The Omnipotent Goddess Lakshmi: Source and Power Beyond Description

Among the various deities in Hinduism, Goddess Lakshmi holds a unique and significant position. She is revered not only for her divine beauty but also for the boundless power she embodies. From the primordial energy known as Adi Parashakti to the Mahalakshmi who is worshiped as the supreme Sakti, she is more than just a goddess; she is the primordial force behind all creation, sustenance, and dissolution.

The Source of All Energies and Power

Lakshmi is the Energy itself, the supreme power that does not have a creator. She is the source of all energies, revered as the Mahasakti (great power). Her potency is so immense that she has the ability to create, sustain, and annihilate matter and energy. She is worshipped in numerous contexts, from the creation of infinite universes to the spiritual and material prosperity of her devotees.

The Divine Ashtakshari Mantra

The Ashtakshari Mantra, or the eight-lettered mantra, is a deep and revered chanting that encapsulates the essence of Lakshmi's power. According to Padma Puran Book 6, Chapter 226, the mantra’s seer is Nārāyaana and its deity is also Nārāyaana himself. The three parts of the mantra are as follows:

Om, Nama, Nārāyaana

These three sounds symbolize her all-pervading energy and her relationship with the divine. This mantra is considered an adhikaraa, a privilege or qualification to attain her blessings.

Supreme Roles in the Divine World

Lakshmi's roles extend beyond just being a source of power. She is Tirobhava, the one who hides and reveals, she is the creator, sustainer, destroyer the one who grants boons. These roles are articulated in the Lakshmi Tantra Chapter 12:

"O King of the gods, I have five ever existent functions viz. tirobhava, creation, sustenance, destruction bestowal of boons. O Sakra, hear a systematic description of these functions."em>

When Lakshmi withdraws her grace, the creation and the three realms of the universe are on the brink of ruin. However, with her benevolent gaze, she revives the cosmic order. She is the source from where all beings spring forth, the power behind every achievement, and the source of prosperity and well-being.

The Body of Sri Hari Vishnu

Lakshmi is not only worshipped as a separate entity but is also integral to the divine personage of Sri Hari Vishnu. In the Padma Puran Book 6, Chapter 71, it is mentioned that Krishna is the body of Mahalakshmi, the protector of Gauri, and the killer of Vaitali. These roles illustrate the deep and intrinsic bond between him and his consort.

Infinite Shaktis Worship Her

Lakshmi is adored by countless Shaktis, which are the empowering forces emanating from her great power. She is the refuge of all beings, and this very quality earns her the title of Narayani. This is why she is often called Narayani, the refuge of all. Devotees seek her mercy in times of distress:

"O Mother residing in the lotus, O mother of the Universe, save me who am distressed. O Kamala, the dear one of your son, save me who am miserable and wretched."

These verses from the Brahma Puran Gautami Mahatmya Chapter 20 Garuda Tirtha exemplify her ability to help her devotees in their hour of need.

Worship and Blessings

The devotion to Lakshmi knows no bounds. She bestows blessings upon countless individuals and communities. For instance, Lakshmi willingly showered her blessings on Maharaj Agrasen and his clan, the Agarwal Samaj. She is even worshiped by Brahma and Shiva to assist in the divine duties. This is highlighted in the story of Venkateshwar Swamy, where Lakshmi transformed herself into a cowherd to aid in the divine mission.

The Omnipresent Goddess of Love and Beauty

Lakshmi is celebrated for her affectionate and benevolent nature. She is the jagamata, the great mother, and the pathni, the consort of Vishnu. Her gentle and kind demeanor, along with her divine qualities, make her the source of all love, beauty, and prosperity. Devotees request her blessings as follows:

"Salutations to Lakshmi who is the universe mother of universe and wife of Vishnu and one whose lotus like feet are worshipped by 90 million great bharatis."em>

This prayer from the Lakshmi Sahasranam highlights her position as the supreme goddess and the embodiment of all that is good and loving.