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Line 1: + + − Agnihotram (Samskrit : अग्निहोत्रम्) generically is referred to [[Agni (आग्निः)|Agni]] in a yagnavedi (altar) invoked by the chanting of mantras during homas and for samskaraas. However, Agnihotram as a specific नित्यकर्म ॥ nityakarma refers to a vedic process whereby a grihastha makes daily offerings of ghee or milk in Agni while reciting the prescribed vedic mantras.+ − + − In the present days, very rarely, grihasthas are maintaining Agni at homes nor are conducting regular Agnihotra rituals as prescribed by sastras. However, Agni is invoked in every occasion (auspicious and inauspicious) of dharmic life, from Nityayagnas, yagas in temples, in special homas during housewarming and grahashanti, upanayana and other samskara celebrations, at weddings (the yajna where the bride and groom circle the fire seven times) and lastly for अन्त्येष्टिः ॥ Anteysti (cremation). + + + + − Elaborately conducted yaagas such as Soma yaagas are not widely performed, while Varuna yaagam and Kareeresti for propitiating Varuna devata to obtain good rains is performed at regular intervals as temple activities for community benefit. + − − The history of Vedic rituals is quite ancient and can be traced to the period of Vedic Samhithas. A few definitions here would throw light on the terms used in this context. − '''Yagna''' : A common and general term used to denote all satkarmas (good deeds) and encompasses several aspects such as worship, praise, pleasing of a deity, a purpose to achieve, a yaaga, an oblation and could be a mental (Jnana) or physically ritualistic process (Kratu) which may or may not include the piling of Agnihotra. An unmarried man is not allowed by sastras to perform any special yagnas or yaagas. A brahmachari is restricted to perform only some vaidika kriyas. + − Bhagavad geeta gives the process of Jnanayagna. Adhiyagnam katham 8 .2 bhagavadgeeta Karma brahmo 3.15 bhagavadgeeta Yagnanardhat karmano yatra 3.9 Bhagavadgeeta 9.15 Jnana yagne, 9.16 + − '''Yaagam''' : Yaagas are elaborate rituals with specific names (in contrast to Yagna which is a general name) involving Agnihotra with special offering of suitable dravyas (havis such as purodaasa, milk, ghee, etc) to the devatas. Some yaagas last for one day to three or more days even up to 12 years. Example: Sarpa sattra yaga was performed by King Janamejaya where all sarpas serpents were destroyed in the yaaga fire. + + + + + − A ‘Yaaga’ is made up of several rituals which has its own principal part (Pradhana). Those that form subsidiary or supplement to this are called ‘Angas’. Some of the rituals may be common to several ‘Yaagas’<ref name=":02222222">Radhakrishna Bhat, N. ''[http://ignca.nic.in/vedic_heritage/Vedic_tradition_karnataka.pdf Vedic Ritual Tradition of Karnataka]'', Vedic Heritage Portal.</ref>. + + − A Yaaga is specialized vedic process involving an uddesa or intention (sankalpa) towards a particular deity, an altar (yajnakunda), a host (yajamaana), sacrificial offerings of various kinds (kratuvu, bali), utensils, sacred fire (yagagni), one or more officiating priests (purohita), gifts (dakshina) for the priests and guests, expiation ceremony (prayaschitta) and other concluding rituals. They are performed in open or in a house, temple, palace or a temporary structure (yajnavatika) built for the purpose<ref name=":0322222" />.+ + − In Yaagas, yajamani offers the aahuti, in a standing position, using the utterance "वौशट् ॥ vaushat" at the end of mantras for the deity. Thus the ceremonies which are performed with the root "yaj" are yaagas like in "सोमेन यजेत ॥ somena yajeta"<ref name=":12222" />.+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + − + + + + + + + + − In Homam yajamani offers the aahuti, in a seated position, using the utterance "स्वाह ॥ svaaha" at the end of mantras for the deity. Thus the ceremonies which are performed with the root "hu" are Homas like in "अग्निहोत्रम् जुहुयात् ॥ agnihotram juhuyaat"<ref name=":12222" />.+ + − In present days, homas are being conducted by women priests but that aspect is outside the purview of the nitya agnihotram.+ − + − Srauta karmas include elaborate activities such as yaagas meant for the well-being of mankind. These karmas are so called because their procedures are directly based on the Srutis or instructions given in Vedas. The brahmanas contain the description of yagnas (which last for many days) and different aakhyayikas as part of the Srauta karmas (for example Haviyagnakandam of Kanvasatapatha brahmana contains the details of Haviryagnas). However, in Kalpas the rules are methodically compiled in Sutra format without the aakhyayika part . + + + + + − Such procedures for Srauta karmas are compiled in Srauta Sutras as given in the Kalpa Vedanga. Some of them are as follows + + − Aasvalayana Srautasutras (Rig Veda) + + + + − Katyayana Srautasutras () + + − Hiranyakesi Srautasutras + + − Aapasthamba Srautasutras + − Baudhayana Srautasutras + + − Different classifications of Yaagas may be taken into consideration based on the offerings and time period of conducting them. + − Vedic yagnas/yaagas are divided into + − * Prakritiyaaga (Prinicipal) − * Vikritiyaaga (Subsidiary) − Vikritiyaagas derive their procedures from the respective Prakritiyaagas<ref name=":12222" />. − === प्रकृतियागम् ॥ Prakritiyaagas === − In the Asvalaayana Srautasutra based on the Rig Veda, there are a number yagnas but five among them are regarded as Prakritiyaagas<ref name=":12222" />. In the present days Prakriti yagnas mentioned in the Vedas are rarely conducted.<ref name=":02222222" /> − # होमम् ॥ Homa : '''Agnihotra''' is the Prakriti (model) of all Homas<ref name=":12222" /> − # इष्टिः ॥ Isthti : '''Darsapurnamaasa yaga''' is the Prakriti (model) of all Isthis<ref name=":12222" /> − # पशुयागम् ॥ Pasu : '''Nirudha Pasubandha''' is the Prakriti (model) of Pasuyaaga<ref name=":12222" /> − # सोमयागम् ॥ Soma : '''Agnistoma''' is the Prakriti (model) of all the Somayagas.<ref name=":12222" /> − # सत्रयागम् ॥ Sattra : '''Gavaamayana''' is the Prakriti (model) of all Satrayagas.<ref name=":12222" /> − === विकृतियागम् ॥ Vikritiyaagas === − The subsidiary rituals follow their respective principal sacrifices in the performance of different sacrifices. Vikriti Yaganas like Chandika Homa, Veda Samhita Svahakara Yagas, Rudra Yagas are being performed in temples.<ref name=":02222222" /> − + + − + − Smaarta karmas are based on the procedures directly given in Smritis. Smritis include the Dharmasastras, though are based on the Srutis (vedas) are modified versions. + + + − Smritis are 18 in number. Upa-smritis are also 18 in number. All aspects of the worldly existence are covered extensively in Smritis, in sutra format on topics including varna-ashrama dharmas, all aspects of relationship between man and woman, rajadharmas, how to conduct daily activities such as eating, cleaning, bathing etc, pujas, yagnas and yaagas, different aspects related to shraadda karmas. + − {| class="wikitable"+ − |+Astaadasha Smritis − |- − | − | − | − | − | − | − |- − | − | − | − | − | − | − |- − | − | − | − | − | − | − |} − Manu, Brihaspati, Daksha, Gautama, Yama, Aangirasa, Yagnyavalkya, Prachetasa, Shaatatapa, Paraashara, Samvarta, Aushanasa, Shanka, Likhita, Aatreya, Vishnu, Aapasthamba, Haarita + + + + + + + + + + + − + − === अग्न्याधेय ॥ Agnaadheya ===+ − अग्न्याधेय ॥ Agnaadheya is technically the process by which the sacred fire or agnihotram is newly established in the kundas along with the chanting of mantras as prescribed by Grhyasutras and Srauta sutras. This process is generally similar across all vedic srauta sutras, with a few differences. Some aspects are as follows + − + − This ceremony is performed when chandra (moon) is situated in certain nakshatras. Krittika, rohini, margasira, phalguni, vishakha and uttara, hasta, chitta and sravana stars are preferred according to different Srauta sutras <ref>Asvalayana Srauta Sutram [https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%A8_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A8 (2.1.10)]</ref><ref>Aapasthamba Srauta Sutram [https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%82_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A6%E0%A5%AB (5.3.3)]</ref><blockquote>कृत्तिकासु रोहिण्यां मृगशिरसि फल्गुनीषु विशाखयोरुत्तरयोः प्रोष्ठपदयोः ॥ १० (Asva. Srau. Sutr. 2.1.10) </blockquote><blockquote>kr̥ttikāsu rōhiṇyāṁ mr̥gaśirasi phalgunīṣu viśākhayōruttarayōḥ prōṣṭhapadayōḥ ॥ 