In Hinduism, performing Arti after worship is a customary practice, often involving the burning of camphor (known as “kapur” in Hindi). This practice has been followed for centuries, and questions often arise about the benefits and significance of burning camphor during Arti.
In this article, we will inform the religious and medicinal reasons for using Camphor during aarti.
What is Camphor?
Camphor is a white, wax-like, transparent organic compound with a strong smell and pungent taste. Its molecular formula is C10H16O. Known as Karpoor in Sanskrit and Kafur in Persian, camphor is an essential part of various rituals.
Benefits of Camphor
Religious Significance
Symbol of Purity: Camphor represents purity in Hinduism. When burned, it produces a bright flame and leaves no residue, symbolizing the soul’s journey from ignorance to enlightenment and merging with the divine.
Represents Dissolution of Ego: Burning camphor signifies the dissolution of the ego and negative qualities, reminding devotees to surrender their ego to God.
Offering to Deities: The fragrant smoke from burning camphor is believed to please the deities and invite their blessings.
Spiritual Atmosphere: The aromatic smoke purifies the environment, creating a conducive atmosphere for worship and meditation, and is believed to ward off negative energies.
Medicinal Effects:
- Antibacterial Properties: Camphor is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective against bacteria such as Streptococcus mutants, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus aureus.
- Air Purification: Burning camphor helps purify the air by killing germs and bacteria, maintaining a clean environment.
- Respiratory Relief: The fumes from camphor provide relief from respiratory issues like coughs, colds, and congestion.
- Stress Relief: Camphor’s soothing aroma has a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting relaxation during worship.
- Skin Problems: Camphor is used as an antiseptic, in food as a spice, and in treating colds and coughs. It also helps in treating skin problems, improving respiratory functions, and relieving pain.
Burning camphor has several spiritual and practical benefits. It strengthens the soul spiritually, eliminates negative energy with its fragrance, purifies the body, maintains peace in the house, and destroys harmful infectious bacteria. Additionally, scriptures state that burning camphor during Arti leads to the attainment of Akshaya Punya, or eternal merit.
The use of camphor in Hindu rituals, especially during Arti, is rooted in its symbolic and practical benefits. It purifies the environment, provides health benefits, and enhances the spiritual experience, making it an integral part of Hindu worship practices.