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An elephant's symbolism is prevalent in Asian and African regions, as the animal has its deep origins there. It is common to wonder what an elephant represents because its versatile nature is quite appealing to humans. Many Eastern religions consist of elephant-based deities that protect the worshippers against evil forces. The mythology and folklore belonging to these regions include elephants as symbols of bravery and power and often tells stories of the animals fighting loyally with the soldiers. Some stories portray the elephant as a wise and endearing animal who leads lost people back on their paths.
The Significance of Elephants in Religion and Culture
The elephant sculpture is a spiritual animal with a strong foothold in several religions. In Africa, the elephant is revered as the reincarnated form of deceased leaders. Therefore, in much of this region, the elephant represents royalty and strength. The Buddhists have a few distinct symbols representing their entire faith, and the elephant happens to be one of them. This status became a part of the animal's legacy due to the myth of Buddha's mother, who supposedly dreamed of a white elephant before she gave birth to Buddha. The tale is celebrated with elephant imagery throughout Buddhist India and China.
The elephant is a compassionate animal with strong family ties. Their behaviour is very cooperative compared to other animals, and they are fiercely protective of their young. For these characteristics, the elephant is admired, and its sculptures remind people to maintain and strengthen their family connections. An elephant statue makes sure that you are guarded against any spiritual harm, just like real elephants lookout for the members of their herd. The animal has proved itself immensely useful in times of war, as its massive body is used as a shield, and it is quick enough to be used for transportation as well.
Elephants are sacred animals in almost all of India, as most people practice Hinduism. Ganesh, one of the most significant deities in Hinduism, is an elephant-morphed god responsible for removing all obstacles from one's path. Lord Ganesh incorporates the key elements of an elephant's personality, wisdom, understanding, and helpfulness. Its powers help one to move forward in their life with no setbacks. The elephant is an infinitely intelligent animal, and some claim that it has a divine connection that enables it to attain knowledge that no human is capable of.
The Deep Symbolism of the Elephant
An elephant herd extensively looks after other members, especially the young. The animals are playful, not just with their kind but with humans too. This endearing nature, along with the elephant's long lifespan, makes it a symbol of fertility and family. Elephants are incredibly intelligent, and most elephant statues portray this feature accurately through colours and materials. If you have a difficult journey ahead of you, or you need to achieve something that seems impossible, having elephant imagery around your house will considerably ease your struggles. Similarly, those seeking a way to strengthen ties with their family could find substantial help in an elephant statue or painting.
As a matriarch heads most elephant groups, the animal displays certain feminine attributes such as sensitivity, strength, and wisdom. An elephant statue enables you to protect the young and weak in your family while also establishing deep bonds with them as a mother would. As for new relationships, an elephant's symbolism is crucial to developing lasting connections. African folklore indicates that elephants are reincarnated bodies of their tribe's ancient leaders, giving the animal supremacy over all others. These beliefs pushed Africans and then Hindus and Buddhists to worship the elephant. The elephant's peaceful nature causes others to depend on it to settle their disputes and give helpful advice. These positive forces associated with the animal make it a strong Feng Shui symbol that people desire to keep close to them in their houses.
Apart from mythology, elephants have a strong foothold in art as well. They were a popular subject during the Renaissance period. The Indians worship their elephant god, Ganesh, before beginning a tough journey or task, as the deity is believed to remove all obstacles. Elephants are also associated with good judgement and infinite wisdom. It is believed that placing an elephant statue in your house aids you in making the right choices regarding your family or career. If the elephant is your spirit animal, you will find it easier to relate with its statues and imagery. You will also be most affected by the animal's dynamics, as it protects and guides you toward the best possible opportunity.
It is common to place a wish-fulfilling jewel along with an elephant when creating the animal's sculpture. The reason for this act is that elephants bring good fortune and positive energy to the household. To obtain full advantage of an elephant statue's properties, place the piece near your workspace to relieve all career-related issues. Elephants are powerful symbols of prestige and imperialism. In ancient times, the emperor or king used animals as transport during warfare, raising their status among other animals. An elephant's size, swiftness, and intimidating aura make it the best mode of transportation in a war.
As for their colours, an elephant's skin is usually a dull grey, a colour most Buddhists associate with rain and clouds. Elephants are believed to control rainfall and storms. This belief gives the animal a supernatural characteristic that Hindus mirror. Although, most contemporary elephant statues are not dependent on just grey and use the entire colour spectrum and bright patterns. Gold and red are used most commonly to decorate statues of Ganesh, the Hindu god. The colours signify power, royalty, and strength. Elephants display gentle and playful behaviour that does not match their size, and this quality persuades an interest in humans. To portray this nature, unique colours schemes are used, such as blue and gold, and multiple shades of red. For outdoor elephant statues, the stone is preferred as it can withstand harsh weather conditions and relates to an elephant's original skin tone.