10 (Asva. Srau. Sutr. 2.1.10)</blockquote><blockquote>कृत्तिकासु ब्राह्मण आदधीत मुख्यो ब्रह्मवर्चसी भवति ॥ ३ गृहांस्तस्याग्निर्दाहुको भवति ॥ ४ (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.3.3)</blockquote><blockquote>kr̥ttikāsu brāhmaṇa ādadhīta mukhyō brahmavarcasī bhavati ॥ 3 gr̥hāṁstasyāgnirdāhukō bhavati ॥ 4 (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.3.3 and 4)</blockquote>+ − ==== ऋतु ॥ Seasons ====+ − The people of different sections are advised to establish fire in different seasons - Brahmanas in vasanta or spring season, while the kshatriya and vaishya varnas can establish it in summer, rainy and autumn seasons<ref name=":12222" />. − + − + − + − + + + + + − + − पयसा नित्यहोमः १ payasā nityahōmaḥ 1 (Asva. Srau. Sutr 2.3.2)+ + − + − ==== काम्यकर्म ॥ Kaamyakarma ==== − Although performing agnihotra is a regular activity, it is also performed to attain some special desires called as Kaamyakarma with varying aahutidravyas<ref>Asvalayana Srauta Sutram [https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%A8_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A8 (2.3.2)]</ref>.<blockquote>यवागूरोदनो दधि समिग्रामकामान्नाद्यकामेन्द्रियकाम-तेजस्कामानां २ (Asva. Srau. Sutr 2.3.2) </blockquote><blockquote>yavāgūrōdanō dadhi samigrāmakāmānnādyakāmēndriyakāma-tējaskāmānāṁ 2 (Asva. Srau. Sutr 2.3.2)</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : Yavaagu (gruel of Yavagu rice) is offered for acquiring leadership over villages, and curd is offered for attaining strength. </blockquote> − ==== अग्नि मन्थन ॥ Agni Manthana ==== − Agni manthana is the process by which the fire is generated by the manthana (literally churning) or friction of two sami sticks. Rig veda mentions the process of kindling of fire from Arani (fire sticks) made from Sami and Asvattha trees. This is also called Agni Samaaropa<ref name=":022">[http://www.kamakoti.org/kamakoti/dharmasindhu/bookview.php?chapnum=23 Dharmasindhu as given by Kanchi Kamakoti] </ref>. − The stick on top called the Uttara-arani is called Pururavas (Indra) and the lower arani called as Aadhara-arani is called Urvasi (Apsara). The rope used for manthana is called rasanaa. The process of generating fire is also described in various Srauta sutra texts apart from Taittriya Brahmana in the पौरोडाशिक काण्ड under अग्न्याधानम् prapathaka <ref>Taittriya Brahmana [https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/तैत्तिरीयब्राह्मणम्_(विस्वरपाठः)/काण्डः_१/प्रपाठकः_०१ (1.1.9.1)]</ref>. <blockquote>शमीगर्भादग्निं मन्थति । एषा वा अग्नेर्यज्ञिया तनूः । (Tait. Brah. 1.1.9.1)</blockquote><blockquote>śamīgarbhādagniṁ manthati । ēṣā vā agnēryajñiyā tanūḥ । (Tait. Brah. 1.1.9.1)</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : From the hearth of sami (sticks) Agni is churned. This is the yagna body of Agni.</blockquote> − Agnaadheya ceremony starts with the collection of arani (the samidha wood) and ends in purnaahuti (offering at the end of ceremony). Once the fire is kindled by Arani, it is maintained by the addition of smaller pieces of wood called Samidhas into the Agni. These pieces of wood are collected with bark and are 10 to 12 inches long. This process is called "Pratyavaroha"<ref name=":022" />.Agni samaaropa and pratyavaroha are to be executed by the karta himself and not by others except by his wife who might perform the Pratyavaroha part. + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + − The trees from which samidhas are obtained include : palaasa, asvattha (peepul), nygrodha (banyan tree), sami, aamra (mango), khadira, durva, darbha (kusa grass), bilva (bael) Apaamarga. + − ==== Sambhara ==== − ==== पुनराधान पुनराधेय ॥ Punaraadheya and Purnaraadhana ==== − In the event forbidden materials come into contact with Agni, or the Pavitra samidhas or the homa kunda, there would be agni nasha or destruction of agni called "Agnyopaghaata". In such case Punaraadheya or revival of Agni is to be performed with sterner measures. − Either the karta or his wife should be present near the Agnihotram at the time of sunrise and sunset. If both of them leave the house and cross the boundaries of the village or city without tending to the Agni, then on their return Agni Punaraadhana (Agni Sparsa) has to be done. Thus travel for karta at the time of homa or during the Parvadinas (Amavasya, Poornima tithis) is forbidden and Punaraadhana of Agni is a must.+ − During the time when Asoucham occurs in the family - Rajodosha (menses time for wife), Sutakam (when there is a death or birth in the family) re-instatement of Agni by Punaraadhana process has to be done<ref name=":022" />. Many prayaschitta vidhis are to be performed if the Agni in the homa kunda is spent, lost due to travel, or destroyed. If for 12 days at a stretch homa is not performed (Homa lopa due to any reason) then prescribed Prayaschittas are to be performed by doing samidha samskaara (purification of homa dravyas) and additional Aahutis. This observance of prayaschitta varies according to different sutras. For example : Hiranyakeshi Sutras prescribe prayaschitta after homa lopa for 12 days, Aapasthamba Sutras advise prayaschitta after homa lopa for 3 days. + − Both Agnyaadhaana and Punaraadhana are always performed in the evening times. + − ==== हवित्री - यज्ञकुण्डम् वेदि वा ॥ Kunda/Vedi ==== − Kunda or Vedi (altar) called as Havitri<ref name=":02222" /> is another important aspect of yagnas and yaagas including those for nitya agnihotra in homes. They are of different sizes and shapes depending on the type of fire and yaaga being performed. For temporary domestic purposes in the present days movable copper kundaas are used, while some prepare altars with sand and a few bricks. − ==== आध्वर्यु ॥ Priest ==== − The nitya agnihotram is performed by the karta only, he is the priest for it. In case of Agnihotra yaagam (as a part of Agnihotram Yaagam) it is performed by the yajamani or his son, brother, son-in-law on behalf of the the yajamani. Only in the absence of all these persons आध्वर्यु Adhvaryu is the only person who should perform the Agnihotram<ref name=":12222" />. − === अग्निकार्यम् ॥ Agnikaaryam === − It is prescribed by sastras that all the dvijas (the ‘twice-born,’ the men of the first three varṇas) are eligible to perform Agnihotra. A brahmachari is initiated into performing Agnihotram during Upanayana with prescribed procedures and is taught the relevant mantras to conduct the agnihotram. At the time of investing the yagnopaveeta, he is taught to perform daily aahuti in the fire called '''Praajapatyaagni'''. '''(recheck)'''. − === औपासन ॥ Aupaasana === − During vivaha samskara the one is initiated to enter the grihasta ashram by setting up the आवसथ्याग्निः ॥ Aavasatyaagni<ref>Paraaskara Grhya Sutras [https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%83%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D (1.2.1)]</ref> to the north of the vedi. (Paaraskara Grhya Sutra Adhyaya 1 Kandika 2 Mantra 1) <blockquote>आवसथ्याधानं दारकाले १ दायाद्यकाल एकेषाम् २ ॥ āvasathyādhānaṁ dārakālē 1 dāyādyakāla ēkēṣām 2 (Paara.Grhy.Sutra. 1.2.1).</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : The setting up of Aavasatya agni is (performed) at the time of wedding. At the time of inheritance according to some. </blockquote>He receives additional procedures to perform nitya Agnihotram. A few features include − * Starting after marriage, a grihasta (along with his wife) offers aahuti twice daily at twilight time (dawn and dusk) in the Gaarhapatya agni, this is also called as Aupasana.<ref name=":02222">Venkateswara Rao. Potturi (2010) ''Paaramaathika Padakosam'' Hyderabad: Msko Books</ref> For Ex: Valmiki Ramayana states that Sri Ramachandra and Lakshmana tended agnihotram while they lived in Panchavati '''(Ramayana reference needed)'''. − * Every grihastha has to maintain Agnihotra until he is prevented by old age or illness or death. In case where he cannot perform it on behalf of him his son, brother or son-in-law. <ref name=":12222">Purkayastha, Dipanjona (2014) Ph. D Thesis from Assam University : ''[http://hdl.handle.net/10603/41946 A Study of the Asvalayana srauta sutra with reference to the principal sacrifices]''</ref> According to Satapatha Brahmana <blockquote>एतद्वै जरामर्यं सत्रं यदग्निहोत्रं जरया वा ह्येवास्मान्मुच्यते मृत्युना वा (Sata. Brah. 7.4.1.1) </blockquote><blockquote>ētadvai jarāmaryaṁ satraṁ yadagnihōtraṁ jarayā vā hyēvāsmānmucyatē mr̥tyunā vā (Sata. Brah. 7.4.1.1)</blockquote><blockquote>Summary: this agnihotram is 'jaraamarya satra' because he can get relief from this only if he dies or becomes old. </blockquote> − * Performance of nitya agnihotra is mandated to the grihasta men of all three varnas. If due to any reason, a grihasta has not conducted agnihotra rituals, he can do so after performing the praayaschitta vidhis as given in the Srauta sastras.