Overview
Ganesha (Sanskrit: गणेश, IAST: Gaṇeśa), also known as Ganapati, Vinayaka and Pillaiyar, is one of the most widely revered deities in the Hindu pantheon. He is identified by his elephant head and four arms, and is honoured as the remover of obstacles, the bringer of good luck, the patron of arts and sciences, and the deva of logic, intellect and wisdom. As the god of beginnings, he is invoked at the start of rites and ceremonies, and he holds the title of Pratham Pujya, the deity worshipped before any other.
Key facts
| Name | Ganesha / Ganesh |
|---|---|
| Sanskrit | गणेश (IAST: Gaṇeśa) |
| Other names | Ganapati, Vinayaka, Pillaiyar |
| Affiliation | Hindu deity; Supreme god in the Ganapatya sect |
| Parents | Parvati and Shiva (per Hindu texts) |
| Iconography | Elephant head, four arms |
| Domains | Beginnings, obstacles, wisdom, arts, sciences, learning |
| Title | Pratham Pujya (first to be worshipped) |
| Principal texts | Ganesha Purana, Mudgala Purana, Ganapati Atharvasirsha |
Background
According to Hindu tradition, Ganesha is the son of Parvati and Shiva, placing him within the Shaivism tradition, although he is a pan-Hindu deity worshipped across denominations regardless of sectarian affiliation. In the Ganapatya tradition, Ganesha is regarded as the Supreme Being, and is also considered the incarnation of Mahaganapati, a superior form of the deity. Devotion to Ganesha extends beyond Hinduism to Jains and Buddhists, and his worship is found beyond India.
Iconography and attributes
Although Ganesha is described with many attributes in tradition, he is readily identified by his elephant head and four arms. His depictions are found throughout India in temples, shrines and household worship. He is invoked during writing sessions as a patron of letters and learning.
Historical references
Ganesha is mentioned in Hindu texts dated between the 1st century BCE and the 2nd century CE. A few sculpted images of Ganesha from the 4th and 5th centuries CE have been documented by scholars.
Principal texts
- Ganesha Purana
- Mudgala Purana
- Ganapati Atharvasirsha
Several texts also relate anecdotes associated with his birth and exploits.
Significance
Ganesha's role as the remover of obstacles and the deity of beginnings makes his worship customary at the commencement of religious ceremonies, journeys, undertakings and scholarly endeavours. As the patron of arts, sciences and learning, he occupies a central place in cultural and educational life across Hindu communities.
Related topics
References
- Source: English Wikipedia — Ganesha
- Wikidata item: Q1579