Introduction

The concept of Devi, the supreme goddess in Hinduism, is often associated with gender and form. However, the Devi transcends such limitations, embodying a state of genderlessness with gender, beyond the confines of binary identities. This article explores the philosophical and scriptural perspectives that affirm the genderless nature of Devi and highlight her role as the Supreme Sacchidanandamaya Brahman.

The Genderless Nature of Devi

The idea that Devi, also known as amba or the mother goddess, is genderless with gender, is rooted in various ancient and sacred texts. These texts provide profound insights into the nature of Devi as both bhagavati (goddess) and brahman (ultimate reality).

References From Sacred Texts

The Atharvanaveda and other Puranas and Tantras offer compelling evidence that Devi is beyond gender. In Atharvanaveda, the following verses illustrate Devi's genderless nature:

She said: I am in the form of Brahma. From me this Universe in form of Prakriti and Purusha is generated which is both void and non-void. Devyatharvashirsha verse 1

Shiva Purana also contains verses that support Devi's transcendent nature:

At times, I have the form of a woman, at times a man. At times, both. I am the goddess of all forms. 5.49.30

The Devi Bhagavata Mahapurana further elaborates:

This whole world is interwoven in Me. It is I that am the īvara that resides in causal bodies. I am the female, male, and hermaphrodite. There is no doubt in this. O Mountain! Wherever there is anything seen or heard, I always exist there within and without. There is nothing moving or unmoving that can exist without Me. If there be such that is like the son of a barren woman, just as one rope is mistaken for a snake or a garland, so I am the One Brahma and appears as īvara etc. This world cannot appear without a substratum. And That Substratum is My Existence. There can be nothing else. Portion of 7.33.1-19

Meditation on Devi

Devi can be meditated upon as neither male nor female, or with no form at all:

Stri-rupam-cintayeddevim, pum-rupa madhavesvarim adhava niskalam dhyayet saccidananda vigraha. One can meditate on Her whose form is Sacciddananda as a male or female or as without parts. - Nilakantha as per Yamala Tantra

Key Verses

Stri - Rupam - Cintayeddevim - Pum - Rupa Madhavesvarim Adhava Niskalam Dhyayet Saccidananda Vigraha

Tvam Stri - Tvam Puman' - Vestasvara Upanishad

Sri Shankara Bhagawatpada also referenced these concepts in his commentary of Lalita Trishati.

The Supreme Sacchidanandamaya Brahman

The essence of Devi transcends gender and is equated with the Supreme Sacchidanandamaya Brahman. This is established through various revered scriptures:

Kulachudamani Tantra

I am Great Nature consciousness bliss the quintessence devotedly praised. Where I am there are no Brahma Hara Shambhu or other devas, nor is there creation maintenance or dissolution. Where I am there is no attachment, happiness, sadness, liberation, goodness, faith, atheism, guru, or disciple. - Prathama Patala

The Srividyaratnasutra of Gaudapadacharya also elucidates:

The Devī said:-- Chitshakti and the Devi is in the form of consciousness.

Kulachudamani Tantra further affirms:

Saccidānandavigrahāyai nama. No parātparāmayyai nama. Salutations to the one who is the embodiment of the eternal state of Truth Sat Consciousness Chit and Bliss. Salutations to the one who is greater than the greatest.

Conclusion

Devi's genderless nature and her role as the Supreme Sacchidanandamaya Brahman are deeply rooted in sacred Hindu texts. Recognizing and understanding this perspective can deepen one's spiritual journey and enhance the reverence for Devi in her many forms.