On the November New Moon, Tuesday, November 13th, from 6 to 9 pm, we will celebrate Divali at Shiva Mandir.
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This is the most festive celebration of the year. Divali is the culmination of the harvest season, a time of thanksgiving for all of our bounty and an opportunity to thank the Divine Mother for all of her gracious gifts. Shiva Mandir’s celebration will include a puja to Lakshmi (the embodiment of abundance and good fortune), a light supper, dessert (the sharing of Prasad), music and gift-giving. Please bring flowers (roses for Lakshmi are preferred) or fruits (pomegranates are especially appreciated) and a dakshina (monetary offering).
The Story of Divali
Divali (or Diwali), is also known as the festival of lights because the celebration includes lighting the entrances, walls and windows of buildings with candles and decorative lights. In fact, the word “Divali” comes from the Sanskrit “Deepavali,” meaning row of lights. Divali is an ancient celebration observed all around the world including countries in Africa, the Caribbean and Asia. Divali signifies many different things according to the culture and country celebrating it. Divali time comes at the approach of winter, the time of sowing the winter grains; it signifies the renewal of life.
The lights of Divali dispel the increasing darkness of the season.
It is said that Lakshmi, Goddess of wealth, beauty and good fortune, alights on Earth in all Her celestial glory amidst the chanting of Vedic hymns at this time. The lights of Divali illuminate Lakshmi’s way as She walks through the villages, towns and remote places, blessing homes and businesses with prosperity. Traditions of celebration include:
* Forgiving all enmity and creating harmony in relationships.
* Bathing with special oils and fragrances.
* Wearing new clothes and beautiful jewelry.
* Decorating with lights and flowers.
* Exchanging gifts and sweets.
* House cleaning and renovating buildings.
* Re-thatching roofs and adorning cattle.
* Holding festivals that celebrate illumination, beauty, devotion and artistic expression.
The famous poet Rabindranath Tagore describes the significance of Divali in these beautiful lines:
“The night is black. Kindle the lamp of love with thy life and thy devotion.”
As we celebrate Divali today, remember it’s a traditional time to acknowledge our abundance and wealth with a spirit of gratitude. As we send our thanksgiving to Lakshmi, a magnificent Mother of good fortune, beauty and luck, let us not forget all the wealth we truly possess. While we tabulate our monetary and material treasures, let’s also remember our other riches: 
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