THE SCIENTIFIC BASIS OF YAJNAS ALONG WITH ITS WISDOM ASPECT-1

THE SCIENTIFIC BASIS OF YAJNAS ALONG WITH ITS WISDOM ASPECT

in Hindi 

By LATE YUGA RISHI SHRIRAM SHARMA ACHARYA

TRANSLATED INTO ENGLISH BY

MS. HEENA A. KAPADIA

CHAPTER 1

AN INTRODUCTION TO GAYATRI YAJNA SCIENCE

All activities of the entire cosmos revolve around the axis of Yajnas. Great Rishis of yore proclaim:

“Ayam Yajno Vishwasya Bhuvanasya Naabhihi” (Atharva Veda 9/15/14). It means Yajnas are the

central focus of this cosmos. The divine singer of Bhagwad Geeta i.e. Lord Krishna too says:

“Sahayajnaahaa prajaahaa purovaacha prajapatihi. Anaina prasavishvadhwamesha

vostvishtakaamadhuka.”(3/10). It means that at the beginning of this Kalpa (creation) Brahma

after creating Yajnas, living beings etc advised them to propagate via the medium of Yajnas

because these Yajnas will fulfill your material/spiritual needs. Yajnas are those extremely precious

boons given to world humanity by Vedic Rishis of ancient India which is a foundation stone of

material/spiritual bliss and maintaining a healthy ecosystem (especially today when world leaders

are worried about environmental pollution and global warming).

Every word of the nectar like writings of HH Gurudeva Shriram Sharma Acharya throws light on

the great foundation stones of Divine Culture viz. Yajnas and Science of Super Mantra Gayatri.

He elucidates the miraculous results of divine energy emitted via Gayatri Mantra chanting and

thus the vital energy of the Gayatri devotee becomes more potent by leaps and bounds. Our

revered author-seer uprooted (symbolically and not literally) the erroneous concept of Yajnas

which were based on mythological (Puranas) description and instead reinstated Super Mantra

Gayatri Yajnas based on Vedic precepts. Such Gayatri Yajnas were ‘hungrily’ imbibed by

thousands of devotees since their resultant benefits were incredible to say the least. This we can

emphatically say is a revolutionary endeavor of this era. It is even greater in stature when

compared to the revolution of post Yogiraj Gorakhnath’s times wherein thousands were

obstructed from misusing Tantra spiritual practices including Tantra based Yajnas. (During

Gorakhnathji’s life time Tantra was used most appropriately but it was after the great sage shed

his mortal coil that rampant misuse of Tantra by ignoramuses set in). Today thanks to our revered

Yuga Rishiji in so many pious households Gayatri Yajnas are being performed regularly so that an

optimum sacred environment sets in to usher in a radiant world future in the 21st Century.

While giving us the true meaning of the sacred word ‘Yajna’ our revered author says that our life

should it self become a Yajna both internally and externally. While throwing light on Bhagwad

Geeta’s verse viz. “Yajnaarthaat karmanonyatra lokoyam karmabandhanaha” he says a

supremely great life involves executing actions based on the spirit of Yajnas. Other than these all

actions bind us to this world and obstruct a living being from merging into God who is the cosmic

being and eternal divine bliss manifest. The word ‘Yajna’ cannot be limited to the uttering

‘Swaahaa’ while carrying out fire sacrifices which offer sacred materials to the Yajna deity. Instead

Yajna means purifying our personality from its very fount so that divinity oozes from the pore of

man’s entire being (this is true personality development). True worship of God encompasses

respecting latent divine powers in the deep recesses of the soul and awakening them. Manu

Smriti says: “Mahaayajnaishcha braahmeeyam kriyatay tanuhu”. It means a supreme Yajna is

one wherein man living a life of divine virtues constantly perseveres to sanctify his body, mind

and soul from their very roots.

Yajna is a high stature endeavor executed for supreme material and spiritual gains. First the inner

world imbibes divinity and then after offering Prana to Apan and vice versa Samidha (wood fuel of

fire sacrifice) in the form of ones life is offered in the Yajna called world welfare. Thus know for

sure that this indeed is the elucidation of a true Yajna. If our sentimental arena exudes greatness

and translates the same in external social, professional and other activities indeed it becomes a

true Yajna. Our revered author by giving such an extraordinary meaning of a Yajna has actually

echoed the root meaning of Yajnas as per Vedic injunctions. In the Sanskrit language the word

Yajna emerges from its root ‘Yaja’ which comnnotes worship of divinity, association with great

saints, congregation of pious people and rendering the world powerful via international

brotherhood and unity.

Amongst the 24 Avatars is included the Lord of Yajnas. Yajna is a worship icon in Indian culture

and any action that does not include a Yajna basis cannot even be dreamt of. While describing

the scientific aspect of Yajnas our revered author says it is a very important principle in keeping

well managed all cosmic activities. Satiating divine elements means maintaining a healthy

balance amongst all cosmic forces (material and spiritual) that manage this world. In today’s

modern day context you can say that Yajna is akin to a ‘tax’. Just as if you do not pay taxes

governmental tax authorities can punish you so too if you do not show gratefulness to nature (for

giving you free air, water, light etc without billing you!) by offering materials (Ahuti) in Yajnas

nature shows her wrath in the form of natural calamities like earthquakes, famines, floods,

hurricanes, tsunamis etc. Thus the scientific basis of averting natural calamities is Yajna.

CHAPTER 2

GAYATRI YAJNAS: ITS UTILITY ASPECT AND DIRE NEED

Super Mantra Gayatri and Yajnas are like an inseparable couple. One is the mother of Indian

culture and the other is the father of Indian spirituality. Both are mutually dependent on one

another. Without executing a Yajna at the end of a Gayatri Mantra chanting program

(Anushthaan) the latter remains incomplete. One portion of Japaor Mantra chanting is in the form

of Havan or fire sacrifice. In ancient times when people were materially well off a tenth portion of

Mantra chanting program was devoted to Yajna. But looking at today’s circumstances a 100th

portion of the number of Mantras chanted is offered as Ahutis (sacred materials to the Yajna fire

saying ‘Swaahaa’) to a Yajna. Without this an Anushthaan remain incomplete. A question may

arise that what happens to those who are not materially very well off? The answer is that such

individuals should chant extra Mantras amounting to a 10th portion of the number chanted during

an Anushthaan. For them this extra Mantra Japa is considered equivalent to performing a Yajna.

By giving this option it is not as though Yana is being ignored but that its importance albeit

indirectly has been highlighted. Again it should be noted that this arrangement is only for the poor

strata of society.

A dialogue between Janak and Yajnavalkya regarding the non availability of Yajna materials took

place. Janak insisted the problems of Yajna performance are many and Yajnavalkya kept giving

solutions to those problems thus insisting that Yajnas were a very important aspect of Vedic

culture. Janak asked: Suppose Yajna materials like Charu are not available what is to be done?

The answer was: Conduct Yajnas using materials eaten by a person daily (rice, wheat, millet etc

grains). Janak asked: Suppose there is no food what happens then? The answer is make-do with

plants. Janak asked: Suppose there are no plants? The answer was that use only Samidha

(wood based fuel) for the Yajna. Janak asked: Suppose fire itself is not available? The answer is

that mentally execute a Yajna using the fire of faith in a meditative manner. This is the gist of the

long conversation that had taken place.

From the above it becomes clear that along with Gayatri Mantra Japa conducting a Yajna is a

must. Further in an Anushthaan both these are mutually conjoined. Gayatri Japa and 5-fold Yajna

are imperative. We all know that conjoined to meditative methods are the Balivaishwa rites and it

is nothing but a mini Yajna. During dire times this Balivaishwa rite became so miniscule that

women after taking fire from their cooking pyre offered 5 small parts of a Roti (Indian wheat

bread) to it while chanting the Gayatri Mantra. Thus it was taken to be a Yajna. Further those who

worshipped Gayatri regularly too performed this miniscule Yajna. Before partaking food they

would remove 5 small portions of food from their plates and offer it to a small bowl of fire. Even

today here and there this tradition can be seen in India. Today Yuga Nirman Mission is trying to

rejuvenate this tradion of miniscule Yajnas.

In ancient India great Rishi-Seers kept in mind at every step, wisdom, subtle viewpoint, utility and

state of facts before embarking on any world welfare program. Despite giving due importance to

Yajnas in religious activities they have kept many other precepts in mind too. They could never

make any endeavor which had no great utility value. They have always gave due emphasis to the

results and attainments while giving more importance to any sacred endeavor. Thus they gave

Yajnas more importance amongst all spiritual endeavors keeping in mind their capacity to bestow

world denizens both material and spiritual prosperity.

In Indian scripture one amongst many names of Almighty God is ‘Yajna Purusha’. Within the

Shruti of Shatpath (‘Yajno vai Vishnu’) Yajna is said to be synonymous with Lord Vishnu. In the

preliminary portion of Rig-Vedas Yajnas are described as a guide, preceptor, Purohit, Guru etc.

While calling those who sing God’s eulogies as Deva or divinity manifest this endeavor’s fruits are

called Ratna or jewel. In Vedic literature so much information is given on Yajna science and its

deep import that no other information can match it. In one Vedic verse it is said “Agnay naya

supathaa raayay”. It means requesting earnestly this Super Divine Fire to take all creatures to the

shores of divine greatness. The same meaning can be found in Gayatri Mantra’s portion of

“Dheeyo yo naha prachodayaata”.

Within the normal lifestyle of mankind Yajnas are inseparably bound to their worship rites. Right

from birth to death Shodasha Sanskaaras or the 16-fold rites have been prescribed by Indian

scriptures. All these are synonymous with the concept of Yajnas. Without executing a yajna none

of these 16 rites can be completed. The word Yajnopaveet (sacred thread ceremony) which is

one of these 16 Sanskaaras comes from the word Yajna. Yajnopaveet is a combination of

Gayatri’s sacred sentiments and Yajna rites. In Indian marriage ceremony the bride and groom

circumambulate the Yajna pyre without which the marriage ceremony remains incomplete. It is

only after circumambulation of the Yajna pyre (7 Pheraas) is executed that the couple is declared

as married or husband/wife. The last Sanskaara is Antyeshti. The funeral pyre in its pure aspect is

a big sized Yajna. A funeral pyre may be lit with proper or half proper rules yet so many rules of

Yajna have to be observed. The Puraahuti called Kapaal Kriya is done offering Ghee Ahuti

(clarified butter).

The annual Yajna in the form of the Holi Festival of colors yet pervades in some form or the other

everywhere. When worship programs pf gods/goddesses are performed some form of a Yajna too

is executed. In certain cases lighting of incense sticks or a flame lamp is taken to be a

representation of a miniscule Yajna form. Overhere incense stick symbolizes the Yajna materials

and the flame lamp as Ghee offered to the Yajna fire. Whenever auspicious activities are carried

out some form of a Yajna too is performed. It maybe an actual Yajna or a representation of it by

lighting incense sticks and flame lamp (Deepak) as mentioned above.

The point that needs cogitation is why have Yajnas been given a prime spot in Indian culture? As

an answer to this we can surely say that the more one dives deep into the concept of Yajnas the

more its mysteries unfold. It then becomes crystal clear that Yajnas have their basis in both

science and divine wisdom. Al those principles that back both material and spiritual advancement

are embedded in seed form within the concept of Yajnas. The very vital principles of peace and

bliss both individually and universally manifest superbly through the medium of sacred Yajnas.

The deep import of Yajna connotes spirituality and also an act of generosity. According to Sanskrit

language Yajna comes from its root ‘Yaja’ which has 3 meanings viz. 1) divinity 2) congregation 3)

charity. These 3 are divine streams which augment great qualities in both the individual and world

at large. Divinity means a sacred character full of divine qualities. Congregation means unity,

cooperation and world brotherhood. Charity means commitment to social well being and aiming to

realize the dream of ‘World united peacefully as a family’. In other words it means creating “A

BEAUTIFUL BORDERLESS WORLD”. Thus Yajna represents all these 3 streams of activities. It

can also be called a flag that represents these various activities. The flaming red torch of Jnana

Yajna (Wisdom) is also called the representative of this Yajna Fire. Thought Revolution and

Ritambhara Prajna or Divine Intellect is the vital force of Super Mantra Gayatri. Within the Yajna

movement devotees are given due inspiration to translate pious qualities into wholesome

professional, social and other actions. The basis of progress lies in knowledge and actions. Pious

actions are called penance and sacred wisdom is called Yoga. Even for material progress intense

perseverance and education are emphasized upon. Within them one gets a glimpse of Gayatri

and Yajna precepts.

The Spiritual Philosophy of life’s Yajna makes man great and full of glory. Along with the concept

of cosmic consciousness (Almighty Lord for the layman) Vedas exhort us to partake

Yajnaavashishta (sanctified remnants of Yajna offerings). He who eats without sharing with others

is called a cheat and a thief. There are many Vedic Sooktas (verses) which say that demigods

attained divinity through the medium of Yajnas. Over here world humanity is commanded to work

for world welfare. In a nutshell we can say that Yajna philosophy motivates world humanity to

imbibe a great character at the individual level and at the world level a sense of brotherhood and

unity by working selflessly for its material and spiritual progress. This is that supreme path which

will help us attain all round advancement both individually and cosmically.

While describing the subtle inspirations imbued in the iconic image of Yajnas a very appropriate

teaching is given to individuals to maintain inner/external purity and this make the world potent

both materially and spiritually. This teaching is so extraordinary that it is difficult to find its match in

other sacred scriptures. The Fire of Yajna manifests so many special qualities as follows:

1) Always keep the head high-even if there is a problem never allow the head to droop down

2) We must treat everyone whom we come in contact with as our equals.

3) Whatever one procures or earns must not be hoarded but used for world peace and

prosperity.

4) Never allow lack as far as heat and light is concerned to attack your very existence.

5) Always utilize your material and spiritual prowess for world well being.

According to the Rig-Veda Yagna Fire is a Purohit (priest) appointed by Almighty God and despite

the speech remaining mute it inspires world denizens to aspire for all round progress and peace

via its activities. If apt social education is imparted wherein first one understands the importance

of the above 5 glories and then putting them into practice divinity can manifest in mankind and

heaven like situation will manifest on Earth. Thus Satyuga or Golden Age that reigned in ancient

times can return with greater vim and vigor for a long time span to come. The tricolor of India’s

flag symbolizes the 3 principles on which India’s progress is based on. If only a wisdom and

sacred sentimental based description of the 5 inspirations of Yajna Fire can be given they can

easily be imbibed both by the individual and society at large for all round growth. For era

Transformation to manifest in a full fledged manner along with a radiant world future these ideals

must be etched firmly in the psyche of world humanity.

