Lakshmi

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"Mahalakshmi" redirects here. For other uses, see Mahalakshmi (disambiguation) and Lakshmi
(disambiguation).

Lakshmi

Raja Ravi Varma's Lakshmi

Devanagari
Sanskrit
laks m
Transliteration
Affiliation
Devi (Tridevi)
Abode
Vaikuntha, Ksheera Sagara
Om Hrim Shri Lakshmibhyo
Mantra
Namaha
Consort
Vishnu
Mount
Elephant, Owl
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Glossary of Hinduism terms

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Lakshmi (Sanskrit: , lakm,

lkmi) is the Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune, and
prosperity (both material and spiritual), as well as the embodiment of beauty. She is the wife and
active energy of Vishnu.[1] Her four hands represent the four goals of human life considered
important to the Hindu way of life dharma, kma, artha, and moksha.[2][3] Representations of
Lakshmi are also found in Jain monuments. In Buddhist sects of Tibet, Nepal, and southeast
Asia, goddess Vasudhara mirrors the characteristics and attributes of the Hindu goddess Lakshmi
with minor iconographic differences.[4]
Lakshmi is also called Sri[5] or Thirumagal because she is endowed with six auspicious and
divine qualities, or Gunas, and also because she is the source of strength even to Vishnu. When
Vishnu incarnated on the Earth as the avatars Rama and Krishna, Lakshmi incarnated as his
respective consorts: Sita (Rama's wife),[5] Radha (Krishna's lover),[6][7] and Rukmini (Krishna's
wife).[8] In the ancient scriptures of India, all women are declared to be embodiments of Lakshmi.
[9]
The marriage and relationship between Lakshmi and Vishnu as wife and husband, states

Patricia Monaghan, is "the paradigm for rituals and ceremonies for the bride and groom in Hindu
weddings."[10]
Archaeological discoveries and ancient coins suggest the recognition and reverence for goddess
Lakshmi in the Scytho-Parthian kingdom and throughout India by the 1st millennium BC.[11][12]
Lakshmi's iconography and statues have also been found in Hindu temples throughout southeast
Asia, estimated to be from second half of 1st millennium AD.[13][14]
In modern times, Lakshmi is worshiped as the goddess of wealth. She is also worshipped as the
consort of Vishnu in many temples. The festivals of Diwali and Sharad Purnima (Kojagiri
Purnima) are celebrated in her honor.[15]

Contents

1 Etymology

2 Symbolism and iconography

3 Names

4 Ancient literature on Lakshmi

o 4.1 Upanishads
o 4.2 Stotrams and Sutras
o 4.3 Puranas
o 4.4 Subhasita, gnomic and didactic literature

5 Manifestations and aspects

o 5.1 Secondary manifestations
o 5.2 Jain temples

6 Creation and legends

7 Celebration in Hindu society

o 7.1 Regional variations

8 Hymns

9 Culture

10 Archaeology

11 Related goddesses
o 11.1 Japan
o 11.2 Tibet and Nepal

12 See also

13 References

14 Further reading

15 External links

Etymology
Lakshmi (Laks m) is one of many Hindu deities whose meaning and significance evolved in
ancient Sanskrit texts.[16]
Lakshmi is mentioned once in Rig Veda, but the context suggests that the word does not mean
"goddess of wealth and fortune," rather it means "kindred mark or sign of auspicious fortune."[5]
[16]

bhadrau laksmrnihitdhi
vci

"an aupiciou fortune i attached to their word"

Rig Veda, x.71.2, Tranlated by John Muir[16]
In Atharva Veda, composed about 1000 BC, Lakshmi evolves into a complex concept with plural
manifestations. Book 7, Chapter 115 of Atharva Veda describes the plurality, asserting that a
hundred Lakshmis are born with the body of a mortal at birth, some good, punya (virtuous) and
auspicious, while others bad, paapi (evil) and unfortunate. The good are welcomed, while the
bad urged to leave.[16] The concept and spirit of Lakshmi and her association with fortune and the
good is significant enough that Atharva Veda mentions it in multiple books: for example, in Book
12, Chapter 5 as punya Lakhmi.[17] In some chapters of Atharva Veda, Lakshmi connotes the
good, an auspicious sign, good luck, good fortune, prosperity, success, and happiness.[5]
Goddess Lakshmi

