The Divine Marriages of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — Durga’s Cosmic Assignments

Tales from the Puranas: The Divine Marriages of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva

In the previous part of this series, we saw how Goddess Durga, the Supreme Prakriti, manifested before Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva and revealed their limited roles within the vast cycle of creation governed by Kaal Brahm. She made it clear that none of them were independent creators; instead, they were instruments appointed to perform specific functions within the bounds of destiny (Prarabdha).

Now, the Devi Bhagwat Purana (pages 127–129) continues the divine narrative, describing how the Goddess united each of the three with their corresponding Shaktis—the feminine energies without which they could perform no action. Through these celestial marriages, Durga established the operational framework of creation, preservation, and destruction.

Marriage of Brahma — The Gift of Maha Saraswati

Goddess Durga turned to Brahma and said:

“O Brahma, now return to your realm and begin the work of creation as destined. Take with you this magnificent Shakti, Maha Saraswati, adorned in white garments and divine ornaments. She is My manifestation, the embodiment of Rajoguna, and will remain ever with you. Respect Her always and never disregard Her presence.”

The Devi instructed Brahma to create beings from Mahattattva, the great principle, assigning their forms and destinies according to Kala, Karma (action), and Svabhava (nature). She clarified that Vishnu, being predominantly Sattvic, was superior and should be revered, while Shiva, the embodiment of Tamoguna, would assist in necessary acts of destruction.

Durga further revealed that the Devas would remain content whenever Her name—Svaha—was invoked in sacrificial rites. To Brahma, She entrusted a sacred nine-lettered mantra, instructing him to keep it within his heart for success in all endeavors.

Through this divine decree, it was established that Brahma’s creative power originates not from himself but from Durga’s bestowed Shakti—Maha Saraswati.

Marriage of Vishnu — The Union with Maha Lakshmi

Then, turning toward Vishnu, the Preserver, Bhagavati spoke with affection:

“O Vishnu, accept this all-auspicious Maha Lakshmi, who will forever dwell within your heart. She is My Shakti, a source of prosperity and harmony. Treat Her with reverence, for through Her you will sustain the worlds.”

Durga declared that Lakshmi and Narayan were united for the benefit of creation. To maintain balance, She ordained the institution of Yajna, ensuring cooperation among the trinity. She proclaimed:

“You, Brahma, and Shiva are born of My Gunas, and the world will honor you because of My power flowing through you.”

Thus, Vishnu’s ability to preserve and protect was not inherent but dependent upon the presence of Maha Lakshmi, the energy of Durga Herself.

Marriage of Shiva — The Bestowal of Maha Kali

Finally, Durga addressed Mahadeva, the ascetic Lord of Destruction:

“O Shankara, accept this fierce and beautiful Maha Kali Gauri. Establish your abode at Kailas and reside there with Her in joy. Your primary Guna shall be Tamas, with Rajas and Sattva secondary. By their union, you shall destroy Asuras and restore balance.”

With Maha Kali, Shiva received the power to perform his divine role. Without Her energy, even Shiva—the great ascetic—remained inert and powerless. The Goddess thus completed the trinity’s empowerment, assigning them their Shaktis and their respective duties within Kaal’s domain.

Durga’s Final Command and the Departure of the Devas

After these unions, Goddess Durga gave her final instruction:

“O Devas, return now to your realms and fulfill your ordained duties. Whenever you face distress or danger, remember Me, and I shall appear to assist you. Keep the Eternal Supreme Self and My presence in your hearts, for only then will your actions bring success.”

Brahma narrates that Durga then bestowed Maha Saraswati to Brahma, Maha Lakshmi to Vishnu, and Maha Kali to Shiva, blessing them before they departed. As they ascended in their celestial aeroplane, the island of Manidvipa, the ocean of nectar, and the radiant form of the Goddess vanished—revealing the mysterious nature of Her divine existence, beyond material perception.

Conclusion — The Supreme Source of Power

The Devi Bhagwat Purana makes it abundantly clear that Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva are not independent Supreme Gods. Their powers, duties, and very existence are dependent on Goddess Durga, who governs creation through Her three Gunas—Sattva, Rajas, and Tamas.

Yet, Durga Herself acknowledges being bound to the system of Kaal Brahm, revealing that even Her authority functions within His vast domain.