GANESHA CHATURTHI – EXTRACTS FROM THE DIVINE DISCOURSES

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GANESHA CHATURTHI – EXTRACTS FROM THE DIVINE DISCOURSES OF BHAGAWAN SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

Compiled and Edited by Suresh C Bhatnagar

Purpose Of Ganesha Chaturthi

"The essential purpose of the Vinayaka Chaturthi is to teach a person to avoid

the company of the bad and cultivate the company of the good." Sai Baba. SS,

9/92, p. 221

"The Ganapathi festival is an occasion for people to purify their minds. People

generally tend to see in others the faults, which they themselves have. Thereby

they try to cover up their own defects by attributing the same defects to

others. This is a bad quality." Sai Baba, SS. 9/92, p. 222

Vedic References Of Ganesha/Vinayaka

"The worship of Vinayaka has been in existence from times immemorial in Bharat

The Rig-Veda, the Narayanopanishad and the Taitiriya Upanishad have passages

referring to Vinayaka. It is embedded also in a Gayathri Mantra, as follows:

'Tatpurshaaya Vidmahe

Vakratundaaya dheemahi

Tanno Danti Prachodyat'

This Mantra indicates that Vinayaka' s divinity is glorified in this Gayathri

Mantra." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. '254

"The adoration of Parvati and Ganapathi is not of recent origin. Ganapathi is

lauded at several places in the Rig-Veda. This clearly shows that Ganapathi is

as ancient as the Vedas. In several places, Ganapathi is mentioned both in the

Vedas and the Upanishads. There are many prayers addressed in the

Narayanopanishad. There are prayers to him in the Taitiriya Upanishad also.

Thus, Ganapathi Mantra also figures in the Upanishad." Sai Baba, SS. 9/97, pp.

235 & 236

"Parvati Tanayaa Ganaadhipa" (Oh son of Parvati! Lord of the Ganas.). "In these

terms the Vedas extolled Ganapathi." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 253

Birthday Of Ganesha "

"You are under the false impression that today (Ganesha Chaturthi) is the

birthday of Vinayaka. He has neither birth nor death. He has neither beginning

nor end. He is the eternal witness." Sai Baba, SS, 10/99, p. 267

Who Is Ganapathi Or Ganesha?

"Try to understand the significance of the names Ganapathi - Vinayaka and

Vigneshwara. You are Ganapathi yourself. This morning, you have all heard

Susheela singing a song, 'Adugaduguna Gudi Undhi' (there is a temple at each

and every step). Our body itself is a temple of God. "Deho Devalaya Prokto

Jeevo Deva Sanathana' (body is the temple and the indweller is God). The

Jeevana-jyoti (light of life) that is present in the body is Parama-jyoti (the

Supreme Light itself). The body may die, but not the mind. Such a mind has to

be controlled. That is true Sadhana.Who is Ganapathi? He is the Adhipati

(master) of all Ganas - five senses, five elements and five sheaths. Human body

consists of five Koshas (sheaths) - Annamaya Kosha (food sheath) Pranamaya Kosha

(life sheath), Manomaya Kosha (mind sheath), Vijnanamaya Kosha (wisdom sheath)

and Anandamaya Kosha (bliss sheath). Man progresses only

up to Manomaya Kosha. He is unable to go up to the sheaths of wisdom and bliss.

Since Ganapathi is the master of all the five Koshas, one has to take refuge in

him in order reach the state of bliss." Sai Baba, SS, 10, 99, p. 266

Ganesha's Different Names And Their Meanings

Aprameya

"Ganapathi has been described as 'Aprameya', transcendent and all-encompassing."

Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 239

Arka-Dron-Priya

"One of the names of Vinayaka is' Arkadronpriya' (One who loves thumini and

jilledi flowers, flowers which are not valued by people). Other offerings to

Vinayaka include a special kind of grass. Ganapathi accepts as offerings many

things which men consider useless and trivial." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 237

Ekadanta

"When Vinayaka was writing the Mahabharata to the dictation of sage Vyasa, the

latter laid down the condition that Vinayaka should go on writing non-stop

whatever Vyasa said. But Vinayaka also stipulated a condition that Vyasa should

never stop his dictation but should go on without a break. While he was writing,

Vinayaka's pen broke and he did not hesitate to break one of his tusks to use it

as a pen. That is why he is called Ekadanta or with a single tusk. This is the

shining example of the spirit of sacrifice that Vinayaka exhibited for the

welfare of humanity." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p. 266

Ganapathi

"Ga means Buddhi or intelligence. 'Na' means Vijnana or wisdom. 'Pati' means

master. So, Ganapathi is the master of all knowledge, intelligence and wisdom.

