Deity
Vakratunda
वक्रतुण्डVakratuṇḍa
- verses
- 214
- book
- 1
- chapters
- 55
- A form of
- Ganesha
What the texts say
In the Mudgala Purana, Vakratunda is described as an incarnation who is the upholder of Brahman in bodies and the slayer of Matsarasura. Mudgala Purana 1.20.5 The same text gives the meaning of his name in his own words: those who become obstacles for devotees are called crooked by the gods, and he will destroy them with his trunk. Mudgala Purana 1.17.13 In a hymn of praise, he is called the destroyer of obstacles and the nourisher of devotees, seated on a lion, four-armed and holding a noose. Mudgala Purana 1.39.17 In the story of his meeting with Matsara, who is also called Matsarasura, Vakratunda says he was angry enough to destroy him, yet does not wish to destroy one who has sought refuge, and invites him to choose a boon. Mudgala Purana 1.38.51, 1.20.5
Where to read
Every verse that names Vakratunda, book by book.
- 1.39.2
The gods and sages said: We bow to the eternal Brahman, devoid of change, yet the source of all change, worshipped by Shiva and others. We worship the one Vakratunda, of infinite form, known only by Himself.
- 1.38.1
Mudgala said: To Matsara, who was speaking thus with great anger, Vakratunda, with a serene soul and as if smiling, spoke thus.
- 1.32.1
Chapter 32: The Manifestation of Vakratunda. Salutations to Shri Ganesha. Mudgala said: Listen, O wise Daksha, to the supreme deed of the gods, which I shall tell in brief.
- 1.39.2
Key chapters
The chapters where Vakratunda matters most.