Ratharati
refers to tiered aarti lamps with an "S" shaped handle. They are used
in temples to pay reverence to the deities using many lighted wicks. These
lights are made up of numerous levels of numerous lamps. The numbers might be
5, 7, or even higher. They often include a crown Dhoop Daan in which a large
amount of camphor or coconut husk is burnt to help light the lamp with heavenly
smoke and finish the Dhoop Aarti process. This classic Ratharati lamp has seven
layers of lights and one Dhoop Daan. It is built of high-quality brass to withstand
the everyday sacrifice of a large amount of wick burning. This lamp with a very
sturdy handle is a perfect fit for Temple worship rituals and can become a
cultural asset for the same.
An Emblem of Divine Radiance: The Seven-Layered Brass Aarti Lamp
This magnificent seven-layered Aarti lamp, meticulously handcrafted in the heart of South India, is more than just a vessel for light; it is a testament to centuries of tradition, spirituality, and artisanal excellence. Standing at an impressive height, this brass masterpiece is designed to elevate your sacred spaces, drawing inspiration from the very essence of devotion. Each of its seven tiers, adorned with numerous wick holders, creates a cascading spectacle of light, symbolizing the unfolding layers of spiritual consciousness.
The tradition of lighting lamps, or "diyas," is deeply embedded in Indian culture. It represents the dispelling of darkness, both literal and metaphorical, and the invocation of divine presence. In ancient Vedic scriptures, light is often equated with knowledge, purity, and auspiciousness. The lamp is seen as a conduit to the divine, a way to invite prosperity, peace, and well-being into the home. This multi-tiered lamp, with its abundant wicks, amplifies these blessings, creating an aura of unparalleled spiritual energy.The Artistry of South Indian Craftsmanship
Each component of this Aarti lamp is a product of skilled artisans who have inherited their craft through generations. The warm, lustrous glow of the brass is a result of dedicated polishing and finishing techniques, ensuring that this lamp will be a cherished heirloom for years to come. The intricate detailing on the edges of each tier, reminiscent of lotus petals or starbursts, further enhances its aesthetic appeal, transforming it into a work of art. The sturdy base, with its elegant curves, provides stability while adding to the lamp's overall grandeur. The very act of creating such a piece is a form of devotion, a meditation in metal, channeling the artisans' reverence into the tangible form of this sacred object.A Symbol of Auspicious Occasions
This seven-layered Aarti lamp is particularly significant during festivals and religious ceremonies. During Diwali, the Festival of Lights, such lamps are used in abundance to welcome Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, and to celebrate the victory of light over darkness. Its presence during pujas, havans, and other auspicious rituals signifies a deep reverence and a desire to connect with the divine on a profound level. Imagine the captivating sight of all 108 wicks illuminated, casting a breathtaking glow that fills your prayer room or home with divine radiance. It is a focal point for meditation, a catalyst for prayer, and a beautiful reminder of the spiritual heritage that connects us all. This lamp is not merely an object; it is an experience, an invitation to embrace the divine light within and around you.The Power of Light: Understanding the Role of Oil Lamps in
Hinduism
Hinduism is a boon to human society for it guides everyone to
follow their Dharma and rise above the material concept of life.
Hinduism is also known as “Sanatan Dharma”. These are Sanskrit
terms in which Sanatan means “eternal” and Dharma means “Intrinsic
nature or occupation”. Thus it deals with the intrinsic nature or
the real identity of the living entities; that which can never be
taken away from them. The principles of Hinduism are given in the
Vedic literature or scriptures that are considered “Apaurusheya”;
they have not been written by any ordinary person but have been
compiled by Vyasadev, the literary incarnation of the Supreme Lord
Krishna. The word “Veda” means complete knowledge, both material
and spiritual. The knowledge in Vedic literature is so vast and
precise that if one looks carefully, he will notice that nothing
is sentimental or imaginary but is based on facts and truth. There
is a clear description and information about the identity of all
living beings, the nature of the Absolute Truth, the reason for
the existence of this world, the information about the world
beyond this universe, and the relationship between us and God, the
Absolute Truth.
Why do we light a lamp?
There are many rituals recommended in the Vedas for engaging our
body and mind in the service of God. One of them is the lighting
of ghee or oil lamps before the deity. According to the Vedic
injunctions, all auspicious functions begin with lighting a
lamp. It has a great spiritual significance. It is believed that
the light of the lamp symbolizes “knowledge”, the wick
symbolizes the false ego of the living entity, and ghee
(clarified butter) or oil symbolizes all the negative tendencies
(Anarthas) accumulated in the heart such as greed, lust, anger,
and envy. When the lamp is lit by spiritual knowledge, all the
Anarthas are exhausted, and the false ego, which is the root
cause of conditional life, is also burnt. Therefore, the lamp is
lit before the Lord as a sacrifice of our false ego in His
service. Just as the light of the lamp dissipates all darkness,
similarly, the light of knowledge dissipates ignorance of the
Jivas and enables us to realize our real identity and purpose of
life.
Why only an oil or ghee lamp?
One may question why only an oil lamp is lit before the Lord and
why not an artificial light source. This may sound logical but
lighting a lamp has a further spiritual significance. The flame
of the light in a lamp always burns upwards indicating that by
cultivating spiritual knowledge, one achieves the highest
perfection of life and is always victorious. Also, a traditional
lamp is the purest form of offering.
In almost every house of a follower of Sanatan Dharma, an oil or
ghee lamp is lit before the altar of the Lord or before the Tulsi
plant. Some people light it at dawn, some at dusk, and some people
prefer to light it at dawn and dusk. Either ghee or sesame oil can
be used to burn the wick. Vaishnavas (devotees of Lord Vishnu or
Krishna) especially light a ghee lamp every day in the month of
Kartik to offer their love and devotion to the Lord.
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