Polytheistic?
No - each God/deity is one aspect or characteristic of Brahman. As Brahman is impossible to describe; having so many Gods helps Hindus understand part of the nature of Brahaman.
Avatars of Vishnu
There have been nine avatars of Vishnu to help with different world events. The tenth avatar is yet to come and Hindus believe this incarnation will recreate the world.
Ganesh
The Goddess Pavarti created a son to guard her home.
Pavarti’s husband, the God Shiva, came home and tried to get past Ganesh, who wouldn’t let him.
Shiva cut off Ganesh’s head.
Pavarti told Shiva to go and fetch the head of the first animal he saw in the forest, to replace Ganesh’s head.
The first animal Shiva saw was an elephant, which is why Ganesh has an elephant’s head.
Significance of the Elephant
Big Head = Think Big
Large ears = listen better
Small eyes - Increase concentration
Large stomach - Digest all good and bad in life
Small mouth - Talk less
Get this resource as part of a bundle and save up to 20%
A bundle is a package of resources grouped together to teach a particular topic, or a series of lessons, in one place.
Something went wrong, please try again later.
This resource hasn't been reviewed yet
To ensure quality for our reviews, only customers who have purchased this resource can review it
Report this resourceto let us know if it violates our terms and conditions.
Our customer service team will review your report and will be in touch.
£3.00