Meaning and elaboration
Meaning: Wielding a Mace as Her Weapon.
Elaboration
Parigh'astra Cha means "She who wields a mace (Parigha) as her weapon (Astra)." This name brings out Kali's martial aspect and her power to crush obstacles and adversaries with decisive force.
The Symbolism of the Mace (Parigha) A mace is a heavy, blunt weapon meant for striking and crushing. Unlike a sword or an arrow, which cuts or pierces, a mace works through sheer impact. In a spiritual sense, it symbolizes the power to shatter delusion, ignorance, and the hardened structures of the ego.
Destruction of Obstacles As Parigh'astra Cha, Kali is the divine force that breaks every resistance, inner and outer, that stands in the way of truth and liberation. This includes subtle obstacles such as ego, fear, and attachment, as well as the harsher forms of injustice and negativity in the world. Her mace is the sign of an unyielding power that demolishes forces hostile to spiritual progress.
A Force of Unstoppable Power The mace also symbolizes raw strength and the direct use of power. Kali does not merely deflect challenges; she crushes them. In this aspect, the Goddess assures devotees that she possesses the supreme might to overcome every adversity and protect them through her fierce, decisive action.