Message:
On Diwali we light oil lamps at night which after some time burn out. The stars, big and small, can be seen at nightfall; however come sunrise they all disappear. A garden has many types of flowers, but what happens after they are plucked? They dry out. Many pilgrims travel to holy places, alas, they return to their homes. Villages like Hari Chandauree are settled in and then deserted. All these are symbolic of momentary happiness. The Gurmukhs, those who follow their Guru, are the ones who receive true and everlasting happiness.
Pilgrimages and spiritual rituals are of no use until we don’t connect with Pramatma’s light within us. Why celebrate Diwali for external happiness. We should be looking for happiness that will remain with us forever. True happiness comes from Sehaj Avastha.
Reflection:
Many religions celebrate Diwali and in each faith it marks a different historical event. However, the festival has the same symbolic meaning in every religion. Diwali is the victory of the inner light over darkness, good over evil, hope over despair, and represents the eradication of sin within us and society. Gurus in various religions defeated evil on this day and showed us the path of enlightenment.
In Hinduism it is celebrated for various reasons; including, the birth of goddess Lakshmi from the ocean, the day Lord Krishna defeated the demon Narakasura, and the day Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and completing fourteen years of exile. Jains celebrate Diwali as the day Mahavira Ji received enlightenment and attained liberation. Sikhs celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas on this day to commemorate Guru Hargobind Ji’s release from Gwalior Fort.
This day serves as a reminder that we need to focus on extinguishing any darkness within us and embracing our inner light. As humans we are guilty of many vikars. Let us not get lost in the darkness of our vikars, but instead illuminate the light of Pramatma within our soul. Guru’s love will light our path and not let the entanglement of worldly responsibilities and affairs darken it. Thus showing us the way to liberation.