Why Don’t We Light a Candle for Hindu Gods?

Introduction to Hindu Light Rituals

When looking at the traditional Deepa earthen lamp, it is a symbol of the Hiranyagarbha with all the Pancha Mahabhutas (Five Elements) coming together. It requires oil or ghee as fuel and a cotton wick, reflecting the Sattva Guna (quality of purity) in the Rishis' (sage) conception of the Deepa. This combination of the five elements literally includes:
- Prithvi Tattva/earth/soil
- Jala Tattva/water
- Vayu Tattva/air
- Agni Tattva/fire
- Akash Tattva/space/sky.
The wick of the lamp is termed as Vartika in Sanskrit, made of pure cotton. It represents a twirl shape symbolizing Purusha and Prakriti, with the base of Absolute Brahman, which is pure Sattva or liberation. The cotton should be without any stain, and it symbolizes the union of Shiva and Shakti. The Lalita Sahsranama (_INCORRECT: Lalita Sahasranama should not be used here) is a term for a thousand names of the goddess, which affirms that by Shiva's will, the Supreme Shakti becomes one with Shiva.

The Importance of Light in Hindu Worship

The light from the Deepa signifies Jyoti (divine light). In Hindu temples, the place is often full of little flames, emphasizing the importance of light as it dispels darkness. Lighting a candle is a custom, reflecting the symbolic act of offering light to deities.

Alternatives to Animal-Derived Candles

Candles traditionally made from animal fat or bee wax were not ideal offerings to deities, as they required hurting a creature. Instead, modern alternatives such as petroleum-based candles are used, which do not involve harming any living being. During religious rituals (Pujas), ghee (clarified butter) and cotton are the best options to use, as they are symbolic and natural.

Understanding Customs and Religions

Religions and customs are deeply interconnected. Some might light candles, some incense sticks, or use diya (oil lamps), flowers, or fruits. These are human decisions, not mandates from a higher power. Our creator is like a potato that may have different names and is prepared in different ways around the world. Similarly, the creator may have different names and different approaches, but fundamentally, it is one. In ancient times, with a lack of communication and fear of the unknown, people could not reach a consensus about the creator. As communication started, conflicts arose over land and culture, persisting to this day. However, the creator does not concern itself with how we handle ourselves in the world, as long as all organisms are reproducing and sustaining the ecosystem.

Conclusion

So, you can light whatever you desire and pray to whichever god you choose. Just like a fruit must be healthy to be consumed, your offering and prayers must be sincere and pure. The gods do not require grandeur or sacrifice; they seek genuine connection and devotion. Ultimately, no matter the custom, the important aspect is the reverence and respect you bring to the act of worship.