Bharhut Stupa, 2nd

century BC

Coins of Gandhara, 1st

century BC

Coinage of Gupta
Empire

Cambodia

Vietnam, 10th
century

Malaysia

Lakshmi is one of the trinity of Hindu goddesses. Her

iconography is found in ancient and modern Hindu
temples.
In later mythology, Lakshmi is referred to as the goddess of fortune and beauty, identified with
r and regarded as the wife of Vis n u (Nryan a).[5] For example, in Shatapatha Brahmana,
variously estimated to be composed between 800 BC and 300 BC, r (Lakshmi) is part of one of
many theories, in ancient India, about the creation of universe. In Book 9 of Shatapatha
Brahmana, r emerges from Prajpati, after his intense meditation on creation of life and nature
of universe. r is described as the beautiful, resplendent and trembling woman at her birth with
immense energy and powers.[16] The gods were bewitched, desire her and immediately become
covetous of her. The gods approach Prajpati and request permission to kill her and then take her
powers, talents and gifts. Prajpati refuses, tells the gods that males should not kill females, and
that they can seek her gifts without violence.[18] The gods then approach Lakshmi, deity Agni gets

food, Soma gets kingly authority, Varuna gets imperial authority, Mitra acquires martial energy,
Indra gets force, Brihaspati gets priestly authority, Savitri acquires dominion, Pushan gets
splendor, Sarasvati takes nourishment and Tvashtri gets forms.[16] The hymns of Shatapatha
Brahmana thus describe r as a goddess born with and personifying a diverse range of talents
and powers.
According to another legend, she emerges during the creation of universe, floating over the water
on the expanded petals of a lotus flower; she is also variously regarded as the wife of Srya, the
wife of Prajpati, the wife of Dharma, the mother of Kma, the sister or mother of Dhtr and
Vidhtr , the wife of Dattatreya, one of the nine aktis of Vis n u, a manifestation of Prakr ti as
identified with Dkshyan in Bharatarama, and as St, the wife of Rma.[5][19]
In the Epics of Hinduism, such as in the Mahabharata, Lakshmi personifies wealth, riches,
beauty, happiness, loveliness, grace, charm and splendor.[5] In another Hindu legend about the
creation of universe as described in the Ramayana,[20] Lakshmi springs with other precious things
from the foam of the ocean of milk when it is churned by the gods and demons for the recovery
of the Amr ta. She appeared with a lotus in her hand, and so she is also called Padm.[5][21]
Root of the word
Lakshmi in Sanskrit is derived from the root word lak () and lak a (), meaning "to
perceive, observe, know, understand" and "goal, aim, objective" respectively.[22] These roots give
Lakshmi the symbolism: know and understand your goal.[23] A related term is lak an a, which
means "sign, target, aim, symbol, attribute, quality, lucky mark, auspicious opportunity."[24]

Symbolism and iconography

Bas relief of Gaja Lakhmi at Sanchi Stupa, 3rd century BCE.

The image, icons, and sculptures of Lakshmi are represented with symbolism. Her name is
derived from Sanskrit root words for knowing the goal and understanding the objective.[23] Her
four arms are symbolic of the four goals of humanity that are considered good in Hinduism dharma (pursuit of ethical, moral life), artha (pursuit of wealth, means of life), kama (pursuit of
love, emotional fulfillment), and moksha (pursuit of self-knowledge, liberation).[3][25]
In Lakshmi's iconography, she is either sitting or standing on a lotus and typically carrying a
lotus in one or two hands. The lotus carries symbolic meanings in Hinduism and other Indian
traditions. It symbolically represents reality, consciousness, and karma (work, deed) in the

Sahasrara context, and knowledge and self-realization in other contexts.[26] The lotus, a flower
that blossoms in clean or dirty water, also symbolizes purity and beauty regardless of the good or
bad circumstances in which its grows. It is a reminder that good and prosperity can bloom and
not be affected by evil in one's surrounding.[27][28] Below, behind, or on the sides, Lakshmi is
sometimes shown with one or two elephants and occasionally with an owl. Elephants symbolize
work, activity, and strength, as well as water, rain, and fertility for abundant prosperity.[29] The
owl, called Pechaka in eastern regions of India, signifies the patient striving to observe, see, and
discover knowledge particularly when surrounded by darkness. The owl, a bird that becomes
blind in daylight, is also a symbolic reminder to refrain from blindness and greed after
knowledge and wealth has been acquired.[30]

Manuscript painting of Gaja-Laks m, ca 1780 AD.

