Friday, December 23, 2011

Importance of lamp in Hindu Dharma

The lamp has its own special place in Sanatan Vaidik Hindu Dharma. It is a form and a symbol of Tej (Absolute fire principle). The lamp is invoked as, ‘तमसो मा ज्‍योतिर्गमय ।’ meaning the lamp leads us from darkness towards light. It burns only to give message of peace and light to the man. This is its greatness. In this Satsang we shall try to understand what the scriptures have to say about the lamp. Amongst the articles of puja the lamp is an important article. The following mantra which is recited during the ritual of puja explains its significance.
भोदीपब्रह्मरूपस्‍त्‍वं ज्‍योतिषांप्रभुरव्‍यय: ।।
आरोग्‍यंदेहिपुत्रांश्‍चमत:शांतिं प्रयच्छमे ।।
Meaning: O Deity of lamp, you are of the form of Bramhan (the absolute truth). You are full of radiance. You never wither. Please bestow me health and good progeny and please fulfill my wishes.

Lamp jothi worship is one of the simplest procedures available to humans. It's so simple that even those who are not familiar with it can learn it in just a few minutes. But let not the simplicity fool you; it's one of the most potent spiritual practices there is. Sathguru Venkataraman has simplified this worship procedure so that every human around the world can practice it easily. Every man and woman in every part of the world must observe this practice everyday without fail.

What kind of lamps to use
The Siddhas say that earthen lamps and lamps made out of brass, bronze, copper, silver or gold are the ones that are ideal for lamp jothi worship. It is also easy to make your own lamp jotis.
To start with, light your lamp jothis using sesame oil (available in Indian grocery stores around the world) and wicks made out of cotton. First pour the oil in the lamp and then place the wick in it. If you can't get sesame oil, you can easily make ghee for lighting your lamp joti.

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