudddhi (purity of mind), Manashsshuddhipradayini (bestower of purity of mind). (50)

Mahakarunyasampurna (filled with great compassion), Manonmana vandita (adored by the thought-transcending state), Mahapatakajalaghhni (destroyer of the net of great sins), Muktida (bestower of liberation), Muktabhushana (adorned with the liberated). (51)

Manonmani (the transcendent mind-state), Mahasthula (greatly gross), Mahakratuphalaprada (bestower of the fruits of great rituals), Mahapunyaphalaaprapya (attained through the fruit of great merit), Mayatripuranashini (destroyer of the triple illusion). (52)

Mahanasa (of great nose/perception), Mahamedha (of great retentive power), Mahamoda (of great delight), Maheshvari (great sovereign), Maladhari (garland-bearing), Mahopaya (of great means), Mahatirthaphalaprada (bestower of fruits of great sacred sites). (53)

Mahamanggalasampurna (filled with great auspiciousness), Mahadaridryanashini (destroyer of great poverty), Mahamakha (the great sacrifice), Mamahhmegha (the great cloud), Mahakali (great Kali), Mahapriya (greatly beloved). (54)

Greatly adorned, of great form, the great queen, whose dwelling is joy. (Mantra: oṃ hrīṃ aiṃ namo bhagavati aiṃ vada vada vāgvādinī svāhā.) Giver of abundance, giver of good fortune, the enjoyable, giver of enjoyment, bestower of every delight.

Bhavani (the goddess Bhavani), Bhutida (bestower of prosperity), Bhuti (well-being), Bhumi (the earth), Bhumisunayika (noble guide of the earth), Bhutadhatri (nurse of all beings), Bhayahari (destroyer of fear), Bhaktasarasvataprada (bestower of eloquence to devotees). (56)

Bhukti (enjoyment), Bhuktiprada (bestower of enjoyment), Bhoktri (the one who enjoys), Bhakti (devotion), Bhaktipradayini (bestower of devotion), Bhaktasayujyada (giver of union to devotees), Bhaktasvargada (giver of heaven to devotees), Bhaktarajyada (giver of sovereignty to devotees). (57)

Bhagirathi (the river Ganga), Bhavaradhya (worshipped by devotees of Shiva), Bhagyasajjanapujita (worshipped by the fortunate), Bhavasttutya (worthy of praise in worldly existence), Bhanumati (possessed of radiance), Bhavasagaratarini (ferry across the ocean of existence). (58)

Bhuti (well-being), Bhusha (ornament), Bhuteshi (mistress of all beings), Bhalalochanapujita (worshipped by the third-eyed one, Shiva), Bhuta (past), Bhavya (future/auspicious), Bhavishya (yet to come), Bhavavidya (knowledge of existence), Bhavatmika (the essence of becoming). (59)

Badhapaharini (remover of afflictions), Bhandhrupa (of beautiful form), Bhuvanapujita (worshipped in the worlds), Bhavaghni (destroyer of worldly existence/sin), Bhaktilabhya (attained through devotion), Bhaktarakshanaattatpara (devoted to protecting devotees). (60)

Bhaktarttishamani (soother of devotees' suffering), Bhagya (fortune), Bhogadanaakritodyyama (striving to bestow enjoyment), Bhujangabhushana (adorned with serpents), Bhima (formidable), Bhimakshi (fierce-eyed), Bhimarupini (of fearsome form). (61)

Bhavini (the noble goddess), Bhratrarupa (taking the form of a brother), Bharati (the eloquent one, Sarasvati), Bhavanayika (guide of the world), Bhasha (language), Bhashavati (possessed of all languages), Bhishma (formidable), Bhairavi (fierce goddess), Bhairaavapriya (beloved of Bhairava). (62)

Bhuti (glory), Bhasitasarvhangi (with all limbs resplendent), Bhutida (bestower of prosperity), Bhutinayika (leader of the prosperous), Bhasvati (luminous), Bhagamala (garland of fortune), Bhikshadanaakritodyyama (striving to give alms). (63)

Bhiksharupa (taking the form of a mendicant), Bhaktikarini (bestower of devotion), Bhaktalakshmipradayini (bestower of prosperity to devotees), Bhrantighna (destroyer of wandering/confusion), Bhrantirupa (form of delusion), Bhutida (bestower of well-being), Bhtikarini (cause of prosperity). (64)

