Holy-Spirit-painting-depicting-the-sahastrar-ChakraThe real Diwali is to be enlightened
to be the light

Shri Mataji's Teaching on the True Lights of Diwali

In her talks and writings on the spiritual meaning of Diwali, Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi explained that the physical candles or lamps (diyas) are merely outward symbols. The true lights of Diwali are human beings who have attained Self-realization and enlightenment.

1. Diwali Puja (3rd November 2002, Los Angeles)

"Today is a nice day when we can think of all those who are enlightened in this world. That's the real Diwālī: the enlightenment of human beings. It's not candle, it's not some lamp, but it's human beings."

2. The Famous Diwali Letter to Sahaja Yogis (21st October 1976)

"Let this Diwali enlighten you with the light of love. You yourself are the lamps which burn high... Add the oil of love, Kundalini is the wick, and awaken the Kundalini of others with the light of the Spirit within you."

1. Saint Jude Thaddeus (Christian Art & Classic Paintings)

I have no idea how artist of the past knew about the Sahastra Chakra when the painted halos or disks, but somehow they did. Traditional depictions show a flame burning directly above or at the top of Saint Jude's head.

Symbolism

Known as the "Tongue of Flame", this represents the Holy Spirit descending upon him at Pentecost. In Sahaja Yoga, this directly correlates to the awakening of the Kundalini at the Sahasrara chakra at the top of the head.

2. Eastern Art & Depictions of Enlightened Beings / Buddha

In traditional Eastern art, the Ushnisha (the crown of the head) or the top of an enlightened yogi's head is often painted as a glowing flame (Ushnisha-jvala), signifying the opening of the crown chakra and spiritual enlightenment.

Other References & Related Reading