Sukta 102
Rishi: R̥gvedic provenance (Agni praise; exact r̥ṣi per RV identification).
Devata: Agni (as light and bull-like potency).
Chandas: Anuṣṭubh/Triṣṭubh uncertain from excerpt; requires metrical audit.
Mantras
Mantra 1
ईलेन्यो नमस्यऽस्तिरस्तमांसि दर्शतः । समग्निरिध्यते वृषा
Praiseworthy, to be adored, is the light—visible—(that drives off) the darknesses: fully is Agni kindled, the Bull.
Mantra 2
वृषो अग्निः समिध्यतेऽश्वो न देववाहनः । तं हविष्मन्तः ईलते
Bull-like is Agni kindled, like a horse, the Gods’ conveyance: him do the offerers, rich in oblation, hymn and invoke.
Mantra 3
वृषणं त्वा वयं वृषन् वृषणः समिधीमहि । अग्ने दीद्यतं बृहत्
Thee, the mighty one, we kindle, O Bull—mighty ourselves—O Agni: blaze forth in greatness.
Frequently Asked Questions
To kindle Agni so his visible radiance removes darkness and obstruction, and to establish him as the carrier who brings offerings and prayers to the gods.
‘Bull’ is a Vedic image for vigorous, overpowering potency. Here it emphasizes Agni’s forceful ignition and his ability to conquer tamas and empower the rite.
Light a small clean flame (lamp or fire), add fuel steadily, and recite the three verses with the intention of clearing confusion and inauspiciousness; optionally offer a little ghee if performing a formal fire offering.