Bhikshaniya (worthy of alms), Bhikshhumata (mother of mendicants), Bhagyavaddrishttigochara (visible to the fortunate), Bhogavati (possessed of enjoyment), Bhogarupa (of the form of enjoyment), Bhogamokshaphalaprada (bestower of the fruits of both enjoyment and liberation). (65)

Weary of enjoyment, possessed of fortune, destroyer of the mass of her devotees’ sins. (Mantra: oṃ aiṃ klīṃ sauḥ bāle brāhmī brahmapatni aiṃ vada vada vāgvādinī svāhā.) Brāhmī, whose very nature is Brahman, the vast one, beloved of Brahmā.

Brahmada (bestower of Brahman-knowledge), Brahmamata (mother in the Vedic sense), Brahmani (the power of Brahma), Brahmadayini (bestower of Brahman), Brahmeshi (mistress of Brahma), Brahmasamsttutya (praised by Brahma), Brahmavedya (known through the Vedas), Budhapriya (beloved of the wise). (67)

Balendushekara (adorned with the young crescent moon), Bala (the young one), Balipujaakaraapriya (beloved of worship through offerings), Balada (bestower of strength), Bindurupa (of bindu-dot form), Balashuryasamaprabha (radiant like the young sun). (68)

Brahmarupa (of the form of Brahman), Brahmamayi (pervaded by Brahman), Bradhnamamandalamadhyaga (dwelling in the midst of the sun's orb), Brahmani (the cosmic power), Buddhida (bestower of intelligence), Buddhi (pure intellect), Buddhirupa (of the form of intellect), Budheshvari (mistress of the wise). (69)

Bandhakshayakari (destroyer of bondage), Badhanashini (remover of afflictions), Bandharrupini (of the form of connection/auspiciousness), Bindvalaya (abode of the bindu), Bindubhusha (adorned with the sacred dot), Bindunadasamanvita (endowed with the sacred sound of nada). (70)

Bijarupa (of the form of the seed), Bijamata (mother of the seed), Brahmanya (sacred, devoted to Brahman), Brahmakarini (acting in Brahman's way), Bahurupa (of many forms), Balavati (powerful), Brahmajina (knowing Brahman), Brahmacharini (wandering in Brahman). (71)

Brahmasttutya (praised by Brahma), Brahmavidya (knowledge of Brahman), Brahmanddadhipavallabha (beloved of the lord of the universe), Brahmmeshhavishnurupa (of the form of Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu), Brahmavishhvishhasamasthita (dwelling in Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva). (72)

Akshamala (rosary of letters), Aksharakara (of the form of syllables), Akshara (imperishable syllable), Aksharaphalaprada (bestower of the fruit of imperishable syllables). (73)

Ananta (infinite), Anandasukhada (bestower of blissful happiness), Anantachandranibhanana (with a face like the infinite moon), Anantamahima (of infinite greatness), Aghora (not terrible/benign), Aanantagambhirasammita (of immeasurable infinite depth). (74)

Adrishta (unseen), Adrishtada (bestower of the unseen), Ananta (infinite), Adrishttabhagyaphalaprada (bestower of the fruit of unseen fortune), Arundhati (the devoted star), Avyayinatha (mistress of the imperishable), Anekasadgunnasamyuta (endowed with many good qualities). (75)

Anekabhushana (wearing many ornaments), Adrishya (invisible), Anekalekhanishevita (served by many scribes/scholars), Ananta (infinite), Anantassukhada (bestower of infinite happiness), Aghora (benign), Aghorasvarupini (of benign form). (76)

Asheshadevatarrupa (of the form of all divine beings), Amritarupa (of the form of nectar), Amriteshvari (sovereign of nectar), Anavadya (blameless), Anekahasta (of many hands), Anekamannikyabhushana (adorned with many rubies). (77)

Anekavighnasamhamtri (destroyer of many obstacles), Aneekabharananvita (endowed with many ornaments), Avidyajnaanasamhamtri (destroyer of ignorance and wrong knowledge), Avidyajaalanashini (destroyer of the web of ignorance). (78)

