White Elephants

The elephant is a prominent icon of strength, fertility and intelligence in many cultures, including Chinese, Indian and African. It is a respected animal of insight, cherished by many. In Buddhism, the elephant is one of the eight holy animals, and in the Hindu religion, the Ganesha is the God with the head of an elephant.

In both a mythical and religious role, the Elephant is seen as a mark of magnificence, able to be worshipped and honoured. In many folklore and war stories, the elephant has been seen as enchanting and alluring - in ancient China, the Elephant was a war animal, often given as gifts to the emperor by the King of Siam, during the Kang Hsi era. This animal could always outdo the opponent and prove both its dignity and discretion.

The pure white Elephant, which is one of the Seven Treasures of Buddhism, is believed by many to be the embodiment of the future Buddha. It holds the same holy place in India, Indochina and Thailand, where the only people who are permitted to ride an Elephant are the king and deities. Because of these precedents, it is known as a figure of royalty, supremacy and stateliness.

The Elephant also holds a very potent position in Feng Shui. The mother of Buddha had dreams about a pure white elephant directly prior to Buddha’s birth; it is for this reason that the Elephant is now an icon of fertility, being used by couples or singles who desire a newborn. It is an auspicious omen, providing protection for the beholder.

In Feng Shui, those who have an Elephant in their house will be blessed with many beneficial sanctions. Here are some Feng Shui tips to achieve that:

1) In Chinese, the word “elephant” is phonetically similar to “Prime Minister”. The elephant is thus regarded as a symbol of vigour, aptitude, power and prominence and can be used to enhance the luck of the head of a household or company.

2) For businessmen, display a pair of Elephants in a distinguished spot on your desk in your office, facing outwards. This will provide you with fortification from your opponents, as well as induce victory on your business ventures.

3) Display a pair of Elephants indoors, beside your main entrance, facing inside- this will create a flow of good luck into your home. If they are displayed outdoors, then they should be positioned facing out, as they will safeguard the home in this arrangement.

4) If you and your partner are trying for a child, placing the Elephant in the West sector of your home (the corner of descendant luck, according to Feng Shui Bagua 8 Life Aspiration formula) or in the bedroom. Caressing its trunk every night before slumber will increase fertility, enhancing the chances of a new baby being conceived.

5) Make a wish when rubbing its trunk. The Feng Shui elephant is also known as a grantor of wishes.