Ma: Mother
Kāla: Time/Darkness
Time: Kālī Ma embodies the essence of time, the fluidity of movement. Time is in constant motion, never stagnant. We witness the graceful dance of time as we navigate through the chapters of our lives on this planet. From the past to the present and into the future, time carries us forward. Even in moments of pure bliss, time continues its relentless march, refusing to be held captive by our desire to prolong those perfect instances. Conversely, when we find ourselves immersed in sorrow or anguish, time acts as a gentle healer, gradually unveiling the vibrant hues of life. This is the mesmerizing dance of Kali Ma.
The dance of time and space
As time progresses, the present transforms into the past, while the future emerges into the present.
The present moment is a convergence of both creation and destruction. It is known as Sthiti (स्थिति), the point where everything exists in the here and now (space and time). If you question your whereabouts, you will respond with “here” (irrespective of the place) and “now” (within this timeframe). Therefore, the answer is always “here and now” as it accompanies you wherever you may be.
No matter where you find yourself or what moment you’re experiencing, you are forever rooted in the present. It signifies that you exist at the crossroads of the past and the future, encapsulating the essence of time. Regardless of front and back, up and down, or left and right, you are constantly situated in this very spot at this very moment. You inhabit the union of space and time. This state of being, the here and now (time and space), is Kali Ma.
This present transition into the past is known as Samhara (death). Conversely, the arrival of the future into the present is referred to as birth. Thus, Kali Ma embodies both the essence of a destructive Mother and a creative Mother. She is the embodiment of both creation and destruction.
Kali Ma’s Existence as Electromagnetic Waves
She embodies the boundless electromagnetic radiation energy that permeates the vastness of the universe. Electromagnetic radiation serves as a conduit for energy to traverse through space. Through radiation, particles can communicate their existence across different locations and moments. When radiation interacts with matter, it influences the material system, ultimately giving rise to the concept of time.
A distinct characteristic that sets them apart from mechanical waves is that they don’t rely on a medium to move. This implies that electromagnetic waves can traverse not only through air and solid substances but also through a (empty) space. Moreover, when traveling through the vacuum of interatomic space, electromagnetic waves maintain a constant speed of c (3 x 108 m/s).
Kali Ma represents the ultimate power over time, conquering its limitations. She embodies the transformative force that can both create and destroy. As the creator of time, Kali Ma has erased countless galaxies, sending them into the depths of the past. The garland of heads adoring her is a powerful symbol, a reminder of time’s destructive nature, the Dance of Time itself. It is a celestial spectacle where matter and energy collide, resembling a cosmic hydrogen bomb.
Her form (Saguna Avastha)
Please take a closer look at her form; in one hand, she wields a sword, ready to demolish the past. Holding the severed human head signifies that our past is lifeless, urging us to release it and move forward. Kali Ma grants us the present moment, allowing us to be fully aware of our existence and purpose.
Her one hand displays an Abhay mudra (gesture of fearlessness), assuring and offering us the space to embrace the present and let go of what no longer serves us.
Why the color blue?
Kali’s symbolism extends beyond destruction; she is also the ultimate creator. As previously discussed, her destructive nature involves eradicating the present by relegating it to the past. Conversely, her creative aspect involves transforming the unseen future into the tangible present. Furthermore, she is perpetually innovative. Since the future is unmanifested and unfamiliar, it is often considered dark. Similarly, Kali is described as having a dark complexion, representing the color of the sky, the unmanifested blue, the optimism embedded in the unknown future, and a remedy for our sorrows.
In Sanskrit, the word Krishna also signifies the dark color, resembling the bluish night sky. Hence, Bhagwan Krishna’s Shakti is none other than Kali Ma herself.
It’s fascinating to understand the science behind it. Most stars release their electromagnetic energy (Kali Ma) through visible light, the small portion of the spectrum our eyes can perceive. The temperature of a star determines the energy level of the light it emits. Hotter stars emit higher energy light, making them appear blue.
Kundalini and Detachment
Kundalini, the power within, embodies the fierce Kali in a destructive form. It’s like a thunderbolt, an internal explosion in Mind and Intellect. This incredible encounter happens when the ego, tied to the physical body, is annihilated.
Please be aware that I am replacing the term “Let go” with “annihilated” when abolishing the ego. It is crucial to comprehend that we cannot merely let go of our ego ever; we must fully conquer and annihilate it. And who could be a better guide in attaining this state than Kali Ma?
Kali Ma is revered in both Samhāra Kali and Dakṣiṇa Kali forms, symbolizing the states of dissolution and manifestation. Kali embodies the essence of unity, representing the dissolved state and the path of renunciation. As an aspirant, it is essential first to worship Samhāra Kali, as she effortlessly bestows detachment (vairāgya) upon us. She grants us the gift of death and liberation. On the other hand, Dakṣiṇa Kali blesses us with enjoyment in our earthly existence and liberation upon our eventual demise.
