Glimpses of Lord Ganesh in Nature

The photo gallery on this page, “Forms of Lord Ganesh,” depicts images in which this beloved deity is symbolized by natural forms in the world—formations in a rock outcropping, the lines of a mountainside, the voluminous and ever-shifting shapes of the clouds.

As a visual storyteller and environmentalist, I find that searching for signs of the Divine in the natural world can be a wholly inspiring experience. Nature is breathtaking to behold if we truly see it. In our daily lives, we are constantly surrounded by signs of divine activity, even in the busiest cities, where clouds surge across the sky, birds float unencumbered above the traffic, and saplings push through cracks in the cement. In a rural setting, where the rushing waters of a river cut deep into ancient bedrock and the wind creates innumerable shapes in the trees, it is often easier to see divinity in the world around us.

By actively looking for signs of God in our outer environment, we learn to see with new eyes the forms we might otherwise take for granted. As well, this endeavor helps us to maintain a perspective of reverence for the natural world. I have found this to be a powerful practice and a great blessing on my own spiritual journey. Through an increased awareness of God within myself, I have also come to treasure the splendor of our planet even more. Each moment that we immerse ourselves in the rejuvenating fellowship of nature can give us access to the Divine, can remind us of and give us an audience with the godliness that is inherent in our world.

I recommend that you take in the photographs of this gallery—images representing Lord Ganesh in nature from Siddha Yogis around the globe—and then enter into your own communion with nature. Let these photographs lead to the discovery of your own reminders of this playful form of the Lord. Whether you find the shape of Ganesh’s ample belly, the curve of his tusk, or the bulk of his elephantine form, let these images transport you to a place of awe and appreciation.

As you look for signs of this beloved deity in nature, you may become increasingly aware of the divine presence of Lord Ganesh in your daily life. Allow this awareness to connect you with the many blessings that envelop you in every moment of every day.