Lakshmi

Raja Ravi Varma, Goddess Lakshmi, 1896

Lakshmi (Banteay Srei, Angkor) (6843511981)

North Torana, Sanchi 04

Lord Krishna with his head on the lap of the Alvar saint, Andal

Ashtalakshmi

Goddess Lakshmi , Doddagaddavalli (cropped)

Lakshmi is a principal goddess in Hinduism, representing wealth, fortune, power, luxury, beauty, fertility, and auspiciousness. As the consort of Vishnu, one of the principal deities of Hinduism responsible for the maintenance and preservation of the universe, Lakshmi also plays a crucial role in the cosmic balance. Her presence is emblematic of all that is considered prosperous and successful, making her an integral deity in the Hindu pantheon.

Etymology

The name Lakshmi is derived from the Sanskrit word lakṣya, meaning 'goal' or 'objective'. The goddess embodies the goal of life, which includes material and spiritual prosperity. In the Vedas, ancient Indian scriptures, she is known as Sri, a term that denotes radiance, beauty, and grace, further emphasizing her association with the desirable aspects of life.

Iconography

Lakshmi is commonly depicted as a beautiful woman with four hands, which represent the four goals of human life considered important to the Hindu way of life: dharma (righteousness), artha (wealth), kama (desire), and moksha (liberation). She is usually shown wearing red clothes, symbolizing activity, and gold, indicating prosperity. Lakshmi is often depicted standing or sitting on a lotus flower, signifying purity and spiritual power, and holding a lotus in her hand, which represents beauty, purity, and fertility. Elephants showering water, a symbol of royal power and blessing, often accompany her.

Worship and Festivals

Lakshmi is worshipped across India and in Hindu communities worldwide, especially during the festival of Diwali, the festival of lights. This celebration marks her birth from the churning of the primordial ocean (Samudra manthan) and her marriage to Vishnu. Homes are cleaned and decorated to welcome her, and lamps are lit to guide her into people's homes, bringing prosperity and happiness for the coming year. The Friday before the full moon in the Hindu month of Sravana is considered particularly auspicious for Lakshmi worship.

Mythology

Lakshmi's mythology is rich and varied, with numerous stories highlighting her virtues and association with wealth and prosperity. One of the most famous legends is her emergence from the ocean of milk, a story that underscores her integral role in the cosmic order. According to this myth, the gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain Amrita, the nectar of immortality. Lakshmi emerged from the ocean bearing the nectar, symbolizing the ultimate reward of immortality and eternal bliss.

Associations

Lakshmi is associated with several other deities. As Vishnu's consort, she is part of a divine couple that maintains the universe's balance. She is also associated with Ganesha, the god of beginnings and remover of obstacles, during Diwali and other festivals, as both deities symbolize auspiciousness and prosperity.

Cultural Impact

Lakshmi's influence extends beyond religious practices into Indian culture and society. Her symbols, such as the lotus, gold, and elephants, are pervasive in Indian art, architecture, and literature. The worship of Lakshmi reflects the Hindu ethos of dharma, artha, kama, and moksha, promoting a balanced and ethical approach to life's material and spiritual aspects.

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