Diwali – Lighting of the Inner Lamp

 

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Diwali – Lighting of the Inner Lamp

Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, wisdom over ignorance, and love over hate. On this occasion, families gather, homes are decorated with lamps and candles, and fireworks illuminate the night sky. However, beyond these beautiful traditions lies an opportunity for a deeper, more spiritual practice - the lighting of the inner lamp, which signifies awakening to our higher consciousness.

The true essence of Diwali invites us to turn inward and light the lamp within ourselves. In this internal journey, the inner lamp represents our soul, which, when nurtured with love, compassion, and wisdom, shines brightly. Just as the physical lamps dispel darkness, this inner light removes the ignorance clouding our minds, helping us see life’s purpose more clearly. Ignorance here isn’t just a lack of knowledge; it’s the absence of awareness of our true nature. When we recognise the divine within us, we open our hearts and minds to the greater truth of our existence - that we are deeply interconnected with all beings and the universe itself.

The outer act of lighting a diya is only complete when it reflects the inner illumination. In spiritual terms, this means becoming aware of our inner potential and actively working towards self-realisation. Each diya we light on Diwali can remind us of the steps needed to nurture this inner light. The oil or ghee used in lamps is symbolic of our negative tendencies and thoughts, while the wick represents the individual soul. As the oil is burned and transformed, our ego, anger, jealousy, and other impurities are reduced, allowing the soul to shine with purity and strength. By meditating on these qualities and working on them sincerely, we allow our inner light to shine forth.

The journey toward self-awareness and enlightenment often requires us to go through phases of self-inquiry. It is natural to encounter challenges and shadows within us -our fears, doubts, and insecurities. Diwali reminds us that every flickering flame is an invitation to face these shadows without fear. With each lamp, we affirm that darkness is temporary and that we have the ability to turn it into light through conscious effort. Inward reflection during Diwali can help us notice where we may need to work on ourselves - whether it’s cultivating more patience, forgiveness, or understanding toward others. As we continue this inner work, our minds become clearer, and our hearts more compassionate. This inner transformation naturally brings more harmony to our outer lives.

Lighting the inner lamp also requires cultivating gratitude and humility. Diwali encourages us to celebrate the abundance and joy that already exists in our lives. When we reflect on the blessings we have - be they relationships, health, or spiritual insights - we realise that our lives are already rich in many ways. This awareness fills us with gratitude, and when practiced daily, this gratitude becomes the fuel that nourishes our inner light. By sharing this joy with others through kindness and generosity, we help others light their own inner lamps, creating a ripple effect of positivity and compassion in our communities.

Just as a single lamp can ignite countless others, our own spiritual journey can inspire those around us. When we embody love, patience, and wisdom, others naturally feel this energy and are often encouraged to look within themselves. Diwali, therefore, becomes not only a personal celebration of light but a communal one, where each inner transformation contributes to the collective growth and harmony of the world. This year, as we celebrate Diwali, let us remember that the most profound light show is the one happening within us, a light that, once lit, guides us in every aspect of life.

So, as we decorate our homes and hearts this Diwali, let us take a moment to pause, breathe, and connect with the quiet flame within. Let each diya we light serve as a reminder of our commitment to inner growth, peace, and self-discovery. This is the true spirit of Diwali—a journey toward light that begins within and radiates outward, illuminating the world with the timeless glow of compassion and wisdom.

HAPPY DEEPAWALI