The Mystique of Goddess Lakshmi: Her Numerous Forms and Significance in Hinduism

Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of wealth, prosperity, and beauty, is revered in Hinduism. Her magnificence is not confined to a single form but manifests in various aspects, each attributed with unique attributes and significance.

Goddess Lakshmi: The Divine Beauty

Goddess Lakshmi is often depicted as having fair skin adorned with beautifully designed white clothes and golden ornaments, such as a crown, earrings, nose rings, bangles, and necklaces. Her three eyes resemble lotus petals, and her lips are adorned with vermilion and a bindi. She has a long nose, from which her white, shining teeth are visible. She stands tall and proud, with black long hair cascading down her back. Her body is well-developed and slender, and her hands are in the Varada and Abhaya mudras. From her sides, two elephants are bathing her, signifying her association with fertility and prosperity.

She is often accompanied by Lord Vishnu and seated on the Garuda, symbolizing power and enlightenment. In Hindu beliefs, no one accurately knows her exact appearance; her beauty and glory are infinite, capable of attracting even Lord Vishnu, and outshining even the beauty of a thousand Kamadevas.

The Supreme Consciousness: Bhagavati Lakshmi

Bhagavati Lakshmi, also known as the supreme consciousness, is the source of all existence and the creator and ruler of the universe. She is depicted as greater than all others by infinite times, and as the almighty mother, she governs all beings. This depiction highlights her omnipresence and divine presence in the universe. She is often associated with goddesses in different forms, each embodies a specific aspect of prosperity and well-being. These forms are traditionally consecrated and worshipped in specific locations within the temple, often under the guidance of Vishnu.

The Eighteen Forms of Goddess Lakshmi

Goddess Lakshmi is traditionally spoken of in eighteen forms, which are not prominently known. Her major forms include:

Forms of Lakshmi

Anapāyinī: The first form, Anapāyinī, is less known and not widely referenced. Yoga Lakshmi: Situated on Vishnu's chest, adorned with ornamental fire and other ornaments, Yoga Lakshmi holds two lotuses in her hands with a gesture of granting boons and dispelling fear. This form should be worshipped for prosperity, with the best placement done with the lord of the gods and later renewed with gold and silver. Bhoga Lakshmi: Manifesting as Sri and Bhu, who should be placed on divine statues in the form of Vaikuntha, while Nila is always associated. The establishment of Sri and Bhu was formerly taught together with the lord of the gods. Viralakshmi: When the lord is absent from the goddesses, they should be established separately as described by Angiras, with Viralakshmi placed in a separate shrine to the south of the main shrine, measuring ten spans and adorned with all ornaments. Vijaya: Created in a temple of Goda, measuring nine spans, and adorned with golden ornaments, Vijaya Lakshmi should be invoked. Paka Lakshmi: Associated with the kitchen, measuring eight spans, and holding two lotuses with a gesture of granting boons and dispelling fear, she should be depicted either sitting or standing. Dvara Lakshmi (Gaja Lakshmi): Established in the second entrance of the hall, Dvāra Lakshmi should be bathed by two elephants holding golden pots, sprinkling water on Mahalakshmi. Goda: Dear to Krishna, Goda should be invoked as Lakshmi or Rukmini, with appropriate mantras and rituals following the established procedures.

Conclusion

The different forms of Lakshmi symbolize her omnipresence and the many aspects of prosperity, beauty, and joy she bestows upon her followers. While her exact appearance remains a mystery, her significance is universal and deeply revered in Hindu culture.