Ganesha's Advice

The Shiva Purana mythology of Ganesha tell us that he was made, from tumeric paste, by the Goddess Parvati to protect her while she was bathing. The young man mistook Shiva, Parvati's husband, for an intruder and denied him access to Parvati's quarters. Shiva became enraged and, in his fury, cut off Ganesha's head. When Parvati saw what happened she called forth her Yogini and threatened to destroy all Creation.

Well, Lord Brahma the Creator was not going to let this domestic dispute destroy all his handiwork, so he asked Parvati what she thought would be suitable recompense for Shiva's action. Parvati said she would not destroy Creation if Ganesha was brought back to life, and if he was forever worshipped before all the other gods. Shiva told Brahma to go fetch the head from the first creature he finds that is lying with its head facing north. Brahma brought back an elephant head which Shiva stuck on Ganesha's body, breathed life into it, called it his son, and made Ganesha lead god.

Ganesha is traditionally called upon by devotees to help them overcome obstacles.

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