Significance of Lord Ganesha
Lord Ganesha is a significant deity in Hinduism known for his role as the remover of obstacles. According to various texts, including the Arthashastra and Puranas, he is portrayed as the son of Lord Shiva, revered for his elephant-like face and associated with specific rituals and mantras. Lord Ganesha is worshipped during important ceremonies, such as naming ceremonies and the initiation of auspicious activities. His guidance is sought in multiple contexts, including spiritual and cultural practices.
Synonyms: Ganapati, Vinayaka, Gajanana, Pillaiyar, Remover of obstacles, Elephant god, Ekadanta, Lambodara
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Lord Ganesha'
Lord Ganesha in Hinduism is a revered deity associated with the removal of obstacles, worshipped before auspicious activities, and embodied as the elephant-faced son of Shiva, who provides guidance and blessings.
From: Shiva Purana
(1) The deity worshipped in the initial part of the Avarana, revered as the remover of obstacles.[1] (2) The elephant-faced god who must be revered for Shiva to successfully defeat the Tripuras.[2]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A deity meditated upon as the great Lord and son of Maheshana (Shiva), who is free from ailments and has a face resembling an elephant.[3]
From: Agni Purana
(1) A deity whose specific mantras are 'am, gam'.[4]
From: Bhishma Charitra
(1) A Hindu deity worshipped by king Shantanu during the naming ceremony of his son, indicating a cultural and religious context.[5] (2) A revered deity in Hinduism, whose worship is performed before any auspicious activity, including the teaching of archery.[6] (3) A deity known for removing obstacles and providing guidance.[7]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) The son of Lord Shiva who dances along with him to the rhythm of the drum.[8]
From: Nitiprakasika (Critical Analysis)
(1) A deity to whom the author pays obeisance at the beginning of the work.[9]
The concept of Lord Ganesha in scientific sources
Lord Ganesha, a prominent Hindu deity, is noted for aiding Maharshi Bhrigu in the creation of horoscopes in the Bhrigu Samhita, emphasizing his role in knowledge and wisdom related to astrology.
From: International Ayurvedic Medical Journal
(1) A deity in Hinduism who assisted Maharshi Bhrigu in compiling the horoscopes detailed in the Bhrigu Samhita.[10]