There is also another significant meaning for the word, that he is the leader

of all the 'Ganas' who are celestial beings." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, 263 & 264.

Refer also to SS, 10/96, p. 274

"To worship the intellect and wisdom is one form of worship of Ganapathi.

Ganapathi represents the combination of much energy. Because of this, the name

Ganapathi is appropriate for him. Nor is that all. He is the Lord of all

celestial hosts (Ganas). Hence, he is hailed as Ganapathi." Sai Baba, SS,

10/98, p. 254

Ganaadhipati

"Parvati Tanayaa(son) Ganaadhipa! (Oh son of Parvati! Lord of the Ganas). In

these terms the Vedas extolled Ganapathi. He (Ganesha) is called Ganaadhipati

(Gana+adhipati = Supreme Lord), because he is the Supreme Lord of the Ganas.

The Ganas are the embodiment of the organs of perceptions (Janaanedriyas) and

of action (Karmendriyas). The mind is the master of these ten senses. The

presiding deity of the mind is called Indra, as he is the Lord of Indriyas (the

senses). The master over the mind is the intellect." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, pp.

253 & 254

"In the name 'Ganapathi', 'G' stands for Guna or virtue and 'Na' for Vijnaana

(wisdom). When 'Ga' and 'Na' are joined, we have the combination of Vijnaana

(scientific knowledge) and Prajnaana (spiritual wisdom). It is out of the

combination of Vijnaana and Prajnaana, Sujnaana (Supreme Knowledge) emerges.

Sujnaana is the distinguishing mark of a true man.*Ajnaana is the sign of

ignorance. Ganapathi is the Lord of Vijnaana and Prajnaana (worldly knowledge

and spiritual wisdom). Therefore, when a devotee prays to Ganesha, he asks for

the conferment of Vijnaana, Prajnaana and Sujnaana." Sai Baba, SS, 12/92, p.

224

"Ganapathi means the Lord of Ganas. He is the Lord of sound and has the form of

Pranava." Sai Baba, SS, 10/89, p. 263

Lambodara

"Lambodara means Guardian of Wealth (Lakshimi-Swaroopa). Here Lakshmi represents

all (types of) wealth and prosperity, and not only Dhana (money) for which there

is a separate deity called Dhana-Lakshami, one of the eight Lakshamis. Here

wealth means Sukha (pleasure) and Ananda (bliss). What is the use of having all

other things when one has no pleasure or bliss?" Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p. 264

Vighneshwara

"Vinayaka is also called Vighneshwara as he removes all obstacles coming in the

way of devotees who pray to him sincerely. He is worshipped by students with

books so that all that is contained in the books may get into their heads." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/94, p. 265

"Vinayaka is one who drives away all sorrows and miseries. He is the enemy of

all obstacles. He will not allow any obstacle to come in the way. He is the

destroyer of obstacles. He confers happiness and peace (on his devotees)." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 255

Vinayaka

"Vigato naayakah Vinayaka", that means "Vinayaka has no master over him. This

means that Vinayaka is a totally autonomous and independent deity. In the

world, any individual or authority has someone superior above him. But Vinayaka

has no overlord." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 254

"Vinayaka means that he is one who has no master above him. He is the Supreme

Master. He is beyond the mindless state. One who has stilled the mind cannot

have any master." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p. 264

Form Of Ganesha

"The form of Ganapathi cannot, by any standard, be termed as handsome. He has a

small head, big stomach and uncouth form. But still we are captivated by his

form and like to see him more and more and worship him. Beauty does not lie in

Ganesha's 'Aakaara' (external form) but in 'Vikaara'. Ganesha sacrificed his

own tusk and used it as a pen to write down the Mahabharata to the dictation of

Vyasa, for the benefit of humanity .Man worships God only for selfish purposes.

No one is prepared to sacrifice anything for getting divine bliss." Sai Baba,

SS, 11/93, p. 296

Ganesha Is The Presiding Deity Over Intelligence And Obstacles

"Vighneshwara is the deity presiding over the intelligence. He endows devotees

with purity of intellect and power of discrimination between right and wrong

and between permanent and the transient. Mundane pleasures are momentary and

fleeting. Your aim must be to seek that spiritual bliss which is enduring and

unchanging and which transcends the pleasures of earth and heaven." Sai Baba,

SS, 10/89, p. 262

"He is called Vighneshwara, because he is regarded as the presiding deity’ over

obstacles. As Yama is the presiding deity for births and deaths, the grace of

Ganapathi removes all obstacles." Sai Baba, SS, 10/89, p. 263

Worship Of Ganesha

"Ganapathi has been described as 'Aprameya', transcendent and all-encompassing.

