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Line 89: − + − Thus the process starts with the collection of Arani and ends with Purnahuti. 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" /><blockquote>यो अश्वत्थः शमीगर्भ आरुरोह त्वेसचा । तं त्वाहरामि ब्रह्मणा यज्ञियैः केतुभिः सहेति पूर्णाहुत्यन्तमग्न्याधेयं १७ (Asva. Srau. Sutr. 2.1.17)<ref name=":122" /></blockquote>+ + − + − + + + + + − + − − − − Line 113:
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Line 131: − + − − ==== Devatas ==== − 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 with ahuti's offered to him with a Svahakaara. − + + Line 140:
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Line 153: − + − − − − − अग्निहोत्राहुति परिणामरूपत्वात्कृत्स्नस्य प्रपञ्चस्य+ − Chaandogya 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><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><blockquote>यथेह क्षुधिता बाला मातरं पर्युपासते । एव्ँ सर्वाणि भूतान्यग्निहोत्रमुपासत इत्यग्निहोत्रमुपासत इति ॥५॥</blockquote><blockquote>Meaning : Just as the hungry children wait for the mother, so also all beings wait for the Agnihotra, indeed!</blockquote>Here the philosophy of Vaisvanara and the importance of Agnihotra have been proclaimed in Chandogya Upanishad.+ − +
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Agnihotra (Samskrit : अग्निहोत्रम्) is the name of a yajna (sacrifice), which involves offerings made to Agni, as a nityakarma. The procedure to perform Yajnas including Agnihotra is described in Brahmana and Aranyaka parts of Veda (also called as Shrutis), thus they are called as Srauta Yajnas.
Agnihotra (Samskrit : अग्निहोत्रम्) is the name of a yajna (sacrifice), which involves offerings made to Agni, as a nityakarma. The procedure to perform Yajnas including Agnihotra is described in Brahmana and Aranyaka parts of Veda (also called as Shrutis), thus they are called as Srauta 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 Srauta yajna that is performed as a nityakarma (daily basis).
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 Srauta 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 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.
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.
[[Srauta Yajnas (श्रौतयज्ञाः)|Srauta 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 sacrifices]''</ref><ref>Introduction to Rituals ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/rituals/# Vedic Heritage Portal])</ref>.
[[Srauta Yajnas (श्रौतयज्ञाः)|Srauta 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 sacrifices]''</ref><ref>Introduction to Rituals ([http://vedicheritage.gov.in/rituals/# Vedic Heritage Portal])</ref>.
=== हविर्यज्ञानि ॥ Haviryajnas ===
=== हविर्यज्ञाः॥ Haviryajnas ===
Agnihotra, is a term specifically applicable to the first and important vaidika yajnas classified among the seven Srauta karmas - [[हविर्यज्ञानि ॥ Haviryagnas|हविर्यज्ञानि ॥ Haviryajnas]] (offering of havis is made) or 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>.
Agnihotra, is a term specifically applicable to the first and important vaidika yajnas classified among the seven Srauta karmas - हविर्यज्ञाः ॥ Haviryajnas (offering of havis is made) or 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॥Srauta Sutras ===
=== श्रौतसुत्राणि॥Srauta Sutras ===
* Samidhas, Yajna vedis and patras (utensils such as sruk) are to be maintained and protected sacredly by the yajamani and his family.
* Samidhas, Yajna vedis and patras (utensils such as sruk) are to be maintained and protected sacredly by the yajamani and his family.
The procedures, mantras and ahuti requirements for this yaga are further discussed.
The procedures, mantras and ahuti requirements for this yaga are further discussed.
== अग्न्याधान ॥ Agnyadhana ==
== अग्न्याधानम् ॥ Agnyadhana ==
अग्न्याधेय ॥ Agnaadheya (also called Agnyadhana) 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 Srauta sutras. The mantras and the procedural aspects are generally similar across all vedic srauta 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.
Agnyadhana also called as अग्न्याधेय ॥ Agnaadheya 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 Srauta sutras. The mantras and the procedural aspects are generally similar across all vedic srauta 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>
* 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>
* 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>
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>.
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 Srauta 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>While chanting the mantras, Adhvaryu establishes the Garhapatya Agni on the sambharas and places some darbha around it. (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.12.2). 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" />
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 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 sambharas and places some darbha around it. (Apas. Srau. Sutr. 5.12.2).<ref name=":5" /> According to Kanvasatapatha 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.
=== पुनराधान पुनराधेय ॥ Punaraadheya and Purnaraadhana ===
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" />
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.<ref name=":0222222" />
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" />
=== पुनराधान ॥ Purnaraadhana ===
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" />
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 found in a few of the mentioned sources for Agnyadhana.
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 found in a few of the mentioned sources for Agnyadhana.