It is said that after performing Yajnas demigods attained divinity. It is also said that only via Yajnas

can true Brahmin-hood manifest in animal-men. One third of the 6 endeavors executed by

Brahmins have to be devoted to performing Yajnas and helping other laymen do so. From an

indirect standpoint within these proclamations the grandeur of those precepts pertaining to purity

and brilliance are pinpointed which are the foundation stones of the very life force of yajna and

world peace/brotherhood. The entire cycle of individual and society, nature and creation

circumambulates on the axis of the Wheel of Yajnas. It is the Yajna Philosophy of generous

cooperation that creates situations of activeness, good management, advancement and

joy/peace in every nook and corner of the world. The life of the human chariot works fine simply

because all its parts (organs like heart, lungs etc) work in tandem. Ere these organs harbor

narrow minded attitudes, selfishness, vanity and refuse to cooperate with one another our life’s

journey will end on the spot. The Water Cycle of nature is crystal clear: Clouds get water from the

ocean, earth from clouds, rivers from earth and ocean from flowing rivers. If even one leg of this

cycle is obstructed know for sure that our planet Earth will sizzle like blazing infernos. In the

Living Being Cycle, living beings devour plants. Plants in turn get their food from the feces and

urine of living beings. Both are mutually related to one another. Plants exhale oxygen which is a

life support for many creatures, especially human beings. In turn human beings exhale carbon

dioxide gas which is inhaled for sustenance by the plant kingdom. The same magnanimous

cooperation exists between animals and human beings. This is Yajna according to the Vedas and

thus the Wheel of Creation/Time keeps rotating. By imbibing the true concept of Yajna man gets a

golden opportunity to rise higher in life especially in comparison to other beings. But when this

sacred ideal is ignored innumerous dire situations are witnessed the world over. When the sacred

activities of Yajna are imbibed truly every problem will find its solution. Human welfare and Yajna

ideals are 2 legs of one single tenet. Hence the author of Bhagwad Geeta says: Prajaapati

created human beings and Yajnas simultaneously and proclaimed that if they worked for mutual

welfare in tandem not one of them will lack joy, peace and a stress free life. This great tenet of

world well being is called Yajna Philosophy. In order that the world is educated in this respect

Agnihotra (fire sacrifice) in the form of an iconic solution has been revered as a leading

religious/spiritual activity.

Yajna also encompasses material science. Yajnas contribute gigantically by purifying foul air and

rendering it very fragrant. Thus man’s very life support viz. air/oxygen is rendered clean and

pollution free. Today air pollution has become a very big world problem and hence if the concept

of Yajna is given due importance air pollution can be destroyed from its very roots.

Yajna Energy abounds with power to destroy bacteria and other germs that cause various

diseases. We are quite sure such an easy, widespread and cheap method of healing has yet to

be unearthed to date. Ancient spiritual texts are full of healing methods both as far as the mind

and physical body are concerned. If only these pages are opened and referred to avidly not only

bodily but psychological/psychiatric illnesses too can be tackled very efficiently. Amongst various

healing methods the world over Yajna healing can get predominance simply because its healing

herbs are administered with great ease in the human body via very subtle/pure air. Today

medicines are administered using very gross mediums and hence they fail to penetrate very

deeply into the various organs of the body. If today’s world situation is analyzed very deeply what

stands out that more than physical diseases it is vile mental taints like bad habits, addiction to

drugs etc, criminal tendencies, unruliness, anger, erroneous thinking, hatred and a stressful life

which gives more hardships to world humanity. Thus when Yajna Therapy will be presented in a

very compact form to the entire world it will surely help overcome mental stress and bodily

diseases in a big way.

The cosmic widespread influence of Yajna programs result in benefits like Parjanya especially in

drought and famine conditions. The gross meaning of Parjanya is clouds and hence rains. But the

subtle meaning is rain of Vital Force. In the ancient times of the Yajna Era heavy rains lashed out

in all corners of the world. For this special Yajnas can be conducted pertaining to rain bearing

cloud formation. Even today, many a time this Yajna technique has given wonderful results

wherein it rained on otherwise parched and arid lands. And yet Parjanya should not be restricted

to showering of rain water. Instead the deeper meaning is said to be the Vital Force Principle

which via the medium of Yajnas is formed in space and via wind and clouds it gets showered as

Vital Force rain water. This rain of Vital Force neo creates the inner personality of both animate

and inanimate beings (an outstanding method of personality development). This Vital Force

based Parjanya nourishes and makes more potent materials like plants, herbs, water, food, air,

milk etc which are vital for man’s sustenance. Their power augments manifold. With the result if

any animal, bird, human being etc utilize these their radiance will surely go in the upward

direction in an untold manner. This attainment doubtlessly will aid all round progress of the entire

world.

More than purification of air it is more prudent to sanctify the world’s atmosphere. Pure air aids

good health. The atmosphere influences every nook of our personality and hence in its

development. In turn it gives a positively wholesome direction to our previously wayward thinking

process. Thus a strong foundation of transformation of our actions (social, professional etc) is laid

down. The Yuga Nirmaan Mission aims at sanctifying world psyche from its very grass roots. For

this no doubt, activities of propaganda and creativity are required, writings and speeches on this

subject are welcome but remember that these gross endeavors cannot fully influence and

transform those sensitive layers of the human psyche. In fact the very flow of the subtle world will

have to be reversed. The atmosphere definitely is influenced by winter, summer, rains etc and this

in turn will transform world circumstances by leaps and bound. In the same way, if the measure of

greatness inspiring elements augment a great deal in the subtle atmosphere it will be a tad easier

to flow along with the general trends of the world. When it becomes windy the speed of a boat

picks up a lot. A certain wholesome atmosphere needs to be created if a bright world future has to

set in. This is where Gayatri Yajnas step in and take over the mantle of inducing, a conducive

subtle atmosphere.

CHAPTER 3

SUPER MANTRA GAYATRI AND YAJNAS MUTUALLY BENEFIT EACH OTHER

Yajna and Gayatri are inseparably bound to one another. The following verses eulogize the great

import of Yajna and Yajna Purusha:

“He who is worshipped via Yajnas, who is Yajna incarnate and Yajna manifest is none other than

Lord Vishnu and I bow down to him.”

Yajna satiates innumerable desires of humanity and also bestows them with heaven and

salvation (Moksha). Those who renounce Yajnas are derided a great deal in Vedic scriptures:

“Yajna help us in atoning for many sins and thus with a sacred mind we can attain the abode of

Almighty God.”

……………(HAAREETI)

Taking cognizance of this great aspect of Yajnas our country India was known encourage them in

a big way. Via Yajnas people got their desires fulfilled in their own way. Balivaishwa Yajnas are

known to help people achieve a happy householder’s way of life faith in God, spirituality and

mental purity. Vaajpeya Yajnas helped awaken the latent soul forces and intellectual/ethical

consciousness of world humanity. Rajasuya Yajnas were executed so as to solve political and

governance problems. Gayatri Yajnas are said to be a symbol of all these.

“Great scholars accept the auspiciousness of Agnihotra performed with the help of apt Gayatri

Mantra chanting on all occasions”.

…………………GAYATRI SAMHITAA/70

“ Yajna is the supreme most action of this world. Those who do not perform Yajnas lose their

divine aura. Although it is true that nothing is greater than Agnihotra rites yet Gayatri reigns

supreme amongst all Agnohotra methods”.

……………….GAUTAM 5/7/12

In the Yajna Yaag Samhita we are advised to commence every auspicious program with a Gayatri

Yajna.

