Ganesh

Ganesh is the god of knowledge and the remover of obstacles. He is the younger son of Shiva and is usually acknowledged at the beginning of every ritual to attract blessings.

Ganesh has an elephant’s head, four hands, and a large belly. In his hands he carries a rope to carry people to the truth, an axe to cut people’s attachments, and a laddoo (a type of sweet) to reward people for spiritual activity. His fourth hand is extended to give blessings.