The , also called the , is the 125th (hymn) occurring in the 10th mandala of the .[1] In the present day, the is popularly chanted during the worship of the (Universal Goddess in any form), in the daily rituals of temples, and also in various Vedic sacrificial ceremonies like , etc. It is also chanted at the end of . The Vedic hymn is an important basis for Shaktism.
The proper sequential occurrence of , in the text is:
The , in its apparent, general sense, is the proclamation by the of her own power, glory, pervasiveness, and actions.[2]
The origins of Tantric Śaktism can be traced to the Vāgāmbhṛṇī Sūkta. This hymn depicts Vac as the Supreme Power, governing various deities such as Vasu, Soma, Tvasta, the Rudras, and the Adityas while also being the source of treasures, sustainer of natural forces, and bestower of favors. It encapsulates key monotheistic ideas, forming the basis of historical Sāktism.[3]
, in his commentary, states that, (the daughter of) – a (one who has realized) – has eulogized herself in this ., having dissolved her individuality – the ego – has hence identified herself with the (Brahman who is none other than the ), the all-pervasive (the indivisible Existence-Knowledge-Bliss-Absolute), and thus with all the forms in the universe and the functionaries thereof, has praised herself.
Hence, she is the of this and also the .[4]
An audio recording of the recitation of the Devīsūkta: