Lighting up homes, hearts, and communities
The Significance of Oil Lamps
Oil lamps during Deepavali symbolise the journey from darkness to light. This celebration, derived from the Tamil words "deepam" (oil lamp) and "awali" (array), honours the triumph of light over darkness.
Reflections on Commemorating with Reverence and Tradition
Malaysia Hindudharma Maamandram president Radhakrishnan Alagamalai shared insights on commemorating this sacred day with reverence and tradition. "The rows of oil lamps symbolise the journey from darkness to light, a reminder to cast aside arrogance, jealousy, and ego – qualities that represent inner darkness. Dispel these to achieve spiritual clarity," he said.
Preparations for Deepavali
Preparations begin on the eve of Deepavali, with customs honouring the family’s "kula deivam" (clan deity) and inviting ancestral blessings. Families gather at 7:30 pm to light a lamp facing south, seeking blessings from their ancestors. Elaborating on the preparations, Radhakrishnan Alagamali said, "To welcome Sri Maha Lakshmi (the Goddess of Wealth) into the home in the form of light, place a small table in the courtyard. Cover it with a clean cloth, adorn it with decorated ‘kuttu vilakku’ (traditional standing lamps) and flowers, along with a tray of fruits, betel leaves and areca nuts, sandalwood paste, vermilion, and a bowl of gingelly oil."
The Rituals of Deepavali
Once preparations are complete, families light the kuttu vilakku and place lamps around the home to dispel darkness and invite blessings. Before bedtime, these lamps are moved to the "pooja" room, leaving one side of the kuttu vilakku lit to preserve the light for the early-morning rituals.
The Morning Rituals
On Deepavali morning, families start with a sacred oil bath, symbolising the blessings of the Ganges River. This ritual is observed during Brahma Muhurtham, an auspicious time ending at 5:27 am. Family members rise early, wash their hands and feet, and light all five faces of the kuttu vilakku from the night before. "A family member should light the lamps and offer prayers to Goddess Mahalakshmi, believed to manifest in the kuttu vilakku," said Radhakrishnan.
Sharing the Joy
The ritual continues as family members apply gingelly oil, symbolising Mahalakshmi, to each other’s heads, followed by a cleansing bath with warm water to represent Ganga Devi, the personification of the Ganges. Family members then gather in prayer, presenting new clothes, sweets, and fruits before an image of Lord Krishna or a "poorna kumbam" (sacred pot). Elders bless the younger family members, who bow and receive their new clothes, lightly dusted with turmeric for auspiciousness.
Extending the Spirit of Giving
Hindu Sangam president Ganesan Thangavellu explained that after home prayers, families traditionally visit temples in their new attire to worship and give thanks. "Temple visits allow families to share greetings with fellow devotees, extending Deepavali’s warmth and goodwill throughout the community," he said. He encouraged families to invite friends and relatives for a festive feast to share blessings and joy, and further urged them to spread light through acts of kindness. This can be in the form of visits to orphanages, elderly care homes, or shelters for people with disabilities. Charitable contributions, he noted, deepen the spirit of giving. "Deepavali is not just about lighting lamps; it’s about bringing light into the lives of those around us," Ganesan concluded.
Conclusion
Deepavali is a celebration that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, bringing people together in the spirit of unity, gratitude, and spiritual growth. As we light up our homes, hearts, and communities, let us remember the significance of oil lamps and the importance of sharing the joy with others.
FAQs
- What is the significance of the oil lamps in Deepavali?
The oil lamps symbolise the journey from darkness to light, reminding us to cast aside arrogance, jealousy, and ego – qualities that represent inner darkness. - What are some of the traditional preparations for Deepavali?
Preparations include lighting a lamp facing south, welcoming Sri Maha Lakshmi with kuttu vilakku and flowers, and adorning the home with decorations and offerings. - How do families typically spend their time on Deepavali?
Families often spend their time in prayer, preparing traditional meals, and participating in cultural events and activities, such as visiting temples and engaging in charitable acts.