Ganesha – A Supreme Hindu God

Known as the remover of obstacles and the offspring of Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and his consort the goddess Parvathi. Several myths detail his birth and acquisition of the elephant head. These myths vary by region, tradition, and sect. Ganesha is one of the best-known and most worshipped deities in the Hindu pantheon and is the Supreme God in the Ganapatya sect. His depictions are found throughout India.

 

Also known as Ganapati, is revered for his distinct physical features and symbolic attributes, which represent various aspects of life and spirituality. Here’s a summary of his basic properties and the benefits of worshiping Ganesha:

Basic Properties of Ganesha: Elephant Head: Symbolizes wisdom, intellect, and the ability to think big. The large ears represent the importance of listening, while the small mouth signifies speaking less. Large Belly: Represents abundance, contentment, and the ability to digest both good and bad experiences in life. One Broken Tusk (Ekadanta): Represents the ability to retain the good while discarding the bad. It also symbolizes sacrifice, as Ganesha is said to have broken his tusk to write the Mahabharata. Four Arms: Each hand holds an object with different meanings: Lotus (Padma): Signifies enlightenment and purity. Axe (Parashu): Represents the removal of obstacles and detachment from material desires. Modak (Sweet): Symbolizes the rewards of spiritual knowledge and hard work. Broken Tusk or Trident: Emphasizes that sacrifice and resilience are part of life’s journey. Mouse (Mushika): His vehicle symbolizes the ability to overcome desires, the ego, and navigate through difficulties, despite their size.

Benefits of Worshiping Ganesha: Remover of Obstacles (Vighnaharta): Ganesha is worshiped to remove both physical and spiritual obstacles in life. He is the preserver of esoteric knowledge. He is also worshiped as an astrological deity of destiny, karma, and intellectual thought. Whether it’s starting a new business, undertaking a journey, or beginning a spiritual practice, Ganesha clears the path for success. Success in New Beginnings: Ganesha is the God of Beginnings. Invoking him before starting any new venture ensures auspiciousness and a smooth journey. Wealth and Prosperity: Ganesha’s large belly and abundance imagery signify prosperity, good fortune, and material success. Worshiping him is believed to attract financial stability and blessings in personal and professional life. Spiritual Growth and Protection: Worshiping Ganesha helps in spiritual growth. His attributes symbolize the ability to transcend ego, control desires, and focus on higher consciousness. He also protects devotees from negative influences and harmful energies.

Good Fortune and Happiness: Ganesha is often worshiped for general well-being, happiness, and harmony in family life. His presence is believed to bring peace and balance into the household.

Bestower of Wisdom and Knowledge: Devotees seek Ganesha’s blessings to gain wisdom, intellect, and understanding. He is the patron deity of students, writers, and scholars who pray to him for success in learning and education. Creativity and Artistic Expression: As a patron of arts and sciences, Ganesha is worshiped by artists, musicians, and writers to gain creative inspiration and success in their endeavors.

In summary, worshiping and honoring Ganesha and having one on your altar it is believed to bring wisdom, prosperity, success, creativity, and spiritual growth, while also helping to remove obstacles and ensure auspicious beginnings in all aspects of life.

We have a few beautiful statues to choose from at our shoppes.