Hence, he can be worshipped in any manner." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 239

"The Vinayaka Principle symbolizes health, bliss, peace, wisdom, prosperity and

many other things. Unfortunately, this truth is not recognised by most people.

People are content to offer some kind of mechanical worship to any odd figure

made of clay and add to the pollution around them. What should be offered to

God are things which will please him" Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 238

"Shuklaambara-Dharam" Prayer

"The devout offer worship to Vinayaka with a well known prayer, beginning with

the words 'Shuklaambara-dharam' (The one who wears a white garment).

Vigneshwara is described as one who is white like the moon, who has four arms

(two for giving worldly protection and two for spiritual benediction), who has

ever-pleasing countenance and to whom obeisance is offered for removing all

obstacles. While the pious used this prayer in a devout spirit, the impious

misused the words to distort the meaning and make it a prayer to a quadruped,

which is employed for carrying clothes. It is by such misinterpretation that

some people have sullied the great culture of Bharat and undermined the faith

in God." Sai Baba, SS, 10/96, p. 274

Positive Effects Of Vinayaka Worship

The Vinayaka Principle protects man from various hurdles in life and ensures

peace and security. Hence, on every auspicious occasion Vinayaka is

worshipped." Saiiffaba, SS, 10/96, p. 274

"Students worship Ganesha for success in academic studies and for developing

into good scholars." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 236

"Students like to worship Ganapathi. They pray to Ganesha to confer on them

Buddhi (intelligence) and Siddhi (the capacity to realise their aspirations)."

Sai Baba, SS, 12/92. p. 224

The Inner Meaning Of The Ten-Day Worship Of Ganesha

"Realise that you have a conscience that is your guide and consciousness which

represents your divinity. Ganapathi, who presides over the (ten) senses (five

senses of perception and five senses of action), should be your guide in

acquiring mastery over the senses. There is an inner meaning in worshipping

Ganapathi for ten days. The idea is that each day should be dedicated to

acquiring control over one of the sense organs (Indriyas). Devotees should

realise that control of the senses is quite simple. What is necessary is not to

encourage negative feelings when they arise, but to adopt positive attitudes.

For instance, Buddha confronted the anger of demon with his love and

transformed him" Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 241

Universality Of Vinayaka Worship

"Vinayaka is worshipped not only in Bharat but in many other countries. The

worship of Vinayaka has been prevailing from the times of the Rigveda." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/96, p. 274

Parvati And Ganapathi

"Bharathiyas (Indians) hail Vigneshwara (remover of obstacles) as 'Oh son of

Parvati! Master of the Ganas (Ganaadhipa)'. Who is this Parvati? What is the

relationship between Parvati and Ganapathi? People do not normally inquire into

these matters. Usually Parvati is considered as the mother of Ganapathi and no

one recognizes the underlying unity between the two.

Where are Parvati and Ganapathi to be located? Are they in the external world or

are they immanent in every human being? The truth is both of them are all

pervading and convey the message of spiritual oneness (Ekaatma-bhaavam).

What is the meaning of the name Ganapathi? Where are the Ganas? What is their

form? When you investigate this, you find that five organs of perception and

five organs of action (Jnaanendriyas and Karmendriyas) are the Ganas. The mind

is the master of these ten organs. Buddhi (or intellect) is the discriminating

faculty above the mind. The ten senses, the mind and intellect together

constitute the Ganas.

In the word' Gana',' Ga' stands for Buddhi (intellect). 'Na' means 'Vijnaana'

(higher knowledge or wisdom). Ganapati is the Lord of the intellect and the

higher knowledge. The question may be asked: Are the intellect and the higher

knowledge present in the external world or are they to be found within man? The

answer is that he is present within each human being. There is no need to seek

him in the outside world. Ganapathi dwells in every human being in the form of

intellect and wisdom.

