Deepavali, also known as Diwali – the Hindu festival that ‘celebrates life through symbols of light’ – has its significance in the stories of the Ramayana.
In another age of time, Sri Rama and Sita ji returned home to Ayodhya along with Lakshmana after the battle in Lanka, and in celebration of this joyous event, the people of the town lit rows of earthen lamps. This night of the New Moon in the lunar month of Kartik has been celebrated as ‘Deepavali‘ or ‘Diwali‘ for thousands of years now.
The lunar constellation of Punarvasu becomes significant at this time, as Sri Rama was born under this star. Punarvasu translates as the ‘return of the light’, emphasising the act of ‘returning’ to a place of peace, rest and alignment. The great Teachers have often said that our true home is in the Light of the Self, in the heart of our own Being. To return home is to find peace within, no matter where we are located on the outside.
We also honour at this time the beauty of the home that sustains and nourishes us. We honour the family that brings love and life in to this home. Through this journey in life, may we keep returning home to peace within the heart.
Here is a profound Sanskrit verse that articulates the seeker’s calling to the light…
साज्यं च वर्तिसंयुक्तं वह्निना योजितं मया ।
दीपं गृहाण देवेश त्रैलोक्यतिमिरापहम् ॥
Saajyam Ca Varti-Samyuktam Vahninaa Yojitam Mayaa |
Diipam Gruhaanna Devesha Trailokya-Timiraapaham ||
O Shining Deva, please accept this Deepam (lamp) that is filled with Ghee (clarified butter), and has a wick that is joined to a fire lighted by me. You are the remover of the darkness of the three worlds.
With love and peace,
Sai Ganesh Nagpal
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