Table of Contents: Mandala 1/Sukta 14 of the Rig Veda
Sukta 14: An Invocation to Agni for the Success of Yajna
This Sukta, attributed to Rishi Kanva Medhatithi and dedicated to the Vishvedevas (all deities), is a hymn invoking Agni, the god of fire, for the successful execution of the Yajna. It emphasizes the importance of Agni in mediating between humans and the divine, bringing blessings and prosperity through the proper performance of rituals.
Verse 1: The Initial Invocation
This verse initiates the Sukta with a call to Agni, requesting his presence and blessings for the Yajna. It emphasizes the role of Agni in promoting the Soma-joy, a state of bliss and spiritual fulfillment associated with the ritual.
Verse 2: Agni, the Beacon of Knowledge
Here, Agni is praised as a source of light and knowledge. The wise and intelligent invoke him, recognizing his power of vision and omniscience. The verse highlights the importance of both intellectual and spiritual enlightenment in seeking divine favor.
Verse 3: Recognizing the Cosmic Powers
This verse shifts focus to other deities, urging the study and celebration of their nature and powers. Indra, Vayu, Brhaspati, Mitra, Agni, Pushan, Bhaga, the Adityas, and the Maruts are all mentioned, signifying the interconnectedness of cosmic forces.
Verse 4: Maintaining the Assets of Yajna
This verse addresses the collective responsibility of maintaining the vital elements of Yajna. These assets are described as soothing, inspiring, energizing, and strengthening, emphasizing their importance for growth and protection.
Verse 5: The Adoration of the Supreme
The intelligent and the wise, possessing purity and readiness for Yajna, are described as adorating the Lord Supreme. The verse emphasizes the importance of inner purity and preparation in approaching the divine.
Verse 6: The Ascent of the Offering
The flames of the sacrificial fire are depicted as carrying the purpose of the Yajna upwards, towards the celestial realm. They are aided by the wind and invoked by the wise to seek divine blessings for humanity's progress and prosperity.
Verse 7: A Prayer for the Scholars of Yajna
Agni is invoked to advance the scholars of Yajna, those who expand the boundaries of knowledge. The verse requests a protective home and the sweet taste of life for all who participate in the ritual.
Verse 8: The Reward of Participation
This verse highlights the rewards of participating in the Yajna. Those who conduct it with sincerity and reverence are said to taste the honey-sweetness of the ritual, symbolizing spiritual fulfillment and divine favor.
Verse 9: The Significance of Dawn
The verse describes the auspiciousness of dawn, when the sun rises and nature awakens. At this time, the holy man conducting the Yajna receives blessings from the divine light of the sun, emphasizing the connection between the ritual and natural rhythms.
Verse 10: The Gathering of Vital Energies
The fire of Yajna, along with wind and currents of energy, is depicted as gathering the soothing and vital energies of the universe for the benefit of humanity. The verse reinforces the idea of Yajna as a conduit for cosmic forces.
Verse 11: Agni, the Prime Agent of Life
Agni is praised as the sustainer of humanity and the orchestrator of life's dynamics. As the presiding deity of all Yajnas, he is invoked to ensure the success of the current ritual.
Verse 12: Yoking the Flames of Fire
The final verse depicts the harnessing of fire's power. Agni is requested to yoke the flames like horses to a chariot, bringing the divine powers to the Yajna through the medium of fire and energy.