When Ganapathi is described as 'Parvati Tanaya' (son of Parvati), who is this

Parvati? Parvati signifies 'Prithvi'. Mother Earth. Everyone is a child of

Mother Earth. The meaning of 'Parvati Tanaya' (son of Parvati) is that

Ganapathi, who is the Lord of Ganas, is the son of Parvati, who symbolizes

Shakti (Divine Energy)." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 235

Primacy Of Ganapathi

"Once, Parvati and Parameswara, parents of Ganapathi and Subramaniam, wanted to

test their intelligence. They summoned both the sons and told them to go around

the worlds to find out which of the two would do quicker. The elder of the two,

Ganapathi, did not stir from his place. The younger son, Subramaniam, mounted

his peacock and set out on the round-the-world trip. With a great deal of

efforts, he completed the trip and was approaching his parents. Seeing him from

a distance, Ganapathi circumambulated his parents and claimed himself to be the

winner. The mother, Parvati, asked Ganapathi:

"Ganapathi! Here is your brother who has gone round the world and you have not

stirred from this place. You have made no efforts at all. How can you claim

that you have gone round the*world? How can I regard you as the winner?'

Ganesha replied: 'Mother! The cosmos is the combination of matter and energy-

the unity of father and mother. When I go round you, I have gone round the

world itself, as you are the parents of the cosmos. There is no place where you

two are not present. I see your omnipresence. By circumambulating both of you, I

can claim to have gone round the cosmos.' The moment he uttered these words,

Easwara (Shiva) was astonished at the high intelligence of his son. He had

recognised the truth about the Divine parents. Iswara then said: "Vinayaka! You

are an exemplary son for one and all. Let the world worship you first before

they offer worship to me. I am not as intelligent as you are. We are your

parents, but not more intelligent than you.'

Easwara declared: "I have many attributes but not your intelligence. Hence,

before offering worship to me, let all people worship you. This is the boon I

confer on you." Sai Baba, SS. 10/98, pp. 255-256

Importance Of Ganapathi

"Easwara is the parent who conferred such an honour of a higher status, than his

own, on his son. Hence, Ganapathi represents no commonplace principle. He is the

embodiment of all potencies. He is the abode of every kind of intelligence. The

goddess of wisdom (Saraswathi) dwells in his belly. Nothing untoward can happen

wherever he is present.

Ganapathi occupies the position of one who is the source of all prosperity.

Moreover, when he is invoked before any undertaking, there will be no

impediments to its completion.

Today every kind of people- the wealthy, the wise, the scholars and the common

people- worship Ganapathi. Students, with a view to securing the grace of

goddess of wisdom and ensuring that there is no hindrance to their studies,

place their books before the idol of Ganapathi and worship him." Sai Baba, SS,

10/98, p. 256

"Before we commence any activity we offer prayers to Vinayaka so that the action

may be successful without any impediments." Sai Baba, SS, 10/96, p. 274

"Every music concert begins with a song in adoration of Ganapathi like 'Vaataapi

Ganapatim Bhaje!' This shows that by worshipping Ganapathi, proficiency in any

sphere can be achieved. The Ganapathi Principle is pregnant with meanings. His

story itself is unique. In the Bhagavatham, Potana declares that the stories of

the Lord are extraordinary; they are sacred for all the three worlds. They

confer all blessings on the listeners and are constantly contemplated upon by

saints and sages. This applies to all deities. Every aspect of the Divine is

mystery. Whatever the Lord says is full of significance. It is pregnant with

sacred meanings." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98, p. 256 & 257

"Vinayaka is one who has all the five elements under his control. He is

embodiment of all potencies." Sai Baba, SS. 10/95, p. 260

Giver Of Siddhi & Buddhi

"Ganapathi is not only the Lord of various activities but is also the presiding

deity for all auspicious functions. He can make even inauspicious occasions

auspicious. He is always engaged in conferring boons on all. He is giver of

prosperity and intelligence. With the grace of Ganapathi any desire can be

realised." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98. p. 256

"Ganapathi is one who gives us spiritual potency and endows us with Supreme

Intelligence. These two are termed as Siddhi and Buddhi respectively." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/94. p. 264

"He (Ganapathi) confers happiness and peace (on his devotees). He is the master

of all these powers (Siddhi and Buddhi). What is this Siddhi (fulfillment)?

When there is purity of mind, you achieve peace (which is Siddhi). Vinayaka is

thus the Lord of Buddhi (Intellect) and Siddhi (Self-Realisation). Hence, every

being should acquire control over the mind." Sai Baba. SS. 10/95. p. 255

Consorts Of Vinayaka

"Siddhi and Buddhi are described as his two consorts. As he is the Adhipati or

Master of Siddhi and Buddhi, He is regarded as their husband in mundane terms.

Vinayaka has no desire and hence, there is no need for him to have wife and

children." Sai Baba. SS. 10/94, p. 264

How To Pray To Ganapathi?