In the Gaargeeya Samhita it is said: Who ever worships Primordial Divine Energy Gayatrivia

Yajnas isactually worshipping Almighty God via the medium of gods/goddesses. Meaning,

worshipping and performing Yajnas of the Vedic Mother Gayatri amounts to worshipping all

gods/goddesses.

Gayatri Yajnas executed with the aim of fulfilling material desires too bears fruit immediately. Any

individual who worships Gayatri for fulfilling any desire will actually witness it being fulfilled. And at

the time of death he/she attains God’s supreme abode.

It was only after deeply realizing the great import of Gayatri Yajnas that they were encouraged

and lauded worldwide. Whenever Yajnas were ignored dire circumstances were faced both

individually and socially. Hence it is imperative that Gayatri Yajnas be performed again with a

sound scientific basis. The tradition of Agnihotra must recommence in every household the world

over. There was a time when this did happen in ancient India and hence it was a period of

heavenly comforts and inner bliss too. Why is the world today so full of strife and stress? It is

because we have ignored Yajnas at our own peril.

In layman’s parlance Yajna is synonymous with charity, congregationalism and worship of

Almighty God. The deeper meaning is contribution towards divine endeavors in a congregational

manner. This is that meritorious deed which helps an animal-man to pole vault into a human god.

Human glory is definitely rooted in this generous attitude of service to the world in a selfless

manner. Just as the ore of gold sheds its dirt when exposed to fire so as to shine brightly so too

when mankind imbibes the philosophy of Yajnas they climb the peak of greatness and thus march

towards divinity.

Vedas are nothing but the Speech of Almighty God. Shruti is the process of hearing and

conveying this timeless Divine Wisdom. When this ‘hear’ and ‘say’ was penned it was called

Chanda (also poetic meter). Further when it is transformed into the divine power of Shabda

Brahman and Naad Brahman it is called a Mantra. Vedic Richas are called Shriti and Chandas

are called Mantras. They ooze with potent divine mysterious powers of knowledge and science.

Amongst all Vedas it is said that at first Riga Veda manifested. The very first Mantra of riga Veda

is “AGNI MEEDAY PUROHITAM”. In this Richa God is called Agni or Fire and with the grace of

the fire of that Purohit everything can be attained which man so desires.

Since Almighty God is omnipresent He is in the absolute sense without name and form

(Niraakaar). God can be experienced only as Sat-Chit-Anand ot Existence-Consciousness-Bliss.

If we wish to see God at ‘work’ it can be done via ones causal body as good will, subtle body as

great thinking and gross body as wholesome actions. Or else by looking upon this world as a

cosmic form of the Divine Lord one can contribute like a cog in the wheel to render the world

advanced and progressive via selfless service, spiritual practices and Karma Yoga. And yet for

the purpose of worship if an image is required other than fire none can depict God’s divine form.

The very first Mantra of Riga Veda accepts God’s image for meditation and devotional purposes

in the form of fire. Thus it says God is Divine Fire. Other synonymous terms include Brahman

Tejas, Latent Light, Divine Light, Sacred Light etc.

Research scholars in the field of primordial worship methods in Indian Religious Culture have

called it Fire worship. Aryans dwelling in Iran called themselves Parsis and yet their mode of

worship is predominantly fire based. Their worship homes are called Fire Temples. In India the

Jwalamukhi Temple situated in the state of Punjab is very famous wherein fire is worshipped.

Eternally lit fires in the form of pyres were reinstated in the Ashramas or hermitages of great

Rishis of yore. Within Vedic rituals devotees are commanded to light 5 eternal fires and regularly

perform Yajnas in it. In mythological times although the 5 Yajnas were associated with ones daily

worship duties but along with it food disbursement and other such activities were too attached to

them.

What exactly is Agnihotra? It is using fire as an image of God and worshipping him. Agnihotra is

performed during all wholesome endeavors, festivals and special auspicious rites/rituals. The

festival of color called Holi is an annual congregational Yajna. In Sanskrit language ‘Holi’ means

the new food grains grown in a new harvest. Holi is fire sacrifice carried out using these new

grains as sacred offering to the fire. It is a festival of joy and is observed as a congregational

Yajna. Alas today that great tradition of Holi has taken a highly distorted appearance. People

merely burn wooden sticks and erroneously satisfy them selves calling it ‘Holi’. And yet before this

fire sacrifice a tradition that includes a worship rite and after the fire sacrifice the holy ashes are

devotionally applied to the forehead which goes on to show that it is nothing but a meritorious

tradition of the congregational annual Yajna. India’s festival of lights called Deepavali involves

reinstating of God of fire. In other small big festivals a symbolic fire sacrifice called Havan is

generally performed. Women of India remove flame from their stoves and offer little ghee, cloves,

sweet meats and other food items to it. After this they circumambulate this fire pouring a little

water alongside. Thus they perform a symbolic Agnihotra rite.

There exist 16 Sanskars or rites right from Punswan to Antyeshti wherein Havan has to be

performed imperatively. In fact 2 of these rites predominate with Havan. Vows taken with fire as

witness only are given due recognition and the bride and groom circumambulate it 4 or 7 times for

the marriage rite to be recognized as completed. It is said that the Yajna fire binds the souls of the

bride and groom inseparably akin to welding of 2 iron bars. A hindu’s body is cremated after death

in a Yajna Fire called Chitaa. This in its pure form is called Antyeshti rite. Ghee and other

materials are added to the fire and hence in a very gross manner it can be called Agnihotra. The

Vaanaprashtha Sanskar is said to be completed only if Yajna rites are performed. The

Yajnopaveet or thread ceremony rite is named after Yajna. Via sacred Yajna ritual a sacred thread

is worn across the chest and is called Upanayan. The same holds true for other Sanskaras.

Agnihotra is imperative for these too. In other religions too flame lamps, candles, incense,

lanterns etc are lit and hence over here too fire is reinstated during their worship programs.

Even during spiritual practices Havan is most required. All the Paaths (reading scriptures etc),

Mantra chanting and other rituals maybe either Vedic or Tantra based yet performing Havan in

one form or the other is most required. Even in Gayatri devotional practices Havan is a must.

Barring certain situations where the 10th portion cannot be offered as Ahuti to the Havan yet a

100th portion of it has to be performed without fail. Gayatri is our mother and Yajna is our father.

When these 2 unite man is reborn spiritually and is called Dwija (twice born). Dwijas include

Brahmins, Kshatriyas and Vaishyas. Dwija means to be born twice. Just as it is man’s righteous

duty to serve his biological parents who gave him/her birth so too it is the spiritual duty of a

devotee to serve his/her spiritual mother Gayatri and spiritual father Yajna on a regular basis.

At every step in religious literature Yajnas are eulogized. Vedas predominate with information on

Yajnas simply because Yajna is that science which bestows both material and spiritual bliss on

world creatures. The Almighty Lord can always be appeased via Yajnas. Hence it is said

(Bhagwad Geeta 3/10/11):

“Brahmaji created Yajnas also when he created human beings. Human beings were told that via

Yajnas they will progress in life and that it was a sure means to fulfill all their desires. Humans

were asked to nurture demigods via Yajnas and in turn they would help human advancement.

Thus when both performed their duties aptly both attained all round prosperity. Demigods

nourished via Yajnas would in turn help human beings prosper by leaps and bounds.