<ref name=":12222" /> − * As a nityakriya agnihotra, Anuditahomi's perform homa before sunrise and some Uditahomi's after sunset.<ref name=":12222" /> − * Morning aahutis are made to the deities Surya and Prajapati, while the evening aahutis are made to Agni and Prajapati.<ref name=":12222" /> − * Nitya agnihotra is not to be performed by an uninitiated bachelor or women '''(Reference needed)'''. + − === आहीताग्निः ॥ Aahitagni === − Aahitagni is the sapatinika yajamani who has established the agnihotra by performing the Agnyadheya ceremony. − * The grihastha who never performed any Haviryagna and never studied Vedas, and whose father or forefathers never performed yaaga are not eligible to perform some yaagas/yagnas. Example : Somayaaga<ref name=":12222" />. − * Eligibility for a grihastha to perform other yaagas or yagnas will be obtained once he regularly performs Aupaasana at his house on a daily basis and after he learns the relevant vaidika procedures to conduct them <ref name=":12222" /><ref name=":02222" />. For example: Agnisthoma is the first of the 5 Jyotisthomas or Somayaaga. Performance of haviryagna and some isthis is a prerequisite for conducting a Somayaaga. − The tradition of ‘Aahitagnis’ and ‘Srauta priests’ continues in South India and they perform Vedic rituals as and when possible. These priests inherited the tradition of Vedic ritual practices from their ancestors and perform Vedic rituals even today.<ref name=":02222222" /> − == त्रेताज्ञयः ॥ Three Fires == − All Srauta yagnas or yaagas are associated with त्रेताज्ञयः the three Agni's.<ref name=":02222" /> However, not all three fires are lighted and maintained at all times. While Aupasana is performed with the Gaarhapatya Agni, त्रेताज्ञयः the three fires are kindled in Somayaagas<ref name=":12222" />. − A few important features of the three agnis are summarized below + − === गार्हपत्याग्निः ॥ Gaarhapatya Agni ===+ − Information about of गार्हपत्याग्निः ॥ Gaarhapatya agni + − * It is used by grihastas for general domestic usage, to cook food and aahutidravyas used in other yagnas by reciting mantras. − * It is placed to the west of the yagnavedi and placed in circular shaped kunda. − * It is ceremonially established with the elaborate vedic procedure involving recitation of specific mantras and is called Agnyādhāna. − * It is rekindled by a special process called "Punaradhana" if it gets extinguished for any reason. − * It is used in nityakarmas. − * It is the only Agni that is maintained continuously and daily aahutis are to be made to this Agni by a grihastha. − * It is the source of other two Agnis − * It is kindled after marriage and and is be worshipped for the rest of the life by the grihastha. − * Only a sapatnika yajamani (grihastha) of the three varnas is allowed to tend the Agnihotram. − − Some salient aspects about आहवनीयाग्निः ॥ Aahvaniya Agni are as follows − * It is invoked only in special aabhicharika yaagas unlike Gaarhapatya agni. − * The first Aahvaniya agni is established from the Gaarhapatya agni along with the recitation of specific mantras. − * It is not maintained everyday and is extinguished at the end of the specific yaaga for which it is invoked. − * It is placed to the east of the yagnavedi, in a rectangular shaped kunda. − * It is used to offer aahutis to the devatas only. − === दक्षिणाग्निः ॥ Dakshinaagni === − Salient aspects about दक्षिणाग्निः ॥ Dakshinaagni is as follows − * It is invoked only in special yaagas similar to Aahvaniya agni. − * The first Dakshinaagni is established from the Gaarhapatya agni along with the recitation of specific mantras during yagna karmas. − * It is not maintained everyday and is extinguished at the end of the specific yaagam for which it is invoked. − * It is placed to the south of the yagnavedi, in a half circle shaped kunda. − * It is used to offer aahutis to the pitrudevatas or forefathers only. − Shatapata Brahmana (11.8.2) mentions about four different fires − ११.८.२ अग्नेश्चातुर्विध्याभिधायकं ब्राह्मणम्+ − चत्वारो ह वा अग्नयः। आहित उद्धृतः प्रहृतो विहृतोऽयमेव लोक आहितोऽन्तरिक्षलोक उद्धृतो द्यौष्प्रहृतो दिशो विहृतोऽग्निरेवाहितो वायुरुद्धृत आदित्यः प्रहृतश्चन्द्रमा विहृतो गार्हपत्य एवाहित आहवनीय उद्धृतोऽथ यमेतमाहवनीयात्प्राञ्चं प्रणयन्ति स प्रहृतोऽथ यमेतमुदञ्चम्पशुश्रपणायाहरन्ति यं चोपयङ्भ्यः स विहृतस्तस्मात्प्रहार्येऽग्नौ पशुबन्धेन यजेत - ११.८.२.[१]+ − == Yaagas/Yagnas without Agnihotram == − Invocation of Agni in a vedi (altar) and offering of aahutis is performed in yagnas. However, not all yagnas involve this process. − External and internal rituals+ − We may also classify Vedic sacrifices into external and internal rituals, depending upon how they are performed. External rituals are physical, in which offerings are externally made to devatas. Internal rituals are mental or spiritual, in which the mind and the senses were withdrawn and engaged in contemplative or meditative practices, which culminated in self-absorption. In the internal rituals, the sacrificial model is internalized. The mind and the body become the field or the sacrificial pit, breath becomes fire, whatever that is offered to the body such as food or pleasure becomes the offering. + − The sage of the Atharvaveda (Sukta 19.55.3) prays to the fire for happiness and peace, for a happy temperament, resolve and good health, for strength and mental contentment, and as the ladder to spirituality. The sage also states that ''Agnihotra'' destroys enemies.<sup>[note 5]</sup>+ − Shatapatha Brahmana (SB 3.1.3.18) tells us that ''Agnihotra'' should be performed by the performer knowing that he will gain the strength and victories gained by Agni who conquered the earth, Vayu, the air and Surya, the sky, with whom he shares the world; and the same text further tells us that the ''Agnihotra'', doubtless, is the Sun.<sup>[38]</sup>+ − Contemporary fire ritual === Hindus consider it as the duty of a man to perform ''Agnihotra''. The main offering is milk, and at the end, the sacrificer offers four water oblations, to the gods, to father and the fathers, to the seven seers and to Agni on earth.<sup>[39]</sup> The priest invokes Agni through Agni in his sacrificial form; the sacrificial form of Agni is the Sun which shining brightly appears to all men. The priest also invokes Vayu which is Agni’s own greatness. Therefore, Agni as the deity is treated differently from Agni, the messenger who carries oblations to the gods. The sacrificial form of Agni is Aditya and Vayu. − == Discussion == − Ritual versus knowledge is a much debated topic. Shankara in his commentary on the Brahma Sutras states that the rightful observance of the ''agnihotra'' and other rites are meant for those desirous of attaining Heaven and other enjoyments, and the understanding of the rightful doctrine of the Soul is meant for those desirous of emancipation. Refence needed + +
Agnihotra (अग्निहोत्रम्) (view source)
Revision as of 13:16, 6 December 2021
, 13:16, 6 December 2021→श्रौताग्निः॥ Shrautagni
[[File:DSC 8102.JPG|thumb|500x500px|Agnihotrahavani (Hansmukhi); '''Courtesy: Vaidik Samshodhan Mandal, Pune''']]
Agnihotra (Samskrit : अग्निहोत्रम्) is first of the Shrauta yajnas, which involves offering of cow's milk in to the sacred fire (Agni) performed daily at sunrise and sunset, as a nityakarma. The procedure to perform Yajnas including Agnihotra is described in Brahmanas and Aranyakas of Veda (also called as Shrutis), thus they are called as Shrauta Yajnas.
However, the term 'Agnihotra' is lately also used to refer to the fire altars set up during Grhyakarmas like those required during samskaras.<ref name=":0222222" />It needs to be emphasized that the term Agnihotra technically refers to the Shrauta yajna that is performed as a nityakarma (daily basis) as well as a Kamyakarma.
Sanatana Dharma is founded on the principle that the primary responsibility of perpetually maintaining Agni at home, called as Agnihotram, is vested with a grihastha. Apart from grihastha's nitya Agnihotra many other events like yagnas, yaagas, isthis, and homas involve the kindling of fire according to karmakanda procedures given in Samhitas and Brahmanas.
