PARAKUNNATH SREE VETTAKKORUMAKAN PAYYAN KSHETHRAM (TEMPLE), AROLI, KANNUR, KERALA: Cute Ganesha, the Remover of Obstacles, is rich in symbolism used as spiritual guides.

Saturday 30 December 2017

Cute Ganesha, the Remover of Obstacles, is rich in symbolism used as spiritual guides.

Cute Ganesha, the Remover of Obstacles, is rich in symbolism used as spiritual guides. Each symbol associated with him is viewed as a reminder to manifest the powers held within us. Ganesha, a much-beloved and worshiped deity, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati, is also known as the God of wisdom, prosperity and auspiciousness.

Lord Ganesh is sometimes displayed dancing or playing a musical instrument, such as a flute. A flute is usually a instrument played by Lord Krishna. Ganesha, like Krishna affirms life by celebrating in its wonders, music being one of these.

He is accompanied by or riding a rat (mouse) ; a symbol of all-pervasiveness. The rat can be interpreted as under Ganesh’s control, which is symbolic of a spiritual pursuit to attain self-realization and grace.

Even the position of Lord Ganesh’s trunk has significance and special meaning. If the idol trunk turns left, it signifies blessings of wealth, success and pleasure. To his right, the trunk represents moksha-related benefits – understanding that all pleasures on earth are momentary and to take the path of achieving bliss. His cracked tusk held in the right hand was broken off with purpose to use as a writing tool for the Mahabharata Epic. This is seen as a symbol of sacrifice, strength and demonstrates that we must finish what we start.

Goads are symbolic of how one should steer the soul away from the ignorance and illusions of this earth, just as man would steer an elephant away from a treacherous path. Modaka, bowl of sweets, exemplifies Ganesh’s love of sweets and the symbol He loves most – moksha, or liberation. The axe is a tool used to destroy ignorance in the world. The noose illustrates the notion to draw loved-ones close, but also remind us to encircle and save strayed ones in extraordinary ways. Lord Ganesh and his symbols bestow life lessons to help steady the mind and evolve with spiritual, positive progression.!