Elephant Symbolism: Strength, Wisdom and Royalty in South Asian Art

The elephant is one of the great symbolic animals of South and Southeast Asia, standing for strength, wisdom, royal power and good fortune. Its meanings are rooted in religion as well as in the animal's size and intelligence.

Ganesha

In Hinduism, the elephant-headed god Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and the lord of beginnings, invoked at the start of new ventures, journeys and ceremonies. His image has made the elephant one of the most beloved symbols in Indian culture.

Gaja-Lakshmi

Lakshmi, the goddess of prosperity, is often shown flanked by two elephants pouring water over her from raised trunks. This image, known as Gaja-Lakshmi, links elephants with abundance, rain and royal blessing.

The white elephant of the Buddha's birth

In Buddhist tradition, Queen Maya, mother of the future Buddha, dreamed that a white elephant entered her side before his conception. White elephants became symbols of purity and of kingship in Buddhist Southeast Asia, where rulers prized them.

Royal power

Elephants carried kings into battle and processions across South and Southeast Asia, which made them emblems of royal authority and strength.

Trunk up?

The Western idea that an elephant ornament brings luck only if its trunk points upwards is a modern convention, not part of these older traditions.

The elephant in jewellery

An elephant charm can reference wisdom, strength, new beginnings or a love of the animal itself. Take a look at the AURYN Elephant charm, or read our guide to animal symbolism.