Abhirupa (of beautiful form), Anavadyangi (of blameless limbs), Apratarkyagatiprada (bestower of inscrutable movement/state), Akalankarrupini (of pure, unsullied form), Anugrahaparayana (devoted to bestowing grace). (79)

Ambarastha (dwelling in the sky), Ambaramaaya (of the nature of sky), Ambaramala (garlanded with the sky), Ambujekshana (lotus-eyed), Ambika (mother), Abjakara (lotus-handed), Abjastha (dwelling on the lotus), Amshumati (radiant), Amshu-shatanvita (endowed with hundreds of rays). (80)

Ambuja (lotus-born), Anavara (supreme), Akhanda (undivided), Ambujasanamahapriya (greatly beloved of the lotus-seated one, Brahma), Ajara (ageless), Amarasamsevya (served by the immortals), Ajarasevitapadyuga (whose lotus feet are served by the ageless ones). (81)

Atularthaprada (bestower of incomparable wealth), Arthaaikya (unity of all purpose), Atyudara (supremely generous), Atvabhayaanvita (endowed with self-confidence), Anathavatsala (compassionate toward the shelterless), Anantapriya (greatly beloved), Anantepsitaprada (bestower of endless desired things). (82)

Ambujjakshi (lotus-eyed), Amburupa (of the nature of water), Ambujatoodbhavamahapriya (greatly beloved of the one born of the lotus), Akhanda (undivided), Amarasttutya (praised by the immortals), Amaranayakapujita (worshipped by the leader of the immortals). (83)

Ajeya (unconquerable), Ajasankasha (of Brahma's appearance), Ajnaananashiny (destroyer of ignorance), Abhishttada (bestower of the desired), Aktaghanena (dressed in night-dark garments), Astreshi (mistress of weapons), Alakshminashini (destroyer of ill-fortune). (84)

Anantasara (of infinite essence), Anantashri (of infinite glory), Anantavidhipujita (worshipped in endless ways), Abhishtamartyasampujya (to be worshipped by all who desire the divine), Astodayavivarjita (beyond both rise and setting). (85)

Astikasvantanilaya (dwelling in the hearts of the faithful), Astrarupa (of the form of a weapon), Astravati (endowed with weapons), Askhalatyaskhaladdrupa (ever unwavering, of unwavering form), Askhalavidyapradayini (bestower of unfaltering knowledge). (86)

Askhalaatsiddhida (bestower of unfailing perfection), Ananda (bliss), Ambujata (lotus-born), Amaranayika (leader of the immortals), Ameya (immeasurable), Asheshapaapaghni (destroyer of all sins), Akshayasarasvataprada (bestower of inexhaustible eloquence). (87)

Jaya (victorious), Jayanti (triumphant), Jayada (bestower of victory), Janmakarmaavivarjita (beyond birth and action), Jagatpriya (beloved of the world), Jaganmata (mother of the world), Jagadishvaravallabha (beloved of the lord of the universe). (88)

Jati (lineage/essence), Jaya (victorious), Jitaamitra (one who has conquered enemies), Japya (worthy of japa), Japanakarini (impelling japa-recitation), Jivani (bestower of life), Jivanilaaya (abode of life), Jivakhya (known as the life-force), Jivahdharini (sustainer of life). (89)

Jahnnavi (the Ganga), Jya (the bow-string), Japavati (possessing japa), Jatirupa (of essential form), Jayaprada (bestower of victory), Janardanapriyakari (beloved of Janardana/Vishnu), Joshhaniya (worthy of satisfaction), Jagatsthita (abiding in the world). (90)

Jagajjeshtha (eldest/foremost in the universe), Jaganmaya (pervading the universe), Jivanatranakarini (protector of life), Jivatulatika (like the health-giving herb), Jivajjanmi (giving birth to life), Janmanibarhhani (destroyer of rebirth). (91)

Jadyavidhvamsanakarini (destroyer of inertia/dullness), Jagadyoni (womb of the universe), Jayatmika (of victorious nature), Jagadanandajanani (mother of universal bliss), Jambu (the rose-apple tree/continent), Jalajakshana (lotus-eyed). (92)