"In praying to Ganapathi, you should not ask for trivial things like passing in

examinations or getting jobs. You should only pray: Oh Vighneshwara! Please see

that there are no obstacles in what I want to accomplish. I am worshipping you

for this purpose." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98, p. 256

"On the Vinayaka Chaturthi Day, students place books in front of the idol of

Ganesha and offer worship. They pray to the deity to illumine their minds." Sai

Baba. SS, 10/89, p. 264

Ganapathi’s Vehicle: Mooshika - A Symbolism

"Some people, out of ignorance, comment upon the big animal form of this Master

Deity and question how one with such a huge form can ride on small mouse

(Mooshika), which is depicted as his vehicle. "Mooshika' is symbolic of the

darkness of ignorance, while Ganesha signifies the effulgence of wisdom that

dispels the darkness of ignorance." Sai Baba. SS, 10/94, p. 264

"The mouse is the symbol of darkness. Because Vinayaka has control over

darkness, he is described as the rider on a 'Mooshika'. He is the one who

dispels darkness and sheds light on the world." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 254

"The mouse (Mooshika) is also a symbol of the sense of smell. The mouse moves

about following the direction of the smell ("Vaasana"). Vinayaka is the one who

has mastery over 'Vaasanas', that is, desires and ignorance (represented by

'Mooshika'). What is meant by describing the mouse (Mooshika) as the vehicle of

Vinayaka? It means that Vinayaka rides on the 'Mooshika', representing desires

(Vaasanas) and ignorance (darkness)." Sai Baba. SS, 10/95. p. 254

"The inner significance of 'Vaasana' in relation to humanity is the heritage of

'Vaasanas' which they bring from their previous lives. These Vaasanas

(inherited tendencies) account for the actions of human beings in their present

lives. They also signify desires. Without recognising this underlying

significance of Vinayaka's mastery over ignorance, people merely wonder how a

large being Vinayaka could ride on a tiny creature like a mouse. Vinayaka

signifies the triumph of wisdom over ignorance and egolessness over desires."

Sai Baba, SS. 9/97, p. 239

"The mouse is a clever and lively creature. As a symbol, it means that we should

be clever and diligent in our actions." Sai Baba. SS. 10/89, p. 263

Vinayaka's Body

"Vinayaka is known for his high intelligence. The very sight of his figure gives

joy to many. The form itself is extraordinary. He has a big belly, a beautiful

tusk, penetrating eyes, handsome ears - all these are harmoniously balanced to

produce an attractive form.

Devotees worship Vinayaka in different ways. They address the deity, describing

his white robe, his moonlike complexion, his four arms and ever-smiling face

and pray for the removal of all obstacles." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98, p. 255 & 257

Symbolism Of Ganesha's Body

"Vighneshwara is described as one wearing a white cloth. His body is ash-grey.

He is depicted as having four arms and a cheerful countenance. The white cloth

signifies purity of mind and heart. By worshipping him, you must endeavor to

achieve similar purity. Vinayaka always appears serene and calm. By his grace,

the devotee must seek to achieve similar equanimity, whatever may be ups and

downs in life." Sai Baba, SS, 10/89, p. 264

Mythological Story On Worshipping Elephant Head

"There was once a demon by name Gajasura. He was a demon king. He performed

severe penance. Easwara (Lord Shiva) appeared before him. Easwara is easily

propitiated, and he gives readily whatever one prays for, without examining

whether it is right or wrong to confer such a boon. He gives whatever the

devotees pray for.

Gajasura performed penance and prayed to the Lord. Easwara (Shiva) appeared

before him and asked him what he wanted. Gajasura said. 'Lord! You must merge

in my stomach.' Shiva granted the boon and lodged himself in demon's stomach.

Parvati, not finding Easwara, went out in search other Lord and could not find

him anywhere. She went to her brother, Vishnu, and appealed to him to trace her

missing Lord.

Vishnu knew that Shiva was in the habit of granting boons indiscriminately and

getting into difficulties. He told her, 'Parvati! I know what has happened. Be

calm. You go to your abode. I shall bring Easwara there.

Vishnu took Shiva's Nandi and decorated it to appear like a performing bull.

Assuming the role of a bull-performer, Vishnu led the bull to the city of

Gajasura, playing on a pipe all the way while the bull danced to the tune. The

bull was dancing to the music of the divine embodiment of all mysteries.

Gajasura was intensely watching the performance of the bull and its master.

