A Christian content creator known as @asheepnameesh is making headlines after issuing a public repentance for unknowingly participating in a viral TikTok trend that mimics a pose associated with the Hindu god Ganesha.
The pose, now seen in tens of thousands of TikTok videos under the hashtag #swipeleft⬅️ was inspired by rapper Nicki Minaj’s 2013 music video for her track High School. In the video, Minaj strikes a low, cross-legged balancing stance while wearing high heels, a move that has since gone viral as part of the #NickiMinajChallenge.
But what started as an internet trend took a spiritual turn for Esh after a fellow Christian, @mrswilliamsbey, pointed out that the viral pose bears a striking resemblance to common depictions of Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu deity.
I Don’t Want to Look Like No Demons
In a candid video, Esh explained her decision to publicly apologize, saying she had already repented privately but felt a public apology was necessary since her participation in the trend was also public.
“I’m just not trying to look like no demons… I did not know,” she said. “Shout out to the sister in Christ who brought that to my attention.”
She referenced passages from Luke and Acts 19, citing Biblical calls to repentance, even for things done in ignorance.
“Father God, I come to you because you said… that if we repent, we will not perish… I didn’t know that that was demonic,” she continued, alluding to the fact that as the end times approach, ignorance would no longer be overlooked.
While some viewers dismissed the comparison between the viral pose and images of Ganesha as a stretch, others applauded Esh’s decision to take accountability for her actions.
Supporters noted her humility and scriptural reasoning, while critics questioned whether such a link was necessary. The trend itself remains wildly popular, with influencers and even celebrities attempting to recreate the difficult balance.
Still, the moment sparked a broader conversation among Christian TikTok users about discerning what trends align with their faith.
A Reminder for Christians in the Digital Age
Esh’s decision to repent has sparked dialogue around how Christians navigate viral culture and the spiritual implications of participating in trends without understanding their origins.
“Christians shouldn’t just follow every trend,” one commenter wrote. “Even if it seems harmless, we have to be set apart.”
