Meaning and elaboration
Meaning: Nourishment, growth, and prosperity embodied.
Elaboration
Pushhtih comes from the Sanskrit root "Puṣ," meaning "nourishment," "growth," "abundance," "prosperity," and "well-being." In this name, Mahakali appears as the power that feeds, strengthens, and helps life unfold. It points to a sustaining aspect of her nature that can be overlooked beside her more fearsome forms.
Divine Sustainer
As Pushhtih, Mahakali is the energy that sustains all life and creation. She is the fertile ground (Pṛithvi) from which nourishment arises and the vital force (Prāṇa) that gives life and growth. Every form of nourishment, from physical food to intellectual understanding and spiritual insight, arises from her divine essence.
Material and Spiritual Prosperity
This aspect of Kali includes both material and spiritual prosperity. On the material plane, she blesses her devotees with abundance, health, and well-being, allowing their worldly needs to be met so their spiritual journey can deepen. On the spiritual plane, she nourishes the soul, fostering inner growth, wisdom, and liberation from ignorance and suffering. She is the source of all auspiciousness (Bhadram) that truly enriches existence.
The Cycle of Growth and Regeneration
Pushhtih also names the regenerative power within the cosmic cycle. After dissolution (Pralaya), it is her energy as Pushhtih that awakens the possibility of renewed growth and creation (Sṛiṣhti). Through her, the universe renews itself again and again, moving toward a fuller expression of divine consciousness. Her "darkness" is not barren. It is infinitely fertile, holding the seeds of worlds yet to appear.