THOUGHT FOR THE DAY as written at Prasanthi Nilayam Today
I desire that festivals should be celebrated, understanding their inner
significance. Deepavali is a special day for getting rid of all the bad
qualities in us. As long as the demonic qualities remain, you will be immersed
in darkness. The destruction of the demon Narakasura symbolizes destruction of
evil and restoration of virtuousness. Also, on Deepavali day, a whole array of
lamps are lit by the light from one lamp. That One lamp symbolises the Supreme
Effulgent Lord. The other lamps are the light in individual selves. The truth
of the Vedic saying, "The One willed to become the Many" (Ekoham Bahushyaam) is
exemplified by the lighting of lamps from the flame of one. Another significant
fact is that, wherever the lamp may be placed, the flame goes upwards only and
never down. Likewise, the flame of Spiritual Wisdom (Jnana) always leads you to
a sublime level through the path of Righteousness
BABA