In some representations, wealth either symbolically pours out from one of her hands or she
simply holds a jar of money. This symbolism has a dual meaning: wealth manifested through
Lakshmi means both material as well as spiritual wealth.[26] Her face and open hands are in a
mudra that signify compassion, giving, or daana (charity).[25]
Lakshmi typically wears a red dress embroidered with golden threads, symbolism for beauty and
wealth. She, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is often represented with her husband Vishnu,
the god who maintains human life filled with justice and peace. This symbolism implies wealth
and prosperity is coupled with maintenance of life, justice, and peace.[26]

Names
Lakshmi has numerous names, and numerous ancient Stotram and Sutras of Hinduism recite her
various names.[9][31] She is very closely associated with the lotus, and her many epithets are
connected to the flower, such as:

Padma: Lotus-dweller

Kamala: Lotus-dweller

Padmapriya: One who likes lotuses

Padmamaladhara devi: One who wears a garland of lotuses

Padmamukhi: One whose face is as beautiful as a lotus

Padmakhi: One whose eyes are as beautiful as a lotus

Padmahata: One who holds a lotus

Padmaundari: One who is as beautiful as a lotus

Her other names include:

Vihnupriya: One who is the beloved of Vishnu

Ulkavahini: One who rides an owl

Her other names include:[9] Ambika, Manushri, Mohini, Chakrika, Kamalika, Aishwarya, Lalima,
Indira, Kalyani, Nandika, Nandini, Rujula, Vaishnavi, Samruddhi, Narayani, Bhargavi, Sridevi,
Chanchala, Jalaja, Madhavi, Sujata, Shreya, Maheshwari, Madhu, Madhavi, Paramaa,
Janamodini, Tripura, Tulasi, Ketaki, Malati, Vidhya, Trilochana, Tilottama, Subha, Chandika,
Devi, Kriyalakshmi, Viroopa, Vani, Gayatri, Savitri, Apara or Aparajita, Aparna, Aruna, Akhila,
Bala, Tara, Kuhu, Poornima, Aditi, Anumati, Avashyaa, Sita, Taruni, Jyotsna, Jyoti, Nimeshika,
Atibha, Ishaani, Smriti and Sri.[31] She is also referred to as Jaganmaatha ("Mother of the
Universe") in Shri Mahalakshmi Ashtakam.[citation needed]

Ancient literature on Lakshmi

Upanishads
Shakta Upanishads are dedicated to the trinity of goddesses - Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Parvati.
Saubhagya Lakhmi Upanishad, estimated to be composed before 300 BC, describes the
qualities, characteristics, and powers of Lakshmi.[32] In the second part of the Upanishad, the
emphasis shifts to the use of yoga and transcendence from material craving in order to achieve
spiritual knowledge and self-realization, the true wealth.[33][34] Saubhagya-Lakshmi Upanishad
synonymously uses Sri to describe Lakshmi.[32]

Stotrams and Sutras

Numerous ancient Stotram and Sutras of Hinduism recite hymns dedicated to Lakshmi.[9] She is a
major goddess in the Puranas and Itihasa of Hinduism. In ancient scriptures of India, all women
are declared to be embodiments of Lakshmi. For example,[9]
Every woman is an embodiment of you.
You exist as little girls in their childhood,
As young women in their youth,
And as elderly women in their old age.

Sri Kamala Stotram[9]

Every woman is an emanation of you.
Sri Daivakrta Laksmi Stotram[9]
Ancient prayers dedicated to Lakshmi seek both material and spiritual wealth in prayers.[35]

Puranas
Lakshmi features prominently in the Puranas of Hinduism. Vishnu Purana, in particular,
dedicates many sections to her and also refers to her as r.[36] J. A. B. van Buitenen translates
passages describing Lakshmi in Vishnu Purana as, "r, loyal to Vishnu, is the mother of the
world. Vishnu is the meaning, r is the speech. She is the conduct, he the behavior. Vishnu is
knowledge, she the insight. He is dharma, she the virtuous action. She is the earth, he earth's
upholder. She is contentment, he the satisfaction. She is wish, he is the desire. r is the sky,
Vishnu the Self of everything. He is the moon, she the beauty of moon. He is the ocean, she is
the shore".[36]

Subhasita, gnomic and didactic literature

Lakshmi, along with Parvati and Saraswati, is a subject of extensive Subhasita, gnomic and
didactic literature of India.[37] Composed in the 1st millennium BC through the 16th century AD,
they are short poems, proverbs, couplets, or aphorisms in Sanskrit written in a precise meter.
They sometimes take the form of dialogue between Lakshmi and Vishnu or highlight the spiritual
message in Vedas and ethical maxims from Hindu Epics through Lakshmi.[37] An example
Subhashita is Puranarthaamgraha, compiled by Vekataraya in South India, where Lakshmi and
Vishnu discuss niti (right, moral conduct) and rajaniti (statesmanship, right governance) covering in 30 chapters and ethical and moral questions about personal, social, and political life.
[38]

Manifestations and aspects

Lakshmi with Vishnu in Paramaribo Hindu temple, Suriname.

