The essential purpose of the Vinayaka Chaturthi festival is to teach a person to avoid the company of bad people and cultivate the company of the good. What does the term Ganapati signify? ‘Ga’ means Buddhi (intellect). ‘Na’ means Vijnana (Wisdom). ‘Ganapati’ means one who is the Lord of the intellect and of wisdom. He is also the Lord of all Ganas (spiritual entities). Ganas also symbolise the senses. Ganapati is thus the Lord of the senses. ‘Vigato Nayakah Iti Vinayakah’ (Vinayaka is one who is without a Master above him). (SSS Vol.25, p. 288)
It is advisable for all to follow the Middle Path. ‘Ati Sarvatra Varjayet’ is an ancient axiom which means, ‘Avoid excess in all places.’ You must respect the limits set by the experience of ages in the sacred texts. They act like embankments that curb the flood of waters; they direct the raging passion towards harmless channels and save you from ruin. Of course man has elementary needs – physical. Mental and intellectual, which have to be fulfilled in some manner. But there is no need to encumber oneself with unwanted food, superfluous furniture and multi-roomed mansions. Luxury enervates and enslaves. (SSS Vol. 10, p. 6)