In the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology and spirituality, one stands out in particular, with his distinctive elephant head, round potbelly and four arms – Lord Ganesha. Ganesha holds a special place in the hearts of millions around the world. Beyond his charming appearance, he encapsulates profound symbolism, lessons, and values that inspire and guide individuals on their spiritual journeys.
Ganesha is always a riot of colours, a Yes to life, written in bold and bright letters. A manifestation of strength and passion, the one who loves sweets and makes friends with a mouse. His vibrant and cheerful frame is an affirmation of the pleasures and beauty of life itself. Known as the God of Beginnings and the Remover of Obstacles he is called upon before any new chapter to bring about luck and happiness, ensuring obstacles are cleared.
We are excited to introduce pieces of our new ‘Embracing life’ collection that carry the life affirming energy and symbolism of Lord Ganesha.
‘Yes to life’ – Our new collection pieces stand for positivity and protection
Since Ananda Soul’s early days we have been working with Ganesha, the keeper of deep wisdom. This year we felt the call to re-introduce Ganesha in new forms and variations. Our ‘Yes to life’ pieces have been designed to call in good fortune, happiness and protection with Ganesha, who carries the wisdom of the Universe in the depth of his round belly.
Depicted on a beautifully shaped pendant the Elephant god is known as the keeper of the threshold who supports new beginnings, positive intentions and places or removes obstacles to show us that whatever is in the way is the way. His life-affirming energy evokes positivity, joy, and a zest for life, reminding us of life’s sweetness.
The back of the pendant is adorned with a beautiful floral mandala. The pendant is accompanied by a gemstone charm that resembles the petals of a lotus, combining Citrine, Moonstone, and Aquamarine and comes with a gold-plated long chain.
Who is Ganesha?
Lord Ganesha's origin story is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to the most popular myth, Ganesha was created by Goddess Parvati from her own body. The story goes that Parvati sculpted a figure out of turmeric paste and brought it to life, setting the stage for Ganesha's unique appearance. His elephant head signifies wisdom, his large ears symbolize the ability to listen attentively, his broken tusk denotes sacrifice, and his potbelly exemplifies the idea of embracing all that life has to offer.
Revered as "buddhipriya," or the husband of intelligence, Ganesha embodies intellect and deep wisdom, with his tilak-adorned forehead symbolizing the third eye and spiritual insight.
How did Ganesha get his Elephant head?
The story of how Lord Ganesha got his elephant head is a fascinating and symbolic tale in Hindu mythology.
Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva, wished to create a son who would be her companion and protector when Shiva was away in meditation. To fulfill her desire, Parvati decided to create a child. She fashioned a boy from the turmeric paste and oils she used for her bath and brought the figure to life. Parvati instructed her newly created son, whom she named Ganesha, to stand guard at the entrance of her abode while she took a bath. She gave Ganesha strict orders not to allow anyone to enter the premises. Meanwhile, Lord Shiva, who was away in deep meditation, returned to their abode. Unaware of Ganesha's existence and the orders given to him by Parvati, he attempted to enter.
Ganesha, following his mother's orders diligently, blocked Shiva's path and denied him entry. A confrontation ensued between Shiva and Ganesha. In some versions of the story, Shiva's anger flared, and he severed Ganesha's head in a fit of rage, causing Parvati great sorrow. In other versions, Shiva was more compassionate and only damaged Ganesha's head. Witnessing the grief of Parvati, Shiva realized the mistake and the importance of Ganesha. To make amends, he promised to give Ganesha a new life. The solution was to replace Ganesha's severed head with the head of the first living being that Shiva encountered, which happened to be an elephant. Ganesha was thus reborn with an elephant's head, becoming the unique deity that we know today.
What Ganesha represents in Bali
To understand the deeper meaning of Ganesha in Bali we spoke with our priest (who blesses our jewelry monthly) Pak Mangku about Lord Ganesha and what he represents in Bali.
Here are a few key points:
- In Hindu scriptures, Ganesha is the son of Shiva and Durga.
- He is often prayed to for safety and well-being.
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Ganesha symbolizes wisdom, prosperity, and knowledge. When seeking knowledge, Ganesha is paired with Saraswati; for prosperity, with Lakshmi; and for dissolution, with Durga and Shiva.
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Before worshipping the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva), Ganesha must be worshipped first.
- In Bali, Ganesha is worshipped in sacred places known as Trikahyangan, dedicated to Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu.
- The placement of Ganesha statues varies depending on their purpose; ideally, they should be placed in holy sites, but some people place them in courtyards or at entrances. However, the preferred location is in a sacred space.
- Because Ganesha had his head severed and replaced with an elephant head Ganesha was bestowed the honor of being worshipped before any of the three main gods—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—making him an indispensable guardian of thresholds.
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Previously, Ganesha shrines were rare and usually found only in specific temples. However, people have increasingly understood the importance of worshipping Ganesha first, leading to the construction of more shrines dedicated to him. These shrines should be built with care and reverence, in family temples or sacred places.
How Ganesha is worshipped in Bali
Daily offerings to Ganesha can be simple and based on one's capacity. In temples, however, specific rituals are conducted, and worshippers need only perform prayers. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; even a small offering like a canang (a simple Balinese offering) suffices.
A sacred statue of Ganesha must be purified before being worship. Five elements are used in this purification: palm sugar, honey, ghee (clarified butter), yogurt, and milk, symbolically cleansing the deity before prayer.
There is only one Ganesha. When placed in a sacred space, he is worshipped as the god Ganesha, from whom people seek protection, well-being, and health. However, in times of turmoil, disaster, or illness, ceremonies are held at the entrance of the house where Ganesha is revered as Ganapati, asking for protection from danger.
According to Pak Mangku, there are specific mantras for worshipping Ganesha, but these are not for everyone to recite. During major ceremonies, only competent Hindu priests can chant these prayers. In daily life, people can pray in their own language, using the Gayatri mantra for Ganesha. However, the Gayatri mantra should only be recited by priests.
In Hindu practice, special prayers from the Vedas cannot be uttered by just anyone; one must undergo purification first. However, Hindus are free to offer daily prayers in their own language.
A friend for all journeys
Whichever journey you find yourself embarking on or maybe even in the middle of, Ganesha is a good friend to call upon. Whether you sit with the feeling with not knowing what will happen next, or find your heart filled with a vague fear as you start a new endeavour, Ganesha instils calm and soothing vibrations to tide over the uneasiness. Whenever something new begins, trust that he is here to lead the way.
To wear jewelry with symbols from Ananda Soul brings one closer to Ganesha with the wearer receiving their blessings.
