Hinduism
Many Paths to One God

Lakshmi
Goddess of Wealth

Lakshmi is Vishnu's beloved. She is also the goddess of success and prosperity. The term "Lakshmi" derives from the Sanskrit "Laksya", meaning purpose, goal. She is the goddess of wealth, both material and spiritual.

"Lakshmi is Vishnu's beloved; she is as beautiful as ten billions sunrises, and many think of her as the embodiment of sensuality.

Her charming eyes as a lotus, and adorned with garlands of lotuses, she is the mistress/ruler of all beings. Vishnu supports Lakshmi on his thighs, and she is the one who grants people prosperity all their lives."

(Lakshmi Tantra)

Lakshmi is often represented as a beautiful woman, sitting on a lotus flower. She holds a lotus bud in her hand, symbol of beauty, purity and fertility.

Her four arms represent the four tendencies of the human nature:

dharma, or correctitude
kama or desire
artha or wealth and
moksha or spiritual freedom.

Lakshmi always wears red clothes, embroidered with gold. Red represents activity, and gold represents wealth. Golden pieces flow from her hands. She also embodies beauty, grace and feminine charm.

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Lakshmi Goddess of Wealth

Lakshmi
Goddess of Wealth