Lakshmi is the Hindu goddess of wealth, prosperity and fortune and is the consort of Vishnu, the Supreme Being in Vaishnavism. According to the scriptures, Lakshmi was born from the churning of the ocean and she chose Vishnu as her eternal consort. Lakshmi is considered the epitome of generosity and is shown typically either standing or seated on a lotus, which itself is considered a symbolism of fortune. Her four hands signify the four goals in Hindu life: dharma, kama, moksha and artha.