Informative

Secret Avatars of Lord Ganesha Series Part 4: Gajanan Avatar

Welcome, dear readers, to our exciting new blog series – “Secret Avatars of Lord Ganesha“! Get ready to embark on a spiritual journey like no other as we unravel the lesser-known manifestations of our beloved Bappa, Lord Ganesha.

In this captivating series, we will delve into the depths of ancient scriptures and sacred texts to uncover the hidden stories behind Lord Ganesha’s enigmatic avatars. These lesser-explored incarnations of the benevolent Lord hold profound meanings and lessons that have the power to touch our souls and enrich our lives.

In this fourth blog of the series, we’ll explore the fascinating “Gajanan Avatar,” a splendid manifestation of Lord Ganesha. As we unravel the spiritual dimensions of this tale, we will uncover its profound significance and the valuable wisdom it imparts. Let’s embark on this voyage together! Ganpati Bappa Morya…

गजाननः स विज्ञेयः सांख्येभ्यः सिद्धिदायकः । लोभासुरप्रहर्ता वै आखुगश्च प्रकीर्तितः||

 Gajananaḥ sa vijneyaḥ sankhyebhyaḥ siddhidayakaḥ|

  Lobhasurapraharta vai akhugashcha prakirtitaḥ ||

The incarnation of Ganesha, known as ‘Gajanan’ (elephant faced Lord) is the bestower of Siddhi for Sankhya Yogis. Because He is the holder of Sankhya-Brahman (the ultimate reality for the sect of Sankhya). In that incarnation, He decimated a demon named Lobhasur. That incarnation of Ganesha is also called Mooshkavahana by scholars.

The story of Lord Ganesha’s birth is really interesting, and it all starts with an exciting event. Let’s explore this old tale from the Ganesh Puran book. It’s like going on an adventure in the ancient world of Sanatana Dharma, where gods and powerful energies create an exciting story that takes you to a place where divine and human things meet.

Birth of Lobhasur

Once Lord Kuber had gone to Mount Kailas with the desire to see Lord Mahadev. At that time, Divine Maa Parvati was also sitting near Mahadev. Lord Kuber started looking at Her gorgeous form with lustful eyes. Seeing this, Lord Shiv got furious and looked at Kuber with fiery eyes. Realizing the mistake, Lord Kuber apologized to the celestial couple. But, a fierce demon named Lobh (greed) was born from Lord Kuber.

Lobh was born powerful and cruel. He asked Kuber where to live. Kuber directed him to Guru Shukracharya. Lobh went to the demon guru, introducing himself as Kuber’s son. He sought guidance and service under Guru Shukracharya.

Penance of Lobhasur 

Following Guru Shukracharya’s guidance, Lobhasur retreated to a desolate forest reciting the sacred Panchakshari mantra “Om Namah Shivaya.” During his prolonged fasting and intense penance, Lord Shiva materialized before him.

With profound reverence, Lobhasur implored, “Lord, bless me with boundless strength and fearlessness across the universe.” Granting his wish, Lord Shiva then disappeared.

Filled with joy, Lobhasur amassed a demonic army and embarked on a conquest of Earth. He systematically defeated countless kings, establishing his oppressive reign. Subsequently, he extended his dominion to the heavens through heinous acts of cruelty.

Rule Of Lobhasur

Lobhasur’s rule grew absolute and unchallenged. He imposed a disruptive decree across the three realms, forbidding all acts of devotion, meditation, rituals, charity, and goodness. Anyone who defied this order faced severe punishment. Consequently, the Earth was plagued by fraud, theft, abductions, and murders.

Deities, devotees, celestial beings, and sages were disheartened by this situation. They deliberated on how to vanquish the demon. Raimya Muni then spoke up, “We must attain the blessings of Lord Gajanan to defeat this Asura. His mere will can overpower the demon.”

Emergence of Lord Gajanan

During that time, the deities embarked on a systematic worship of Lord Gajanan, diligently chanting mantras and engaging in rigorous penance. Witnessing their devotion, Lord Gajanan appeared before them. In His divine presence, everyone prostrated and bowed deeply.

Upon hearing of Lobhasur’s atrocities, Lord Gajanan assured the deities. Lord Shiva himself assumed the role of Gajanan’s messenger and conveyed the message to the ruthless demon. He advised Lobhasur to heed Lord Gajanan’s instructions.

Present at the scene was Daityaguru Shukracharya, who supported Lord Shiva’s counsel. He enlightened his disciple, saying, “King! Gajanan is the master of all realms, the deity of all creatures, and the omnipotent Brahman—the ultimate reality. The same Supreme Being manifests as Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwar. They create, nurture, and destroy the universes. Thus, seek His refuge for your ultimate welfare.”

Realizing that his salvation lay in surrendering to Supreme Lord Gajanan, Lobhasur swiftly sought His shelter. With Lord Shiva, he humbly approached Gajanan, prostrated, and earnestly begged forgiveness for his wrongdoings. Witnessing this remorse, the Supreme God pardoned him.

 All the deities, sages, and commoners were very pleased with his coming on the right path. The praise of Lord Gajanan resounded everywhere, and there was happiness and peace in the world.

What can we learn from the story of Lobhasur and Lord Gajanan?

Consequences of Greed and Lust: Lobhasur’s birth from Lord Kuber’s lustful gaze and subsequent tyranny serve as a reminder of the destructive consequences of unchecked desires, greed, and lust. These negative qualities can lead to chaos and suffering in one’s life and the world.

The Value of Guidance: Raimya Muni’s counsel emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from enlightened individuals and sages when faced with challenges. Their wisdom can lead to solutions and provide insights into the right course of action.

Divine Intervention and Guidance: The stories emphasize how divine intervention and guidance can guide individuals toward righteousness and lead to their redemption. Guru Shukracharya and Lord Shiva play instrumental roles in guiding Lobhasur toward the path of transformation and surrender.

Role of Repentance and Forgiveness: Lobhasur’s eventual surrender and repentance showcase the power of seeking forgiveness and making amends. This highlights the spiritual principle of redemption through remorse and seeking divine pardon.

May Lord Gajanana’s blessings shield you from worldly attachments and keep the veil of greed (Moha) far from your spiritual path. Jai Shri Gajanan!!!

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