There are so many sacred texts which vouchsafe the deep import of Yajnas. In ancient times

gigantic Yajnas were executed for both material and spiritual gains. Demigods, demons, Rishis,

kings and ordinary householders too performed many Yajnas. Demons always set about

destroying Yajnas being performed by sages and saintly people because they were sure that the

latter would prosper both materially and spiritually and this the demons could not tolerate. In the

same way Yajnas of demons too were destroyed because otherwise they would attain more

demonic powers to harass innocent laymen. In the epic Ramayana there is a description of a very

large scale Yajna being performed by demons or Asuras which was finally destroyed by the

saintly Hanumanji. This had to be done because assuming the Yajna succeeded demons would

have become invincible.

King Dashrath performed the Putreshti Yajna and thus fathered 4 sons. King Nriga entered

heaven by performing Yajnas and thus dethroned its King Indra. King Ashwapati performed a

Yajna and thus fathered a son. King indra of heaven attained all that he possessed via Yajnas.

Lord Rama too had performed the Ashwamedha Yajna. Shri Krishna advised the Pandavas to

perform the Rajasuya Yajna wherein the Lord himself welcomed guests and looked after their

requirements. Havan Yajnas are carried out for atonements of sins, minimizing effects of a dire

destiny, fulfilling a lack, overcoming diseases, attaining auspiciousness, appeasing demigods,

attaining a good harvest, downpour of nectar like rains, overcoming air pollution etc and

doubtlessly Yajnas aid in the success of these endeavors.

Yajna is a very important science. The fuel used from various trees to light the Yajna fire is

imbued with special qualities. For which disease which herb is used? All this has a strong

scientific basis. When certain materials are united the resultant admixture possesses a special

quality which when exposed to fire rises up in the atmosphere so as to detoxify and de-pollute it.

Further when Vedic Mantras are chanted simultaneously the influence on the atmosphere is that

much more potently positive. Thus not only is air pollution taken care of but that individuals

nearby Yajnas benefit health wise both physically and mentally. How do we describe demigods?

They are nothing but various subtle powers at work in the deep cave of subtle nature or Prakriti.

What is the meaning of appeasing demigods? The answer is it is the establishment of a good

wholesome rapport with these subtle forces of nature. This goal can be easily fulfilled via

performing of Yajnas.

CHAPTER 4

AN IMPERATIVE NEED TO INCLUDE AGNIHOTRA IN OUR DAILY LIVING

What does it signify when we say that by looking upon Fire as Purohit (religious preacher)

worship and eulogize it? It means that one must imbibe idealistic inspirations embedded in the

subtle aspect of fire. Te special aspects of fire are: 1) Fire is always manifesting heat and light.

Thus fire inspires to heat up our perseverance and hard work and its light inspires to become

brilliant and well known in a wholesome way. 2) The flame of fire always points in the upward

direction. One may try to pin it down and yet it will elude you and continue its upward march. This

inspires to ignore that pressure which tries to induce us to lead a demeaned life of eat drink and

be merry. Whatever be the enticement and allurement we must pay no heed to it and instead

march in the upward direction of glory and greatness. 3) Any object thrown into fire merges into

fire. Our greatness too should be such that whoever contact us becomes great too. Thus a

cascading effect of greatness can take place in the entire world. 4) Whenever anything is given to

fire it will not hoard but instead after making it gaseous spreads it in all directions of the

atmosphere. In the same way how much ever wealth we possess, talent we possess it must be

used for world well being without any discrimination or bias. We must refrain from hoarding

wealth and skills and instead our inner character should be synonymous with generosity which

should translate as selfless activities for world welfare. 5) The remnants of fire are in the form of

ash. Why is the ash of Yajna fire applied to the forehead? The answer is that the human being

needs to remember that death is round the corner and hence must use this precious human life

for wholesome and selfless tasks which not only uplift that person but that he/she contribute like a

cog in the wheel towards world welfare activities. These 5 teachings come under the 5 fold

Science of Fire or Panchagni Vidya. Thus man is exhorted to deeply understand these precepts

and actually manifest them in his day to day dealings with the world. Thus mankind gets a golden

chance to lead a Yajna way of life. He or she who imbibes great teachings while performing the

symbolic rite of a Yajna in his/her day to day lifestyle attains divine bliss and self fulfillment for

sure.

Yajnas are very sacred religious rites and also a great philosophy of life. Yana symbolizes sanctity

and spirituality. Fir itself is pure and purifies anything that it contacts even if the object is impure.

Fire does nothing for itself and that all its actions are selflessly executed for others’ benefits. The

Yajna doer denies himself/herself ghee, sweet meats, grains etc so that he/she can perform a

Yajna for everyone’s well being. Fire makes these materials gaseous in form so that when they

enter the atmosphere all creatures inhale it and thus benefit both physically and mentally. In this

manner the Yajna doer via Ahutis gives subtle ‘food’ to all world creatures and thus acquires

Punya or sacred merits. In comparison to food air is more precious. Once people inhale these

Yajna fumes imbued with vital force attain bodily strength, good health and a long life span. In

comparison to these sacred Yajna fumes the effect of eating healthy food is not very long lasting.

Mediocre food can be endured for a certain time span but polluted air cause major problems

almost immediately. Yajna involves rendering air very potent by imbuing it with strong vital force.

This sacred potent air not only reaches a few people but that a large number of people greatly

benefit from it. In comparison to feeding many people delicious food in a banquet potent Yajna

fumes ‘served’ to a larger number of people is indeed more beneficial and meritorious by leaps

and bounds.

True Agnihotra (fire sacrifice ritual) means imbibing renunciation, self control, sense of service,

good behavior, generosity, integrity, ethics, self creation etc. In a certain sense Agnihotra is a

spiritual ‘drama’ which on viewing avidly inspires people to imbibe the above listed virtues. Selfish

activities are thus replaced by selfless endeavors for world peace and prosperity. There was a

time in ancient eras when this Yajna tradition was fully in vogue and hence it was full of joy,

advancement and well being of all in the true sense of the term. And yet later when this Yajna

attitude was ignored society started moving in one direction which was downfall. Today the world

over mankind’s body is alive but inwardly he is like a dead corpse. Once in ancient times King

Dashrath requested Vasishthaji to perform the Putreshti Yajna so as to sire children. But

Vasishthaji humbly said he was not capable enough to do so and instead, sent King Dashrath to

Rishi Shringi. It is not so important how scholarly the Yajna Purohit (priest) is because it is of

greater significance how devotional and great he/she is from the character standpoint. Alas today

this is just not witnessed virtually anywhere. So called priests are just running after Dkashina

(fees offered to priests) and other gifts given to them. Thus the very aim of Yajna that involves

sanctifying the psyche of devotees lies totally ignored and unheeded. In turn this is the very

reason that despite so many Yajnas performed everywhere true fruits and results of Yajnas elude

one and all.

Today it has almost become a rare wonder of the world to find Yajna doers and priests

themselves first imbibe greatness and spiritual values in their day to day living and then perform

Yajnas that inspire others to follow in their footsteps towards higher pinnacles of glory and divine

grandeur. This unfortunately is greatly lacking in this world. In order to overcome this lack the

following prayer is executed:

“O Lord! Do please send us such a Guru/preceptor who teaches us the art of conducting mental

Yajnas”.

