Lighting lamp

In a home where the lamp is lit, no darkness can flourish nor evil prevail.

•Lighting the lamp is an essential part of activities performed by a Hindu.

•Light destroys darkness & therefore seen as a representation of God.

•The lamp further signifies the removal of darkness & purification of the mind & heart of the devotee.

•Upon purification, the devotee will dispel darkness & ignorance wherever he/she goes.

•The lamp is lit in the morning (at dawn) & dusk. There are three Sandhyas (junctures)- at dawn, midday & at dusk. Since the sun shines brilliantly at midday, the lamp does not need to be lit. 

•Many appropriate mantras can be chanted whilst lighting the lamp. The following is very nice:

Subham Karoti Kalyanam,

Arogyam Dhana Sampadah, 

Shatru Buddhi Vinashaya, 

Deepa Jyotir Namostute.

‘I salute the One who is the light that brings auspiciousness; prosperity, good health, abundance of wealth, and the destruction of the intellect’s enemies (Kama, krodha, lobha, moha, mada and matsarya)’.

•The following oils, among others, are good to use for the lamp:

Butter ghee, coconut and sesame oil. 

•The lamp must be regularly cleaned. Water should be changed daily. Fresh flowers can also be placed if available. Light and offer an agarbatti daily if possible.