All deities are extremely representational, with their various markings, colours, faces and objects surrounding them holding deep significance and sometimes abstract meaning. As Ganesh is all about protection and power, much of his symbolism is related to safeguarding us from life’s physical and subtle obstacles.
His elephantine head: The elephant is a symbol of strength and power, and is an animal native to India. Whilst many wild elephants are not dangerous, the ones that are found alone in the wild are extremely dangerous and often destructive. In this way, we can understand that there is a somewhat fearful yet respectful relationship with elephants in some parts of the world, and whilst they often come across as gentle and calm, they have the potential to wreak havoc if they’re treated badly.
His large ears: Show that he listens to those who ask for help from him, with the largeness of them representing his ability to listen to many people.
His large head: Symbolises his intelligence and thinking ability – as the patron saint of letter writing, it helps to have a big brain!
His small mouth: Indicates that he listens more and talks less
His one broken tusk: Represents retaining the good but throwing away the bad that we do not need.
His small eyes: Are for concentrating and one-pointed focus.His large stomach: Shows that he is able to consume and digest all the good and bad in life
In Ganesh’s four hands, he holds various objects, as do many deities. These objects are particularly important for symbolising how each deity can help us progress throughout life.
In one hand he holds a rope, which represents Ganesh’s ability to help pull us up towards our ultimate goal of realisation and liberation. Another hand holds an axe, to cut all attachments with the impermanent and material world we continually grasp for. In his third hand, he holds a bowl full of sweets, which represent rewards for spiritual development. His fourth hand is often shown in a mudra, with the most common depiction of him showing the blessing mudra, which looks almost identical to the Abhaya or ‘fearless’ mudra. This hand gesture is taken by many deities, as a way of blessing those who worship them.🙏🏻
🌺MAY LORD GANESHA BLESS YOU & SHOWER HIS CHOICEST BLESSINGS ON YOU🌺
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