Lighting the Deepam — Illuminating the Path of Divine Knowledge

The spiritual significance and inner symbolism behind the traditional Hindu ritual of lighting a lamp

The Process of Lighting the Deepam 1. Preparation A lamp holder is filled with ghee or oil—both sanctified mediums. Three cotton wicks are immersed, leaving the tip exposed at the top. 2. Ignition The wick is lit, producing the Jyoti. A gentle application of Kumkum or Haldi (Turmeric) adorns the lamp, signifying auspiciousness. 3. Invocation A traditional sloka is recited as a mark of respect and devotion: Deepam JyOti parabrahmam Deepam sarva tamO haram DeepEna SadhyatE sarvam Deepa Laxmi namOstutE Meaning: I offer my salutations to the Deepam, the radiant embodiment of Parabrahmam, the Supreme. May its light dispel all darkness and inertia within me. May it empower me to undertake even the most difficult endeavors. This Jyoti is the very presence of Goddess Lakshmi—auspicious and radiant, to whom I bow in reverence. Inner Significance — Symbolism of the Flame The Jyoti embodies knowledge, wisdom, and the triumph of light over ignorance. Just as Surya Devata pierces the night with dawn’s rays, the lamp uplifts the devotee’s consciousness from delusion to clarity. While one might argue an electric bulb too dispels darkness, the Deepam holds layers of spiritual symbolism absent in modern lighting. • Ghee/Oil (Fuel): Represents Vaasanas — latent tendencies and attachments. • Wick: Embodies the Ego, the self-identity that limits spiritual expansion. • Flame: The Divine Knowledge which consumes both—leaving behind illumination and purity. Thus, by lighting the Deepam, the aspirant is reminded of their spiritual journey—toward burning away ignorance and ego to reveal the inner light of the Self. A Gentle Reminder of the Goal The simple act of lighting the Deepam is a moment of profound introspection. Each flicker of flame whispers the eternal wisdom: burn away illusion, seek truth, and walk steadily toward divine realization. Sarvam Sri Krishnarpanamastu 🙏 Sri Gurubhyo Namaha