The Golden Temple at Diwali |
Yet for most of us, the traditions of the "other" religions are utterly alien, even when they consist of around one seventh of the world's population. (Yes, I am speaking of Hinduism. -- as well as Sikhism). So I hope I can, at least, bring some awareness and appreciation of these facets of our world.
Today is Diwali. the festival of lights
It is an interesting and enjoyable celebration. And it is a shame it's not more widely enjoyed and appreciated, for at least the spectacle it is.
Showkat Shafi - Al Jazeera |
Yes, it has many religious meanings. But in the beginning it came out of ancient harvest celebrations. And that's something any culture should be able to grasp and enjoy. It also helps reflect South Asian culture, which too many of us are quite oblivious too, while all so concerned about what happen there.
What is Diwali?
Diwali means row of lighted lamps, or lights. And from the images that come out of the annual celebration, it is easy to understand just why.
Joe Mahoney - Times-Dispatch |
A rangoli. |
Gambling is another tradition. Diwali is said to be a time during which gamblers are looked down on positively. If one gambles, they will be blessed with prosperity in the coming.
And then there are the fireworks. In some traditions, it is meant to show higher powers how happy we are. But they also can help make the watchers plenty happy
Always remember, it's a festival, a party, a holiday! And every place populations celebrate, people bring their own style and sensibilities to the partying.
Reuters |
Hopefully this gives some of you a superficial, but interesting understanding of what many (around a billion people) are celebrating today. It can be such a happy time. It is a time for hope. It is a time to look at the world and see the good in it. It is a time to put a fresh foot forward as you step into a new day.
Not a bad idea. So, Happy Diwali to those that celebrate it. And to everyone, a hope that you take the spirit of doing good to heart, see the good around you in the world, and realize there is always time and an opportunity to make positive changes in life.
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