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Rig Veda · 306 of 1027
Mandala 4: HYMN X. Agni.
1.This day with praises, Agni, we bring thee that which thou lovest. Right judgment, like a horse, with our devotions.
2.For thou hast ever been the Car-driver, Agni, of noble Strength, lofty sacrifice, and rightful judgment.
3.Through these our praises come thou to meet us, bright as the sunlight, O Agni, well disposed, with all thine aspects.
4.Now may we serve thee singing these lauds this day to thee, Agni. Loud as the voice of Heaven thy blasts are roaring.
5.Just at this time of the day and the night thy look is the sweetest: It shineth near us even as gold for glory.
6.Spotless thy body, brilliant as gold, like clarified butter: This gleams like gold on thee, O Self. dependent.
7.All hate and mischief, yea, if committed, Agni, thou turnest, Holy One, from the man who rightly worships.
8.Agni, with you Gods, prosperous be our friendships and kinships. Be this our bond here by this place, thine altar.
Asked of Guide
Why does this hymn call Agni both a Car-driver and ‘bright as the sunlight’?
The hymn names Agni “Car-driver” to show his active role carrying offerings and people’s intentions to the gods; verse 2 ties him to “noble Strength, lofty sacrifice, and rightful judgment,” so he is the mover who makes worship travel. Calling him “bright as the sunlight” (verse 3) highlights his illuminating, purifying presence that meets worshippers “with all thine aspects.”
Those images work together: Agni acts and makes things visible and consecrated. The pairing echoes how the Upanishads later describe fire as both ritual agent and inner light; see the Chandogya Upanishad where fire becomes knowledge and carrier of sacrifice.
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