Yama Deepam, also known as Yama Deepdaan, is an important religious tradition that is observed on Dhanteras day (Dhan Trayodashi). Its purpose is to please Yamaraja (the God of Death) and seek his blessings to avoid an untimely death. Yama Deepam is performed on the evening of Dhanteras, when people light lamps outside their house and dedicate it to Yamaraja.
Yama Deepam Ki Katha (Story)
There is a mythological tale associated with Yama Deepam. Once upon a time, a son was born to King Hem. Astrologers predicted that the son would die on the fourth day of marriage. When that day came, the son's wife devised a trick to prevent Yamaraj's arrival. She placed a lot of jewellery and coins outside the house and lit lamps all around the house.
When Yamraj came to take the soul of King Hem's son, his eyes were dazzled by the brilliance of the ornaments and lamps and he could not enter inside. Yamraj stayed there for some time and returned, which averted the untimely death of the king's son. Since then it has become a tradition to keep a lamp lit for Yamraj outside the house on the night of Dhanteras to protect from untimely death.
Importance of Yam Deepam
Protection from untimely death: The main purpose of Yam Deepam is to protect the family from untimely death by pleasing Yamraj. It is believed that worshipping Yamraj and lighting lamps increases the age of the family members and removes the fear of death.
Wealth, prosperity, and health:Yam Deepam not only symbolizes protection from death, but it is also associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Dhanvantari on the day of Dhanteras. This fast is also observed to increase wealth and health in the family.
Part of Dhanteras Traditions:The day of Dhanteras is particularly known for Dhanvantari and Lakshmi Puja, buying new utensils and jewellery, and performing Yam Deepam. This festival marks the beginning of the Diwali celebrations and is considered highly auspicious.
Method to perform Yam Deepam
Prepare the lamp:After sunset, take a lamp and fill it with mustard or sesame oil. Put a wick in it and light it.
Place the lamp outside the house:Place this lamp in the name of Yamraj at the main door or courtyard of the house. It is believed that Yamraj is pleased to see this lamp and protects the family.
Prayer to Yamraj: After lighting the lamp, pray to Yamraj to protect your family and save them from untimely death. Along with the prayer, one can also chant this mantra: "Mrityuna Pashahasten Kalen Bharyaya Saha. Trayodshyam Deepdanat Suryajah Priyatamititi॥"
Yamraj is pleased with this prayer and the family receives his blessings.
Cultural Significance of Yama Deepam:Yama Deepam is a religious and cultural tradition associated with the belief that the light of the lamp propitiates Yamraj, the god of death. While it is a part of Diwali celebrations, it is especially important for the health, prosperity, and safety of life of the family.
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