Symbolism behind lord Ganesh
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According to Hindu mythology, the story behind Lord Ganesh's elephant head is associated with his birth and parentage. The commonly accepted narrative is as follows:
Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva, desired a child. In Shiva's absence, she decided to create a son on her own. Parvati molded a statue out of clay and brought it to life, giving it the form of a young boy. She then assigned this boy the duty of guarding her privacy while she bathed.
Meanwhile, Lord Shiva returned and tried to enter the house. The boy, unaware of Shiva's identity, blocked his path and refused to allow him inside. This enraged Shiva, and in his fury, he beheaded the boy with his trident.
When Parvati saw what had happened, she was filled with grief and anger. She demanded that Shiva bring the boy back to life. Realizing his mistake, Shiva instructed his followers (ganas) to bring the head of the first living being they came across.
The ganas soon returned with the head of an elephant, and Shiva placed it on the boy's body, bringing him back to life. To appease Parvati, Shiva declared that the boy, now known as Ganesh, would be worshipped before all other gods and would be given the status of a deity. He also blessed Ganesh, bestowing upon him wisdom, intellect, and the power to remove obstacles.
The elephant head is believed to symbolize several qualities and teachings. Elephants are known for their intelligence, strength, and longevity. Ganesh's elephant head represents the unity of wisdom, strength, and divine qualities. It also symbolizes the transcendence of ego and attachment to the physical form. The elephant's ability to grasp objects with its trunk further represents Ganesh's ability to overcome obstacles and gather knowledge.
While the story of Ganesh's elephant head varies slightly in different versions of Hindu mythology, the underlying symbolism remains consistent. It emphasizes the idea of divine intervention, the triumph over adversity, and the transformation of challenges into wisdom and strength.
Yogic Interpretation
Building upon the yogic symbolism associated with Lord Ganesh, based on the concepts of consciousness and the path to the supreme state or Brahman, we can interpret the various elements as follows:
Elephant Head: The elephant head symbolizes wisdom and intelligence. In yogic philosophy, wisdom is considered essential for realizing the true nature of reality and attaining spiritual enlightenment. The elephant's association with memory also represents the importance of cultivating a clear and retentive mind to deepen spiritual understanding.
One Tooth: The single tooth of Ganesh represents the breaking of attachment with the external world and moving from duality to singularity. Attachment to worldly desires and attachments can hinder spiritual progress. The one tooth signifies the need to transcend dualities, attachments, and cravings, leading to a state of detachment and inner freedom.
Trunk: The trunk of Ganesh carries multiple symbolisms. Firstly, it represents the power of Kundalini, the dormant spiritual energy coiled at the base of the spine. Ganesh's upward-facing trunk signifies the upward flow of this divine energy, indicating the ascent of consciousness towards higher states of awareness and ultimately towards the supreme state or Brahman. Ganesh's trunk is folded upside-down also represents the reversal of the natural flow of energy. In yogic terms, it signifies the redirection of Prana (life force) from external pursuits towards internal spiritual practices and the journey inward. It symbolizes the turning away from the external world and the redirecting of one's focus towards self-realization and spiritual evolution.
Mouse as Vehicle: Ganesh is often depicted riding a mouse. In yogic symbolism, the mouse represents the control of mind and the senses, which can be restless and easily distracted. By riding the mouse, Ganesh symbolizes the mastery over the mind and the ability to control and channelize one's thoughts and small desires. It signifies the inward movement of consciousness, turning away from external distractions and focusing on the inner journey.
Ganapati, also known as Ganesh, is believed to have two consorts or spouses named Buddhi (Intellect) and Siddhi (Achievement). This association signifies his role as the master of knowledge and achievement.
Buddhi represents intellectual prowess and wisdom. As Ganapati's spouse, Buddhi symbolizes the importance of intellect and discernment in navigating life's challenges. It highlights the significance of utilizing one's intellect to make wise decisions and gain a deeper understanding of the world.
Siddhi, on the other hand, represents accomplishment, success, and mastery. By being associated with Siddhi, Ganapati signifies his ability to bestow achievements and fulfill aspirations. Siddhi represents the realization of one's goals and the rewards that come from dedicated efforts and spiritual growth.
Together, the presence of Buddhi and Siddhi as Ganapati's consorts emphasizes his role as the bestower of knowledge, intelligence, and success. This portrayal depicts Ganapati as the embodiment of intellectual brilliance and the provider of achievements and accomplishments to his devotees.
In summary, when viewed through the lens of yogic consciousness, Lord Ganesh's symbolism represents the journey of transcending attachments and desires, cultivating wisdom and intelligence, awakening the dormant Kundalini energy, mastering the mind, and redirecting one's consciousness inward. It signifies the path towards the supreme state of oneness with Brahman through self-realization and spiritual growth.