In eastern India, Lakshmi is seen as a form of one goddess Devi, the Supreme power; Devi is
also called Durga or Shakti. Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Parvati are typically conceptualized as

distinct in most of India, but in states such as West Bengal and Odisha, they are regionally
believed to be forms of Durga.[39]
Lakshmi is seen in two forms, Bhudevi and Sridevi, both at the sides of Sri Venkateshwara or
Vishnu. Bhudevi is the representation and totality of the material world or energy, called the
aparam Prakriti, in which she is called Mother Earth. Sridevi is the spiritual world or energy
called the Prakriti. Lakshmi is the power of Vishnu.[1]
Inside temples, Lakshmi is often shown together with Vishnu. In certain parts of India, Lakshmi
plays a special role as the mediator between her husband Vishnu and his worldly devotees. When
asking Vishnu for grace or forgiveness, the devotees often approach Him through the
intermediary presence of Lakshmi.[40] She is also the personification of the spiritual fulfillment.[41]
Lakshmi embodies the spiritual world, also known as Vaikunta, the abode of Lakshmi-Narayana
or Vishnu, or what would be considered heaven in Vaishnavism. Lakshmi is the embodiment of
God's superior spiritual feminine energy, Param Prakriti, which purifies, empowers, and uplifts
the individual.[citation needed]

Secondary manifestations
Main article: Ashta Lakshmi
Ashta Lakshmi (Sanskrit: ,As t alaks m, lit. "eight Lakshmis") is a group of eight
secondary manifestations of Lakshmi. The Ashta Lakshmis preside over eight sources of wealth
and thus represent the eight powers of Shri Lakshmi. Temples dedicated to Ashta Lakshmi are
found in Tamil Nadu, such as the Ashtalakshmi Kovil near Chennai and in many other states of
India.[42]
The eight Ashta Lakshmis are as follows:

Gaja Lakshmi at Shravanabelagola Temple, Karnataka.

Ashta Lakshmi
(

;
di Laks m
The First manifestation of Lakshmi

)
(

;
Dhnya Laks m Granary wealth

)
(

;
Veera Laks m Wealth of courage

) Gaja Laks m

Elephants spraying water, wealth of fertility,

rains, and food.[43]

;
Santna Laks m Wealth of continuity, progeny

)
(

;
Vijaya Laks m Wealth of victory

)
(

;
Aishwarya
Wealth of knowledge and education

)
Laks m
(

) Dhana Laks m Monetary wealth

Ashta Lakshmi murti worshipped in a Golu display during Dusshera.

Other secondary representations of the goddess include Lakshmi manifesting in three forms: Sri
Devi, Bhoo devi, and Neela devi. This threefold goddess can be found, for example, in Sri Bhu
Neela Sahita Temple near Dwaraka Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, and in the Adinath Swami Temple
in Tamil Nadu.[44] Sri Devi represents movable assets (called Chanchala), and Bhoodevi
represents immovable assets (Achanchala).[citation needed]
Mahalakshmi is also shown presiding over eight forms of wealth, the eight great siddhis (ashta
siddhis) of spiritual knowledge or Jnana (Sanskrit: , jna).[citation needed]
In Nepal, Mahalakshmi is shown with 16 hands, each holding a sacred emblem, expressing a
sacred gesture, or forming a mudra (lotus, pot, mudra of blessing, book, rosary, bell, shield, bow,
arrow, sword, trident, mudra of admonition, noose, skull cap, and kettledrum.)[45] In this
representation, Mahalakshmi manifests as a kind, compassionate, tranquil deity sitting not on a
lotus, but on a lion.[45]

Jain temples
Some Jain temples also depict Sri Lakshmi as a goddess of artha (wealth) and kama (pleasure).
For example, she is exhibited with Vishnu in Parshvanatha Jain Temple at the Khajuraho
Monuments of Madhya Pradesh,[46] where she is shown pressed against Vishnu's chest, while
Vishnu cups a breast in his palm. The presence of Vishnu-Lakshmi iconography in a Jain temple
built near the Hindu temples of Khajuraho, suggests the sharing and acceptance of Lakshmi
across a spectrum of Indian religions.[46] This commonality is reflected in the praise of Lakshmi
found in the Jain text Kalpa Stra.[47]

