Shatarudra Samhita
The Shatarudra Samhita is a significant section of the Shiva Purana, focusing on the hundred incarnations (Rudras) of Lord Shiva
The Victory of Agni Over Obstacles A Vedic Hymn
09-Aug-2024
This Vedic verse celebrates Agni as a powerful force that destroys obstacles and brings prosperity. By overcoming Vṛtra, a symbol of drought and chaos, Agni ensures the flow of wealth and success to those who offer him oblations.
Sanskrit
अग्निर्वृत्राणि जङ्घनद्द्रविणस्युर्विपन्यया । समिद्धः शुक्र आहुतः ॥४॥
Meaning
extols the power of Agni, the fire deity, in overcoming obstacles and bringing prosperity. The term "Vṛtrāṇi" refers to impediments or enemies, symbolized by Vṛtra, a demon who represents drought and chaos. Agni, when properly kindled ("samiddhaḥ"), is described as powerful and luminous ("śukra"), capable of vanquishing these adversities.
Agni's victory is not just a physical one but also a metaphysical triumph over spiritual and material challenges. By invoking Agni through offerings, the hymn suggests that worshippers can achieve wealth ("draviṇasyuḥ") and success. The verse also highlights Agni’s role as a divine intermediary, carrying the offerings of the faithful to the gods, ensuring their blessings in return.
Just as the sacrificial fire, kindled by the offerings of yajna practitioners, completely eradicates diseases and other afflictions, similarly, the Supreme Being in the form of Agni, kindled repeatedly by heartfelt praises and offerings of the vital breath, senses, soul, mind, and intellect by yogic practitioners, utterly uproots their sinful thoughts.
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