Sukta 58
Sukta 8.58
Reflective/ritual inquiry (yajña-centered; not a single devatā explicitly addressed)
This brief hymn is a reflective probe into the yajña itself: how the many ritual arrangements, priests, and roles still aim at a single coherent sacrificial intention. It articulates a striking unity-vision—one Agni, one Sun, one Dawn—appearing in many forms, and then turns to an Aśvin-invocation linked with the Soma-drinking and the luminous “chariot” imagery of swift aid.
Mantras
Mantra 1
यमृत्विजो बहुधा कल्पयन्तः सचेतसो यज्ञमिमं वहन्ति । यो अनूचानो ब्राह्मणो युक्त आसीत्का स्वित्तत्र यजमानस्य संवित् ॥
This sacrifice which the priests, arranging it in many ways, bear forward with awakened mind—what was the true awareness there of the sacrificer, when the learned Brahman was harnessed to the work?
Mantra 2
एक एवाग्निर्बहुधा समिद्ध एकः सूर्यो विश्वमनु प्रभूतः । एकैवोषाः सर्वमिदं वि भात्येकं वा इदं वि बभूव सर्वम् ॥
One indeed is Agni, though kindled in many ways; one is the Sun who becomes manifest through all. One is Dawn who illumines all this; one indeed has all this become in its varied forms.
Mantra 3
ज्योतिष्मन्तं केतुमन्तं त्रिचक्रं सुखं रथं सुषदं भूरिवारम् । चित्रामघा यस्य योगेऽधिजज्ञे तं वां हुवे अति रिक्तं पिबध्यै ॥
The chariot full of light, full of discernible signs, three-wheeled, easy in its movement, well-seated, wide in its protecting cover—O you of wondrous gifts—he who is born in the yoking of that chariot, him I call for you two, overflowing, for the drinking of Soma.
Frequently Asked Questions
It asks what inner awareness truly guides the sacrifice, then teaches that one divine reality appears in many forms (Agni, Sun, Dawn), and finally invokes the Aśvins for Soma.
It highlights that the same sacred principle of fire and mediation is present in every kindling and ritual variation, so outward diversity should be held together by inner unity.
The Aśvins are twin divine helpers associated with swift arrival, healing, and rescue; they are invited with their luminous chariot to attend the rite and partake of Soma, ensuring successful completion.