Why Lord Ganesha is Known as Vighnaharta: A Miracle of Faith and Symbolism
Lord Ganesha, the deity with the elephant head, is one of the most revered figures in Hinduism. Devotees often invoke his name to remove obstacles and guide them through life. This article explores the significance of Lord Ganesha being known as Vighnaharta and Vignakarta, unraveling the underlying meanings and their connection to a recent miracle that highlights the power of faith.
Understanding the Terms
The term Vighnaharta is derived from two Sanskrit words: vigna (obstacles) and hartha (remover). This means that Lord Ganesha is the remover of obstacles in the lives of his devotees. Vignakarta, on the other hand, means ignorer or creator of obstacles, implying that for those who do not worship him initially, he may create obstacles in their path.
A Miraculous Incident: Vikas Devipujak's Survival
In Gujarat, a 14-year-old boy named Vikas Devipujak faced a harrowing yet miraculous event at Dumas Beach, Surat. During a fun day at the beach, Vikas and another boy, Laxman, were suddenly caught in strong waves and swept into the sea. Laxman fortunately managed to survive and was rescued by fellow beachgoers, while Vikas went missing.
The search was intense and extensive, but after 24 hours, all hope seemed lost. However, a miracle occurred. Fishermen found Vikas, his hand raised out of the water, clutching a wooden board. Legend has it that this piece of wood resembled a segment of an elephant head, reminiscent of the lower part of Ganapati idols during their immersion in the ocean.
The Significance of the Wooden Board
On the day of the incident, as Lord Ganesha idols were immersed in the sea, a piece of wood used in these idols ended up in the ocean. Left behind, this piece of wood served as a lifeline for the young boy. The wooden board became a symbol of faith and the belief that Lord Ganesha was indeed the remover of obstacles in the lives of his devotees. This act of faith and the presence of the wooden board ultimately saved Vikas's life.
Understanding the Esoteric Significance
The esoteric meaning of Lord Ganesha as Vighnaharta goes beyond the literal interpretation. It touches upon a deeper spiritual and philosophical understanding. Devotees seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha for success, prosperity, and to overcome challenges in their lives. The legend of Vikas Devipujak is a vivid illustration of this esoteric significance. Faith can manifest in miraculous ways, as was the case with the wooden board and the young boy.
Conclusion
Lord Ganesha’s title Vighnaharta is a powerful reminder of his role as the remover of obstacles. The story of Vikas Devipujak not only highlights the importance of faith but also showcases the tangible benefits of devotion. Whether it’s through Vighnaharta or Vignakarta, Lord Ganesha’s influence can be both enlightening and life-saving.