Why Hindus perform Aarti in a clockwise circular motion
One of the most beloved and symbolic rituals in Hinduism is performing Aarti. it involves waving a flame, usually in the form of a ghee lamp or burned with camphor, in front of a deity, accompanied by sacred chants and songs. A key feature of aarti is the clockwise circular motion in which the lamp is moved. This specific motion carries a deep spiritual reason and has been followed for centuries. Let us look at some reasons why the clockwise motion is central to this ritual. While there is no practical evidence that backs these reasons, they are part of popular belief
It symbolises the movement of the cosmos.
The clockwise motion of Aarti is no random choice; it is imbued with deep spiritual intent, reflecting the natural order of the cosmos and the devotee’s surrender to the divine will. The clockwise motion mirrors the apparent path of the sun across the sky-from east to west. The sun, being the symbol of light, energy and life in Hindu philosophy, by moving the aarti plate in this motion the devotee is believed to have aligned with the cosmic rhythm of the universe.
Surrender and the cycle of life
It is believed that each clockwise motion of the aarti symbolises a devotees surrender to the divine. As and when the hand moves down, the heart offers the body, mind and the soul to the deity, motion by motion and layer by layer, until only pure devotion remains.
The principle of Pradakshina
The customary walk around temples or dieties known as pradakshina, or circumambulation. It is generallly believed that while performing aarti the lamp is moved in a clockwise circular motion as a symbol of circumambulation, even while standing still. This motion reflects the devotees inner desire to keep the divine at the center of life, representing surrender and respect. During Aarti, the deity is kept to the right, and the clockwise motion honors this principle. This practice, akin to Pradakshina (circumambulation), signifies walking with devotion around the divine, keeping dharma at the core of one’s journey.
Dispels darkness
As per popular belief, the five flames on the aarti plate are not just light, it represents spiritual illumination, wisdom and purity. By moving the plate in the clockwise direction the devotee symbolically disperse darkness, spreading light and divine energy all around, thus driving away all bad and negative energy.