Goddess Lakshmi

Lakshmi is the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, both material and spiritual. The word 'Lakshmi' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'lakshya', meaning 'goal'. Goddess Lakshmi, therefore, stands for the goal of life, which includes worldly prosperity as well as spiritual prosperity.

Seated on a lotus in the graceful Lalita Asana (one leg pendant and the other resting on a lotus flower), Devi Lakshmi being the Goddess of prosperity, is appropriately bedecked in a rich array of ornaments; including a ornamented crown, a profusion of necklaces and various bracelets and armlets. Significantly in addition to being seated on it the Goddess also holds the lotus flower in two of her four hands. This is to display her persistent association with this spiritually significant flower. It signifies that when one lives in this world, one can enjoy its wealth, yet not become obsessed with it. Such a living is analogous a lotus that lives in water but does not become wet by it.

Her four arms themselves signify the four directions, denoting the omnipresence and omnipotence of the Goddess. Significantly the Goddess is depicted with four arms only when depicted alone. When shown with her husband Vishnu, she is shown with two arms only.

Of her remaining two hands, the right makes the gesture of granting boons. The left holds a vase, known in Sanskrit as kalasha. It is a symbol overflowing with abundance, wisdom and immortality, signifying the boon of the goddess.

This description by Nitin Kumar, Executive Editor, Exotic India.

References:

Jansen, Eva Rudy. The Book of Hindu Imagery, The Gods and their symbols: Holland, 1998.

Pandit, Bansi. The Hindu Mind: New Delhi, 2001.