Diwali falls during a dark period of a year. While most of us pray during this time, negative practices are also prevalent during this time. The best way to dispel negative influences is to light candles, or as is the practice amongst us Hindus, Diyas. Why is the fire worshipped by all the religions in one form or another? Let me share with you what I have learned.

While water finds its level by moving downwards, fire does quite the opposite. Even if you hang a lamp upside down, the flame will rise upwards. Human nature tends to be like water, flowing to lower levels. The flame that we light reminds us to soar upwards.

As one moves forward on the Spiritual path, the darkness of ignorance is replaced by the Light of knowledge. The flame in this case is symbolic of this light which brightens as we journey within. Tapa in Sindhi means fever. It also stands for fire and penance.

Fire destroys the impure. The flame of the fire reminds us of the fact that we should cleanse ourselves of all impurity of our ego and attachments, until only the purity of our soul remains It is said by Mystics that he who loses his ego will cease to be. The fire rises towards the sky and vanishes.

Not only does the fire vanish as it rises, but after burning the fuel, it becomes silent. Isn't that what we are meant to become after, burning all our desires and attachments to falsehood? So this Diwali, as you shop for Diyas, ponder upon its flame's spiritual nature. It will not only beautify and brighten your home, but will remind you of the transformations that it is meant to bring within.