* Taittriya Samhita (1.5.1)<ref name=":03" />
* Taittriya Samhita (1.5.1)<ref name=":03" />
* Apastamba Srauta Sutras (5.26 to 28)<ref name=":5" />
* Apastamba Srauta Sutras (5.26 to 28)<ref name=":5" />
According to Katyayana Srauta Sutras <ref name=":4" /> पुनराधेयम् is described as follows
According to Katyayana Srauta 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" />
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)
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.
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" />
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" />
Agni to be tended by a grihastha (nityakarma) is of two types. Sri. Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Swamiji summarizes the following essentials about Smarta and Srautagnis.<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> <blockquote>''"The aupasana fire (lighted at the time of marriage from that of the groom's father) is divided into two in a ceremony called "agniyadhana". One part is called "grhyagni" or "smartagni": it is meant for rites to be performed at home. The second part is srautagni and meant for srauta rites. These two sacred fires must be preserved throughout."''</blockquote>Srautagni is meant for the srauta karmas (srauta yajnas such as Haviryajnas and Somayajnas). It involves the use of three fires burning in three mounds hence called [[Tretagni (त्रेताग्नयः)|Tretagni]].
Agni to be tended by a grihastha (nityakarma) is of two types. Sri. Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Swamiji summarizes the following essentials about Smarta and Srautagnis.<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> <blockquote>''"The aupasana fire (lighted at the time of marriage from that of the groom's father) is divided into two in a ceremony called "agniyadhana". One part is called "grhyagni" or "smartagni": it is meant for rites to be performed at home. The second part is srautagni and meant for srauta rites. These two sacred fires must be preserved throughout."''</blockquote>Srautagni is meant for the srauta karmas (srauta 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, Srautaagni (Garhapatyagni) is kindled at the time of the vivaha samskara and maintained throughout life by the grihastha.
* From the Aupasanagni, by the procedure of Agnyadhanam, Srautaagni (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.
* 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.
* The section in the Apastamba-sutra dealing with rites performed in it is called "Tretagni-kanda" for those following Yajurveda.
* Most of the srauta 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 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>
* 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>
* One who worships the Srauta and Grhyagnis, is called an "'''Ahitagni'''".
* One who worships the Srauta and Grhyagnis, is called an "'''Ahitagni'''".
* 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.
* 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 ahuti to Agni and Surya devatas in the Aahvaniya agni with the chanting of "Svaaha" using 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 vessel which must be an earthen pot with a straight brim is called ‘agnihotra-sthālī’ and the ladle is called ‘agnihotrahavaṇī.’<ref name=":022222222222">Radhakrishna Bhat, N. ''[http://ignca.nic.in/vedic_heritage/Vedic_tradition_karnataka.pdf Vedic Ritual Tradition of Karnataka]'', Vedic Heritage Portal.</ref><ref name=":122222222" /> Milk products like dadhi (curds), ajyam (ghee) are also offered.
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" />
The second ahuti of Agnihotra is called Uttarahuti. Prajapati devata is prayed to silently.<ref name=":122222222" />
==== देवता ॥ Devatas ====
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.<ref name=":122222222" />
==== समिधा ॥ Samidha ====
==== समिधा ॥ Samidha ====
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" />
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" />
==== हवित्री - यज्ञकुण्डम् वेदि वा ॥ Kunda/Vedi ====
==== यज्ञकुण्डम् ॥ Kunda ====
Kunda or Vedi (altar) called as 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.
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
Garhapatya agni is maintained in a circular kunda
* Aahvaniya agni is kept in a square kunda
* Dakshinagni is kept in a semi circular kunda.
Aahvaniya agni is kept in a square kunda
Dakshinagni is kept in a semi circular kunda.
For temporary domestic purposes in the present days movable copper kundaas are used, while some prepare altars with sand and a few bricks.
For temporary domestic purposes in the present days movable copper kundaas are used, while some prepare altars with sand and a few bricks.
Although performing agnihotra is a regular activity, it is also performed to attain some special desires called as Kamya Agnihotra. Agnihotra may also be 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.
Although performing agnihotra is a regular activity, it is also performed to attain some special desires called as Kamya Agnihotra. Agnihotra may also be 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.
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.
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" />
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>
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" />
== अग्निहोत्रस्य वैशिष्टम् ॥ Importance of Agnihotra ==
== अग्निहोत्रस्य वैशिष्टम् ॥ Importance of Agnihotra ==
Rig vedic mantras extol the greatness of Agni extensively, with Agni suktams describing the various roles of Agni.
Rig vedic mantras extol the greatness of Agni extensively, with Agni suktams describing the various roles of Agni.
Chaandogya 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.
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.
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.
== Discussion ==
== 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
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.
== References ==
== References ==