Worshiping Siva as a Pillar of Light

Several days ago during the Krittika nakshatra, Satguru, the mathavasis and local members observed Krittika Deepam. This is a time when God Siva is celebrated as an infinite pillar of light, usually by lighting a large lamp or flame. Many Murugan temples observe this festival since Muruga's energies are easily felt during the Krittika nakshatra. In some instances, most notably atop Arunachala, a giant bonfire is lit to represent the divine and all permeating light of Parashakti. This year we celebrated in front of Iraivan Temple. Several monks set up a pillar of dried palm fronds, imbued with large amounts of camphor and ghee. Upon everyone's arrival at sunset, an arati was performed and the fronds were then lit in a brightly burning blaze of billowing darshan. Aum.

"Now have I realized the path of Hara. In the past I sought Him in narrow paths and strayed. Lo! All the while He stood before me like a beacon light in firmament, guiding my voyage across the sea of my soul's longing. The path of Siva is the proven path. It led them to Hara. It is the royal path that renowned souls have walked, the path divine that took the devout to cosmic space. That path do seek, enter and persevere. Still your wandering thoughts, chant the sacred syllable 'Shi' and so persevere on the path of Hara. You shall envision primal light effulgent."
Tirumantiram 1562-1563

A festival of sacred, infinite light

Just before the sun sets, pilgrims and monks begin to arrive

This year\

s celebration is the first that we\'ve done at the steps of Iraivan Temple'

An arati was done at Kadavul Temple and the flame then paraded to Iraivan

The pillar of dried palm fronds

Satguru arrives for the event

Yoginathaswami performs a short arati

He then coats the fronds in ghee

The arati is passed before the pillar and then used to light it

Jai!

Just as the light of the sunset retreats, the light of this sacred flame grows strong

It is the same light that shines within all of us

As the flame\

s fuel dwindles, offerings are made'

The ashes light the darkened ground like stars

Aum Namah Sivaya

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