मूषिकवाहन मोदकहस्त
चामरकर्ण विलम्बितसूत्र ।
वामनरूप महेस्वरपुत्र
विघ्नविनायक पाद नमस्ते ॥
Salutations
to Sri Vighna Vinayaka, whose vehicle is the mouse and who holds the Modaka,
whose large ears are like fans and who wears a long sacred thread, who is short
in stature and is the son of Sri Maheswara (Lord Shiva), prostrations at the
feet of Sri Vighna Vinayaka, the remover of his devotee’s pain.
In this
brass
lamp, the Mooshaka, Lord Ganesha's celestial chariot, is portrayed as
presenting the light of the lamp to his loving Lord Ganapati. The lamp is very
beautifully decorated with a patina tint giving it an antique look. It is
believed that lighting this lamp brings Lord
Ganapati's blessings because his carrier is pictured here.
A Symbol of Devotion and Divine Grace
This exquisite brass diya, a small-sized statue, embodies a profound connection to spiritual traditions, particularly in Hinduism. At its heart is the representation of Mushika, the celestial mouse, who serves as the divine vahana (vehicle) for Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings. In Hindu mythology, Mushika is not merely an animal; it symbolizes our desires and ego. By serving as Ganesha's mount, Mushika represents the control and transcendence of these worldly aspects, allowing one to achieve spiritual enlightenment and overcome obstacles.
The craftsmanship of this piece is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of India. Each diya is meticulously handmade by skilled artisans, ensuring a unique and authentic creation. The brass material lends a timeless elegance and durability, meant to be cherished for generations. The subtle patina, a blend of earthy tones and metallic sheen, adds depth and character to the sculpture, hinting at ancient traditions and the passage of time. The intricate detailing on the mouse's saddle and the base further accentuates its artisanal quality, showcasing the dedication and precision involved in its creation.Illuminating Your Sacred Space
The primary function of this piece is as a diya, a traditional oil lamp used in Hindu worship and festivals. Lighting a diya is an act of devotion, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance with the light of knowledge and divinity. Placing this Ganesha lamp with its mouse companion in your home or prayer room invokes the blessings of Lord Ganesha. It is believed to remove Vighnas (obstacles) and usher in success and well-being. The gentle flicker of the lamp serves as a constant reminder of the divine presence and the pursuit of inner peace.A Testament to Indian Artistry
Originating from India, this brass sculpture is more than just a decorative item; it is a piece of cultural heritage. The art of brass casting and intricate detailing has been passed down through families for centuries, preserving traditional techniques and aesthetics. This diya is a perfect example of this legacy, bringing a touch of sacred artistry into your living space. Its compact size makes it versatile, suitable for altars, shelves, or as a thoughtful gift for any occasion, particularly during festivals like Diwali, the festival of lights. The thoughtful design, where the mouse gracefully holds the lamp, is a powerful visual metaphor for humility, service, and the joyous surrender to the divine.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.