…………………….Atharva Veda

Until we learn to perform Yajnas mentally its real aim remains unfulfilled even if the Havan or fire

ritual is executed. The supreme goal of a true Yajna is to surrender ones entire being at the

hallowed feet of almighty God. It involves offering (Ahuti) ones mind, intellect, psyche, ego, 10

sense organs (5 of action and 5 of knowledge), 10 Pranas and all our inner wealth to Almighty

God i.e. there should be total surrender. This sort of a Yajna has been discussed in the

Upanishads as follows:

“In this spiritual Yajna the Yajmaan is the soul, faith is the Yajmaan’s wife, Vedi is the heart,

Shikhaa are the Vedas, Hotaa is ones speech, Udgaataa is the vital force, Ardhavyu are the 2

eyes, Brahmaa is the mind, Aagreedhra are the ears and Aahvaneeya is the mouth”.

One such other description is as follows:

“Speech is the Yajna’s Hotaa, eyes are Ardhavyu, vital force is Udgaataa and mind is Brahmaa”.

…………………………Brihadaaranyak Upanishad (3/1/3-6)

The Yajna Purusha is Almighty Lord himself. When like the wood fuel of Yajna fire we surrender

our all to the Almighty Lord we become God himself just as materials added to fire merge into it

and become fire itself. Yajna means imbibing divine light in our inner being by performing spiritual

practices like self study, acting as per God’s commandments, listening to divine inspirations,

renunciation and sacrifice, devotion or Bhakti etc. By experiencing the omnipresent Lord in every

pore of the cosmos we can abstain from subtle lowly activities. Even the most daring criminal will

not act criminally right in front of a police station. In the same way if a person experiences the

Lord’s presence 24 X 7 in every nook and corner of the world he will not even think untowardly let

alone act unwholesomely. This is because if in his very soul he experiences God ‘staring’ at him

how can he harbor tainted thinking which would definitely displease the Lord Almighty? Similarly if

in every pore of the external world a person fells God’s presence very tangibly where will he find

a ‘secret’ place to execute criminal/illegal activities? Hence he who experiences God’s

omnipresence both within and without will harbor goodwill to all object of the world without

discriminating whether they are conscious or inert. So this means that a spiritual Yajna is

supreme wherein by looking upon Yajna Purusha/Almighty God as all pervasive we imbibe

cosmic consciousness in our entire being. Great Yogis are known to persevere intensely so that

they can visualize God’s presence everywhere without exception both in their soul and in the

external world of name and form. Great scriptures to agree with this saying that the all pervasive

Lord eternally dwells in Yajnas:

“The act of Havan is God, Havi is God, Havan is performed in fire who is God himself and God

himself performs the Havan. In this manner when in the intellect of any person all actions become

divine the person himself merges into God so as to become God incarnate”.

………………………Bhagwad Geeta (4/24)

“I (Almighty God) am Kratu, I am Yajna, I am Swadhaa and I am Mantra/Ghee/fire/Havan”

…………………….Bhagwad Geeta (9/13)

Within the Bhagwad Geeta in order to give us the deep import of spiritual Yajnas the latter have

been portioned into smaller categories. They are Daiva Yajna, Brahma Yajna, Atma Yajna, Tapa

Yajna, Yoga Yajna, Swadhyaya Yajna, Jnana Yajna, Prana Yajna, Sanyama Yajna etc. It means

that while walking on the path of God/self realization and soul advancement all those means

utilized are Yajna manifest.

Dravya Yajna helps spread spiritual electric currents in subtle space and thus vile mental taints

like hatred, sins, selfish desires, criminality, hard heartedness etc are destroyed. The cascading

result seen will be in the form of many problems getting solved. Various problems like mental

complexes, stress, fear, tension, worry, anxiety and dire possibilities can be warded off. In ancient

times Kings, wealthy class, Rishis, Munis etc conducted gigantic Yajnas as a result the

atmosphere in a very widespread area became sacred and pure. In addition national,

international and social evils were rooted out completely. The laymen householders performed

Yajnas on a smaller scale which helped solve their family and village problems in a big way. For

widespread joy, peace, rains, wealth, sound health etc gigantic Yajnas were required. And yet

small Yajnas carried out by laymen certainly helped solve their day to day problems maybe in a

bit of a limited manner. If you compare the cost of conducting Yajnas know for sure that the

benefits both material and spiritual are a thousand fold more and this is not an overstatement.

Thus it is crystal clear that Yajnas can never put us into a loss but is a clear win-win situation.

Those who have enough resources should conduct large scale Yajnas. The mouth of fire is the

mouth of God. Whatever is fed to fire indeed is divine food. Giving Ahutis in a Yajna means

feeding almighty God himself. Since God feeds us all every day it is our duty as his beloved

children to conduct worship without being stingy. Of course there are those who are not financially

well off and hence they are advised to volunteer in gigantic Yajnas and serve it selflessly. Else

individually they can manage small Havans with whatever materials they possess. One more

option is for a group of individuals to contribute finances and materials and with this collected

Yajna materials perform a big Yajna. In a gigantic Yajna people of less financial means can give

their time, service and help in whatever way is possible and thus actively avail the benefits of

Yajna.

Agnihotra that is required to be executed daily is very easy to do so. It is not expensive and

hence even a lower middle class householder can perform it. Those whose finances are

extremely low should perform a Yajna on every Sunday or on a full moon day or on a moonless

night with whatever materials they possess. Even the dos and don’ts of these small Havans are

not burdensome at all. In the book called Gayatri Yajna Vidhaan all this has been detailed. On its

basis without taking help from a priest any Dwija can easily perform Havans. If a person is totally

unaware of the dos and don’ts they should offer only Ghee Ahutis by saying ‘Swaha’ every time a

Gayatri Mantra is chanted. If in some form or the other the Yajna tradition flourishes it will be a

great service to Indian culture. This seemingly small ritual will not only purify your household

atmosphere but that the psyche of all family members will be rendered pure and taintless.

Wherever Yajnas are performed regularly sin does not enter these households. Ghosts, ill fate,

poverty and stress are totally rooted out. Agnihotra pleases demigods and they in turn shower us

with both material and spiritual bliss.

Not from any standpoint can Yajnas incur losses of any kind. Ordinarily the wealth utilized to

perform even small Yajnas is like depositing it in the ‘banks’ managed by demigods. They in turn

return this wealth to you with a very big percentage of interest at the most appropriate time when

that person most requires it. More important and precious are those Havan performed as per

scriptural injunctions and observing apt dos and don’ts. Such Yajnas can be compared to divine

weapons (they induce creativity and never destruction). It is a sure shot method of attaining divine

help. In ancient times Yajnas were known to shower its doer with desired fruits. Valiant warriors

imbibed a lot of divine energy via Yajnas and thus became invincible. Yogis perform penance

performing Yajnas too and thus attain Self/God Realization. Yajnas are fathers of all Ridhi-Sidhi

i.e. material/divine forces. Vedas call Yajnas ‘Kamadhuk’ i.e. one who fulfils man’s needs and

wards off various obstacles on our path of material/spiritual progress.

