The Vagdevatas, or the Goddesses of Speech, are significant in Hindu tradition. They represent the divine power of communication, knowledge, and wisdom. The term “Vagdevata” comes from the Sanskrit words “Vak” (speech) and “Devata” (deity), highlighting their close association with eloquence and the spoken word. This article explores the connection between thoughts, speech, and divine wisdom and the profound roles of the eight forms of Saraswati known as the Ashta Vagdevatas.

While the Vagdevatas are mainly worshipped as the deities of wisdom, knowledge, and speech, their influence extends beyond spoken communication. Speech begins as thoughts in the mind, and the origin of these thoughts lies in Vasanas—strong desires and traits carried over from past lives or developed in the present. Understanding this interplay provides a deeper appreciation of their significance.

Scriptural References

The Vedas, among the oldest sacred texts in Hinduism, contain numerous hymns dedicated to the power of speech. The Rigveda, in particular, reveres Vak, personifying speech as a divine and powerful entity. Rigveda’s hymn 10.125, known as the Devi Sukta, is a profound invocation of Vak, where she declares her omnipresence and her integral role in the cosmos:

“I move with the Rudras and the Vasus, with the Ādityas and the Viśvadevas. I support Mitra, Varuṇa, Indra, Agni, and the two Aśvins. I uphold Soma, Tvaṣṭṛ, Pūṣan, and Bhaga.”

The Puranas and Tantric texts further elaborate on the concept of Vagdevatas. These goddesses preside over different aspects of speech and are invoked during specific rituals and ceremonies. The Ashta Vagdevatas, or the eight forms of Saraswati, play vital roles in guiding and refining speech and thought.

The Ashta Vagdevatas: Their Roles and Esoteric Meanings

1. Vashini:
   • Role: Governs eloquence and the power to inspire through speech.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Vashini instils the power of divine eloquence, enabling one to communicate profound truths with grace and inspiration. Her presence ensures that speech is clear, articulate, uplifting, and motivating.
2. Kameshvari:
   • Role: Presides over desires and ensures they are directed towards righteous paths.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Kameshvari transforms desires into a force for spiritual growth. She guides the mind to channel desires that align with higher spiritual goals, refining and purifying personal aspirations.
3. Modini:
   • Role: Bring joy and positivity to thoughts and expressions.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Modini fills the mind with pleasure and a positive outlook. Through thoughts and speech, she dispels gloom and negativity, fostering a joyful and optimistic environment.
4. Vimala:
   • Role: Purifies thoughts, removing negativity and impurities.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Vimala is the purifying force that cleanses the mind of negative thoughts and impurities, allowing for precise and pure thinking focused on higher truths.
5. Aruna:
   • Role: Infuses the mind with energy and enthusiasm.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Aruna brings vibrant, dynamic energy to mind, dispelling lethargy and igniting vitality and drive in one’s endeavours.
6. Jayini:
   • Role: Grants victory over negative thoughts and influences.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Jayini empowers the mind to conquer negative influences and thoughts, instilling inner strength and resilience to overcome doubts, fears, and negativity.
7. Sarveshvari:
   • Role: Oversees all aspects of speech and thought, ensuring balance and harmony.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Sarveshvari maintains equilibrium in the mental and verbal realms, ensuring that thoughts and speech are balanced, harmonious, and aligned with the cosmic order.
8. Kaulini:
   • Role: Connects speech with deeper spiritual truths, enhancing wisdom.
   • Esoteric Meaning: Kaulini bridges the gap between the mundane and the spiritual, aligning one’s expressions with profound spiritual truths and strengthening the depth and authenticity of communication.

Origin of Thought and Speech

Speech, in its most profound sense, is not merely the utterance of words but the expression of thought. The Vagdevatas govern this process, guiding the formation and articulation of thoughts that ultimately become words. Their guidance ensures that speech aligns with wisdom and knowledge, embodying the divine essence.

Vasanas: The Seeds of Thought

Vasanas are deep-seated impressions and desires that influence our thoughts and actions. They form the subconscious foundation from which our conscious thoughts emerge. These Vasanas can be positive or negative, shaping our experiences and responses to various situations. The role of Vagdevatas is crucial here, as they inspire clarity and wisdom, transforming these Vasanas into constructive thoughts.

Invocation of Divine Inspiration

The intricate interplay between thoughts, desires, and divine inspiration is encapsulated in the essence of the Gayatri Mantra, “Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayat.” Here, we explicitly seek divine intervention to enlighten our intellect, much like the Sun sheds its radiance on the world, dispelling darkness. This invocation underscores the importance of divine inspiration in guiding our thoughts and intellect, illuminating the right path and enabling wise choices.

Role of Vagdevatas in Lalitha Sahasranama

The Vagdevatas have recited and revealed the sacred Sri Lalitha Rahasyanama Stotra under the divine inspiration and guidance of Lalitha Devi herself. They are also the sages associated with the Sahasranama. 

The Role of Vagdevatas in Mantra Sadhana

Mantras are divine vibrations, and during Mantra Sadhana, one needs a calm mind to benefit fully from these sacred sounds. The Vagdevatas, as goddesses of speech and wisdom, play a crucial role in this practice by blessing the mantras and amplifying their spiritual potency. They govern the articulation, clarity, and intention behind the mantras chanted by practitioners. Invoking the Vagdevatas ensures that the mantras are recited with the correct pronunciation, rhythm, and devotion, aligning the practitioner’s thoughts and speech with divine vibrations. This divine alignment helps purify the mind, enhance concentration, and unlock deeper layers of spiritual insight. Through their guidance, the practitioner can experience the transformative power of mantras, facilitating spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Conclusion

The Vagdevatas govern not only speech but also the thoughts that precede it. Their influence ensures that the thoughts arising from Vasanas are purified and aligned with higher wisdom and knowledge. By invoking the Vagdevatas, one seeks guidance to cultivate clarity of thought and eloquence in speech. As embodiments of Saraswati, the Vagdevatas offer a profound understanding of the connection between thoughts, speech, and divine wisdom. Through their guidance, one can navigate the complexities of the mind, transforming deep-seated desires into enlightened thoughts and articulate speech. Practically aligning oneself with the Vagdevatas involves regular practices such as Japa, Dhyana, and Nyasa and mindful reflection on one’s thoughts and speech, leading to a more enlightened and harmonious existence.