In Hindu tradition, Kuber is the treasurer of wealth and he
distributes it among people. A story in the scriptures indicates that Kubera got the opportunity to be the treasurer of wealth due to the blessing of Shiva.
In his previous birth Kuber was a known as Gunnidhi. He used to perform all his
duties – both religious and family – exceedingly well.
But due to bad friendship, Gunnidhi started losing interest
in his duties. He started squandering the wealth of his father. His mother who
knew about the change of character of her did not inform the father.
Soon Gunnidhi lost all his wealth. Fearing the anger of his
father, Gunnidhi ran away to the forest. After walking deep into the forest, he came
across as Shiva Temple
Gunnidhi had not eaten any food on the day and he was
thirsty and hungry. He was happy to see the puja offerings in the temple.
He decided to steal the food offerings after people fell
asleep. He waited patiently and indulged in performing prayers. When other
devotees fell asleep, Gunnidhi lighted a lamp using a cloth. He then collected
the food offerings needed to suffice his hunger. When he was about to leave the
temple, he stamped on a person sleeping.
He woke up and alerted the guards. Gunnidhi ran into the
forest but an arrow shot by a guard hit is head and he died immediately.
Men of Yama (god of death) arrived to carry Gunnidhi away.
But Shiv Ganas arrived there on the order of Shiva and forcibly took away
Gunnidhi to Shivlok.
Shiva was pleased with Gunnidhi as he had kept fast for the
entire day. He kept vigil at night. He also chanted the mantras while sitting
in the temple. At night he also lighted a lamp of cloth.
He blessed Gunnidhi with Shiv Tatva and gave to
boon to be born as Kuber in his next birth.