“Shri Suktam” is a revered hymn from the Rigveda, a sacred ancient scripture in Hinduism. It is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance. The hymn extols the glory and virtues of Goddess Lakshmi and seeks her blessings for wealth, prosperity, and well-being.

Mantra: The full “Shri Suktam” is relatively lengthy, consisting of 15 verses. Below is a partial excerpt from the hymn:

“Om Hiranya-Varnam Harinim Suvarna-Rajata-Srajaam Chandram Hiranmayim Lakshmim Jatavedo Ma Avaha”

Meaning:

• Om: It is a sacred syllable, representing the ultimate reality, the source of all creation, and the cosmic sound of the universe.
• Hiranya-Varnam: “Golden-hued” or “radiant like gold.”
• Harinim: “The one who is like a deer” or “graceful and attractive.”
• Suvarna-Rajata-Srajaam: “Adorned with gold and silver garlands.”
• Chandram Hiranmayim: “Glowing like the golden moon.”
• Lakshmim: Refers to Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of wealth, prosperity, and beauty.
• Jatavedo: “The knower of all things” or “the all-knowing.”
• Ma Avaha: “Do not withhold” or “do not keep away.” This line is an invocation, calling upon the all-knowing deity to invoke Goddess Lakshmi.

Significance: The “Shri Suktam” holds profound spiritual and philosophical significance:

1. Invocation of Goddess Lakshmi: The hymn serves as an invocation to Goddess Lakshmi, seeking her blessings and grace for wealth, prosperity, and well-being.
2. Praises to the Divine: The verses glorify Goddess Lakshmi as the radiant and auspicious deity, adorned with celestial beauty and adorned with precious jewels.
3. Symbolism of Wealth: The hymn symbolizes wealth not just in terms of material possessions but also as spiritual abundance, prosperity, and auspiciousness.
4. Prayer for Divine Guidance: It is a prayer for guidance from the divine, asking for Goddess Lakshmi’s presence and blessings in one’s life journey.
5. Cultivation of Virtues: The “Shri Suktam” encourages the cultivation of noble virtues, such as gratitude, humility, and contentment, as a means to attract divine blessings.
6. Spiritual Aspiration: The hymn conveys the spiritual aspiration for inner wealth, including wisdom, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment.