Deepavali reveals the Hindu understanding of divine light as a symbol of spiritual knowledge, self-realization, and liberation. Drawing upon the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, the festival connects Dharma, Goddess Lakshmi, the four Purusharthas, household worship, and the nature of Ultimate Reality, while examining how Hindu theological perspectives understand light in comparison with Abrahamic traditions.
Hinduism, one of the world's most ancient religions, offers a profound collection of sacred texts that have shaped spiritual and everyday life across millennia. Central to these are the Vedas, described as the core of Hindu philosophy and spirituality, along with a diverse array of texts like the Upanishads, Smritis, and the epic tales of the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Each layer, from the foundational Vedas to the practical narratives of the Puranas, serves to guide adherents in their spiritual journey, reflecting the intricate tapestry of rituals, ethics, and cultural customs inherent in Hindu tradition.