The Symbolism Behind Lord Ganesha
Decorative symbols and figures are used to represent the special powers of important leaders. Lord Ganesha, often shown with a red and yellow flower, is linked to the hand gesture of explanation. Elephants everywhere symbolize strength, wisdom, and dignity. They were so respected that in ancient times, they were even used to choose new kings! In the past, the strength of an army was measured by its elephants. The largest recorded group had 5,000 elephants and belonged to a king named Rajaraja Chola. White elephants were seen as especially pure, and their birth was believed to bring good times to the whole country. There are many stories about visions of white elephants, including one seen by the mother of a famous prince before his birth. Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, is a beloved figure in Hinduism, and his form is packed with symbolism. Symbols of Ganesha: Red and yellow flowers, vitarka mudra (hand gesture) - associated with Ganesha. Elephants i...