Creation and legends

A manuscript depicting Samudra Manthan, with Lakshmi emerging with lotus in her hands.
Devas (gods) and asuras (demons) were both mortal at one time in Hinduism. Amrit, the divine
nectar that grants immortality, could only be obtained by churning the Kshirsagar (Ocean of
Milk). The devas and asuras both sought immortality and decided to churn the Kshirsagar with
Mount Mandhara. The samudra manthan commenced with the devas on one side and the asuras
on the other. Vishnu incarnated as Kurma, the tortoise, and a mountain was placed on the tortoise
as a churning pole. Vasuki, the great venom-spewing serpent-god, was wrapped around the
mountain and used to churn the ocean. A host of divine celestial objects came up during the
churning. Along with them emerged the goddess Lakshmi. In some versions, she is said to be the
daughter of the sea god since she emerged from the sea.[citation needed]
In the Garuda Purana, Linga Purana and Padma Purana she is said to have been born as the
daughter of the divine sage Bhrigu and his wife Khyaati and was named "Bhargavi." According
to the Vishnu Purana, the universe was created when the Deva (good) and Aura (evil) churn
the cosmic ocean of milk (Ksheera Sagara). Lakshmi came out of the ocean bearing lotus, along
with the divine cow Kamadhenu, Varuni, the tree Parijat, the Apsaras, the Chandra (the moon),
and Dhanvantari with Amrita (nectar of immortality). When she appeared, she had a choice to go
to Devas or the Asuras. She chose Devas' side; and among thirty deities, she chose to be with
Vishnu. Thereafter, in all three worlds, the lotus-bearing goddess was celebrated.[36]

Celebration in Hindu society

Many Hindus worship Lakshmi on Diwali, the festival of lights.[48] It is celebrated in autumn,
typically October or November every year.[49] The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light
over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair.[50]
Before Diwali night, people clean, renovate and decorate their homes and offices.[51] On Diwali
night, Hindus dress up in new clothes or their best outfits, light up diya (lamps and candles)
inside and outside their home, and participate in family puja (prayers) typically to Lakshmi.

After puja, fireworks follow,[52] then a family feast including mithai (sweets), and an exchange of
gifts between family members and close friends. Diwali also marks a major shopping period,
since Lakshmi connotes auspiciousness, wealth, and prosperity.[53] This festival dedicated to
Lakshmi is considered by Hindus to be one of the most important and joyous festivals of the
year.
Gaja Lakshmi Puja is another autumn festival celebrated on Sharad Purnima in many parts of
India on the full-moon day in the month of Ashvin (SeptemberOctober).[15] The Sharad
Purnima, also called Kojaagari Purnima or Kumar Purnima, is a harvest festival marking the end
of monsoon season. There is a traditional celebration of the moon called the 'Kaumudi
celebration', Kaumudi meaning moonlight.[54] On Sharad Purnima night, goddess Lakshmi is
thanked and worshiped for the harvests.

Regional variations
Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, Most important festival absorbed for Sri Lakshmi is Varalakshmi vritha which is
performed during the month of Tamil month Aadi (Mid-July to Mid- August), Where a married
women fast on the vritha day and perform a vedic ritual during the evening followed by
offerings. Other major festival is during Navratri during which 4th,5th and 6th days are declared
for Sri Lakshmi and special pooja is performed, vedic hymns and Tamil devotional songs are
sung in both in temples and residence. Tamil Nadu also holds many large Temples dedicated to
Sri Lakshmi. Few notable temples are Besant nagar Asta lakshmi temple, Vellore sripuram (A
Golden temple), Sriranganayagi temple in Srirangam.
Bengal

Kojagiri Lakshmi puja

In Bengal, Lakshmi is worshiped on Kojagiri Purnima in autumn when the moon is full on the
brightest night of the year. Riding on her mount, the great white owl, she is believed to bless
wealth and resources for content lives on this night. The owl symbolically represents penetrating
sight in the darkness of night.[citation needed]
During the celebrations, lotus flowers, sandalwood, vermilion, betel leaves, nuts, fruits, and
various sweet preparations made from jaggery, rice, and coconut are used for her ritual worship.

Apart from the autumnal celebration, Lakshmi, along with Alakshmi (her shadow energy), is also
worshiped during Diwali in some Bengali communities. The goddess Kali of Kalighat in Kolkata
is worshiped in Mahalakshmi form during Diwali. Some people observe Lakshmi Vrata/Puja
(fasting and prayer). Women sing a string of poems called 'Panchali,' narrating the glories of
goddess Lakshmi.[citation needed]
Odisha
Lakshmi is the goddess thanked after autumn harvests in the month of Mrigashrsha. Women
celebrate the festival Manabaa Gurubara or Lakhmi Puja. On each Thursday of the month, the
houses are cleaned and the floors are decorated with floral designs drawn with rice powder
mixed with water, called jhoti. Footprints are painted from the doorstep to the place of worship,
symbolizing that Lakshmi has entered the house. The roofs are decorated with flower garlands
and festoons woven out of paddy stalks.[citation needed] After a purification bath in the morning, the
women of the region symbolically offer prayers to paddy considered a bounty from Lakshmi.
Different rice cakes and Khiri (rice soup prepared with milk and sugar) are prepared in
households, offered to the deity, and then eaten by all.[citation needed]
People in Odisha also worship Gaja Lakshmi on Sharad Purnima, also known as Kumar
Purnima. Children wear new clothes, and families celebrate the day with feasts. They play a kind
of game known as puchi and other country games.[citation needed]

