Kanda 7Anuvaka 9Sukta 871 Mantras

Sukta 87

Rishi: Atharvanic tradition (not specified in the supplied excerpt)

Devata: Rudra (immanent in Agni, Waters, Herbs)

Chandas: Triṣṭubh

Mantras

Mantra 1

व्यापको देवः। यो अग्नौ रुद्रो यो अप्स्व१न्तर्य ओषधीर्वीरुध आविवेश । य इमा विश्वा भुवनानि चाक्लृप तस्मै रुद्राय नमो अस्त्वग्नये

He who is Rudra in the fire, who is within the waters, who hath entered the healing plants and the creeping herbs; who hath ordered all these worlds—obeisance be to that Rudra, to Agni.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main idea of Atharvaveda 7.87?

It teaches that Rudra pervades fire, waters, and medicinal plants; by offering reverence to him there, the healer empowers those substances to cure safely and effectively.

Why does the mantra mention Agni, waters, and herbs together?

Because the hymn treats healing as a coordinated action of nature’s media—fire transforms, water cleanses/carries, and herbs heal—each made potent by Rudra’s indwelling presence.

How can this hymn be used in a simple healing practice?

Recite the mantra over clean water and the chosen herbs, then sprinkle or give the water and apply the herbs as treatment, ending with the attitude of ‘namo’ (pacification) toward Rudra/Agni.