Why light an oil lamp?
Light is recognised as a universal symbol of Truth throughout all religions. In Vedic knowledge, the element of fire represents the source of life - being the bestower of health, prosperity & abundance - it is the very power of transformation - allowing one to grow and transcend.
When we connect with light through the element of fire, through outer ritual as well as inner understanding, we are reminding ourselves that our True Nature IS light itself.
But what is the significance of reminding ourselves of this?
When we consistently affirm ourselves to be the light itself, we slowly dissolve the darkness of ignorance (creating certain thoughts) that led us on to believe that the world of objects and body is permanent and eternal (which is the root cause of most of our sufferings).
What this can bring is a deeper understanding of Truth. Our mind becomes open to receive rather than dictate - which then allows us to make choices that are more Dharmically aligned. When we are following more Dharmic choices, it ultimately leads us to happiness.
How does connecting with light bring good health?
The aspect of light that is able to transform is the healing power of fire. when we are suffering with ill health - we may view it as a physical ailment - but on a more subtle level, there requires a transformation of us in some way or another. The more we are able and willing to change, the more easeful our healing journey will be. None of us can be free from action or movement - and so if we learn to move with this flow and not allow the body to stagnate, our health is much better.
Light on various levels
Light presents itself in various levels according to the level of darkness in which it is seen. The sun & fire are the grossest forms of light, but on more subtle levels it is also the power that digests and transforms substances in our body and on an even more subtle level it is the intelligence of our mind. At the most subtle level, light can be understood as “atmaprakasha” - or “Illumination of the Soul”.
When we remember ourselves to be Soul, as light, we forget “our story”, our dramas, our attachments, likes, dislikes and desires. For a moment in time we dissolve into the light, remembering the impermanance of this world and its objects. We let go of our clutching and control, and permit ourselves to continue on our journey towards Truth.
Lighting a lamp creates the connection
Irrespective of religion, connecting with this light once or twice a day can be the most simplest yet effective ways of honouring light as the source of life of which we are all born from, and shall all return to.
From connecting with that place we can draw upon the source of all knowledge and open ourselves up like a channel - allowing that light to move us through our lives despite all circumstances.
When outer ritual is combined with understanding it creates a deeper imprint on us. Lighting a candle or oil lamp as part of our daily routine with knowledge of why we are doing it can be the simplest and most effective ways to connect with Divine energy.
An oil lamp, known as a diya, deepam, deepa or jyotir is the most traditional way of honouring the light. Oil or ghee is used as the fuel for burning as it brings certain properties to the environment around - not only does it purify the air and bring positive energy, but it also serves to create an etheric atmosphere that is conducive for communication and receptivity. Therefore, your connection with the Divine energy and the people within the space of the lit lamp will be heightened.
How can you start this practice?
To begin this simple ritual you simply need an oil lamp burner, also known as a diya, cotton wicks and an oil of your choice. Mustard or sesame oil is the preferred choice for this - or you can also use ghee.
Simply thread the wick through the middle part of the diya holder and then fill with oil. Be sure to not have too much of the wick being lit as this will cause the flame to smoke. It also worth noting to not fill the diya too much with oil too. A short wick with a moderate amount of oil is perfect.
Place the diya in an appropriate space and then when ready, you can light it with matches. It is a good idea to have bathed before lighting it and have your shoes off.
To bring more meaning into this ritual you can bring your thoughts onto the deeper understanding & symbolism of the ritual - particularly the representation of the Atmaprakasha.
There is a beautiful mantra called '‘Deepam Jyotir mantra” that is traditionally recited during the lighting of an oil lamp which goes as follows:
Shubham Karoti Kalyaannam-Aarogyam Dhana-Sampadaa |
Shatru-Buddhi-Vinaashaaya Diipa-Jyotir-Namostute ||
Diipa-Jyotih Para-Brahma Diipa-Jyotir-Janaardanah |
Diipo Haratu Me Paapam Diipa-Jyotir-Namostute ||
Its meaning and translation honours the positive qualities that light brings into ones life - good health, abundance & prosperity. It also mentions the ability to bring light onto one’s darkness of ignorance. It recites the light (dipa) to be the Supreme Absolute (Brahman) and also the aspect of Divinity associated with preservation and sustenance (Sri Vishnu, “Janaardanah”). It ends with a plea to remove the darkness from ones life.
When we say this mantra we can simply remember the affirmation, “I am the light, I dissolve into that light” and give a gentle bow in reverence of this being the Source of all life.
Brass diyas are now available to purchase on the Svāhā shop. Each diya comes with ten cotton wicks & sticks and a postcard with the deepam jyotir mantra & meaning.
May the light be in you and of you.