The eight incarnations of Ganesha

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Vakratunda

1.

Vakratunda

("twisting trunk"), first in the series, represents the

absolute as the aggregate of all bodies, an embodiment of the form of Brahman.

The purpose of this incarnation is to overcome the demon Matsaryasura (envy,

jealousy). His mount (vahana) is a lion.

Ekadanta

2.

Ekadanta ("single tusk") represents the

aggregate of all individual souls, an embodiment of the essential nature of

Brahman. the purpose of this incarnation is to overcome the demon Madasura

(arrogance, conceit). His mount is a mouse.

Mahodara

3.

Mahodara ("big belly") is a synthesis of both

Vakratunda and Ekadanta. It is the absolute as it enters into the creative

process. It is an embodiment of the wisdom of Brahman. The purpose of this incarnation

is to overcome the demon Mohasura (delusion, confusion). His mount is a mouse.

Gajavaktra

4.

Gajavaktra (or Gajanana) ("elephant face") is

a counterpart to Mahodara. The purpose of this incarnation is to overcome the

demon Lobhasura (greed). His mount is a mouse.

Lambodara

5.

Lambodara ("pendulous belly") is the first of

four incarnations that correspond to the stage where the Puranic gods are

created. Lambodara corresponds to ´Sakti, the pure power of Brahman. The purpose

of this incarnation is to overcome the demon Krodhasura (anger). His mount is a

mouse.

Vikata

6.

Vikata (Vikata) ("unusual form",

"misshapen") corresponds to Surya. He is an embodiment of the

illuminating nature of Brahman. The purpose of this incarnation is to overcome

the demon Kamasura (lust). His mount is a peacock.

Vighnaraja

7.

Vighnaraja (Vighnaraja) ("king of

obstacles"), corresponds to Vishnu. He is an embodiment of the preserving

nature of Brahman. The purpose of this incarnation is to overcome the demon

Mamasura (possessiveness). His mount is the celestial serpent ´Sesha.

Dhumravarna

8. Dhumravarna

(Dhumravarna) ("grey color") corresponds to ´Siva. He is an embodiment

of the destructive nature of Brahman. The purpose of this incarnation is to

overcome the demon Abhimanasura (pride, attachment). His mount is a horse.

 

See Ashtavinayaka:

http://vinayakaperumal.blogspot.com/