Pleased with their performance, Gajasura asked the bull trainer, 'What do you

want?' The latter said, 'You should not go back on your word. Will you" grant

me what I want? You are Gajasura, a great king.'' Yes', he said,' Give me

Easwara who is in your stomach', said Vishnu. Only Vishnu knew this fact, none

else. Gajasura immediately fell at the feet of Vishnu and said. 'Swami! This

secret is not known to anybody except you. I will keep my word even at the cost

of my life. But there is one condition. My head should be

worshipped by all and Easwara should wear my skin.' Vishnu agreed to it. This is

the reason why Easwara wears an elephant's skin. The head of Gajasura is

worshipped as Vinayaka' s head." Sai Baba. SS, 10/95, p. 258

Purport Of The Story

"These are some of the Puranic (mythological) stories relating Vinayaka. They

are only stories. But such stories have been related to turn people's minds

Godward. If a deep inquiry is made, it will be realised that there is only one

God. God is present in all. Vinayaka is not separate from us. The

indwelling-Principle of our hearts is the Divine Annie Principle." Sai Baba.

SS. 10/95, p. 258

Symbolic Significance Of Ganesha's Elephant Head

"The symbolic significance of Ganesha's elephant head has to be properly

understood. The elephant has profound intelligence. For example, yesterday (8

September 1994) Sai Geetha (Bhagawan Sai Baba's elephant) came running when it

heard the sound of Swami's car approaching. Though many cars were following

Swami's car. Sai Geeta could unmistakably identify Swami's car from an uncanny

recognition of the sound of the car. That is why it is termed 'Gaja Thelivi'

(elephantine intelligence). One having a sharp brain is described as having the

intelligence of an elephant. It has 'Medha Shakti.' Moreover, the elephant has

large ears and it can hear even minute sounds. Shravanam or hearing the glory

of the Lord is the first step in spiritual Sadhana for which ears should be

sharp. After hearing, one has to ruminate over this and put into practice,

(which are termed as Shravana, Manana and

Nidhidhyasana). The elephant takes the praise and blame equally. When it hears

something bad, it moves its body this way and that way and shakes off the

unwanted things while it retains good things quietly." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p.

265

"The elephant is highly intelligent. The elephant is known for its fidelity and

gratitude. In any circumstances, it will not forget its master. Even in its

last moments, if it hears the voice of its master, it will open its eyes and

look for him. It will sacrifice its life for its master. These are the lessons

man should learn from the elephant. Intelligence without gratitude is

valueless. Every man should be grateful to those who have helped him." Sai

Baba. SS, 9/97, p. 238

"The elephant is well known for its intelligence. Among animals it has a

prodigious size. No other animal is cast in such a big mould. The elephant's

foot encompasses the footprint of the lion, esteemed as the lord of the animal

kingdom. In the jungle, hunters follow the footprints of the lion to trace it

to its lair. But if an elephant has walked over those footprints, they are

totally erased. Moreover, the elephant is the pathfinder for human beings. In a

forest covered with dense bushes, humans cannot easily find their way. But once

an elephant has gone through the jungle, its trail becomes a path for others to

follow. All these traits of the elephant show that in the journey of life, one

can find one's way if one has intelligence of the elephant. Because Ganapathi

is endowed with the form of an elephant, he is associated with the qualities of

intelligence." Sai Baba, SS. 10/98. p.

255

"Vinayaka is endowed with exceptional intelligence. His elephant face is

symbolic of supreme intelligence. Those of you who are staying in the hostel,

notice cars going up and down the road. On the other side of the hostel is Sai

Geeta (Bhagawan’s elephant). Sai Geeta takes no notice of the innumerable cars

going on the road. But, without any notice, it smells, as it were, the passing

of Swami' s car and immediately comes out with a roar to greet Swami. That is

the devotion of Sai Geeta to its Lord. The faith of the elephant is as strong

as its intelligence. His love for the master is equally strong. It has

steadfast love. These qualities of devotion, faith and intelligence are

associated with the elephant. Whoever has these qualities can be regarded as

endowed with the head of an elephant." Sai Baba, SS, 9/92. p. 223

"Vinayaka is the Lord of life. Men should learn to shed selfishness and

cultivate love of Supreme Self. This is the truth about Vinayaka. Vinayaka

should not be considered as merely an elephant-headed deity riding on a mouse."

Sai Baba. SS, 10/95, p. 259

Offerings To Ganesha

"There are some inner secrets that should be noted in the worship of Ganesha.

Bharathiyas (Indians) make some special offerings to Ganesha as food offerings.

These preparations are made entirely by using steam instead of heat from stove.