Sanatana Dharma is founded on the principle that the primary responsibility of perpetually maintaining Agni at home is vested with a grihastha. In the present days, very rarely, grihasthas are maintaining Agni at homes nor are conducting regular Agnihotra rituals as prescribed by sastras.
Agni, however, is invoked in every occasion (auspicious and inauspicious) as an integral part of dharmic lifestyle, starting from shrauta yajnas, in nityakarma, for conducting rituals in temples, in special homas during housewarming and grahashanti, upanayana and other samskara celebrations, at weddings (where the bride and groom circle the sacred fire seven times) and lastly for अन्त्येष्टिः ॥ Anteysti (cremation).
== परिचयः|| Introduction ==
[[File:ARANI-MANTHA.JPG|thumb|300x300px|Arani Manha; '''Courtesy: Vaidik Samshodhan Mandal, Pune''']]
The Agnihotra yaga may be of two types - Nitya and Aichika (Kamya) differing mainly in their purpose and their ahutis. Aupasana (in Smartagni) and Agnihotra (in Shrautagni) are the two Agnikaryas (fire rituals) in the Nityakarmas to be performed everyday apart from the others like Sandhyavandanam, Vaisvedeva, and Panchamahayajnas.
Agnihotra is the model or Prakriti of Homa yajnas. After establishment of the Shrauta agni in the home with Agnyadhana ceremony a sapatnika yajamani can perform agnihotra yaga daily. A yajamani performs a daily morning and evening offering of ahuti of milk, curd, purodasa, in the Aahavaniya fire for the deities Surya and Agni. This yaga is considered as nityakarma for the three classes of people - Brahmanas, Kshatriyas and Vaishyas in the vedic age.<ref name=":7" /> In Satapatha Brahmana, it is mentioned that this yaga must be performed by the householder till his death with some exceptions. The main ahuti is milk and for that the yajamana should maintain a cow called as "Agnihotra gabhihi".
== परिचय || Introduction ==
The agnihotra ceremony is started with establishment of Agni by a process called Agnyadhana conducted for the first time in the evening, with the kindling of Aahvaniya and Dakshinagni from Garhapatyagni. The milk warmed up in the garhapatya agni in a prescribed utensil, is offered as ahuti in Agni using the wooden ladles while chanting the appropriate mantras.
This yaga cannot be performed by a bachelor or a widower, however exceptions are also present. If for any reason the fires cannot be tended to and they extinguish then they are re-established with stringent Punaradhana ceremony.<ref name=":122222222" /><ref name=":0">Sri Sri Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Swamiji, (2000) ''[http://www.kamakoti.org/hindudharma/part19/chap6.htm Hindu Dharma (Collection of Swamiji's Speeches between 1907 to 1994)]''Mumbai : Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan</ref>
An oversimplified version of the procedures involved in conducting Agnihotram are summarized as
* The Shrautaagni is established by the process of Agnyadhana in the house of a yajamana.
* A sapatinika yajamana performs homa daily at sunrise and at sunset by offering milk in Agni after first performing other nityakarmas such as sandhyavandana and achamana.
* The mantras to be chanted are prescribed in the respective Shrauta sutras based on the Veda and Shakas followed by the yajamani's lineage. (For example, Rig vedins follow Asvalayana Shrauta sutras).
* Samidhas, Yajna vedis and patras (utensils such as sruk) are to be maintained and protected sacredly by the yajamani and his family.
== श्रौतयज्ञाः ॥ Shrauta Yajnas ==
[[Shrauta Yajnas (श्रौतयज्ञाः)|Shrauta Yajnas]] are 14 in number. They are divided into two main groups of seven each : Haviryajnas and Somayajnas<ref name=":122222222">Purkayastha, Dipanjona (2014) Ph. D Thesis from Assam University : ''[http://hdl.handle.net/10603/41946 A Study of the Asvalayana srauta sutra with reference to the principal yajnas]''</ref><ref>Introduction to Rituals ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/rituals/# Vedic Heritage Portal])</ref>.
=== हविर्यज्ञाः॥ Haviryajnas ===
Agnihotra, is a term specifically applicable to the first and important vaidika yajnas classified among the seven Shrauta karmas - [[Haviryajnas (हविर्यज्ञाः)]] where an offering of havis is made into the agni (also called as homas). It is performed as a daily worship to Agni (Nityaagnihotram) and also with an intent to fulfill any specific desire (Kamyagnihotram)<ref name=":03222222222" /><ref name=":022222222">Venkateswara Rao. Potturi (2010) ''Paaramaathika Padakosam'' Hyderabad: Msko Books</ref>.
=== श्रौतसुत्राणि॥Shrauta Sutras ===
Kalpas are one among the [[Shad Vedangas (षड्वेदाङ्गानि)|Shad Vedangas]]. Shrautasutras classified as one among the Kalpas deal with the rules for the execution of the Shrauta yajnas which are nityakarmas or last for many days. All the four Vedas have their Shrautasutras.<ref name=":122222222" />
{| class="wikitable"
!Vedas
!Shrautasutras
|-
|Rig Veda
|Asvalayana, Sankhyayana
|-
|Krishna Yajurveda : Taittriya
|Baudhayana, Bharadvaja, Apastamba, Hiranyakeshi, Vaikhanasa, Vadula, Kathaka
|-
|Krishna Yajurveda : Maitrayani
|Manava and Varaha
|-
|Shukla Yajurveda
|Katyanana
|-
|Samaveda
|Arsheyakalpa, Kshudrasutra, Jaiminiya, Latyayana and Drahyayana
|-
|Atharvaveda
|Vaitana
|}
Besides these above mentioned Shrautasutras, there are many others but their texts are not available at present.
== अग्न्याधानम् ॥ Agnyadhana ==
Agnyadhana also called as अग्न्याधेय ॥ Agnyadheya is technically the process by which the Agni or sacred fire is newly established in the kundas along with the chanting of mantras as prescribed by Shrauta sutras. It is belongs to the 'isthi' class of yajnas, which means 'a yajna performed by a yajamana and his wife with the help of four priests. Agnyadheya occupies two days, the first day called Upavastha being taken up by the preliminary matters and the second with the main rites. Agnyadheya means the placing of burning coals for the generation of the garhapatya and other fires at a particular time and place by a particular person to the accompaniment of certain mantras.
विशिष्टकाले
Agnyadheya comprehends the several acts from the bringing of the aranis (two wooden logs) to the offering of purnahuti. When this last takes place the person who engages in the rites attains the position of an Ahitagni (one who consecrated the sacred vedic fires). <ref name=":02">Kane, Pandurang Vaman. (1941) ''History of Dharmasastra (Ancient and Medieval Religious and Civil Law) Volume 2, Part 2.'' Poona : Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute</ref>
'''Homa''' : Homa refers to both the small scale rituals involving specially constructed altars with Agnihotra such as in navagraha homa conducted for grihapravesam (housewarming) to larger scale rituals such as Chandi homa conducted in temples. Homas are usually conducted as Angas for mantrajapams and do not involve all the vedic procedures.
The mantras and the procedural aspects are generally similar across all vedic Shrauta sutras, with a few variations. It is classified as the first of the Haviryajnas according to Gautama Dharmasutras. However, this topic is dealt here as a prerequisite to the Agnihotra yajna. The requisite materials and procedures of Agnyadhana according to different texts may be referred to as given below.