Jayanti (the victorious one), Jangapugaghni (destroyer of infectious disease), Janitajnaanavigraha (of the embodied form of born-of-knowledge), Jata (matted-locked), Jatavati (wearing matted locks), Japya (worthy of repetition), Japakartripriyankari (beloved of those who practise japa). (93)

Japakritapaasasamhamtri (destroyer of the sins of those who perform japa), Japakritaphaladayini (bestower of fruits on those who do japa), Japapushphasamaprakhi (of fame like the japakusuma/hibiscus flower), Japakusumadharini (bearing the hibiscus flower). (94)

Janani (mother), Janmarahita (without birth), Jyotirvritiabhidayini (bestower of luminous livelihood), Jatajutanachandrarddha (crescent moon in her knotted matted locks), Jagatsrishtikari (creator of the universe). (95)

Jagattranakarini (protector of the universe), Jadyadhvanskakartri (destroyer of dullness), Jayeshvari (sovereign of victory), Jagadbija (seed of the universe), Jayavasa (abode of victory), Janmabhur (ground of birth), Janmanashini (destroyer of rebirth). (96)

Janmaaantyarahita (without birth or death), Jaitri (the victorious), Jagadyoni (womb of the world), Japatmika (the soul of japa), Jayalakshanaasampurna (filled with the marks of victory), Jayadanakritodyyama (striving to bestow victory). (97)

Jambharaadyadisamstutya (praised by Indra and others), Jambhariphaladayini (bestower of Indra's fruits), Jagattrayahita (benefactress of the three worlds), Jyeshtha (eldest), Jagattrayavashankari (bringer of the three worlds under sway). (98)

Jagattrayamba (mother of the three worlds), Jagati (the earth), Jvala (flame), Jvaliitalochana (flame-eyed), Jvalini (blazing), Jvalanabhaasa (lustrous like fire), Jvalanti (the burning one), Jvalanatmika (of the nature of fire). (99)

Jitaraatisurasttutya (praised by the gods who conquered their enemies), Jitakrodha (one who has conquered anger), Jitendriiya (one who has conquered the senses), Jaaramaranashunya (free from old age and death), Janitri (the mother), Janmanashini (destroyer of rebirth). (100)

Jalajabha (lustrous like a lotus), Jalamayi (pervaded by water), Jalajasanavallabha (beloved of the lotus-seated one), Jalajastha (dwelling on the lotus), Japaradhya (worshipped through japa), Janamanggalakarini (bestower of blessings on people). (101)

Kamini (full of desire/beautiful), Kamarupa (of whatever form desired), Kamya (desirable), Kamyapradayini (fulfiller of desires), Kamauli (crowned with desire), Kamada (wish-fulfiller), Kartri (the doer), Kratukarmaphalaprada (bestower of the fruits of ritual action). (102)

Kritaghnaghni (destroyer of the ungrateful), Kriyarupa (of the form of action), Karyakaranarrupini (of the form of cause and effect), Kanjakshi (lotus-eyed), Karunarupa (of the form of compassion), Kevalamarasevita (served solely by the immortals). (103)

Kalyanakarini (cause of auspiciousness), Kanta (beautiful), Kantida (bestower of beauty), Kanttirupini (of beautiful form), Kamala (the lotus/Lakshmi), Kamalavasa (dweller in the lotus), Kamalotpalamalini (garlanded with lotuses and water-lilies). (104)

Kumudvati (filled with white lotuses), Kalyanini (auspicious), Kanti (beauty/lustre), Kameshavallabha (beloved of the lord of desire), Kameshvari (sovereign of desire), Kamalini (the lotus goddess), Kamada (wish-fulfiller), Kamabandhhini (restrainer of desire). (105)

Kamadhenu (the wish-fulfilling divine cow), Kanchanakshi (golden-eyed), Kanchanabha (golden-radiant), Kalanidhi (treasure-house of the arts), Kriya (action), Kirtikarini (cause of fame), Kirti (fame), Kratushreshtha (foremost at the sacrifice), Kriteshvari (sovereign of creation). (106)

Kratusarvakriyasttutya (praised by all ritual actions), Kratukritpriyakarini (beloved of those who perform rituals), Kleshanaashakarini (destroyer of afflictions), Kartri (the doer), Karmada (bestower of righteous action), Karmabandhhini (the one who binds through karma). (107)

