Meaning
Shri Sukta is a hymn from the Rigveda in praise of Goddess Lakshmi. It requests Agni (Jatavedas) to bring Lakshmi. Lakshmi is described as golden-hued, cool like the moon, golden, seated on a lotus, and the sovereign of all beings. The hymn prays for the destruction of Alakshmi (poverty, inauspiciousness) and the attainment of fame, prosperity, wealth, cattle, and grains. The mention of the Bilva tree is significant.
Benefits
Regular recitation of Shri Sukta bestows wealth, grains, fame, and accomplishments. It destroys poverty, hunger, thirst, and inauspiciousness. Alakshmi (misfortune) leaves the home. Recitation on Fridays, Diwali, and with homa is especially fruitful. Those seeking prosperity (Shri-kama) should chant this Sukta regularly.