Overview:
This Sukta (hymn) from Mandala 1 of the Rigveda is dedicated to Agni, the divine personification of fire. It explores Agni's multifaceted nature as a fundamental force in the cosmos, a bestower of wealth, a link between humanity and the divine, and the central element of the Yajna (sacrificial ritual). The hymn emphasizes Agni's primordial existence, his role in creation, his connection to various deities and natural phenomena, and the benefits he bestows upon those who worship him. The repeated refrain, "devå agni≈ dhårayan draviƒodåm" (the devas hold Agni, the giver of wealth), underscores Agni's significance and the continuous tradition of his veneration.
Key Themes:
- Agni's Primordial and Powerful Nature: The hymn describes Agni as being born with power and force, existing from the beginning, and possessing inherent wisdom and vision.
- Agni as Creator and Sustainer: Agni is portrayed as a creative force, responsible for generating the "children of Manus" and the different realms (heaven, earth, waters). He is also seen as a sustainer, providing energy, nourishment, and protecting the people.
- Agni as Bestower of Wealth (Draviƒodā): A central aspect of Agni in this Sukta is his role as the giver of universal wealth, encompassing not just material possessions but also knowledge, piety, and well-being.
- Agni and the Yajna: The hymn consistently links Agni to the Yajna, the sacrificial fire, highlighting his crucial role in this ritual practice as a conduit to the divine.
- Agni's Connection to Other Deities and Nature: The Sukta mentions various other deities (Mitra, Varuna, Aditi) and natural elements (waters, sun, earth, sky), suggesting Agni's interconnectedness within the Vedic cosmology.
- The Importance of Devotion and Worship: The hymn encourages the people to serve and worship Agni with gratitude and dedication to receive his blessings.
Detailed Breakdown of Each Verse:
- Verse 1: Introduces Agni as a powerful, instantly manifesting force with inherent wisdom. He helps devotees realize life's values with the support of natural elements and societal bonds. The devas are devoted to him as the giver of universal wealth and maintain the Yajna tradition.
- Verse 2: Describes Agni's creation of humanity ("children of Manus") through ancient wisdom and the power of thought. With the sun's light, he forms the realms. The devas continue to uphold him as the universal giver within the Yajna.
- Verse 3: Calls upon the people to serve Agni, the foremost being, invoked through the Yajna and realized through insight. He is the source of energy and knowledge. The devas maintain their devotion to him and the Yajna.
- Verse 4: Identifies Agni as Matarishva (breath of life), a treasure of energy who revealed the Veda. He protects humanity and created heaven and earth. The devas worship him as the generous creator and continue the Yajna.
- Verse 5: Compares night and day to nursing mothers feeding the singular child, Agni (also representing the sun), who illuminates both heaven and earth. The devas serve Agni, the giver of wealth, and perpetuate the Yajna.
- Verse 6: Positions Agni as the foundation of wealth and power, companion of the Vasus, guide for achieving desires, and the focal point of Yajna. Those seeking immortality and upholding eternal values rely on him.
- Verse 7: Declares Agni as both the ancient and ever-new source and abode of material wealth, encompassing all that is created and being created. He sustains all forms of creation. The devas maintain their faith in Agni and the Yajna.
- Verse 8: Praises Agni as the giver of all forms of wealth (knowledge, piety, social wealth, food, energy, health, longevity) and expresses a prayer for these blessings.
- Verse 9: Concludes with a plea for Agni to shine for honour and fame as he grows with offerings. It also requests blessings from Mitra, Varuna, Aditi, the sea, earth, and heaven.
