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Lakshmi - The Hindu Goddess of Wealth
Draped in a red saree, bedecked with gold ornaments, seated on a lotus, pot in hand, flanked by white elephants, the image of Lakshmi adorns most Hindu homes and business establishments.
Lakshmi, also called Laxmi, is the goddess of wealth, fortune, power, luxury, beauty, fertility, and auspiciousness. She holds the promise of material fulfillment and contentment. She is described as restless, whimsical yet maternal, with her arms raised to bless and to grant her blessings.
The Symbolism of Lakshmi
Shri is the sacred name of Lakshmi. Shri is written atop most documents and spoken before addressing a god, teacher holy man or any revered individual. The word evokes grace, affluence abundance, auspiciousness and authority. When the word is spoken or written an aura of holiness is established. Whatever follows is imbued with divine blessing. Just as the word "Om" is associated with the mystical side of life, Shri is associated with the material side of existence.
Lakshmi represents the beautiful and bountiful aspect of nature. As Bhoodevi, the earth-goddess, she nurtures life; as Shreedevi, the goddess of fortune, she bestows power, pleasure and prosperity on those who deserve her grace. To realize her, one must respect the laws of life and appreciate the wonders of existence.
Lakshmi's Sacred Narrative; Prajapati Raises the Earth
In the beginning, there was water everywhere. There was nothing to eat and nowhere to live. Prajapati, the divine patriarch, father of the gods and demons saw the plight of his children and invoked Devi.
The goddess whispered into his ear, "The earth lies trapped under the water. Raise it up."
Prajapati took the form of a mighty boar called Emusha, plunged into the sea and found the earth-goddess Bhoodevi on the ocean floor. Placing her on his snout, he gently raised her to the surface.
Prajapati then turned into Akupara, a giant turtle and offered Bhoodevi a seat on his back.
"Beautiful goddess seated on a chariot, delighted by songs on lustful elephants, bedecked with lotuses, pearls and gems, lustrous as fire, radiant as gold, resplendent as the sun, calm as the moon, mistress of cows and horses - take away poverty and misfortune, bring joy, riches, harvest and children."
The Story of Lakshmi and the Churning of the Ocean (Samudra Manthan)
During a great cosmic crisis, the Devas and Asuras joined forces to churn the ocean of milk to obtain the nectar of immortality. Among the many divine treasures that emerged from the ocean, the most radiant was Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and grace.
As soon as she arose, seated on a lotus and holding another in her hand, all darkness vanished. The gods were renewed with vitality, and the ocean shimmered with divine light. She chose to reside forever at the heart of Vishnu, the protector of the universe. From that moment on, wherever there is harmony, devotion, and rightful effort, Lakshmi follows.
Lakshmi Leaves the World (and What Happens When She Does)
Once, the sages and gods noticed that the world had become restless, dark, and full of conflict. Crops failed, animals fell sick, and people became greedy and cruel. Dharma (righteousness) began to collapse. The Devas turned to Lord Vishnu and asked why everything was falling apart.
Vishnu replied solemnly, "Lakshmi has left the earth."
Without the goddess of fortune, the world had become devoid of grace and abundance. Even the gods were weakened. Her absence showed how dependent all beings are on the presence of compassion, order, and prosperity.
The gods began a massive yajna (sacred fire offering), calling her back with prayers, hymns, and acts of kindness. Finally, Lakshmi returned, appearing in a radiant form, and restored balance and harmony once again. This story teaches that prosperity cannot thrive in chaos, and that the goddess resides where dharma, devotion, and gratitude are practiced.
"Wealth is not found where laziness dwells,
But where Lakshmi is worshipped with truth and honor."
~From the Vishnu Purana
Lakshmi and King Bali - The Goddess Who Keeps Her Promises
After Lord Vishnu took the form of Vamana, the dwarf avatar, and asked the generous but ambitious demon king Bali for three steps of land, Bali agreed. Vamana grew to a cosmic size, covering the world and sky in two steps. With no room for a third, Bali offered his own head. Pleased by his devotion and humility, Vishnu sent Bali to rule the netherworld, but promised to remain with him.
Lakshmi, deeply moved by Bali's sincerity, did not want her consort to leave Vaikuntha (heaven). So, she approached Bali disguised as a poor Brahmin woman. She tied a rakhi (sacred thread) on his wrist and asked to be his sister. Touched by her gesture, Bali granted her a wish. She asked that Vishnu be allowed to return to Vaikuntha, and he agreed.
This tale is often remembered during Raksha Bandhan, where Lakshmi is seen as both a divine sister and the keeper of sacred bonds. It reminds us that genuine humility and generosity open the door to divine grace.
Lakshmi and Alakshmi - The Two Sisters
According to ancient lore, Lakshmi is not alone in her cosmic influence. She has a shadow-sister named Alakshmi, the goddess of misfortune, poverty, and strife. While Lakshmi brings light, wealth, and grace, Alakshmi brings quarrels, hunger, and despair.
Wherever Lakshmi is worshipped with purity of heart and mind, Alakshmi is driven away. But when greed, jealousy, or disrespect enter a household, Alakshmi finds her way in.
During Diwali, it's customary in many homes to clean the house thoroughly and light lamps to welcome Lakshmi, and at the same time, drive out Alakshmi. People scatter salt or draw symbolic designs at doorways, representing the banishment of misfortune.
This story teaches that true wealth isn't only about inviting prosperity, but also about maintaining a life that keeps misfortune away, through kindness, clarity, and care in thought, speech, and action.
Learn About The Hindu Gods & Hindu Goddesses
