Page "Maya (illusion)" Paragraph 47

Māyā, in Her form as Durga, was called upon when the gods and goddesses were helpless against the attacks of the demon Mahisasura.

The combined material energy of all the gods, including Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, created Her.

She is thus said to possess the combined material power of all the gods and goddesses.

The gods gave her ornaments, weapons, and her bearer, the lion.

She was unassailable.

She fought a fierce battle against the demon Mahisasura and his huge army.

She defeated the demon's army, killed the demon, and hence restored peace and order to the world.

Thus She is, even now, the protector of the Universe, which is lying in her lap.