Lighting a Diya or Lamp in front of the Idol

Lighting a Diya or Lamp in front of the Idol ~ 
The light symbolizes knowledge, illuminating and “en-lighten-ing” us. The light emanating from the ghee lamp removes darkness, ignorance and evil. The light or knowledge shows us the way out of our problems, fears, tensions, and unhappiness. The light of a ghee lamp is believed to bring in prosperity, as knowledge or wisdom is the greatest form of wealth. The wick is a symbol of energy and light where alight emits brightness. The wick in the traditional oil lamp symbolizes ego and the oil or ghee used symbolizes our negative tendencies. When we are lit by self knowledge, the negative tendencies (oil) melt away and finally the ego (wick) perishes. It is customary in India that all auspicious religious events and even important social functions will begin with the lighting of a lamp.‪ This is like an invitation to the divine to come and bless us. In Hindu temples an elaborate “Aarti” prayer ceremony is performed with 5 diyas burning at once, and waved gently in a circular motion- in a clockwise manner, in front of a picture or statue of a deity. This aarti ritual literally purifies the atmospheric air. This symbolises our dedication and oneness with the Lord and gathering from Him a part of his piousness and immense power and strength. Camphor has a holy feeling to it. The rings of smoke that the camphor produces carries the devotees prayer to the Higher being and is an appeal to the Supreme Lord. Aarti being performed with Camphor has a spiritual significance. Camphor burns itself out completely without leaving a trace. Camphor represents our Vasanas, unmanifested desires. So also if we were to take refuge in the Lord, obtain knowledge, these desires will get burnt out. At the end of the aarti we place the hands over the flame and touch our eyes and top of the head. It means that may the light that illumined the Lord light up my vision, may my thoughts be pure and beautiful. Incense sticks dispels bad odour and keeps the environment in and around the temple pure and unblemished. A person feels happy entering the premises because of the smell of camphor and incense. On a human plane it means that we should sacrifice ourselves to serve society, in the process spread the perfume of love and happiness to all!
Om Namah Shivaya!