Phra Mae Lakshmi (Thai: พระแม่ลักษมี) is the Hindu goddess who governs wealth, abundance and good fortune, and is the consort of the preserver Vishnu. As the embodiment of beauty, prosperity and fulfilment, she accompanies her lord through his successive avatars and is venerated as the source of all blessings and abundance.
Goddess of Wealth and Beauty
Lakshmi governs wealth, abundance, beauty and love, and is especially venerated by women praying for flourishing fortune, fair looks, fulfilling love and a harmonious home. In Bangkok, the Phra Mae Lakshmi shrine on the rooftop of Gaysorn Village draws fervent worship and is a well-known urban sanctuary where devotees pray for wealth and love.
Divinity and Domain
As the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi is regarded as the wellspring of prosperity and abundance, able to draw riches and increase plenty for her devotees, and to bestow beauty, charm and auspicious fulfilment. Those praying for abundance, beauty and a fulfilling life venerate her with sincere devotion.
Iconography
Lakshmi is usually depicted as a graceful, beautiful goddess in red and gold raiment, seated or standing upon a blooming lotus, her four arms holding lotuses while gold coins flow from one palm, symbolising an unceasing flow of wealth; she is often flanked by sacred elephants bathing her with water (the auspicious "Gaja-Lakshmi" form). Common offerings include flowers, sweet treats and cosmetics.
Wearing and Collecting
Phra Mae Lakshmi amulets and images are a beautiful and auspicious category of Thai wealth-drawing sacred objects, signifying the drawing of wealth and blessings, beauty and charm, and fulfilment in love, and are best suited to those praying for wealth and a good life, worn on the person and honoured with a kind heart and diligent devotion.