For Gayatri devotees Yajnas are imperative and hence they must continue this tradition in a big

way. It is the prime duty of every Dwija to maintain a Yajna atmosphere of ones home and psyche

in particular. An ordinary Homa too is quite beneficial. It purifies the atmosphere of ones home,

overcomes diseases and the self is protected from dire invasions. Of course it also shows that if

Yajnas performed with special aims following proper scriptural injunctions will be beneficial

manifold times. Yajna is a science wherein a scientific admixture of the 5 elements (earth, water,

fire, wind, space) manifests intense divine energy. This energy is conjoined to Dvi Murdhaa, Dvi

Naasik, Sapt Hast, Dvi Mukha, Sapta Jihvaa, Uttar Mukh, Koti Dwaadash Moortyaa, Dvi Pancha

Shatkalaa Yutam etc. In this statement of deep import it is indicated that the Murdhaa of Yajna fire

is both material and spiritual. These areas can be made successful gigantically. The gross and

subtle aspect of nature is the nose of Yajnas and one can gain mastery over it. All the 7 glories

are the hands of Yajna fire and the Vaam and Dakshin Maarg are its 2 mouths. The 7 worlds are

its tongue and all the special qualities of these worlds reside in the moth of Yajna fire. The mouth

of Yajna fire harbors the magnetic center of the North Pole. The 52 Kalaas of Yajna are such that

Ravan the demon became extremely powerful despite imbibing a very small number of these

Kalaas. Hence imagine if all Kalaas manifest and are utilized wholesomely how powerful and

terrific mankind can become akin to an inferno. Thus the greatness of Yajnas is limitless. Even a

minor application manifests stupendous results. For Gayatri devotees Yajnas are like divine

fathers and must be revered from the bottom of ones pure heart.

CHAPTER 5

SUPER MANTRA GAYATRI AND YAJNAS ARE STOREHOUSES OF INFINTE/IMPERISHABLE

GLORIES

The symbols of Indian Spiritual Philosophy are said to be Yajnas and the Mother of Vedic Spiritual

Sciences viz. Gayatri. They are also called the parents of Indian Spiritual Wisdom and Science.

Entire spirituality takes birth when they unite. When a father and mother unite a newborn babe

takes birth in this world. This fact too is applicable totally to Gayatri tenets.

What is the meaning of Dwija? It means taking a second birth while yet alive. The thread

ceremony or Yajnopaveet gives one a second birth. At that time he/she enters the arena of divine

culture. In order that an animal-man gains entry into a divine species’ womb he/she must

methodically worship Gayatri as mother and Yajna as fire with sacred devotion. This is true

imbibing of divine culture.

Super Mantra of 9 words and 24 alphabets is truly a Guru Mantra or preceptor Mantra. After

imbibing it in the truest sense of the term animal man dispels wards off tainted psychic imprints

and instead imbibes divine culture. Man possesses 9 characteristics. They transform an animal

man into a divine man. Those who imbibe them appropriately are called Dwijas. This matter does

not end here. That religious imbibing of great qualities has to be done even in the form of a Yajna.

Gayatri Yajna is the ‘marriage’ between Wisdom and Action. In that in our day to day professional,

social and other transactions both knowledge and science have to be imbibed. For every devotee

of Indian Spirituality minimum one rosary of Gayatri Mantra chanting is a must. One rosary takes

around 5 minutes of chanting. In today’s fast paced lifestyle there are many who cannot chant this

observing proper injunctions like first bathing, then meditating etc. Hence our scriptures

compassionately allow such devotees to mentally chant Mantras for at least 5 minutes in a deeply

meditative state of mind without bathing or following other dos and don’ts.

Scriptures ordain devotees to perform 5 Yajnas daily on the similar lines of regular Gayatri Mantra

chanting. There are many who cannot daily offer 5 Ahutis of the 5 Yajnas while chanting Mantras

akin to Sandhyaa Vandan. Such devotees are advised to offer 5 spoonfuls of food before eating it

to Yajna Fire. Those who cannot do this even must offer the first Roti (Indian wheat bread) to a

cow looking upon her as ones divine mother (Gomaataa). Growing a pigtail (Shikhaa) on the

scalp and wearing the sacred thread (Yajnopaveet) on the chest is akin to installing Gayatri in the

temple of our body. In the same way daily feeding a cow is a Brahma Yajna. Hence even such

sacred actions are equivalent to offering 5 Ahutis of the Pancha Yajnas. Gayatri’s symbolic

worship in the form of a Shikhaa or a Yajnopaveet and Yajna’s symbolic worship in the form of

feeding a cow daily is imperative for a devotee of Divine Culture.

If soul uplifting is our aim we are advised to perform high leveled Gayatri Meditation. Along with

this on a daily basis one must execute Yajna activities. Gayatri Japa requires mental focus via

Mantra Chanting whereas Agnihotra requires Yajna materials like Charu, fuel, Ghee etc. Those

who cannot procure all these can perform Agnihotra utilizing only wooden sticks or Samidha to

light the Yanja Fire. Its sacred mission is that despite a lack of material means Agnihotra must be

performed via physical labor and available basic means. And thus we are exhorted not to ignore

or abstain from Agnihotra at any cost.

Material Science deals with forces of matter and that obtained from its atoms after ‘attacking’

them. Without this nature’s forces do not manifest. In the same way in order that soul forces

manifest and augment it is imperative that Gayatri and Yajnas be utilized. These 2 Super Powers

have been associated with traditions of worship and reading scriptures etc. There may appear

differences as far as worship etc methods are concerned due to existence of varied sects and yet

Gayatri and Yajna per se are universal in nature. Japa is an action associated with Gayatri.

Spiritual energy is the Fire of Yajna. The more fuel is added to both the more intensity manifests

and hence Gayatri chanting has many levels. Speeches are 4 in number viz. Vaikhari,

Mahyamaa, Paraa and Pashyanti. They correspond to the speeches of man, Super Men, Rishis

and Almighty God. With the help of which ever Gayatri practice is executed of a particular level

that very stature of electrical energy will manifest. Four types of priests conduct Agnihotra viz.

Hotaa, Acharya, Udgaataa and Ardhavyu. The type of Yajna Fire lit depends on the type of their

inner personality and the Charu used and thus a particular type of divine endeavor is fulfilled.

With respect to hearing Gayatri appears akin to Mantra chanting. Similarly the energy manifesting

in Agnihotra makes any object lit in it hot equally. And yet their subtle influences vary as much as

the ground and the sky up there.

If only Gayari Meditation is done with greater alertness and oneness of the soul our personality

will develop more radiantly to that extent. On the one hand without doubt our personality develops

brilliance when it imbibes good qualities, actions, character, ideals and greatness and yet Gayatri

Meditation goes further than this. This is because Gayatri can reach the very deep layers of our

psyche. Good qualities proliferate only when apt opportunities and situations are available. Lack

of these creates man’s downfall and many a times veers towards obstructions. Gayatri Meditation

never allows this to take place. It goes into the deeper recesses of our psyche/soul. Thus bad

qualities and bad company too does not hamper such a devotee. Great Rishis of yore time and

again faced obstacles and attacks of demonic men and yet they remained ever so calm and

serene. In order to transform society they did so living amidst vile people but they paid no heed to

their bad influence. The reason is one wherein Gayatri Meditation reaches the very core of ones

inner being and hence obstructions cannot veer them away from their spiritual goal.

For purification and development of ones personality so as to make it brilliant Gayatri Meditation

is a sure shot avenue to do so. It is an easy natural method to increase our blood count via

proper dietary methods and yet during emergencies blood donated by a pious donor is injected

into the patient’s blood stream. We all know that high stature lifestyle augments purity and

radiance in an individual but this can be achieved via special Gayatri Meditation techniques too.

There are so many methods of Gayatri Purascharan which generate special potentials in the

devotee’s personality. With this potential dire obstructions are overcome and special needs are

fulfilled. So one the one hand it is a daily activity but on the other hand during dire times it proves

extremely beneficial too.