* Kanvasatapatha Brahmana (Ekapat Kanda)<ref name=":2">Swaminathan, C. R. (1997) ''[http://ignca.nic.in/eBooks/KANVASATAPATHABRAHMAAAM_Vol_I.pdf Kanvasatapathabrahmanam Volume 1.]'' New Delhi : Indra Gandhi National Centre For the Arts and Motilal Banarsidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd.</ref>
* Madhyandina Satapatha Brahmana (Ekapat Kanda)<ref name=":3">Madhyandina Satapatha Brahmana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D_%E0%A5%A8/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A7/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3_%E0%A5%A7 Ekapatkanda Adhyaya 1]) Brahmana 1</ref>
* Katyayana Shrauta Sutras (Adhyaya 4)<ref name=":4">Katyayana Srauta Sutras ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%B2%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%83/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%BF/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%A8-%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A6%E0%A5%AA Adhyaya 4])</ref>
* Asvalayana Shrauta Sutras (Adhyaya 2)<ref name=":122" />
* Apastamba Shrauta Sutras (Prasna 5)<ref name=":5" />
* Taittriya Brahmana (Kanda 1)<ref name=":6" />
Brief summary of various aspects of Agnyadhana are as given below
=== संभराः ॥ Sambharas ===
He who is to perform the installation of the sacred Agnis gathers the requisite materials. He collects water, gold, salts, earth (from a mole hill), pebbles. Each of these have their significance which is explained therein. The place where the fires are to be installed are cleaned and sprinkled with water. Water is verily food, as where water is present it flourishes with food. Gold makes the fire grow with splendour, for gold is indeed the seed of fire. Salt is considered the essence of Dyava and Prithvi, and when offered it makes the fire prosper with their essence. Where there is saltish ground they declare it fit for cattle. The earth collected from a mole hill enriches the fire with the essence of the earth. The earth is made firm and steady by the fixing of pebbles just as one would spread out a hide with pins. In this manner, the yajamana keeps away his inimical rivals by making this ground firm and steady and by installing the fires on it.<ref name=":2" /> <blockquote>तस्मादपः सम्भरति - २.१.१.[४] hence he procures water </blockquote><blockquote>तस्माद्धिरण्यं सम्भरति - २.१.१.[५] hence he procures gold </blockquote><blockquote>तद्द्यावापृथिव्यो रसेन समर्धयति तस्मादूषान्त्सम्भरति - २.१.१.[६] it makes this (fire) prosper with the essence of these two - dyava and prthivi </blockquote><blockquote>तस्मादाखुकरीषं सम्भरति - २.१.१.[७] hence he secures the mole-hill.<ref name=":3" /> </blockquote>
=== नक्षत्राणि ॥ Nakshatras ===
== श्रौतकर्माणि ॥ Srauta Karmas ==
This ceremony is to be performed when chandra (moon) is situated in certain nakshatras. Krittika, Rohini, Mrgasira, Phalguni (2 stars Purva and Uttara), Vishakha and Hasta, Chitta stars are preferred according to different Shrauta sutras.<ref name=":122222222" /><blockquote>कृत्तिकासु रोहिण्यां मृगशिरसि फल्गुनीषु विशाखयोरुत्तरयोः प्रोष्ठपदयोः ॥ १० (Asva. Srau. Sutr. 2.1.10)<ref name=":122">Asvalayana Srauta Sutram ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%A8_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A8 Adhyaya 2])</ref> </blockquote><blockquote>kr̥ttikāsu rōhiṇyāṁ mr̥gaśirasi phalgunīṣu viśākhayōruttarayōḥ prōṣṭhapadayōḥ ॥ 10 (Asva. Srau. Sutr. 2.1.10)</blockquote><blockquote>कृत्तिकासु ब्राह्मण आदधीत मुख्यो ब्रह्मवर्चसी भवति ॥ ३ गृहांस्तस्याग्निर्दाहुको भवति ॥ ४ (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.3.3)<ref name=":5">Aapasthamba Srauta Sutras ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%82_%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A6%E0%A5%AB Prasna 5])</ref></blockquote><blockquote>kr̥ttikāsu brāhmaṇa ādadhīta mukhyō brahmavarcasī bhavati ॥ 3 gr̥hāṁstasyāgnirdāhukō bhavati ॥ 4 (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.3.3 and 4)</blockquote>Kanvasatapatha brahmana (Ekapatkanda Adhyaya 1 Brahmana 2)<ref name=":2" /> instructs that the installation of Agni under the constellation of Krittika is preferred as Krittika is verily the star of Agni.<blockquote>कृत्तिकास्वग्नी आदधीत । एत्याहुरेतध्द वा अग्नेर्नक्षत्रं...</blockquote>Establishing Agni in different stars gives different benefits to the yajamana. Setting of fires in
* Krittika and Rohini - one attains progeny and cattle
* Mrigasira - one attains excellence in wealth and community
* Phalgunis - one attains superiority
* Hasta - one attains material things
* Chitra - one overpowers his enemies and rivals (hence preferred for Kshatriyas).
=== ऋतु ॥ Seasons ===
The people of different sections are advised to establish fire in different seasons, however, they may establish in any season as performing homa is more important than waiting for the appropriate time because a person may die at any time and instead of waiting for right time it is better to establish the fires.<ref name=":122222222" /><ref name=":2" /><blockquote>वसन्तो ग्रीष्मो वर्षाः । ते देवा ऋतवः शरद्धेमन्तः शिशिरस्ते पितरो य</blockquote>Meaning : Vasanta (Spring) Grishma (Summer) and Varsha (Rain or Monsoons) - these are the seasons of devatas. Sharad (Autumn), Hemanta (Prewinter) and Shishira (Winter) are the seasons for pitrus (forefathers).
Setting up the Agnis when Sun travels through the northern region (in the seasons of the devatas) is preferred over the time when he goes to southern region (in the seasons of the pitrus). According to Satapatha Brahmana and Asvalayana Shrautasutras, Agnyadhana is to be performed by<ref name=":2" />
* ब्राह्मणो वसन्त आदधीत - Brahmanas in Vasanta or Spring to be bestowed by ब्रह्मवर्चस् (lustre)
* क्षत्रियो ग्रीष्म आदधीत - Kshatriya in Grishma or Summer to obtain क्षत्रं श्रिया यश (splendor, glory and fame)
* वर्षास्वादधीत विड्ढि - Vaishya in Varshakala or Rainy season to attain बहुर्हैव प्रजया पशुभिर्भवति (abundance of progeny and cattle)
=== उपवस्था ॥ Upavastha ===
On the Upavastha day (one day before the actual Agnyadhana), the yajamana prepares himself by taking the purificatory bath, achamana (sipping of water), and Punyahavachana. He then takes his seat along with his wife on the darbha grass and pronounces his will to set up the sacred agnis, formally announces his rtviks and honours them by offering Madhuparka (mixture of curds, honey and ghee). He fasts through the day and remains awake the whole night tending to the fire by adding samidhas.<ref name=":7">Mehra, Baldev Singh. Ph. D. Thesis Title : ''[http://hdl.handle.net/10603/116852 A critical and comparative study of the vaitana srauta sutra with special reference to the srauta yajnas]'' Maharshi Dayanand University</ref><blockquote>रात्रिं जागरणधारणे ११ शकलैर्वा १२ (Katy. Srau. Sutr. 4.8.11 and 12)<ref name=":4" /></blockquote>
=== अग्निमन्थन ॥ Agni Manthana ===
When the sun rises, the rite of Agnyadhana is initiated. In the morning the Adhvaryu heats the two arani sticks and hands them over to the yajamana invoking the prescribed mantras. Agni manthana is the process by which the fire is generated by the manthana (literally churning) or friction of two sami sticks. Rig veda mentions the process of kindling of fire from Arani (fire sticks) made from Sami and Asvattha trees. This is also called Agni Samaaropa<ref name=":0222222">''[http://www.kamakoti.org/kamakoti/dharmasindhu/bookview.php?chapnum=23 Essence of Dharmasindhu - Homa Prakriyas]'' by Sri. V. D. N. Rao as given in Kamakoti.org </ref>.
The stick on top called the Uttara-arani is called Pururavas (Indra) and the lower arani called as Aadhara-arani is called Urvasi (Apsara). The rope used for manthana is called rasanaa. The process of generating fire is also described in various Shrauta sutra texts apart from Taittriya Brahmana in the पौरोडाशिक काण्ड under अग्न्याधानम् prapathaka <ref name=":6">Taittriya Brahmana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/तैत्तिरीयब्राह्मणम्_(विस्वरपाठः)/काण्डः_१/प्रपाठकः_०१ Kanda 1 Prapathaka 1])</ref>. <blockquote>शमीगर्भादग्निं मन्थति । एषा वा अग्नेर्यज्ञिया तनूः । (Tait. Brah. 1.1.9.1)</blockquote><blockquote>śamīgarbhādagniṁ manthati । ēṣā vā agnēryajñiyā tanūḥ । (Tait. Brah. 1.1.9.1)</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : From the hearth of sami (sticks) Agni is churned. This is the yajna body of Agni.<ref name=":122222222" /></blockquote>
=== अग्न्याधानम् ॥ Agnyadhana ===
While chanting the mantras, Adhvaryu establishes the Garhapatya Agni on the dried cow dung cakes and places some darbha around it. (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.12.2).<ref name=":5" /> According to Kanva Shatapatha Brahmana<ref name=":2" /><blockquote>स भूर्भुव इत्येतैस्त्रिभिरक्षरैर्गार्हपत्यमादधाति द्वे परिशिनष्ट्ययातयामतायै... (Kanv. Sata. Brah. 1.1.4.14)</blockquote>Summary : He (yajamana) installs the Garhapatya with the (uttering) these three syllables Bhurbhuvah.
He lights some samidhas from the Garhapatya Agni and formally sets up the Aahvaniya Agni (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.13.7). The Dakshinagni is established by taking the fire from the house of the richest person of the village or it may be produced by manthan. This is followed by Purnahuti and yajamana distributes dakshina to the priests according to his economic conditions. <ref name=":7" />
Thus the process starts with the collection of Arani and ends with Purnahuti. <blockquote>यो अश्वत्थः शमीगर्भ आरुरोह त्वेसचा । तं त्वाहरामि ब्रह्मणा यज्ञियैः केतुभिः सहेति पूर्णाहुत्यन्तमग्न्याधेयं १७ (Asva. Srau. Sutr. 2.1.17)<ref name=":122" /></blockquote>After purnahuti of Agnayadhana the yajamana can be considered as an Ahitagni and he should abide by all the rules of a ahitagni yajamana. <ref name=":122222222" />
In the context the kindling of fire, the Agnihotram mentioned as nitya karma has been discussed here and only a brief mention of Agnihotram as a part of vedic ritual during different occasions has been made.
