Strength; endurance; with an upturned trunk, good luck. In ancient times, the shape of an elephant in geological or cloud formations represented the world axis. Probably the most well known elephants are the cartoon Dumbo, which may symbolize immaturity or the ability to escape the mundane by flying, and Kindu God Ganesh, son of Shiva, who symbolizes our ability to overcome obstacles. Honoring Ganesh is said to bring prosperity, in general, and wealth, special. In some parts of Asia he is also the patron of artists or academics.