Main Themes and Important Ideas:
- Agni as a Universal and Multifaceted Divinity: The hymns consistently portray Agni as a powerful and pervasive deity with influence across various realms – physical, divine, and human. He is not simply fire, but a fundamental principle embodying multiple aspects of existence.
- Lord of Universal Wealth and Power: The first verse establishes Agni's dominion: "We, ancient people, with our heart and soul honour and worship Agni, Lord of universal wealth and power, brilliant and blazing Divinity..." This highlights his significance as a source of prosperity and strength.
- Knower and Controller of Divine Laws: Agni is attributed with profound knowledge: "...who knows, pervades, reaches and controls all the divine laws and rules of the world and the origin, birth and history of all the people and nations." This positions him as a cosmic intelligence overseeing order and history.
- Abiding in Diverse Elements: The second verse emphasizes Agni's presence in fundamental aspects of the universe: "Agni abides at the heart of the waters and the pranic energies of the universe. It is at the heart of forests, sunbeams and all the lovely and beloved beauties of the world. It is at the heart of all that is still and all that moves." This illustrates his immanence and connection to the natural world.
- Universal Life and Ruler: Agni is described as essential for all existence: "...Universal, immortal, free and absolute, it is the very life and ruler of everything in nature as it is the life and ruler of all the people for their sake only." This underscores his vital role in sustaining and governing both the cosmos and humanity.
- Agni as a Giver and Protector: The hymns depict Agni as a benevolent force who bestows blessings and offers safeguarding to his worshippers.
- Giver of Wealth and Power: Verse three states, "That Agni is the lord of night and day. It is the giver of wealth and power in ample measure for anyone who adores it with hymns of divinity." This emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between devotion and divine reward.
- Protector and Promoter: The verse continues, "...Lord of knowledge, wealth and power, protect and promote all these children of nature and the earth." This highlights Agni's role in nurturing and ensuring the well-being of living beings.
- Agni and the Cosmic Order (Rtam): The concept of Rtam, often translated as cosmic order or divine law, appears to be closely linked to Agni.
- Born of Prakrti Inspired by Rtam: Verse four mentions, "The nights and days of various hues and forms since time immemorial serve this Agni born of constant Prakrti inspired and energised by the Divine Laws of Rtam..." This suggests Agni's origin and functioning are intertwined with the fundamental principles of cosmic order.
- Impeller of Movement: Agni is described as "...the delight and impeller of all that is still and on the move," further connecting him to the dynamism and order within the universe.
- Agni and Human Knowledge and Progress: The hymns suggest a role for human inquiry and understanding in relation to Agni.
Conclusion:
These excerpts from Rigveda Mandala 1, Sukta 70, present a profound and multifaceted understanding of Agni. He is depicted not merely as fire, but as a fundamental cosmic principle embodying power, knowledge, life, and order. The hymns emphasize his pervasive presence in the universe, his role as a giver and protector of humanity, his connection to the divine order (Rtam), and the importance of human inquiry in understanding his workings. Agni is portrayed as a vital force that sustains the cosmos, bestows blessings, and serves as a source of both strength and knowledge for those who honour him.