Combining rice flour with jaggery and til seeds, balls are prepared which are

cooked in steam." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97. p. 238

"On this auspicious day of Vinayaka Chaturthi, what is it that we offer to

Vinayaka? All offerings to Vinayaka are free from the use of oil in their

preparation. Boiled rice is made into balls, which are filled with til seeds

and jaggery. They are then mixed with rice flour and cooked. In this offering,

there is no trace of any cooking oil. Hence, the offerings are called oil-less

edibles." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98. p. 255

Importance Of Special Offerings

"Even the offering that is made to Ganesha has great significance because it is

prepared with gram flour and jaggery or pepper and enclosed in an outer

covering made from flour paste and then cooked in steam without using oil. This

is supposed to be a healthy and delicious food item according to the Ayurvedic

system. Modem doctors also recognise the importance of such steam-cooked idlis

(rice cakes), which they recommend, as post-operative diet for patients as it

is easily digestible. Jaggery too has the property of controlling gas formation

and this food item gives relief from eye troubles and prevents gastric troubles.

In the ancient traditional mode of observing these festivals, great emphasis was

laid on good health as the pre-requisite for spiritual pursuits with a healthy

mind. For achieving the four goals of human life, Dharma (righteousness), Artha

(wealth). Karma (desire)

and Moksha (liberation), one should have basically a healthy body. If you want

to earn wealth by righteous means and cherish desires which lead to liberation,

you should have sound health." Sai Baba, SS, 10/94, p. 265

"It is found that oil-less edibles are easily digestible. The til seeds serve to

keep down the bad effects of phlegm, bile and wind in the body. The jaggery in

the preparation is conducive to the improvement of the vision. All these

preparations are intended to promote health and are not designed to propitiate

the Divine. The energy derived from these edibles is conducive to the promotion

of longevity." Sai Baba, SS, 10/98. p. 255

Offerings Of Flowers And Green Grass To Vinayaka

"Vinayaka is pleased with an offering of flowers of no value ('Jilledy'

flowers). It is said that anyone who eats these flowers will become insane.

Such flowers are offered to Vinayaka. Vinayaka is also worshipped with an

offering of green grass." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95. p. 256

Mythological Story On Offering Grass To Vinayaka

"In one Puranic (mythological) story, it is stated that once Shiva and Parvati

were playing a game of dice. For any game, there has to be an umpire who has to

declare who is winner. Shiva and Parvati agreed to have Nandi (the divine bull)

as the umpire. Nandi is a favorite of Shiva, as he is a Shiva's vehicle.

Although Shiva lost the game, Nandi declared him the winner. It is stated that

Parvati was indignant over Nandi's partiality for Shiva and cursed him that he

should die from an incurable disease. Thereupon, Nandi fell at the feet of

Parvati and pleaded for forgiveness. 'Mother! Forgive me. Should I not show at

least this amount of gratitude to one who is my master? Is it not humiliating

for me to declare that my master has lost the game? To uphold his honour, I no

doubt uttered a lie. But am I to be punished with such severity for such a

small offence?' Nandi prayed for

forgiveness in this manner. Parvati forgave Nandi and taught him the means to

atone for his lapse. She told him, 'The Chaturthi day in the month of

Bhadrapada is the day when my son's birthday is celebrated. On that day you

have to offer to my son what pleases you most (green grass).' This means that

one atones one's sins when one offers to the Lord what is most pleasing and

enjoyable to oneself. For Nandi the most enjoyable and relishing food is green

grass. As directed by Parvati, Nandi worshipped Ganapathi by offering green

grass. Nandi was then relieved of his dreaded disease. His health improved and,

by the grace of Parvati, he was redeemed." Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 256

Symbolic Meaning Of The Story

"This incident is the basis for the practice recommended for pilgrims to Gaya,

Benaras and other places that they should give up something they love most as

an offering to the Divine. This means that they should give up something which

they love most and not something, which they do not like. Whether it be fruit

or vegetable, what you should choose to give up as an offering to God is what

you like most. This means that you give up consuming thereafter that vegetable

or fruit. This practice has been prevailing from ancient times among pilgrims

going to Benaras, Prayag or other sacred places for a holy bath in the Ganga or

Yamuna.

People should offer to give up what they relish most as the best offering to the

Lord. But they offer something, which they do not like. The Lord seated in the

heart declares: 'Be it so!' As you have not offered what is most dear to you

but what you dislike most, the Lord also offers to you what you dislike most.

The reward for such dubious offerings to God is that instead of health you get

disease. If you offer to God what is good, will not God give you what is good

for you.”? Sai Baba, SS, 10/95, p. 257

Offer To Ganesha Which Is Most Pleasing To You

"What should be offered to God are things which will please Him. This is what

Parvati enjoined on Nandishwara. She told him: 'Offer to my son what will

please him and what is most pleasing to you.' The Vinayaka festival is designed

to celebrate the offerings of such pleasing things to Ganesha." Sai Baba. SS.

