A Nachiarkoil lamp is
another name for the Kuthu Vilakku, or Peacock Oil light. It draws its name
from the village of Nachiyar Koli in Tamil Nadu, where the Pather (Kammalar)
clan has been creating these lamps since ancient times. This brass
lamp is a lovely Nachiarkoil light with a distinctive annam or peacock
pattern on top. It is a three-layer columnar lamp with multi-wick lights. The
basic support that runs through the layers of the lamp adds a simple beauty to
the design. The lamp's overall image is very basic but majestic. This lamp, with its majestic and sturdy
stand, represents self-illumination and harmony, as well as spiritual enlightenment.
The Auspicious Peacock: A Beacon of Light and Beauty
Grace your home or sacred space with an emblem of divinity, beauty, and prosperity. This exquisite, handmade brass lamp, standing tall at 38 inches, is more than just a source of light; it is a testament to the rich artistic heritage and spiritual traditions of India. The majestic peacock, rendered in gleaming brass, crowns this lamp, its intricate detailing a marvel of craftsmanship. In many Indian cultures, the peacock is revered as the vehicle of Lord Kartikeya, the god of war, and is also associated with the goddess Saraswati, the patron of arts and knowledge. Its vibrant plumage is often seen as a symbol of beauty, grace, and immortality.A Legacy of Light: The Annam Lamp Tradition
This lamp is a representation of the revered "Annam Lamp" or "Peacock Lamp" tradition, commonly found in South India, particularly Kerala. These lamps are not merely utilitarian objects but integral to religious ceremonies, festivals, and daily rituals. The act of lighting a lamp, known as "deepam" or "diya," signifies the dispelling of darkness, both literal and metaphorical, and the invocation of divine presence. The Annam Lamp, with its elegant form and the auspicious peacock motif, amplifies this symbolism, bringing an aura of peace, serenity, and divine blessings into any environment. The meticulous hand-crafting ensures that each lamp possesses a unique character, carrying the spirit and skill of its artisan.Symbolism and Spiritual Significance
The peacock, with its iridescent feathers and proud posture, is a potent symbol across various mythologies. In Hinduism, it is often linked to celestial beings and divine power. The act of lighting this lamp can be a meditative practice, a moment to focus intention and invite positive energy. The seven wicks, arranged in a blooming floral pattern, symbolize the seven chakras or energy centers within the human body, suggesting the lamp's capacity to awaken spiritual awareness and harmony. The radiant glow it emits is believed to ward off negative energies and attract prosperity and good fortune, making it an ideal addition to any puja room, living area, or entryway where a touch of sacred elegance is desired.Craftsmanship and Enduring Beauty
Forged from high-quality brass, this lamp is built to last for generations. The warm, lustrous tone of brass has been cherished for centuries for its durability and its ability to absorb and reflect light beautifully, creating a soft, inviting ambiance. The traditional techniques employed in its creation are evident in every curve and detail, from the intricately sculpted peacock to the finely etched base. This lamp is not just an object of devotion; it is a piece of art that adds a timeless elegance and a sense of sacredness to your surroundings. Its substantial presence and detailed artistry make it a captivating focal point, inspiring awe and reverence.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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