Kubera the deity of
immense wealth is pleased by lighting this brass diya named after him as the
Kubera Diya. It is a traditional diya with a round oil container and an
elongated wick. The material used in making the diya
is fine-quality brass. It is thought that the Diya must be lighted between
the hours of 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Thursdays, facing north or east to bring
prosperity into the lives.
The Divine Glow of the Kubera Vilakku
Invite prosperity and auspiciousness into your home with this exquisite brass Kubera Vilakku, a traditional lamp steeped in rich cultural and spiritual significance. Crafted from enduring brass, this lamp is not merely a source of light but a conduit for blessings and a testament to artisanal heritage. Its elegant design, with a gently curved bowl and a precisely formed wick-holder, is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, making it a cherished addition to any sacred space or decorative collection.
The Kubera Vilakku holds a special place in Hindu traditions, particularly associated with Kubera, the divine treasurer and god of wealth. According to mythology, Kubera's opulent kingdom is said to be filled with riches beyond compare, and he is invoked to bestow financial abundance, good fortune, and material well-being. Lighting this lamp is believed to attract Kubera's benevolent gaze, inviting his blessings of prosperity and success into the lives of its devotees. It is often lit during festivals like Diwali, the festival of lights, where the illumination symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and ignorance, and the ushering in of prosperity and joy.
This Vilakku's design often features intricate patterns, reflecting the divine artistry of the craftsman and the symbolic importance of each element. The warm, golden hue of the brass itself is considered sacred and is believed to possess purifying qualities. In ancient India, brass was highly valued for its durability, malleability, and its perceived ability to conduct spiritual energy. The creation of such lamps was a meticulous process, often passed down through generations, ensuring that each piece carries with it the essence of tradition and reverence.
The act of lighting the Kubera Vilakku is a ritual in itself. As the wick ignites, the flame dances, casting a gentle and mesmerizing glow. This light is not just physical illumination; it is a representation of inner light, wisdom, and the dispelling of negativity. It serves as a daily reminder of the pursuit of spiritual and material wealth, fostering an atmosphere of peace, devotion, and abundance. Whether placed on an altar for daily puja, used during special ceremonies, or displayed as a piece of art, this brass Kubera Vilakku is a powerful symbol of auspiciousness and a beautiful connection to India's enduring spiritual legacy.Symbolism and Tradition
The Kubera Vilakku is more than just a lamp; it is a vessel of ancient traditions and a powerful symbol. In Hinduism, light (jyoti) is central to worship, representing knowledge, truth, and the divine. This lamp, specifically named after Kubera, the Yaksha king and treasurer of the gods, is a direct invocation for wealth, prosperity, and abundance. Kubera, often depicted as a stout figure with a pot belly and jewels, is the guardian of hidden treasures and is believed to shower his devotees with material blessings. The act of lighting this lamp is a sacred ritual, intended to invite his divine grace into the home and business. The warm, reflective surface of the brass enhances the flame's glow, creating an aura of sanctity and auspiciousness. It is a cherished item for those who seek financial stability, success in ventures, and overall material well-being, connecting them to a lineage of devotional practices that have been carried out for centuries.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.