=== पुनराधान ॥ Purnaradhana ===
In the event forbidden materials come into contact with Agni, the Pavitra samidhas or the homa kunda, there would be agni nasha or destruction of agni called "Agnyopaghaata". In such case, Punaradhana also called as पुनराधेय ॥Punaraadheya or revival of Agni is to be performed with sterner measures.<ref name=":0222222" />
== स्मार्तकर्माणि ॥ Smaarta Karmas ==
Taittriya Samhita outlines the पुनराधानविधानम् Punaradhanavidhanam <ref name=":03">Taittriya Samhita ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%83%E0%A4%B7%E0%A5%8D%E2%80%8D%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%9C%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%83/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D_%E0%A5%A7/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A0%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%AB Kandam 1 Prapathaka 5])</ref> which is similar to Agnyadhana process with a few modifications. The description of Punaradhana is also found along with the Agnyadhana procedure in a few sources like
* Taittriya Samhita (1.5.1)<ref name=":03" />
* Apastamba Shrauta Sutras (5.26 to 28)<ref name=":5" />
According to Katyayana Shrauta Sutras <ref name=":4" /> पुनराधेयम् is described as follows<blockquote>पुनराधेयमाधानाऽप्रतिज्ञातस्य १ राज्ययशस्कामस्य वा २ त्रिरात्रावरमग्नीनुत्सृज्य ३ सद्यो वा ४ पुनर्वस्वोः ५ वर्षासु मध्यन्दिने वा ६ कुशैराधानम् ७ व्रीह्यपूपमर्कपलाशयोः पक्वं गार्हपत्यस्थाने निदधात्येवमाहमनीयस्य यावं सद्यश्चेत् ८... (Katy. Srau. Sutr. 4.11)</blockquote>Summary : The re-establishment of Agni takes place in Punarvasu nakshatra of the rainy season during mid-day. Kushagrass is to be placed (in Agni). Ahuti made by cooking Vreehi (a type of grain) along with other items is to be placed in Garhapatya agni, yava grains to be offered in Aahvaniya.<ref name=":7" />
Offerings of astakapala purodasa to Agni, ekadasakapala purodasa to Agni and Vishnu and panchakapala purodasa to Agni and Soma are offered in addition to the other ahutis.<ref name=":7" />
Either the karta or his wife should be present near the Agnihotram at the time of sunrise and sunset. If both of them leave the house and cross the boundaries of the village or city without tending to the Agni and they become extinguished then on their return Agni Punaraadhana (Agni Sparsa) has to be done. Thus travel for karta at the time of homa or during the Parvadinas (Amavasya, Poornima tithis) is forbidden and Punaraadhana of Agni is a must.<ref name=":0222222" />
During the time when Asoucham occurs in the family - Rajodosha (menses time for wife), Sutakam (when there is a death or birth in the family) re-instatement of Agni by Punaraadhana process has to be done<ref name=":0222222" />. Many prayaschitta vidhis are to be performed if the Agni in the homa kunda is spent, lost due to travel, or destroyed. If for 12 days at a stretch homa is not performed (Homa lopa due to any reason) then prescribed Prayaschittas are to be performed by doing samidha samskaara (purification of homa dravyas) and additional Aahutis. This observance of prayaschitta varies according to different sutras. For example : Hiranyakeshi Sutras prescribe prayaschitta after homa lopa for 12 days, Aapasthamba Sutras advise prayaschitta after homa lopa for 3 days.
== श्रौताग्निः॥ Shrautagni ==
{{Main article|Tretagni (त्रेताग्निः)}}
Shrautagni is meant for the Shrauta karmas (shrauta yajnas such as Haviryajnas and Somayajnas). It involves the use of three fires burning in three mounds hence called [[Tretagni (त्रेताग्नयः)|Tretagni]].
* From the Aupasanagni, by the procedure of Agnyadhanam, shrautaagni (Garhapatyagni) is kindled at the time of the vivaha samskara and maintained throughout life by the grihastha.
* Of the three sacred fires (tretagni), "garhapatya" belongs to the master of the household. It must be kept burning in the garhapatya mound which is circular in shape. The procedure to set up these Agnis is given in Agnyadhana.
* The section in the Apastamba-sutra dealing with rites performed in it is called "Tretagni-kanda" for those following Yajurveda.
* Most of the shrauta rituals are done in the Aahvaniya agni, Garhapatya agni is used to heat the ghee and prepare cooked ahutis. After the ritual is complete, Aahvaniya agni and dakshinagni are joined back into the Garhapatya agni or allowed to extinguish in some cases.
* One who worships the Shrauta and Grhyagnis, is called an "'''Ahitagni'''".
* One who worships all these three Agnis is called a "Tretagni" or "'''Srautin'''".<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":322">Kannan, P. R. [https://sanskritdocuments.org/sites/prkannan/Balabodha%20Sangraham%20-%203.pdf Balabodha Sangraha - 3] (Topic Efficacies of Agni Upasana) Kanchi Kaamkoti Peetham</ref>
Ramayana mentions about the worship of agnis and performance of yajnas as follows. <blockquote>नानाहिताग्निर्नायज्वा विप्रो नाप्यसहस्रदः ।... (Rama. Bala. 6.12)<ref>Bhatt, G. H. and others (1958) ''The Valmiki Ramayana, Critical Edition, The Balakanda.'' Baroda : Oriental Institute (Bala Kanda [https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.406537/page/n83 Sarga 6])</ref></blockquote>In the city of Ayodhya there was none who did not kindle the agnis. There was none who did not perform yajnas nor donate in thousands.
== अग्निहोत्रम् ॥ Agnihotram ==
== अग्निहोत्रम् ॥ Agnihotram ==
Agnihotra, is a term specifically applicable to the most common and important vaidika yagnas classified among the [[हविर्यज्ञानि ॥ Haviryagnas]] (offering of havis is made) or homas, and considered to be nityakarma (daily activity). It is performed as a daily worship and also with an intent to fulfill any specific desire<ref name=":0322222" />. A brief outline of the various aspects about Agnihotram have been summarized below
Agnihotra is the model or Prakrti of Homa yagas. After the Shrautagni is established at home by Agnyadhana, it is to be maintained and protected by the yajamani till his death. He is required to follow the prescribed observances and vratas as laid down in Shrauta sutras. It is performed as a sacred duty and not for any particular reward. <gallery mode="packed" heights="200" caption="Yajna Upakaranas (यज्ञोपकरणानि); Courtesy: Vaidik Samshodhan Mandal, Pune">
File:ARANI-MANTHA.JPG
File:ADHARARANI.JPG
==== नक्षत्राणि ॥ Nakshatras ====
File:AGNIHOTRAHAVANI -HANS-MUKHI.JPG
</gallery>
==== कर्ता ॥ Karta ====
==== कर्ता ॥ Karta ====
The कर्ता ॥ Karta should be सपत्नीक ॥ sapatinika (have a wife) which is the main criteria to perform Aupasana. He (or his wife) should perform this homa daily in the morning with milk, obtained separately from the cow reared for this purpose (agnihotra gaabhi).
The कर्ता ॥ Karta for Agnihotra should be सपत्नीक ॥ sapatinika (have a wife) yajamanani who lights the Aupasana agni and Shrautagni for the first time during his wedding.
* If the karta goes on a pilgrimage along with his wife, he can carry the gārhapatya fire with him or can ceremonially put it out and perform punarādhāna (re-establishing the fire) on his return. When he dies, the various wooden implements used by him for Agnihotra should be kept on various parts of his body as prescribed and then his body is cremated with the gārhapatya fire.<ref name=":0322222">http://www.hindupedia.com/en/Agnihotra#cite_note-1</ref>
* He (or his wife) should perform this homa daily in the morning with milk, obtained separately from the cow reared for this purpose (agnihotra gaabhi).
* Wife, son, pupil or a priest can perform Agnihotram on behalf of the karta in case of emergencies.
* If the karta goes on a pilgrimage along with his wife, he can carry the garhapatya fire with him or can ceremonially extinguish it and perform punaradhana (re-establishing the fire) on his return.
* Agnihotra cannot be performed by a widower, however on remarriage a widower becomes eligible to perform nitya agnihotra<ref name=":12222" />. When separated from his wife and he chooses not to remarry, he can imagine or instill his wife's idol for the process.
