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Consort of Vishnu and goddess of wealth, including a wealth of proper values and spiritual goodness. With each avatar of Vishnu, Lakshmi assumes a different role and name; however, she always represents the Shakti or power that is represented in each avatar. Lakshmi usually stands or sits on a lotus, which is a symbol of knowledge, and connects back to wealth. To acquire wealth, we must first acquire knowledge. Her palm held downward represents a gesture of giving.
Figure 19
Lakshmi

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Seventh avatar of Vishnu. Represents the importance of detachment from earthly desires. Sent to earth as the son of a king, Rama's duty was to destroy the evil embodied in Ravana, a powerful rival king. Determined to fulfill his dharma, he is also recognized as a symbol of goodness and the embodiment of the ideal man. Wears a string of perfect jewels that signify his perfect attributes. Carries a bow and arrows to conquer challenges within him and in the external world.
Figure 20
Rama

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Eighth avatar of Vishnu. Krishna's name means dark, and he symbolizes the emergence of truth out of darkness and the resulting state of bliss. The music of his flute represents the ecstasy that comes with self-realization. Krishna is often depicted in a pose of contentment to signify the consummate joy that comes with the realization of the Truth.
Figure 21
Krishna

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The monkey-god who represents wisdom, strength, and devotion to dharma. When Rama asked Hanuman to find medicinal herbs in the Himalayas, the monkey-god brought back an entire mountain. Usually carries a huge mace or club to destroy evil. Often, one hand is held palm upward in a gesture that offers spiritual blessings.
Figure 22
Hanuman

 
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