Agni the Expansive Lord of Sacrifices Embracing the Divine in Rituals

31-Aug-2024

This verse reveres Agni as the expansive and revered deity of sacrifices, calling upon him to accept and bless the offerings made in rituals, highlighting his role as the divine presiding force.

The verse "अग्निं वो वृधन्तमध्वराणां पुरूतमम्। अच्छा नप्त्रे सहस्वते॥" is a Vedic hymn that venerates Agni, the sacred fire deity, emphasizing his crucial role in rituals and sacrifices.

"अग्निं वो वृधन्तमध्वराणां" translates to "Agni, the great lord of sacrifices." Here, "अग्निं" refers to the deity Agni, and "वृधन्तम" signifies his expansive or great nature. "अध्वराणां" relates to sacrifices or rituals. This phrase highlights Agni’s supreme position and his role as the guardian and benefactor of sacrificial rites.

"पुरूतमम्" means "most revered" or "of ancient tradition." The term "पुरूतमम्" denotes Agni’s esteemed status in the context of Vedic traditions and rituals, indicating that he is a time-honored and highly respected deity in the sacrificial practices.

"अच्छा नप्त्रे सहस्वते" translates to "Embrace the offerings, O divine one." "अच्छा" implies acceptance or embrace, and "नप्त्रे" refers to offerings or gifts. "सहस्वते" signifies "to be present" or "to support." This line is a call to Agni to accept the offerings made in the ritual, recognizing his divine presence and support in the sacrificial process.

Overall, this verse acknowledges Agni as the esteemed and expansive deity presiding over sacrifices. It calls upon him to accept and bless the offerings made during rituals, affirming his role as the divine force that enhances and sanctifies the sacrificial acts. Through this invocation, the verse underscores Agni's vital presence in ensuring the success and efficacy of the sacrificial rites.