surya namaskaram

(Salutations to the Light of the Lamp) Which Brings Auspiciousness, Health and Prosperity, Which Destroys Inimical Feelings; Salutations to the Light of the Lamp. In almost every Indian home a lamp is lit daily before the altar of the Lord. In some houses it is lit at dawn, in some, twice a day - at dawn and dusk and in a few it is maintained continuously. All auspicious functions and moments like daily worship, rituals and festivals and even many social occasions like inaugurations are performed with the lighting of the lamp, which is often maintained right through the occasion.

History

Lamp is the form of fire and luster. It is the symbol of man’s discovery of fire. Initially fire was maintained in the fire place which helped primitive man in various ways. With the help of fire man could conquer all other animals. The lamp is the smaller version of the fireplace.

As fire helped man in various ways during his development, it obtained importance in his life. Lamp, being a minor version of fire, also has importance because ‘it is a source of light’. Hence it also acquired religious importance. It is considered as the form of fire and sun.

Due to lamp we can obtain victory over people. Lamp is lustrous. It is the giver of Darma, artha, kama and moksha. Hence O dear, lamp should be lighted.

In Skanda purana, to light a lamp or to donate one at temple or an auspicious place is mentioned as a virtuous act.

Lighting lamp as one of the sixteen steps of worship

Due to religious importance ‘lighting lamp’ is included among the sixteen steps of worship. During worship lamp should be lighted in front of deity. Daily lamp should be lighted in front of house deity and tulasi plant.

The Prayer