Karmabanndhahari (remover of the bonds of karma), Krishta (the ploughed/cultivated one), Klamaghni (destroyer of fatigue), Kanjalochana (lotus-eyed), Kandarpajananini (mother of Kamadeva), Kanta (beautiful), Karuna (compassion), Karunavati (full of compassion). (108)

Klinkkarini (sounding the klim syllable), Kripakara (compassionate), Kripasindhu (ocean of compassion), Kripavati (compassionate), Karunadra (tender with compassion), Kirtikarini (fame-bestower), Kalmashaghni (destroyer of sin), Kriyakari (performer of actions). (109)

Kriyashakti (power of action), Kamarupa (of desired form), Kamalotpalagandhhini (fragrant with lotus and water-lily), Kala (art/fraction of time), Kalavati (possessed of all arts), Kurmi (the tortoise), Kutastha (dwelling in the unchanging witness), Kanjasamasthita (dwelling in the lotus). (110)

Kalika (the black goddess), Kalmashaghni (destroyer of sin), Kamaniyajaatanvita (adorned with beautiful matted locks), Karapadma (whose hands are lotuses), Karabhishttaprada (fulfiller of hand-offered desires), Kratuphalaprada (bestower of the fruit of sacrifice). (111)

Kaushiki (daughter of Kushika), Kosha (treasury), Kavya (poetry), Kartri (doer), Kosheshvari (mistress of treasuries), Krisha (slender), Kurmayaana (riding on a tortoise), Kalpalata (the wish-fulfilling creeper), Kalakutavinalshini (destroyer of the Kalakuta poison). (112)

Kalpodyanaavati (possessing a wish-granting garden), Kalpavanaastha (dwelling in the wish-granting forest), Kalpakarini (cause of the cosmic cycle), Kadambakusumabhaasa (shining like kadamba blossoms), Kadambakusumapriya (beloved of kadamba blossoms). (113)

Kadambodyanamaadhyastha (dwelling in the midst of the kadamba garden), Kirtida (bestower of fame), Kirtibhushana (adorned with fame), Kulamata (family mother), Kulavasa (dwelling in the lineage), Kulacharapriyankari (beloved of family tradition). (114)

Kulanatha (lord of the lineage), Kamakala (art/fraction of Kama), Kalanatha (lord of the arts), Kaleshvari (sovereign of the arts), Kundamandaarapushpabha (radiant like kunda and mandara flowers), Kapaardasthitachandrika (moonlight resting in the matted locks). (115)

Giver of poetic power, mother of what is desired, mother of poets, bestower of the arts. (A variant reading gives kāvyamātā, mother of poetry.) (Mantra: oṃ sauḥ klīṃ aiṃ tato vada vada vāgvādinī svāhā.) The youthful one, cherished as a daughter, her face like the lord of stars.

Tripti (satisfaction), Triptiiprada (bestower of satisfaction), Tarkya (to be inferred), Tapani (the heating/purifying one), Tapini (ascetic fire), Tarpani (satisfier), Titrtharupa (of the form of sacred fords), Tripada (three-footed), Tridasheshvari (sovereign of the thirty gods). (117)

Tridiveshi (sovereign of heaven), Trijanani (mother of the three worlds), Trimata (three-mother), Tryambakeshvari (sovereign of the three-eyed one's realm), Tripura (dweller in the triple city), Tripureshani (sovereign of Tripura), Tryambaka (consort of the three-eyed Shiva), Tripurambika (mother of Tripura). (118)

Tripurashri (the glory of Tripura), Trayirupa (of the form of the triple Veda), Trayivedya (known through the three Vedas), Trayishvari (mistress of the three Vedas), Trayyantavedini (knower of the Vedanta), Tamra (copper-coloured), Tapatritayaharini (remover of the three afflictions). (119)

Tamaalasadrishi (resembling the tamala tree), Trata (protector), Tarunaadityasannibha (resembling the young sun), Trailokavyapini (pervading the three worlds), Tripta (satisfied), Triptikrittatvarupini (whose satisfied nature is reality). (120)

