Why in Hinduism Do People Light Lamps?

Significance of Lighting Lamps in Hinduism

Why in Hinduism Do People Light Lamps?

Fire stands out among the other elements because it is the only element in nature that never becomes tainted or contaminated. We have heard of poisoned land, polluted water, air, and even the sky. Only the fire itself has not been infected by human intervention. Since ancient times, people have respected fire as a source of heat, illumination, and cleansing.

It is the best physical cleanser and can remove all biological pollutants. As the Eternal Light, the worldwide representation of God, it is also a symbol of God, the eternally pure Supreme Being who cleanses all souls of impurities. It was also used because at that time there was no electricity, so people lit Small Brass Hanging Lamp or other lamps.

Hinduism and Light Lamps

One of the most revered Vedic gods by Hindus is Agni. We do a “yagna,” or fire offering, to worship the gods. When reading from the sacred chapters or performing puja and sadhana, fire is always present. Fire is viewed as a transcendental mediator in higher realms.

Hinduism, whether it be Vedic or Puranic, is characterized by the invocation of a god, who is then invited for a meal, is asked for a blessing after being satisfied, and is then told farewell.

Fire, which was created by burning wood in a sophisticated brick fire pit, was used in Vedic Hinduism to successfully achieve this invitation. Gifts or offerings to the gods were made using fire since Agni was seen as the gods’ mouth and ears. 

Ancient sages would always take a sacred fire with them when they traveled. The saffron-colored, triangular, forked flag, a symbol of Agni and is also carried by pilgrims, is used to decorate Hindu temples and lit Tiny Brass Oil Lamp.

But not every single person can do yagna daily, so there were lamps used for worshipping the god. Normal people who were not rishis lit lamps in front of the deities to worship. Also, lamps are symbols of light; their presence signifies that darkness is not permanent. 

What Does a Lamp Represent?

Miniature Brass Diya produces light instantly upon being lit. Greater light, of course, meant more riches. In light of this, during celebrations, frequently burning bulbs Walls in the home would be decorated with lamps.

The illumination of the heart is symbolized by a lamp. Knowledge shines a light that drives ignorance’s darkness away. Wisdom awakening, which is represented by the altar candle, is the highest aspiration of Hinduism. The Gayatri mantra, a meditation on enlightenment, represents this objective.

A camphor flame is burned in the same way, and it is moved in front of the deity. It stands for a benediction for universal awakening. To express our desire and search for enlightenment, we make initial contact with the flame before moving on to our eyes.

Kinds of Oils for Lighting Lamps

Different kinds of oils can be used to light a diya. Sesame Neem Oil, Neem Oil, Castor Oil, and Mustard Oil have all been used to light diyas in the Indian subcontinent for decades or longer.

Diyas, or lamps made of cotton wick and cow ghee, are so revered that they are lit on all important occasions. When used as an oil in diyas, mustard oil aids in air purification. It also emits a lovely smell.

Neem oil, a good pesticide, keeps mosquitoes and other bugs away when used to light Diyas.

Because it is thought to be a pure oil, diyas are lit with sesame oil instead of cow’s ghee on auspicious occasions. In southern India, Panchdeepam Oil, a mixture of cow’s ghee, sesame oil, mustard oil, mahua oil, and coconut oil, is used to light Antique Brass Lamp in temples.

Scientific Reasons for Lit Lamps:

  • The monsoon season brings with it damp, bacterial-filled air. The heat that the diya generates helps to purify the air.
  • The lamps are eco-friendly. They don’t leave a negative aftertaste.
  • Since the lamp’s light is not powered by electricity, it uses far less of it.
  • Sulfate and carbonate are formed when magnesium from oil combines with sulfur and carbon dioxide from the air. The air becomes lighter when the heavier substances descend to the ground.
  • According to research, the ghee/oil lamp/diya purifies the air and destroys the germs that are in the air around Diya.

Conclusion

People have revered fire as a source of heat, illumination, and purification since the beginning of time. Lamps are representations of light, showing that darkness is a fleeting state. Lamps would be used to embellish the house’s walls. The lamp is a symbol of the highest aspiration of Hinduism, which is to awaken wisdom. Also, it has scientific benefits, oil lamps purify the air, and protect your home from insects.  And also an eco-friendly source of light.

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