Ganesh!

The Ganesh murti that I won from WoYoPracMo, arrived today! How exciting and how beautiful! I love it! It is carved from wood and sealed. Very detailed and beautiful. I have always had a great interest in Hindu deities, and this has prompted me to learn a little more about Ganesh. My new Ganesh is living happily in the temple.

"Revered as the Remover of Obstacles, Ganesh is one of India’s most beloved Hindu Gods.
Ganesh has been a ubiquitous presence in Indian art, philosophy and ritual for many millennia. Now, interest in Ganesh’s symbolism and meaning have taken root outside of India. Ganesh’s image, with an elephant head and a human body, is easily recognizable to many Westerners. However, few outside of the Hindu religion are familiar with what he represents or the traditions associated with him.
For the world’s one billion Hindus, Ganesh is a powerful and majestic deity, said to bring good fortune when launching new endeavors. He is also considered a patron-deity of the arts and the Lord of beginnings. The iconography and history of Ganesh go far beyond his link with good fortune. The imagery associated with Ganesh offers a spiritual map of sorts, his every feature rich with meaning both practical and esoteric."

To learn more about Ganesh, check out this website.