Dear Seeker,
In Vedic Astrology, the planet Venus (Shukra) is often associated with the deity Goddess Lakshmi. The word ‘Lakshmi’ comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Laksha’, which means to perceive, it also means ‘aim’ or ‘goal’. Lakshmi is the Goddess who enables the achievement of a goal through astute perception. She is also, therefore, connected with the overarching goals or the purusharthas of life as outlined in Vedic wisdom – Dharma (cosmic law, natural law), Artha (wealth), Kama (desire) and Moksha (liberation). The astrological chart reflects these goals, and a predominance towards one or more of them can make one person’s life purpose seem at variance with another’s. Ultimately, we all yearn for peace, for well-being, for delight and ‘sukha’ – that state of bliss or happiness, which often seems elusive when viewed only as a product of the outer world experience.
Venus is often visible as one of the brightest stars in the late evening or early morning sky. Goddess Lakshmi is the giver of wealth, beauty and abundance, and these qualities have traditionally been associated with Venus in all cultures. She that shines in the sky also shines within our hearts and minds as love, devotion and the refinement of expression. From her is the light of the Great Goddess that shines through life itself, and how abundantly she has given to our world, and continues to give.
Fridays are the days of the Goddess in general, especially Venus. Any sadhana or spiritual practice connected with awakening the divine feminine energies within our life experience is best done on Fridays, if you must pick just one day of the week for it.
When you look at the form of Lakshmi (see above), notice how there is constant movement depicted by the falling coins. She stands on a lotus, which represents the flowering of life energy, and is also indicative of an innate resilience yet a fragility that teaches detachment and the acceptance of impermanence. Abundance and life energy are constantly moving, never stagnating, never remaining in one place for all times.
May we always receive the gifts of Lakshmi with gratitude, and remember that to give in whatever way our abilities permit is to align with the natural law of sharing and collective nourishment. Lakshmi calls us to a celebration of life, and this joy is multiplied manifold when it is also shared with other beings and life forms. Notice the happiness on the faces of the elephants beside Lakshmi – it is representative of how full the heart feels when it finds compassionate connection with another heart.
With Love and Peace,
Sai Ganesh Nagpal
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