Hymns
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Countless hymns, prayers, shlokas, stotra, songs, and legends dedicated to Mahalakshmi are
recited during the ritual worship of Lakshmi.[9]
These include Sri Mahalakshmi Ashtakam, Sri Lakshmi Sahasaranama Stotra (by
Sanathkumara), Sri Stuti (by Sri Vedantha Desikar), Sri Lakshmi Stuti (by Indra), Sri
Kanakadhara Stotra (by Sri Aadhi Shankaracharya), Sri Chatussloki (by Sri Yamunacharya), Sri
Lakshmi Sloka (by Bhagavan Sri Hari Swamiji) and Sri Sukta, which is contained in the Vedas.
Sri Sukta contains the Lakshmi Gayatri Mantra (Om Shree Mahaalakshmyai ca vidmahe Vishnu
patnyai ca dheemahi tanno Lakshmi prachodayat Om).[55]

Culture
One of Lakshmi's names, Sri (also spelled Shri, pronounced as shree), is commonly used as an
honorific prefix or suffix in cultural discourse and human relationships. Affixed to the names of
distinguished persons, the honorifics "Shri" (also "Sri," "Shree") and "Shrimati" (also "Srimati,"
"Shreemati") imply beauty, wealth, prosperity, and auspiciousness.

Archaeology

A representation of the goddess as Gaja Lakshmi, or Lakshmi flanked by two elephants spraying
her with water, is one of the most frequently found in archaeological sites.[citation needed] An ancient
sculpture of Gaja Lakshmi (from the Sonkh site at Mathura) dates to the pre-Kushan Empire era.
[11]
The Atranjikhera site in modern Uttar Pradesh has yielded terracotta plaque with images of
Lakshmi dating to the 2nd century BC. Other archaeological sites with ancient Lakshmi
terracotta figurines from the 1st millennium BC include Vaisali, Sravasti, Kausambi, Campa, and
Candraketugadh.[12]
The goddess Lakshmi is frequently found in ancient coins of various Hindu kingdoms from
Afghanistan to India. Gaja Lakshmi has been found on coins of Scytho-Parthian kings Azes II
and Azilises; she also appears on Shunga Empire king Jyesthamitra era coins, both dating to the
1st millennium BC. Coins from the 1st through 4th century AD found in various locations in
India such as Ayodhaya, Mathura, Ujjain, Sanchi, Bodh Gaya, Kanauj, all feature Lakshmi.[56]
Similarly, ancient Greco-Indian gems and seals with images of Lakshmi have been found,
estimated to be from the 1st millennium BC.[57]
A 1400-year-old rare granite sculpture of Lakshmi has been recovered at the Waghama village
along the Jehlum in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.[58]
A statuette of Lakshmi found in Pompeii, Italy, dates to before the eruption of Vesuvius in 79
AD.[59]

Related goddesses
Japan
Goddess Kishijoten of Japan corresponds to Lakshmi. Kishijoten is the goddess of beauty,
fortune, and prosperity.[60] Kishijoten is considered the sister of the deity Bishamon (, also
known as Tamon or Bishamon-ten); Bishamon protects human life, fights evil, and brings good
fortune. In ancient and medieval Japan, Kishijoten was the goddess worshiped for luck and
prosperity, particularly on behalf of children. Kishijoten was also the guardian goddess of
Geishas. While Bishamon and Kishijoten are found in ancient Chinese and Japanese Buddhist
literature, their roots have been traced to deities in Hinduism.[60]

Tibet and Nepal

Goddess Vasudhara in Tibetan and Nepalese culture is closely analogous to goddess Lakshmi as
well.[4]

See also

Ashta Lakshmi

Deepalakshmi

Doddagaddavalli

Hindu goddess

Lakshminarayan

Star of Lakshmi

References
1.

Das, Subhamoy. "Lakshmi: Goddess of Wealth & Beauty!". Hinduism.about.com.

Retrieved 2012-11-09.

2.

Constantina Rhodes (2011), Invoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song

and Ceremony, State University of New York Press, ISBN 978-1438433202, pages 29-47,
220-252

3.

Divali - THE SYMBOLISM OF LAKSHMI National Library and Information

System Authority, Trinidad and Tobago (2009)

4.

Miranda Shaw (2006), Buddhist Goddesses of India, Princeton University Press,

ISBN 978-0691127583, Chapter 13 with pages 258-262

5.

laks m, Monier-Williams' SankritEnglih Dictionary, University of Washington

Archives

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7.

8.

Encyclopaedia of Hindu God and Goddee; by Suresh Chandra

Radha in Hinduism, the favourite mistress of the god Krishna, and an incarnation
of Lakshmi. In devotional religion she represents the longing of the human soul for God:
The Oxford Dictionary of Phrae and Fable (2006); Elizabeth Knowles |
Eential Hinduim; by Steven Rosen (2006); p. 136

9.

