Ganesha's elephant head represents wisdom, understanding, and the ability to overcome obstacles, embodying both intellect and effortlessness in life.
He is widely revered as the remover of obstacles and is worshipped at the beginning of new ventures for success and good fortune.
Ganesha was created by Parvati from clay or dirt to guard her; when Shiva inadvertently beheaded him, he was given an elephant's head as a replacement.
His four arms symbolize the four inner attributes of the subtle body: mind, intellect, ego, and conditioned conscience.
Ganesha's large belly signifies his ability to digest all experiences—both good and bad—with acceptance and calmness.
His vehicle, a mouse, symbolizes the ego and desires that must be controlled; it also represents humility and accessibility to all beings.
Ganesha is the patron deity of intellectuals, writers, and artists, often invoked during creative endeavors for inspiration and guidance.