An Agni story from Rg. Ved

 An Agni story from Rg. Ved

In a time long ago, in the heart of an ancient forest, there lived a wise old priest named Rishi Varun. He was the guardian of the sacred flame, Agni, the divine messenger between the realms of men and gods. Each dawn, he would gather herbs and ghee, chanting hymns passed down through generations, calling upon the mighty Agni to bless their lands with prosperity and light.

One fateful evening, as the sunset embraced the sky, the village chief approached Rishi Varun with a heavy heart. "O wise one, our crops wither, and our people have grown exhausted. The rain has discarded us, and darkness looms. Pray, call upon Agni, for he alone can drive out our plight."

Rishi Varun nodded seriously, his eyes reflecting the flickering flame. He climbed the sacred altar, his voice resonating through the valley:

"I praise Agni, the chosen Priest, God, minister of sacrifice, The hotar, lavishest of wealth."

The villagers gathered. Their eyes filled with hope. As the fire crackled and roared, its golden tongues reached skyward. Rishi Varun's voice grew stronger:

"Through Agni man obtaineth wealth, Yea, plenty increasing day by day, Most rich in heroes, glorious."

Suddenly, the wind carried the fragrance of burning incense, and a warm glow spread across the fields. Clouds gathered overhead, and the parched earth quivered with anticipation. Rishi Varun continued:

"May Agni, wise-minded Priest, Truthful, most gloriously great, The God, come hither with the Gods."

As the last words left his lips, a gentle rain began to fall, washing away the fears of the people. Laughter and joy filled the air as they danced in the life-giving waters.

From that day forward, the villagers honoured Agni with unwavering devotion. They understood that through his divine presence, their prayers reached the heavens, and prosperity flowed like an eternal river.

And so, under the watchful eye of Rishi Varun, the sacred flame burned bright, guiding their lives and lighting their paths, forever reminding them of Agni's infinite promise.

[A story from Rg. Veda]