Turya (the fourth/transcendent state), Trailokyyasamstutya (praised by the three worlds), Triguna (of three qualities), Triguneshvari (sovereign of the three qualities), Tripuraghni (destroyer of the triple city of demons), Trimata (three-mother), Tryambaka (three-eyed), Trigunanuita (endowed with three qualities). (121)

Trishnaacchhedakari (cutter of thirst/craving), Tripta (satisfied), Tikshna (sharp), Tikshnnasvarupini (of sharp form), Tula (balance), Tuladirrahita (beyond measure and comparison), Tattadbrahmasvarupini (of the nature of that Brahman). (122)

Tranaakartri (protector), Tripapaghni (destroyer of three sins), Tridasha (of thirty/the gods), Tridashanuita (accompanied by the gods), Tathya (truth), Trishakti (three powers), Tripada (three-footed), Turya (the fourth state), Trailokyyasundari (beauty of the three worlds). (123)

Tejaskarini (creator of brilliance), Trimurtiyadya (at the head of the three forms), Tejorupa (of the form of brilliance), Tridhaamata (honoured in three abodes), Trichakrakartri (creator of three chakras), Tribhaga (three-portioned), Turyaatitaphalaprada (bestower of fruit beyond the fourth state). (124)

Tejasvinini (the radiant one), Tapahaarini (remover of afflictions), Tapooplavanaashini (destroyer of the torrent of austerity), Tejogarbha (womb of light), Tapassara (essence of austerity), Tripuraripriyankari (beloved of Tripurari/Shiva). (125)

Tanvi (slender), Tapasasamtushtta (pleasing to those of austerity), Tapananggajabhitinut (remover of the fear caused by the son of the sun), Trilochana (three-eyed), Trimarga (of three paths), Tritiya (the third), Tridashastuta (praised by the thirty gods). (126)

Beautiful in the three worlds, flowing along the three paths, giver of the fourth state. (Mantra: oṃ hrīṃ śrīṃ klīṃ aiṃ namaḥ śuddhaphalade aiṃ vada vada vāgvādinī svāhā.) The auspicious, full of auspiciousness, the serene, giver of peace, bestower of all good.

The cooling one, bearer of the spear, the cool, the glorious, attended by all good. (Mantra: oṃ aiṃ yāṃ yīṃ yūṃ yaiṃ yauṃ yaḥ aiṃ vada vada vāgvādinī svāhā.) Giver of success in yoga, the fit one, fulfilled through sacrifice.

Yajna (sacrifice), Yajaanamayi (pervaded by worship), Yakshi (a yaksha goddess), Yakshini (a yakshini), Yakshivallabha (beloved of the yakshas), Yajnapriya (beloved of sacrifice), Yajnapujya (worshipped through sacrifice), Yajnatushtta (satisfied by sacrifice), Yamastuta (praised by Yama). (129)

Yaminiyaprabha (lustrous like the night), Yamya (of Yama's nature), Yajaniya (worthy of worship), Yashaskarini (bestower of fame), Yajnaakartri (performer of sacrifice), Yajnarupa (of the form of sacrifice), Yashoda (bestower of fame), Yajnasamstuta (praised through sacrifice). (130)

Yajneshi (sovereign of sacrifice), Yajnaphalada (bestower of the fruit of sacrifice), Yogayoni (womb of yoga), Yajusstuta (praised in the Yajur Veda), Yamisevya (served by ascetics), Yamaradhya (worshipped by Yama), Yamipujya (worshipped by ascetics), Yamishvari (sovereign of ascetics). (131)

Yogini (the yoga practitioner), Yogarupa (of the form of yoga), Yogakartripriyankari (beloved of yoga practitioners), Yogayukta (united with yoga), Yogamayi (pervaded by yoga), Yogayogishvarrambika (mother of the lord of yoga). (132)

Yogajnanamayi (pervaded by the knowledge of yoga), Yoni (the womb/source), Yamadyashtangayogata (of the eightfold yoga beginning with Yama), Yantritaaghhaughasamhara (destroyer of the mass of restrained sins), Yamalokanivarini (restrainer of the realm of Yama). (133)

Yashtivyashttishaasamstutya (praised by the undivided and divided), Yamadyashttangayogayuk (endowed with the eightfold yoga from Yama onwards), Yogishvari (sovereign of yogis), Yogamata (mother of yoga), Yogasiddha (perfected in yoga), Yogada (bestower of yoga). (134)

