The Elephant headed God, (the son of Shiva and Paravati) is one I feel a deep connection with. One of the most beloved gods in Hinduism. Also known as Vinayaka which literally means remover of obstacles. Ganesha is also known as the God of wisdom and prosperity and blesses new beginnings. Ganesha is a deity who represents intellect and learning. He is often depicted with an elephant head and a huge belly. The elephant head symbolizes wisdom, while the huge belly symbolizes the created universe.

Ganesha is often depicted with four arms. In one hand he holds a lotus, which symbolizes enlightenment and overcoming adversity. In another hand he holds a tray of sweets, which represents his love of food.

The Elephant headed God, (the son of Shiva and Paravati) is one I feel a deep connection with. One of the most beloved gods in Hinduism. Also known as Vinayaka which literally means remover of obstacles. Ganesha is also known as the God of wisdom and prosperity and blesses new beginnings. Ganesha is a deity who represents intellect and learning. He is often depicted with an elephant head and a huge belly. The elephant head symbolizes wisdom, while the huge belly symbolizes the created universe.

Ganesha is often depicted with four arms. In one hand he holds a lotus, which symbolizes enlightenment and overcoming adversity. In another hand he holds a tray of sweets, which represents his love of food.

His various attributes, such as his four arms, snake around his belly, and the mouse or rat at his feet, all carry symbolic meanings. One arm often holds an axe, to detach from attachments, another holds a rope to pull towards spiritual goals, yet another holds a sweet as a reward for spiritual piety and a fourth arm is outstretched in a gesture of blessings.

Ganesha is often depicted riding a mouse or rat, which symbolizes the wandering mind that can be controlled through knowledge. His round belly can be interpreted as the cosmos, while the snake around his waist is the energy that holds it together.