* Wife, son,brother, brother-in-law, son-in-law, pupil or a priest can perform Agnihotram on behalf of the karta in case of emergencies.<ref name=":122222222" />
* When he dies, the various wooden implements used by him for Agnihotra should be kept on various parts of his body as prescribed and then his body is cremated using the garhapatya agni.<ref name=":03222222222">http://www.hindupedia.com/en/Agnihotra#cite_note-1</ref>
* According to Taittriya Brahmana<ref>Taittriya Brahmana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%88%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D_(%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A0%E0%A4%83)/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A9/%E0%A4%AA%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A0%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A6%E0%A5%A9 Kanda 3 Prapathaka 3])</ref> (3.3.3.1) one who does not have a patni or wife cannot perform yajnas. <blockquote>अयज्ञो वा एषः । योऽपत्नीकः । (Tait. Brah 3.3.3.1)</blockquote>
* Agnihotra cannot be performed by a widower, however on remarriage a widower becomes eligible to perform nitya agnihotra<ref name=":122222222" />. When separated from his wife and he chooses not to remarry, he can imagine or instill his wife's murti or vigraha for the process.
* According to Satapatha Brahmana<blockquote>एतद्वै जरामर्यं सत्रं यदग्निहोत्रं जरया वा ह्येवास्मान्मुच्यते मृत्युना वा (Sata. Brah. 12.4.1.1)<ref>Satapatha Brahmana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D_%E0%A5%A7%E0%A5%A8/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%AA/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3_%E0%A5%A7 Kanda 12 Adhyaya 4])</ref> </blockquote><blockquote>ētadvai jarāmaryaṁ satraṁ yadagnihōtraṁ jarayā vā hyēvāsmānmucyatē mr̥tyunā vā (Sata. Brah. 12.4.1.1)</blockquote>Summary: this agnihotram is 'jaraamarya satra' because he can get relief from this only if he dies or becomes old.
==== हविस् ॥ Havis/Havishya ====
==== हविस् ॥ Havis/Havishya ====
Milk is the main dravya or Havis offered as Aahuti in the agnihotra with the chanting of "Svaaha".
Milk is the main dravya or Havis offered as ahuti to Agni and Surya devatas in the Aahvaniya agni with the chanting of "Svaaha" using the ladle named sruk. <blockquote>पयसा नित्यहोमः १ payasā nityahōmaḥ 1 (Asva. Srau. Sutr 2.3.2)<ref name=":122" /></blockquote>The performer of Agnihotra is obliged to rear a cow primarily for providing milk as havis to devatas. The milk for ahuti is to be heated in garhapatya agni and the vessel which must be an earthen pot with a straight brim is called agnihotra-sthali and the ladle is called agnihotrahavaṇi.<ref name=":122222222" />
==== देवता ॥ Devatas ====
According to Sankhyayana Shrautasutra (2.9)<ref>Sankhyayana Srauta Sutras ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%99%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%96%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%A8%E0%A4%B6%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A6%E0%A5%A8 Adhyaya 2])</ref><blockquote>अग्निर्ज्योतिर्ज्योतिरग्निः स्वाहेति सायम् १ सूर्यो ज्योतिर्ज्योतिः सूर्यः स्वाहेति प्रातः २</blockquote>As given above the offering in Agni with svahakara is made in the evening and offering to Surya is made in morning.
The performer of Agnihotra is obliged to rear a cow primarily for providing milk as havis to devatas. The milk vessel which must be an earthen pot with a straight brim is called ‘agnihotra-sthālī’ and the ladle is called ‘agnihotrahavaṇī.’<ref name=":02222222" /><ref name=":12222" /> Milk products like dadhi (curds), ajyam (ghee) are also offered.
The first ahuti of Agnihotra is called Purvahuti. The mantra "bhurbhuvah" is recited at the time of the first ahuti. This homa is done for Agni devata forms - Agni Pavamana, Pavaka and Suchi, with ahuti's offered to Agni with a Svahakaara. The second ahuti of Agnihotra is called Uttarahuti. Prajapati devata is prayed to silently at both times.<ref name=":122222222" />
==== समिधा ॥ Samidha ====
==== समिधा ॥ Samidha ====
Once the fire is kindled by Arani, it is maintained by the addition of smaller pieces of wood called Samidhas into the Agni. These pieces of wood are collected with bark and are 10 to 12 inches long. This process is called "Pratyavaroha"<ref name=":0222222" />.Agni samaaropa and pratyavaroha are to be executed by the karta himself and not by others except by his wife who might perform the Pratyavaroha part.
The trees from which samidhas are obtained include : palaasa, asvattha (peepul), nygrodha (banyan tree), sami, aamra (mango), khadira, durva, darbha (kusa grass), bilva (bael) Apaamarga.<ref name=":0222222" />
==== यज्ञकुण्डम् ॥ Kunda ====
Kunda or वेदि ॥ Vedi (altar) also called as हवित्री ॥ Havitri<ref name=":022222222" /> is another important aspect of yajnas and yagas including those for nitya agnihotra in homes. They are of different sizes and shapes depending on the type of fire and yaga being performed.
* Garhapatya agni is maintained in a circular kunda
* Aahvaniya agni is kept in a square kunda
* Dakshinagni is kept in a semi circular kunda.
For domestic purposes in the present days movable copper kundaas are also used, while some prepare altars with sand and a few bricks.
==== ऋत्विक् ॥ Ritvik ====
The nitya agnihotram is performed by the yajaman or karta only, he is the priest for it. When he is unable to perform the nityakarma wife, son, others or in the last case an Adhvaryu may be designated for conducting it.<ref name=":122222222" />. Other Haviryajnas involve the four rtviks and the yajamana.
== काम्यकर्म ॥ Kamyakarma ==
Although performing agnihotra is a regular activity, it is also performed to attain some special desires called as Kamya Agnihotra. Agnihotra is also performed to fulfill desires such as to achieve heavenly position, a long life of people or cattle, for abundant food grains, brahmavarchas and for physical strength.<ref name=":7" /> <blockquote>यवागूरोदनो दधि समिग्रामकामान्नाद्यकामेन्द्रियकाम-तेजस्कामानां २ (Asva. Srau. Sutr 2.3.2)<ref name=":122" /> </blockquote><blockquote>yavāgūrōdanō dadhi samigrāmakāmānnādyakāmēndriyakāma-tējaskāmānāṁ 2 (Asva. Srau. Sutr 2.3.2)</blockquote>Meaning : Yavaagu (gruel of Yavagu rice) is offered for acquiring leadership over villages, and curd is offered for attaining strength (health).<ref name=":1">Kamlapurkar, Rita. (2010) Ph. D. Thesis titled ''Indology-studies in Germany: With special reference to Literature, Rgveda and Fire-Worship.'' Pune : Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeetha</ref>
In Kamya Agnihotra, special ahutis are made and offered specific for the objects desired, at different times, in different burning stages of the established fire.<blockquote>धूमायन्त्याम् ग्राम कामस्य जुहुयात् । ज्वलन्त्याम् ब्रह्म वर्चस कामस्य । अङ्गारेषु पशु कामस्य । (Kaus. Brah. 2.2)<ref>Kaushitaki Brahmana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%95%E0%A5%8C%E0%A4%B7%E0%A5%80%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A6%E0%A5%A8 Adhyaya 2])</ref></blockquote>Ahutis are made in smoke for those desiring villages (leadership). Those aspiring for brahmavarchas (divine lustre) should offer ahutis in flames (of Agnihotra) and those desiring cattle wealth should offer ahutis when ambers are shining.<ref name=":7" />
== Agnihotram in Samskaras ==
Agnihotra as Shrauta Yajna is different from the setting up of homas and fire altars during samskaras. In the present day Agnihotra is used loosely for homas and grhyakarmas. This topic is covered here to explain the difference between Shrautakarmas and Grhyakarmas.
Setting up of fire is an important component during naimittika karmas such as those of the Shodasa Samskaaras. Almost all the activities of these samskaraas involve the use of grhyagni where different homas are performed on each occasion which are given in detail in Grhya sutras of different shakaas. However, a few agnikaryas are mentioned here as follows. These homas are primarily performed with the Aupasana Agni mainly by the grihastha, except a few where a purohita conducts them.
'''Pumsavanam and Seemantonnayanam'''
Pumsavana homa (Apas.Grhy. Sutr<ref name=":12" />. 6.14.3), Ajyabhaga homa and Jayaati homa are performed.
'''Jaatakarma'''
The father takes a sachela snanam (bathing with all clothes on him) as soon as he hears about the birth of the child. During Abhimarshanam outlined in Apastamba grhya sutras (Apas. Sutr. 6.15. 1 to 13)<ref name=":12" /> (Taittriya Samhita also gives these mantras), Agnihotra is lit and Raksha homam is conducted in the fire called Sootakagni. Mustard seeds(sashapa) and rice flakes (phaleekarana) are offered as aahuti by the father. <blockquote>जातं वात्सप्रेणाभिमृश्योत्तरेण यजुषोपस्थ आधायोत्तराभ्यामाभिमन्त्रणं मूर्धन्यवघ्राणं दक्षिणे कर्णे जापः १ (Aapa. Sutr. 6.15.1)</blockquote><blockquote>सर्षपान्फलीकरणमिश्रानञ्जलिनोत्तरैस्त्रिस्त्रिप्रतिस्वाहाकारं हुत्वा संशास्ति प्रविष्टे प्रविष्ट एव तूष्णीमग्नावावपतेति ६ (Aapa. Sutr. 6.15.6)</blockquote>This homa is performed to protect the child from evil forces and other doshas.
