Sukta 34
Rishi: Atharvanic tradition (Agni-hymn; specific r̥ṣi attribution varies in ancillary lists)
Devata: Agni (as transcendent, obstacle-crossing protector)
Chandas: Anuṣṭubh (probable; pāda structure consistent with AV anuṣṭubh usage)
Mantras
Mantra 1
शत्रुनाशनम्। प्राग्नये वाचमीरय वृषभाय क्षितीनाम्। स नः पर्षदति द्विषः
Enemy-destroying: Send forth thy speech to Agni first—to the Bull of the peoples; may he bear us over, beyond the haters.
Mantra 2
यो रक्षांसि निजूर्वत्यग्निस्तिग्मेन शोचिषा । स नः पर्षदति द्विषः
He who with sharp-flaming blaze grinds down the rākṣasas—Agni: may he bear us over, beyond the haters.
Mantra 3
यः परस्याः परावतस्तिरो धन्वातिरोचते । स नः पर्षदति द्विषः
He who from yonder farthest distance shines across—across the waste: may he bear us over, beyond the haters.
Mantra 4
यो विश्वाभि विपश्यति भुवना सं च पश्यति । स नः पर्षदति द्विषः
He who surveys all things round about, and sees the beings wholly together—may he bear us over, beyond the haters.
Mantra 5
यो अस्य पारे रजसः शुक्रो अग्निरजायत । स नः पर्षदति द्विषः
He who, bright Agni, was born beyond this rajas’ farther verge—may he convey us safely over, beyond our haters.
Frequently Asked Questions
For protection: to overcome hostility, fear of malign influence, and obstacles—especially when starting a journey, entering a risky situation, or seeking a guarded boundary around oneself or home.
It is the central petition: ‘May he carry us across, beyond the haters.’ Repetition functions like a protective refrain, continually re-establishing the desired safe passage.
Traditionally it is paired with fire and ghee, but a minimal steady flame (lamp) with mindful recitation can preserve the hymn’s core intent: invoking Agni’s light as purifier, witness, and protector.