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Dhammapada · narration sample

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Rig Veda · 196 of 1027

Mandala 2: HYMN V. Agni.

1.HERALD and teacher was he born, a guardian for our patrons’ help, Earner by rites of noble wealth. That Strong One may we grasp and guide;

2.In whom, Leader of sacrifice, the seven reins, far extended, meet; Who furthers, man-like, eighth in place, as Cleanser, all the work divine.

3.When swift he follows this behest, bird-like he chants the holy prayers. He holds all knowledge in his grasp even as the felly rounds the wheel.

4.Together with pure mental power, pure, as Director, was he born. Skilled in his own unchanging laws he waxes like the growing boughs.

5.Clothing them in his hues, the kine of him the Leader wait on him. Is he not better than the Three, the Sisters who have come to us?

6.When, laden with the holy oil, the Sister by the Mother stands, The Priest delights in their approach, as corn at coming of the rain.

7.For his support let him perform as ministrant his priestly task; Yea, song of praise and sacrifice: we have bestowed, let us obtain.

8.That so this man well skilled, may pay worship to all the Holy Ones. And, Agni, this our sacrifice which we have here prepared, to thee.

Asked of Guide

Why does the hymn call Agni both 'Leader of sacrifice' and 'Earner by rites of noble wealth'?

The hymn names Agni ‘Leader of sacrifice’ because he directs the ritual: verses speak of him guiding rites, holding “all knowledge in his grasp,” and acting as “Director” and “ministrant” who performs priestly tasks. Calling him ‘Earner by rites of noble wealth’ locates his function as the conduit who secures the community’s prosperity through correct sacrifice, so the people “have bestowed, let us obtain.”

This chapter treats Agni as both ritual agent and benefactor: he organizes the sacred actions and returns material and sacred gains. That double role echoes later Vedic discussions in the Grihya and Brahmana literature where Agni as priestly presence mediates offerings and brings benefits to worshippers.

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