The eight divine forms of Ashtalakshmi represent different powers of Goddess Lakshmi in Hinduism. These forms bestow not only wealth but also knowledge, progeny, courage, victory, and prosperity. Their worship leads to spiritual, mental, and material benefits in life, making the attainment of the four Purusharthas possible.
Ashtalakshmi: The eight divine forms of Goddess Lakshmi hold special significance in Hinduism, bringing wealth, happiness, prosperity, and mental balance into life. These forms are known as Adi Lakshmi, Dhana Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi, Gaja Lakshmi, Santan Lakshmi, Veera Lakshmi, Vidya Lakshmi, and Vijaya Lakshmi. According to scriptures and Puranas, they are particularly worshipped during Diwali and other festivals. Devotees believe that worshipping Ashtalakshmi leads to the attainment of the four Purusharthas—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.
The Eight Forms of Ashtalakshmi and Their Significance
- Adi Lakshmi: Adi Lakshmi is the original form of Goddess Lakshmi, considered the ancient and primal power of creation. According to the Vedas, worshipping Adi Lakshmi develops stability, detachment, and spiritual energy in the practitioner's life. This form provides mental equilibrium and stability in life.
- Dhana Lakshmi: Dhana Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, opulence, and material prosperity. The Padma Purana and Lakshmi Tantra state that with her blessings, there is never a lack of wealth in life. For devotees, this form symbolizes financial prosperity and stability.
- Dhanya Lakshmi: Dhanya Lakshmi symbolizes food and the provider of food. In the Atharvaveda and Vishnu Purana, food is considered a manifestation of Brahman. With her blessings, food and prosperity remain in the family, and there is no shortage of nourishment. This form represents stability and family welfare in life.
- Gaja Lakshmi: Gaja Lakshmi is the bestower of grandeur, fame, and royal pleasures. Her significance is mentioned in the Harivamsa Purana and Shrimad Bhagavatam. Worshipping her brings social respect, glory, and victory in life. This form is considered a symbol of grandeur and prestige in life.
- Santan Lakshmi: Santan Lakshmi symbolizes the happiness, peace, progeny, and protection of children. The Skanda Purana highlights the special significance of her worship. This form of the mother is considered the source of offspring and happiness in the family.
- Veera Lakshmi: Veera Lakshmi is the goddess of courage and valor. She bestows strength in difficult circumstances and during righteous battles. Her importance is also mentioned during the Mahabharata era. With her blessings, individuals gain courage and the ability to triumph in righteousness.
- Vidya Lakshmi: Vidya Lakshmi is the presiding deity of knowledge, education, and arts. Her praise is mentioned in the Vedas and Devi Bhagavata. For students and scholars, this goddess is a symbol of success and intelligence.
- Vijaya Lakshmi: Vijaya Lakshmi is the goddess symbolizing success, victory, and auspiciousness in life. According to scriptures, her blessings lead to victory over enemies and the accomplishment of all tasks. This form represents success and positive outcomes in life.
Religious Significance of Ashtalakshmi Forms
The worship of Ashtalakshmi is performed especially during Diwali and other festivals. The Lakshmi Tantra, Devi Bhagavata, and Padma Purana state that worshipping the eight forms of Ashtalakshmi removes problems related to wealth and property and brings happiness and prosperity into life.
Through their worship, individuals can achieve the four Purusharthas—Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. Ashtalakshmi symbolizes wealth, food, knowledge, courage, progeny, victory, patience, and royalty. Goddess Lakshmi's true affection lies in the actions of her devotees. Cleanliness, service, lighting lamps, and devotion are considered her most beloved practices.
The eight forms of Ashtalakshmi not only provide spiritual benefits but also bring happiness, success, and positive energy into life. Devotees can ensure prosperity and peace in their lives by worshipping and venerating these divine forms.
