The Essence of Light: Oils Traditionally Used for Deepavali Diyas
Deepavali, or Diwali, literally meaning “a row of lights”, is celebrated by lighting small clay lamps known as diyas or deepams. These lamps are not mere decorations; they serve as deep symbols for the triumph of knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. The choice of fuel for these lamps has its own significance within the ritual context since every kind of oil or fat has its own specific spiritual and energetic advantages as per Hindu tradition. While regional variations exist, the basic criteria are purity and auspiciousness.
Ghee: The Ultimate Purity
Cow Ghee (Clarified Butter) is the most honored fuel for the Deepavali diya. It is regarded as the purest and most sacred material in the worship of Hindus.
Spiritual Supremacy: Ghee derived particularly from indigenous varieties of cows emits the highest degree of sattvik (pure) energy. Lighting a lamp made from ghee is believed to attract strong divine energies and positive vibrations into the home.
Prosperity Invocation: The use of ghee is highly recommended during Lakshmi Puja, which takes place on the main Diwali night. It is said to specifically invite the blessings of the Goddess Lakshmi, who is worshipped for wealth and prosperity, and helps in eliminating poverty and augmenting the well-being of families.
Purifying according to Vedic Tradition: The ghee lamp is celebrated in ancient texts for its capacity to purify the atmosphere and cleanse spiritual energy centers. For many, a ghee diya is a must for the main altar lamp.
Traditional Vegetable Oils: Regional Importance
While the ghee is the first choice for rituals demanding the highest purity, there are several specific vegetable oils that are assigned traditional significance for their unique properties, especially for lighting the countless lamps that decorate the home.
Sesame Oil (Til Oil)
More commonly accepted, particularly within South Indian traditions, it has become a truly honored alternative to ghee.
Protection and Clarity: There are strong beliefs that sesame oil helps cleanse negative energies and removes planetary afflictions, known as doshas, particularly with reference to the planet Saturn (Shani).
Steady Flame: Sesame oil generates a bright steady flame that continues to burn for a long time, making it a priority when lamps must remain lit during the entire evening or even night.
Mustard Oil (Sarson Tel)
In North India, Mustard Oil is a traditional-all-time common choice. It’s cheap, easily available, and much in use due to its protective qualities.
Ward Off Evil: Mustard oil is said to ward off evil spirits and other negative forces. The potent aroma also is believed to cleanse the air and prevent insect nuisance, making it even more appropriate for outdoor lighting of diyas.
Availability: All this accessible nature and cheapness also make it a choice for lighting a maximum amount of diyas that contribute light to each corner of the house.
Coconut Oil
Considered pure and honored throughout the coast and the regions of South India, blessed as clean and sacred offering.
Purity and Devotion: Lighting a lamp in coconut oil is considered to bring purity, peace, and the blessings of deities like Lord Ganesha.
Clean Burn: It gives a steady, clean flame, conducive to a tranquil and serene atmosphere during ceremonies and celebrations.