Here is a simple Jain way to understand when to light a diya (deepak):

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1. Daily – for regular bhakti

You may light a diya:

• Morning (pratah‑kāl)

- After cleaning the place of worship - Before/with: Navkar mantra, Samayik, Pooja, or Path

• Evening (sāyam‑kāl / sandhyā)

- After sunset, when you sit for bhakti - With: Aarti, Mangal divo/deepti, stotra, or simple Navkar mantra

These two times remind us: “Outer light = symbol of inner light of right faith and right knowledge.”

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2. During specific Jain rituals

You can light a diya:

• Before Aarti or Mangal Divo – in temple or at home altar
• During Deep Puja – special lamp‑worship done in many Jain families
• Before starting any long Path or Stotra – Bhaktamar, Kalyan Mandir, Atmasiddhi, etc.

Here, the diya is not for “wish‑fulfilment” but as a smaran (reminder) of:

• Samyak darshan–jnan–charitra
• Freedom from inner darkness of mithyātva and kashāy

You can read a simple Deep Puja explanation and dohas here

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3. On Jain festivals

Especially:

• Diwali (Mahavir Nirvan)

- Main lighting is on Kartik Amavasya night, after sunset - Many follow pradosh‑kāl (early night) according to local Jain panchāng - Purpose: to remember Mahavir Bhagwan’s keval‑jnan and nirvan, not mere celebration

• Paryushan / Das Lakshan / Ayambil Oli, etc.

- When you sit for special pratikraman, swādhyāy, or bhakti, you may light a diya before starting.

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4. Small practical & ahimsa points

• Use clean ghee/oil and cotton wick; keep place clean and stable.
• Ensure no insects/ants are getting burnt; wipe and check the area first.
• Put out the diya carefully if needed (e.g., before sleeping), avoiding any himsā.

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Essence in Jain view: Lighting a diya is upayog jagāna – awakening awareness of the inner jyoti of the soul, not a compulsory or mechanical ritual. The real “deepak” is vitarāgta and right knowledge burning inside.