Constantina Rhodes (2011), Invoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song

and Ceremony, State University of New York Press, ISBN 978-1438433202

10.

Patricia Monaghan, Goddesses in World Culture, Volume 1, Praeger, ISBN 9780313354656, page 5-11

11.

Upinder Singh (2009), A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India: From the
Stone Age to the 12th Century, ISBN 978-8131711200, Pearson Education, pages 438

12.

Asha Vishnu (1993), Material life of northern India: Based on an archaeological

study, 3rd century B.C. to 1st century B.C, ISBN 978-8170994107, pages 194-195

13.
14.

Vitorio Roveda (June, 2004), The Archaeology of Khmer Images, Asanie,

Volume 13, Issue 13, pages 11-46
O goddess where art thou? S. James, Cornell University (2011)

15.

Constance Jones (2011), in Religious Celebrations: An Encyclopedia of Holidays,

Festivals, Solemn Observances, and Spiritual Commemorations (Editor: J Gordon
Melton), ISBN 978-1598842050, pages 253-254 and 798

16.

John Muir, Original Sankrit Text on the Origin and Hitory of the People of
India - Their Religion and Intitution at Google Books, Volume 5, pp. 348-362 with
footnotes

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"; : 12 Atharva Veda Sanskrit Original

"
Archive

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Naama Drury (2010), The Sacrificial Ritual In The Satapatha Brahmana, ISBN
978-8120826656, pages 61-102

19.

Monier Williams Religious Thought and Life in India, Part 1, 2nd Edition, pages
103-112

20.

Ramayana, i.45.40-43

21.

Monier Williams Religious Thought and Life in India, Part 1, 2nd Edition, pages
108-111

22.

laks , Monier-Williams Sanskrit-English Dictionary, University of Koeln,

Germany

23.

Carol Plum-Ucci, Celebrate Diwali, ISBN 978-0766027787, pages 79-86

24.

laks an aMonier-Williams Sanskrit-English Dictionary, University of Koeln,

Germany

25.

A Parasarthy (1983), Symbolim in Hinduim, Chinmaya Mission Publication,

ISBN 978-8175971493, pages 57-59

26.

A Parasarthy (1983), Symbolim in Hinduim, Chinmaya Mission Publication,

ISBN 978-8175971493, pages 91-92, 160-162

27.

R.S. Nathan (1983), Symbolim in Hinduim, Chinmaya Mission Publication,

ISBN 978-8175971493, page 16

28.

Lynne Gibson (2002), Hinduism, Heinemann, ISBN 978-0435336196, page 29

29.

Hope Werness (2007), Continuum Encyclopedia of Animal Symbolism in World

Art, Bloomsbury, ISBN 978-0826419132, pages 159-167

30.

Ajnatanama (1983), Symbolim in Hinduim, Chinmaya Mission Publication,

ISBN 978-8175971493, page 317-318

31.

Vijaya Kumara, 108 Names Of Lakshmi, Sterling Publishers, ISBN

9788120720282

32.

A Mahadeva (1950), Saubhagya-Lakshmi Upanishad in The Shakta Upanishads

with the Commentary of Sri Upanishad Brahma Yogin, Adyar Library Series No. 10,
Madras

33.

Saubhagya Lakshmi Upanishad Original text of the Upanishad in Sanskrit

34.

A. G. Krishna Warrier (1931, Translator), Saubhagya Lakshmi Upanishad, The

Theosophical Publishing House, Chennai, ISBN 978-0835673181

35.

Constantina Rhodes (2011), Invoking Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth in Song

and Ceremony, State University of New York Press, ISBN 978-1438433202,
Quote: Through illusion,
A person can become disconnected,
From his higher self,
Wandering about from place to place,
Bereft of clear thought,
Lost in destructive behavior.
It matters not how much truth,
May shine forth in the world,
Illuminating the entire creation,
For one cannot acquire wisdom,
Unless it is experienced,
Through the opening on the heart.[...]

36.

J. A. B. van Buitenen (Translator), Cornelia Dimmitt (Editor), Classical Hindu

Mythology: A Reader in the Sanskrit Puranas, Temple University Press, ISBN 9780877221227, pages 95-99

37.

Ludwik Sternbach (1974), Subhaita, Gnomic and Didactic Literature, A History

of Indian literature, Volume 4, Otto Harrassowitz Verlag, ISBN 978-3447015462

38.

Ludwik Sternbach (1974), Subhaita, Gnomic and Didactic Literature, A History

of Indian literature, Volume 4, Otto Harrassowitz Verlag, ISBN 978-3447015462, page 22

39.

Christopher John Fuller (2004), The Camphor Flame: Popular Hinduism and
Society in India, Princeton University Press, ISBN 978-0691120485, page 41

40.

Pages 31 and 32 in Kinsley, David. Hindu Goddee: Viion of the Divine

Feminine in the Hindu Religiou Tradition. Berkeley: University of California Press,
1988. ISBN 978-0-520-06339-6

41.

Srimad Devi Bhagwata Purana

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Vidya Dehejia and Thomas Coburn, Devi: the great goddess : female divinity in
South Asian art, Smithsonian, ISBN 978-3791321295

43.

Anna Dallapiccola (2007), Indian art in detail, Harvard University Press, ISBN
978-0674026919, pages 11-27

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Stephen Knapp, Spiritual India Handbook, ISBN 978-8184950243, page 392

45.

Pratapaditya Pal (1985), Art of Nepal: A Catalogue of the Los Angeles County
Museum of Art Collection, University of California Press, ISBN 978-0520054073, page
120

46.

Vidya Dehejia (2009), The Body Adorned: Sacred and Profane in Indian Art,
Columbia University Press, ISBN 978-0231140287, page 151

47.

Hermann Jacobi (Editor: Max Muller, Republished with edits by Mahendra

Kulasrestha), The Golden Book of Jainism, ISBN 978-8183820141, page 213

48.

Vera, Zak (February 2010). Inviible River: Sir Richard' Lat Miion.
ISBN 978-1-4389-0020-9. Retrieved 26 October 2011. First Diwali day called Dhantera
or wealth worship. We perform Laskshmi-Puja in evening when clay diyas lighted to
drive away shadows of evil spirits.

49.

Diwali Encyclopdia Britannica (2009)

50.

Jean Mead, How and why Do Hindus Celebrate Divali?, ISBN 978-0-237-534127

51.

Pramodkumar (March 2008). Meri Khoj Ek Bharat Ki. ISBN 978-1-4357-1240-9.

Retrieved 26 October 2011. It is extremely important to keep the house spotlessly clean
and pure on Diwali. Lamps are lit in the evening to welcome the goddess. They are
believed to light up her path.

52.

Solski, Ruth (2008). Big Book of Canadian Celebration. S&S Learning

Materials. ISBN 978-1-55035-849-0. Retrieved 26 October 2011. Fireworks and
firecrackers are set off to chase away evil spirits, so it is a noisy holiday too.

53.

India Journal: Tis the Season to be Shopping Devita Saraf, The Wall Street
Journal (August 2010)

54.

"Sharad Poornima".

55.

Lakshmi Stotra Sanskrit documents

56.

Upinder Singh (2009), A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India: From the
Stone Age to the 12th Century, ISBN 978-8131711200, Pearson Education, pages 438,
480 for image

57.

Duffield Osborne (1914), A Graeco-Indian Engraved Gem, American Journal of

Archaeology, Vol. 18, No. 1, pages 32-34

58.

"The Tribune, Chandigarh, India - Jammu & Kashmir". Tribuneindia.com.

Retrieved 2012-11-09.

59.
60.

http://www.pompeiiinpictures.com/pompeiiinpictures/R1/1%2008%2005.htm
Charles Russell Coulter and Patricia Turner (2013), Encyclopedia of Ancient
Deities, Taylor and Francis, ISBN 9781135963903, page 102

Further reading

Venkatadhvari, , (1904). Sri Lakhmi Saharam. Chowkhamba Sanskrit Depot, Benares.

(in Sanskrit only)

Hindu Goddee: Viion of the Divine Feminine in the Hindu Religiou Tradition
(ISBN 81-208-0379-5) by David Kinsley

Lakhmi Puja and Thouand Name (ISBN 1-887472-84-3) by Swami Satyananda

Saraswati

External links
Wikiquote has quotations related to: Lakshmi
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Lakshmi.

Constantina Rhodes, Invoking Lakshmi - the goddess of wealth in song and ceremony
Poetry on Lakshmi

Prayers to Lakshmi, the Goddess of Fortune, Illustrative tuti compiled from Puranas

Mahalaxmi Temple, Kolhapur History & Festivals at one of the largest Lakshmi temples
in India, website maintained by the Government of Maharashtra

Dilip Kododwala, Divali, p. 11, at Google Books, ISBN 978-0237528584

Lakshmi coins in Sri Lanka from 1st century BC to 4th century AD, Images from
Epigraphy and Numismatics Division, Govt of Sri Lanka

Silver and bronze coinage of the Kunindas (ca. 2nd-1st century BC) Images of 18 coins
with Lakshmi image embossed

Lakshmi on coins of India Reserve Bank of India, Government of India

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