Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated every year. It is commonly referred to as the "Festival of Lights" and signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Significance

Diwali holds great cultural and spiritual significance in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. For Hindus, it marks the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana from exile and the defeat of the demon king Ravana. In Jainism, it commemorates Lord Mahavira attaining nirvana. For Sikhs, it signifies the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from imprisonment.

Celebrations

Diwali is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. People decorate their homes with colorful lights, oil lamps (diyas), and rangoli designs. They also exchange gifts, burst firecrackers, and prepare various traditional sweets and savory dishes. Lakshmi Puja, the worship of the goddess of wealth and prosperity, is a central part of the celebrations.

Study Guide

What is the significance of Diwali in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism?
How do people celebrate Diwali?
Why is the worship of Goddess Lakshmi important during Diwali?
What are the key symbols and traditions associated with Diwali?
How does the story of Lord Rama relate to the observance of Diwali?

Diwali is a beautiful and vibrant festival that brings people together to celebrate the triumph of light and goodness. It fosters a sense of unity, joy, and renewal within the community.

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Phoenicia

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)

TIME, CONTINUITY, AND CHANGE

SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PAST AND ITS LEGACY.

KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:

Key historical periods and patterns of change within and across cultures (e.g., the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, the development of technology, the rise of modern nation-states, and the establishment and breakdown of colonial systems).

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Historical Thinking Standards

Historical Comprehension

Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.

World History Content Standards

Era 3: Classical Traditions, Major Religions, and Giant Empires, 1000 BCE-300 CE

The emergence of Aegean civilization and how interrelations developed among peoples of the eastern Mediterranean and Southwest Asia, 600-200 BCE.

The student understands the development of the Persian (Achaemenid) empire and the consequences of its conflicts with the Greeks.

Major global trends from 1000 BCE-300 CE.

The student understands major global trends from 1000 BCE to 300 CE.

Diwali: The Festival of Lights

Significance

Celebrations

Study Guide

[Diwali] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Phoenicia

The resources above cover the following skills: