Lighting the Lamp of Wisdom

Lighting a ‘Diya‘ or a traditional oil lamp, is one of the most powerful ways to spiritually connect with the fiery energy of the Sun. The worship of that mighty Agni (fire) becomes more personalised through kindling the delicate flame of a burning lamp.

During the Vedic lunar month of ‘Karthik’, which usually coincides with the solar calendar months of October/November, the Sun transits through its debilitation sign of Libra. The weakening of the Sun astrologically leads us in to the winter months in the northern hemisphere, when the heat of the Sun fades. During times when the Sun’s ferocious energy is reduced, we have the opportunity to honour the sacred fire in more gentle and personalised ways and forms.

In the Vedic tradition, many festivals associated with lighting oil lamps occur during this month. Diwali or Deepavali is most prominent among them, occurring on November 12th and 13th this year (2023).

The energy of Lakshmi, Goddess of prosperity and well-being, is especially honoured during this time. All that we ascribe value to in this world, is within the domain of Sri Lakshmi. The spark of longing that rises within our hearts to possess or achieve, the will to manifest that which appears beautiful and worthy to us – these emerge from the cosmic waters that Lakshmi presides over. 

When something appears valuable to us, it is ‘Lakshmi energy’ that allows us to see it as such. As our perception becomes more and more refined, we look for value at deeper levels, being able to appreciate, over time, a profound value that even transcends time and space.

Lakshmi is seated upon the lotus of the heart, and we illuminate her presence each time we choose love. The kind of love that doesn’t entangle, enmesh or possess, but that liberates, illuminates and sets free.

Sharing with you a beautiful shloka (verse) to honour Goddess Lakshmi during this sacred time of Deepavali, and the many festivals of light, warmth and beauty that we honour across the world during this time of the year.
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या देवी सर्वभूतेषु लक्ष्मीरूपेण संस्थिता ।
नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नमः ॥

Yaa Devii Sarva Bhuuteshu Lakshmi Ruupenna Samsthitaa 
Namas Tasyai Namas Tasyai Namas Tasyai Namo Namah 

To that Goddess who resides in all beings in the form of Lakshmi,
Salutations to Her again and again.