'''Naamakarana'''
Shaankhyayana Grihya sutras (1.25.1 to 26) mention the installation of Sutakagni as the child is born and into it aahuti is made during Naamakarana.
'''Choulam and Choodakarana'''
Though in the present days, many of these karmas are simplified and been done away with, the Grhya sutras lay emphasis on cutting of hair and piercing of the child's ears. Shaankhyayana Grhya sutras (1.28), Aapastamba Grhya Sutras (1.16), Gobila Grhya Sutras (2.9) detail the procedure while Taittriya Brahmana mantras are chanted from Ekagnikandam (2.1).<ref>http://samskaaram.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=99&Itemid=375&lang=en</ref>
'''Vivaha samskara''' is one of the most important ones of the Shodasa Samskaras. It is during vivaha that a grhastha is initiated into the setting up of fires to be continued till the death of the yajamana.
'''Paanigrahanam'''
Agnihotra is initiated at the time of Paanigrahanam during marriage as given in Apasthamba Grhya Sutras<ref name=":12">[https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%86%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%97%E0%A5%83%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%82%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D#%E0%A4%9A%E0%A4%A4%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%83_%E0%A4%96%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%83 Aapastamba Grhya Sutras] </ref> (2.4.9 and 10) <blockquote>अथैनामुत्तरया दक्षिणे हस्ते गृहीत्वाग्निमभ्यानीयापरेणाग्निमुदगग्रं कटमास्तीर्य तस्मिन्नुपविशत उत्तरो वरः ९ (Aapa. Grhy. 2.4.9)<br>अग्नेरुपसमाधानाद्याज्यभागान्तेऽथैनामादितो द्वाभ्यामभिमन्त्रयेत १० (Aapa. Grhy. 2.4.10)</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : The agnihotram is established, the vara or groom holds the hand of the bride and brings her near Agni. They sit in north south direction. He offers aajya into the fire.</blockquote>'''Saptapadi'''
Saptapadi is where the bride and groom take seven sacred steps around the witnessing Agni which has been started during the events.(Aapa. Grhy. Sutr. 2.4.15)<ref name=":12" />
'''Antyeshti'''
It is the last event where the dead body is offered onto the fire with chanting of mantras. (Rig. Veda. 10.16.1)<ref>http://www.hindupedia.com/en/Antyesti#cite_note-1</ref>
== अग्निहोत्रस्य वैशिष्टम् ॥ Importance of Agnihotra ==
Importance of conducting the Agnihotra is emphasized in all the vedic texts. Rig vedic mantras extol the greatness of Agni extensively, with Agni suktams describing the various roles of Agni.
=== आहवनीयाग्निः ॥ Aahvaniya Agni ===
'''Atharvaveda''' (Kanda 19 ) describes that Agnihotra performed in the morning and evening keeps the mind fresh, enthusiastic and happy till evening, while the Agnihotra performed in the evening keeps the mind fresh till morning. Saumanas which is cheerfulness of the mind will not be possible unless one is relieved of both physical and mental anxieties and stress.<ref name=":1" /><blockquote>सायंसायं गृहपतिर्नो अग्निः प्रातःप्रातः सौमनसस्य दाता । वसोर्वसोर्वसुदान एधि वयं त्वेन्धानास्तन्वं पुषेम ॥३॥ (Atha. Veda. 19.55.3)<ref>Atharva Veda ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%B0%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B5%E0%A4%B5%E0%A5%87%E0%A4%A6%E0%A4%83/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%82_%E0%A5%A7%E0%A5%AF Kanda 19 Sukta 55])</ref></blockquote><blockquote>प्रातःप्रातर्गृहपतिर्नो अग्निः सायंसायं सौमनसस्य दाता । वसोर्वसोर्वसुदान एधीन्धानास्त्वा शतंहिमा ऋधेम ॥४॥ (Atha. Veda. 19.55.4)</blockquote>Summary : May Garhapatyagni bestow upon us a superior mind every morning and evening. Hey Agni, grant us growth by giving us good wealth. By offering havisya which increases your lustre let us also gain physical strength<ref>Sharma, Shriram (2002) ''Atharvaveda Samhita, Part 2.'' Haridwar: Brahmavarchas</ref>.
'''Shatapata Brahmana''' also stresses the importance of time and the two ahutis of cow-milk to Agni.<blockquote>स यत्सायमस्तमिते द्वेऽआहुती जुहोति । तदेताभ्यां पूर्वाभ्यां पद्भ्यामेतस्मिन्मृत्यौ प्रतितिष्ठत्त्यथ यत्प्रातरनुदिते द्वेऽआहुती जुहोति तदेताभ्यामपराभ्यां पद्भ्यामेतस्मिन्मृत्यौ प्रतितिष्ठति सऽएनमेषऽउद्यन्नेवाऽऽदायोदेति तदेतं मृत्युमतिमुच्यते.. २.३.३.[९] (Shat. Brah. 2.3.3.9)<ref>Shatapatha Brahmana ([https://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/%E0%A4%B6%E0%A4%A4%E0%A4%AA%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A3%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A1%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%8D_%E0%A5%A8/%E0%A4%85%E0%A4%A7%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%83_%E0%A5%A9/%E0%A4%AC%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%B9%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%AE%E0%A4%A3_%E0%A5%A9 Kanda 2 Adhyaya 3])</ref></blockquote>Summary: The person giving two offerings in the evening at sunset and in the morning at sunrise - exactly when the sun is rising- is set free from the fear of death (Chapter 5 of Reference<ref name=":1" />).
Shatapatha Brahmana (SB 3.1.3.18) tells us that ''Agnihotra'' should be performed by the performer knowing that he will gain the strength and victories gained by Agni who conquered the earth, Vayu, the air and Surya, the sky, with whom he shares the world; and the same text further tells us that the ''Agnihotra'', doubtless, is the Sun.
'''Chandogya Upanishad''' (5th Adhyaya 24th Khanda) clearly lays down the significance of Agnihotra<ref>Jha, Ganganath (1923) ''The Chandogya Upanishad and Sri Sankara's Commentary.'' Madras: The India Printing Press</ref><blockquote>तद्यथेषीकातूलमग्नौ प्रोतं प्रदूयेतैव्ँ हास्य सर्वे पाप्मानः प्रदूयन्ते य एतदेवं विद्वानग्निहोत्रं जुहोति ॥३॥</blockquote>Meaning : Just as the Ishika reed would burn, when thrown into the fire, so also would the evils of one knowing this (knowledge) offers the Agnihotra.<blockquote>यथेह क्षुधिता बाला मातरं पर्युपासते । एव्ँ सर्वाणि भूतान्यग्निहोत्रमुपासत इत्यग्निहोत्रमुपासत इति ॥५॥</blockquote>Meaning : Just as the hungry children wait for the mother, so also all beings wait for the Agnihotra, indeed!
Here the philosophy of Vaisvanara and the importance of Agnihotra have been proclaimed in Chandogya Upanishad.
'''Mahanarayanopanishad''' (Anuvaka 79 Mantras 9 and 10)<blockquote>अग्नयो वै त्रयी विद्या देवयानः पन्था गार्हपत्य ऋक् पृथिवी रथन्तरमन्वाहार्यपचनः यजुरन्तरिक्षं वामदेव्यमाहवनीयः साम सुवर्गो लोको बृहत्तस्मादग्नीन् परमं वदन्ति ॥ ९॥</blockquote>Meaning : The great yajnika fires are indeed the threefold knowledge (त्रयी विद्या) and path leading to realm of the devatas (देवयानः)....<blockquote>अग्निहोत्रँ सायं प्रातर्गृहाणां निष्कृतिः स्विष्टँ सुहुतं यज्ञक्रतूनां प्रायणँ सुवर्गस्य लोकस्य ज्योतिस्तस्मादग्निहोत्रँ परमं वदन्ति ॥१०॥</blockquote>Meaning : The performance of Agnihotra at dawn and sunset is an expiation sins incidental to housekeeping. It is a good yaga and homa and a commencement of all yajnas and kratus. It is a beacon to the heavenly worlds. Thus they say Agnihotra is the supreme means of liberation.<ref>Swami Vimalananda (1968) ''[http://www.philaletheians.co.uk/study-notes/secret-doctrine's-proposition-1/mahanarayana-upanishad-tr.-vimalananda.pdf Mahanarayanopanishad].'' Madras: Sri Ramakrishna Math</ref>
== References ==
== References ==
[[Category:Yajnas]]
<references />