Symbolism And Reason Why Ghee Lamp Is Offered On Kojagari Lakshmi Puja day
On the Kojagari Lakshmi Puja day, in Bengali households rituals
of worship dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi take shape through the patterns of alpana
(ritual floor art), stalks of paddy, and the folds of new saris. But there is
one special element of this puja that astrology, yoga, and vastu shastra all
agree upon — the ghee lamp.
Why is this lamp held in such high regard? Because ghee is
believed to embody sattva guna — the quality of purity and balance. It is said
that the flame of a ghee lamp emits a sattvic frequency into the atmosphere
during the worship, which attracts the presence of Goddess Lakshmi herself.
In other words, it is through this sacred light and
fragrance that the Goddess is believed to enter the devotee’s home. This is not
merely blind faith — there is a deeper philosophy behind it.
The lamp symbolizes tejas or the principle of fire. Lighting
a ghee lamp enhances this fiery energy, awakening the devotee’s inner spiritual
strength.
According to Hindu beliefs, the auspicious influence of an
oil lamp fades quickly once extinguished, but the sattvic energy or beneficial
effect of a ghee lamp lingers in the environment long after the flame goes out,
bringing lasting prosperity and good fortune.
Yoga philosophy also holds that a ghee lamp helps purify the
chakras, bringing mental peace and physical well-being.
In vastu shastra too, its importance is great. Lighting a
ghee lamp at the entrance of the home or in the place of worship at dusk
creates a divine protective shield around the house, keeping away negative
forces or the influence of Alakshmi (the goddess of misfortune).
Therefore, on this Kojagari Purnima, light a ghee lamp
facing north or east, following the traditional rules. Vastu holds that the
positive vibrations of pure ghee attract not only the blessings of Goddess
Lakshmi but also those of Kubera, the god of wealth — bringing peace,
prosperity, and abundance to the family. It is also believed that beyond
wealth, such an offering ensures good health and overall well-being.