Yogaarudha (ascended in yoga), Yogamayi (pervaded by yoga), Yogarupa (of the form of yoga), Yaviyasi (the youngest/ever-young), Yantrarupa (of the form of a yantra), Yantrastha (dwelling in the yantra), Yantrapujya (worshipped through the yantra), Yantrika (the yantra goddess). (135)

Yugakartri (creator of the cosmic age), Yugamayi (pervaded by the cosmic age), Yugadharmavivarjita (beyond the dharma of any particular age), Yamuna (the Yamuna river), Yamini (the night), Yamya (of night's nature), Yamunajalamadhyaga (dwelling in the midst of Yamuna's waters). (136)

Yatayataprashamani (calmer of comings and goings), Yataanaaninikritanani (cutter of many afflictions), Yogavasa (abode of yoga), Yogivandya (worshipped by yogis), Yattachabdasvarupini (of the form of the restrained/controlled word). (137)

Yogakshhemamayi (pervaded by yoga and kshema/security), Yantra (the yantra), Yavadakshramaatrika (the mother of all syllables up to the last), Yavadpadamayi (pervaded by all words/padas), Yavacchhabdarupa (of the form of all speech), Yatheshvari (sovereign as she wills). (138)

Yattadiya (belonging to the one who restrains), Yakshavandya (worshipped by yakshas), Yadvidya (knowledge itself), Yatisamstuta (praised by ascetics), Yavadvidyaamayi (pervaded by all knowledge), Yavadvidyabrindasuvandita (well-worshipped by all circles of knowledge). (139)

Yogihritpadmanilaya (dwelling in the lotus-hearts of yogis), Yogivaryapriyankari (beloved of the best of yogis), Yogivandya (worshipped by yogis), Yogimata (mother of yogis), Yogishaphaladayini (bestower of fruits on the lord of yogis). (140)

Yakshavandya (worshipped by yakshas), Yakshapujya (offered worship by yakshas), Yakshaaraajasupujita (well-worshipped by the king of yakshas), Yajnarupa (of the form of sacrifice), Yajnatushtta (satisfied by sacrifice), Yayajukasvarupini (of the form of the sacrificer). (141)

Yantraradhya (worshipped through the yantra), Yantramadhya (dwelling in the centre of the yantra), Yantrakartripriyankari (beloved of yantra-makers), Yantraruda (ascended on the yantra), Yantrapujya (worthy of yantra-worship), Yogidhyanaaparayana (devoted to the meditation of yogis). (142)

Yajaniya (worthy of worship), Yamasttutya (praised by Yama), Yogayukta (united with yoga), Yashaskarini (cause of fame), Yogabaddha (bound in yoga), Yatisttutya (praised by ascetics), Yogajna (knower of yoga), Yoganayaki (guide of yoga). (143)

Yogijnapraaprada (bestower of knowledge on yogis), Yakshi (a yaksha goddess), Yamabaadhaavinashini (destroyer of the afflictions of Yama), Yogikamyapradatri (giver of what yogis desire), Yogimokshapradayini (bestower of liberation on yogis). (144)

Phalashruti: Thus the thousand names of Sarasvati have been recited — mantra-filled, greatly secret, bestowing supreme eloquence and learning. (1)

Whoever recites or hears these names with devotion, three times daily — that person truly and certainly becomes a direct treasury of all knowledge. (2)

He attains all wealth together with sons and grandsons. Even if mute, he becomes as eloquent as Brahma the four-faced one — a second Brahma — in all branches of knowledge. (3)

Having placed this garland of names upon his head, at the end of life he attains the proximity of Brahma the creator. It contains all mantras and bestows the fruit of all knowledge. (4)

It bestows great poetic power on people and great spiritual accomplishment. This should not be given to just anyone — guard it even at the cost of one's life. (5)

This is an eternally great secret — the thousand names of Vani, the goddess of speech. This hymn, well-perfected among the likes of us, has been recited to you. (6)

Thus ends the Sri Sarasvati Sahasranama Stotram, found in the Sri Skanda Purana, in the Sri Sanatkumara Samhita, in the dialogue between Narada and Sanatkumara.