Page 1 - August-2025

Laughter of the Lesser

Intellect

SWAMI CHINMAYANANDA

The Supreme in the Symbol

The Supreme Reality is unknown; human equipments cannot
directly come into contact with It. Hence, various idols are provided
in Hindu mythological literature to serve as a means to reach the
unknown ideal.

Idols by themselves are not the Reality, but only pointers,
indicating It. Lord Ganesha is one such idol having a mystic
significance. Besides being a figurative representation of the
Supreme God, the idol of Vinayaka itself suggests the means
and the method by which one can reach the goal of Perfection
indicated therein.
Gross and Subtle: Two Arcs of the Intellect

Ganapati is described in the Puranas as having been
beheaded, and his head replaced with that of an elephant. The
idea expressed therein is that man gains profound knowledge
and wisdom through the study of and reflection on the scriptural
truths. The intellect or the discriminating faculty in man is said
to be located in his head.

Chant His name always – be you
in work, walking, relaxing, in
sorrow, in joy, or in any other
circumstance.

Swami Chinmayananda

Tapovan Prasad 20 August 2025