In texts pertaining to spiritual practices Gayatri is called Brahmasstra or divine weapon. It can

both, ward off attacks or create attacks. In the Vishwaamitra Kalpa of Gayatri Tantra Gayatri’s aim

of attack is described. In the Lanka Kaanda of Ramayana Meghnaad attacked Lakshmana with

this Brahmaastra and the latter was almost killed. As per Vaidya Sushena’s advice Hanumaanji

procured the Sanjeevani herb and with its help Lakshmana’s life was restored. In the Indian epic

Mahabhaarata too there are many descriptions wherein Brahmaastra has been used. Further

methods have been depicted wherein dire attacks which could take ones very life were warded

off.

Maharshi Vishwaamitra is the supreme seer (discoverer) of the Gayatri Super Mantra. He had

mastered Gayatri Science from its very roots. He had asked Dashratha to send Lord Rama and

Lakshmana to protect his Yajnas from demons. For a great time span Maharshi Vishwaamitra had

taught the art of Balaa and Atibalaa in his hermitage. For this end Vasishthaji had given him due

advice and encouragement. It was the result of preliminary experimentation that in their youth

Lord Rama and Lakshmana could overcome vicious demons like Subaahoo, Maaricha, Taadakaa

etc. Later there are many episodes where there were mediums that helped Rama as described in

Lanka Kaanda of Ramayana. A direct war had taken place between Ram and Raavana but in its

subtle aspect Maharshi Vishwaamitra’s divine energy was playing many roles in that terrible

battle. Amazing incidences have been described like Hanumaanji uprooting a mountain, his

burning Lanka city, entering Ashoka garden, remaining invisible in the eyes of venomous demons,

crushing Surasaa’s ego etc. These mysterious acts were not Hanumaanji’s personal feats but

were powers attained subtly from Maharshi Vishwaamitrai’s Gayatri Meditation prowess.

Sacred texts give us a symbolic description of a pot being filled with Rishis’ blood from which later

Seetaji the one who overcame demons was born. In actuality under the leadership of Maharshi

Vishwaamitra other rishis had performed Gayatri Mahapurascharanas in a congregational

manner. With this potent collective force the vile activities of terror generating demons was

pounded to dust. The energy possessed by demons like Raavana, Ahiraavana, Meghnaad,

Kumbhakarana etc was not ordinary at all. By itself it was not possible to overpower them as

easily as they were. In this battle weapons could not show any miracles because it was soul force

that depicted its glory.

In historical and mythological texts many descriptions are detailed wherein with the help of

spiritual powers not only certain people overcame hardships but that with the help of miniscule

means and in a short time frame they attained success. In fact there have been times when they

helped attain victory in battles and wars that were extremely violent and terrible and thus such

vile foes ran away tails between their legs.

Pondicherie’s (India) great sage of austerities Shri Aurobindo Ghosh was an extraordinary

devotee of Gayatri during his times. In order that his motherland India escaped the clutches of

imperialists he wished to perform a great feat. He had to combat that government (England)

whose land’s sun never set. India’s citizens were facing darkness for virtually 2000 years. Hence

Shri Aurobindo Ghosh’s desire was indeed asking for the impossible. For this many intellectuals

of India had tried their hand and yet there was no light at the end of the dark tunnel. Any method

utilized bred failure only. At that time the great sage Shri Aurobindo Ghosh performed gigantic

austerities keeping a vow of silence (Mauna). Its results were stupendous for all to see. In those

20 years such super great souls took birth in India which awakened the layman’s psyche and

forced the imperialists to rethink its plan of permanently ruling over India. In world history one has

witnessed the birth of great men/women time and again who were social reformers, political

leaders, scientists etc but nowhere have so many been born together as seen during India’s

freedom struggle. Just as in summer many violent cyclones erupt in the same way results of Yogi

Aurobindo were seen when he performed Mauna austerities. None had before that even dreamt

that one day the British imperialists will run away tail between legs. And yet this seemingly

impossible task did become possible at the appropriate hour. Congress regained India’s

independence. This can be said to be a great wonder of the world. Those who lived in the vicinity

of Yogi Aurobindo know fully well that under his divine guidance Divine Mother and other great

devotee’s performed intense Gayatri Meditation practices.

Within a well planned divine format Maharshi Ramana, Yogi Ramkrishna Paramhansa, Samarth

Ramdas and many other great saintly personages had carried out high stature Gayatri Meditation

practices. In its gross aspect many Yuga Rishis inspired Indian citizens to chant Super Mantra

Gayatri. So many Munis and great thinkers call Gayatri not merely Mother of the Vedas but also

Mother of the World, Mother of Divinity, Tarantaarini, Kamadhenu or wish fulfilling cow, nectar,

touchstone, wish fulfilling tree etc. There are many methods of spiritual practices pertaining to

Gayatri’s Yoga aspect that is divinity based and Tantra aspect which is demonic based. Hence

Gayatri is called the Mother of Indian Culture. Over here it is wise to note Yajna is inseparably

conjoined to Gayatri spiritual endeavor.

Gayatri is called a Shabda Baana or Word of Arrow. It is a divine weapon and its usage and

results are extraordinary. In the same way within the realm of Agnihotra acts of lighting the give

same results as far as sacred fire burning is concerned. Its form and touch harbor no special

differences. And yet if analyzed minutely it becomes clear that subtly the difference is definitely

enormous. The fire of hunger is a quality whereas fir of forest etc that convert into Yajna Fire have

many categories. In its visible form Yajna Fire is of 3 type viz. Aahavaneeya, Dakshinaagni and

Gaahrpatya. But within the spiritual realm they number 5 in all. In the Yama-Nachiketa dialogue of

the Kathopanishad these 5 have been elucidated. There are thus 5 types of fire or Panchaagni.

The 5 Pranaalis too are fire’s form. 5 Demigods too are fire manifest. In reality they are Divine

Energy streams of the 5 Pranas or Vital Forces. In order to light them, fire or other fuel are not

required. In the Bhagwad Geeta with reference to this God says that Yogis offer their Vital Force

to the cosmic Prana which is called spiritual Havan.

Kundalini Super Power is called the Fire of Vital Force. Its ordinary heat energy is called life force.

But when its 6 ‘eddies’ in the form of 6 Chakras start moving speedily it takes the form of Ridhi-

Sidhis. The intensity of this divine inferno is of various types. It is most certainly unlike the fire

used in cooking or the heat experienced when the body gets high fever. The same holds true for

Gayatri’s word based sensitivity. It cannot be found in men, birds, beasts, worms, musical

instruments etc. It in fact emerges from a conscious sound vibration flow that is different from

material objects and it merges into consciousness itself.

This is an extraordinary word flow of Gayatri. It is described in the form of Vital Force Fire. Those

who deeply realize/experience this Supreme Light Gayatri and Supreme Energy Yajna Fire do not

require anymore wisdom or knowledge. In order that not one human being be denied it every

wise person should be asked to himself/herself perform Yajna and Gayatri chanting and

encourage other laymen to follow suit. So what if it is in the form of an ordinary symbolic worship

method.

Importance of Divine Tradition is dependent on that Spiritual Science which is the confluence of

Gayatri and Yajna. The more one marches ahead on this sacred path the more one shall ooze

with Divine Powers. In order that none lack this special grandeur and human glory scriptural

seers ordain us to include Gayatri and Yajna in our day to day activities.

 

Om Tat Sat
                                                        
(Continued...) 

(My humble salutations to Shri Shriram Sharma Acharya ji  and thankfulness to Ms. Heena A Kapadia ji for the collection)