Main Themes:
- Duality and Interdependence: The hymn opens by establishing Agni as embodying duality, specifically through the metaphor of night and day. These are presented not as opposing forces, but as interdependent entities that "feed and nurse each other’s child as their own" (Verse 1). This highlights the cyclical and complementary nature of existence as manifested through Agni's different states or aspects.
- Creation and Sustenance: Agni is depicted as a crucial agent of creation and a sustainer of the universe. Verse 2 states that the "Ten directions of space... create, produce and manifest this sun, child of Tvashta, Vayu, cosmic energy." This links Agni to fundamental cosmic forces and positions it as the source of the sun's energy and its role in sustaining "the various forms of existence."
- Multiple Manifestations: The hymn emphasises Agni's presence in various realms – "three manifestations of this Agni shine in nature, space and time, the womb of the universe: one is in the oceans, another one is in the heavenly region of light, and yet another is in the waters in the middle region" (Verse 3). This underscores Agni's pervasiveness and its fundamental role in the structure of the cosmos.
- Mystery and Innate Power: The hymn acknowledges the enigmatic nature of Agni, asking, "Who among you could know this mysterious nursling of the day and night, the sun born of Agni and Vayu, cosmic energy, who creates its own mothers, the day and the night?" (Verse 4). This highlights the awe and reverence associated with Agni, while also emphasizing its self-generating and inherently powerful nature ("innately powerful, it moves on and across the regions of water and air in space").
- Growth, Expansion, and Illumination: Agni is described as a dynamic force that "grows and expands" (Verse 5) and whose rising causes the separation of day and night. It is associated with light and radiance, "blazing with light and fire, pure, immaculate, glorious" (Verse 1) and illuminating the earth with "bright rays of light" (Verse 10).
- Nourishment and Service: The relationship between humans and Agni is presented through the act of offering and service, likened to "lowing cows stay by the calves with all their love and care" (Verse 6). Agni, in turn, is seen as a bestower of benefits, with a focus on those who dedicatedly serve it through yajna (sacrifice).
- Cosmic Order and Intelligence: Agni's actions are linked to the establishment and maintenance of cosmic order. It "creates and controls the seasons in relation to the sun and earth" and "creates the directions such as east and others" (Verse 3). Furthermore, it is associated with intellectual and spiritual growth, purifying the sky and elevating "intelligence and refines knowledge and science" (Verse 8).
- Protection and Promotion: The hymn concludes with a direct appeal to Agni for protection and well-being: "Bright and blazing with all your own powers and irresistible modes of protection, protect and promote us" (Verse 9). This highlights the practical and supplicatory aspect of the hymn, seeking Agni's favour for the community.
In conclusion, Mandala 1, Sukta 95 presents a profound and multifaceted understanding of Agni as a fundamental cosmic principle embodying duality, driving creation, sustaining the universe, and acting as a vital link between the human and the divine. The hymn highlights Agni's pervasive presence, its inherent power, and the importance of ritual and devotion in seeking its blessings for protection, nourishment, and enlightenment.
