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Dhammapada · narration sample

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Rig Veda · 250 of 1027

Mandala 3: HYMN XVI. Agni.

1.THIS Agni is the Lord of great felicity and hero Strength; Lord of wealth in herds of kine; Lord of the battles with the foe.

2.Wait, Maruts, Heroes, upon him the Prosperer in whom is bliss-increasing wealth; Who in fights ever conquer evil-hearted men, who overcome the enemy.

3.As such, O Agni, deal us wealth and hero might, O Bounteous One! Most lofty, very glorious, rich in progeny, free from disease and full of power.

4.He who made all that lives, who passes all in might, who orders service to the Gods, He works among the Gods, he works in hero strength, yea, also in the praise of men.

5.Give us not up to indigence, Agni, nor want of hero sons, Nor, Son of Strength, to lack of cattle, nor to blame. Drive. thou our enemies away.

6.Help us to strength, blest Agni! rich in progeny, abundant, in our sacrifice. Flood us with riches yet more plenteous, bringing weal, with high renown, most Glorious One!

Asked of Guide

Why does the hymn keep asking Agni for cattle, sons, and victory?

The hymn treats Agni as a practical distributor of prosperity: “Lord of wealth in herds of kine” connects the fire-god’s favor to tangible goods — cattle, progeny, and fighting strength. The repeated requests — “Deal us wealth and hero might,” “Give us not up to indigence” — show the community seeking Agni’s sanction for social stability and success in war.

This is consistent with Vedic religion’s focus on ritual reciprocity: sacrifice to Agni produces blessings that sustain household and tribe. Compare the Purusha Sukta in other Mandalas, which links cosmic order to social goods; here Agni performs that linking through sacrifice and praise.

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