9/97. p. 238

What Should You Offer To Ganesha On Ganesha Chaturthi?

"What is it that you have to offer to Vinayaka on this day of Vinayaka

Chaturthi? Today people spend a lot of money in offering various fruits and

preparations to God. All these offerings are made only as a ritual. Ultimately,

people themselves consume them. No benefit occurs from making these offerings.

Patram, Pushpam. Phalam, Toyam - these are the four things you should offer to

God. Here Patram (leaf) means body. This body may wither away at any moment.

So, never develop attachment towards the body; instead offer it to God. Pushpam

(flower) mean Hridaya, the flower that will never fade. Mind can be compared to

Phalam (fruit and Toyam (water) stands for tears of joy. All these should be

offered to God. This is the offering that God expects." Sai Baba, SS, 10/99, p.

267

Ganesha's Universality

"What is the inner meaning of these kinds of offerings? It means that earlier

Vinayaka was used to be worshipped by animals. His face is that of an elephant.

His vehicle is mouse. These are symbols from the animal kingdom. They indicate

that even birds and beasts worship Vinayaka. Vinayaka is thus worshipped by all

beings and is the Lord over all beings. He does not belong to one country or one

nation or one period of time. He is related to all places and all times." Sai

Baba, SS, 10/95. p. 256

Teachings Of Ganesha

"Only Vinayaka teaches the lessons that are essential for mankind. You should

not stop with installing the idol and doing Pooja for a few days. You should

make efforts to become a Nayaka or Master over yourself.

You have the nine-fold path of devotion - Shravanam (hearing), Keertanam

(singing God's glory), Vishno-naama-smaranam (thinking of and chanting God's

name), Paada Sevanam (serving at His Lotus Feet), Vandanam (obeisance),

Archanam (worship), Daasyam (servitude), Saakhyam (befriending God),

Atma-nivedanam (surrendering body, mind and soul to God). The elephant

signifies combining of the first and the last, that is, Shravanam and

Atma-nivedanam, so that all other paths in between are covered fully."

Sai's Messages On Ganesha Chathurthi

"Today we are celebrating 'Ganesha Jayanthi', the birthday of Vighneshwara. We

celebrate the Jayanthi but do not make any effort to understand the principle

(tattwa) behind it. His supreme teaching by his own example is oneness of the

universe. When he was asked to go round the universe to get a prize from his

parents, he just circumambulated his parents. Lord Shiva and Parvati and

claimed that he had completed the trip around the universe by going around

them, as Lord Shiva and Parvati represented the universe." Sai Baba, SS, 11/93.

p. 296

"There is a need for observing festivals like Vinayaka Chaturthi for external

satisfaction, but what is more important is to realise the inner significance

of Vinayaka worship which is likely to be a lasting effect. The worship of

inanimate idols should lead to contemplation on the subtle spiritual entity

represented by the idol. This is the process by which realisation of the Self

(Anna) takes place. Realise and act on the basis that the living divinity is

within you. Ganapathi represents the ideal person who is guided by intelligence

and wisdom. Engage yourself in acts which will please the Divine such as

moderation in speech, giving up ill-will and hatred, eschewing all bad

thoughts, and restraints on desires." Sai Baba, SS, 9/97, p. 241

"People look upon the Vighneshwara festival as some routine affair. But

Vighneshwara embodies all the forms and all the powers of all the deities. It

is not enough to worship Ganesha once a year. We must worship him always. We

must think of God every moment of our lives." Sai Baba, SS. 10/98. p. 258

"Today few persons understand the true spirit of the Ganapathi Principle

(Tathva). They are concerned about the outer forms and ignore the inner

esoteric meaning. This applies to the way many festivals are celebrated. The

birthday of Rama is celebrated without understanding the qualities represented

by Rama. To be real devotees of Rama, people should cultivate his qualities."

Sai Baba, SS. 10/98. p. 257

"Consider Vinayaka as the Indweller in your heart. He is constantly warning you

against what is bad. You ignore the warning and get into trouble. How much will

you benefit if you follow the Master within you. Your conscience is the Master.

Above all, heed the dictates of the Divine. That will be your best safeguard."

Sai Baba, SS. 10/95, p. 260

With Sai love from Sai brothers - ''

Source and courtesy: (From the Book - Festivals at Prasanthi Nilayam and Their

Significance) http://sai-online0.tripod.com/ganesh/gan1.htm

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