Tuesday, December 10, 2013

THE SCIENTIFIC BASIS OF YAJNAS ALONG WITH ITS WISDOM ASPECT-6





































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 17

OPTIMAL BALANCE OF SUPER DIVINE POWERS

According to Vedas Yajnas have 3 arenas viz. cosmos, body and earth.
1) COSMOS: In this gigantic cosmos many known and unknown movements occur. Behind
these many invisible forces are at work. Interstellar space Yajnas are those wherein subtle
movements take place in this world that include reactions due to the influence of planets/stars,
seasonal changes, activities of demigods like Indra/Varun/Rudra/Marut, human sentiments and
activities etc.
2) Bodily Yajna encompasses bodily movements directed by the 5 elements, wind exhalation in
the form of Prana/Apaan/Vyaan etc, phlegm/bile/wind functioning and activities of
mind/intellect/ego/psyche. When both these Yajnas function optimally the world’s peace and
prosperity remain balanced. When either of these Yajnas becomes imbalanced many distortions
and calamities erupt. If the cosmic Yajna goes haywire earthquake, famine, storms, floods, no
rain, diseases, epidemics etc ensue and this in turn results in communal hatred, agitations, wars,
strife and hardships. If bodily Yajnas go haywire ill health, weakness, short life, despair, worries,
hatred, delusion of mind etc manifest rampantly.
3) The third Yajna is Havan. It helps overcome distortions and lack that manifest in the above 2
Yajnas. When the atmosphere predominates with cold we light up the hearth of our house and
ward it off. When vitamins decrease in our body we take medicines and injections to augment
them. Similarly Havans make use of certain materials and powerful Vedic Mantra chanting so as
to optimally balance micro and macro Yajnas. With the result true joy and everlasting peace rule
the roost.
In many places these 3 Yajnas are described in sacred scriptures. Cosmic Divine Powers are
forever involved in peace initiation, protection and uplifting of living beings of all worlds. Is it not a
Yajna since these powers are constantly working towards advancement of all beings?
A description in various spiritual texts is given regarding the action Yajna of cosmic Divine
Powers. In the Gopath Braahmana (1/13) it is said:
Agni is Hotaa, Vaayu is Ardhavyoo, Surya is Udgaataa, Chandramaa is Brahmaa and Megha is
Sadasya.
In the Yajurveda it is said:
The Yajna Vedi has 7 boundaries. It has 21 Samidhaas. These Yajnas are made widespread by
demigods. Purusha like a beast is bound to it. Demigods getting Havi from Purusha make this
Yajna widespread.
In the Atharva Veda (11/10/29) the body is called Yajna:
By looking upon bones as Samidhaa and sperm as Ghee 8 types of tastes were taken by
demigods so as to enter the Purusha’s body.
In the Shatpath Braahmana it is said:
This Purusha body itself is Yajna because it is a medium via which Yajnas are performed.
Those Divine powers which reside in space for propagation/nurturing this cosmos have entered
the human body too. Both are strongly bound to each other. The micro gets cold, heat, light, air,
food, water etc from the cosmos or macro. In the same way our sense organs are under the
jurisdiction of Divine Powers. If there is no light how can our eyes function? If there is no sound
how can our ears listen? Thus micro (creatures) and macro (cosmos) are inseparably bound to
one another in a Yajna manner. One Yajna results in another Yajna akin to a chain reaction. In the
Shatpath Braahmana it is said: I make Yajnas from Yajnas. Other Vedic references of this sort
also are available: Yajnas are created from Yajnas. Demigods execute Yajnas from other Yajnas.
Those Yajnas use spring season as Ghee, hot season as fuel and autumn season as Havi.
It is the Spiritual Yajna of Divine Powers in the human body that helps sustain life. Via air we
inhale/exhale, via fire we digest our food, via water blood circulation takes place, earth helps
nurture bones, sun nourishes our eyes, sonic waves help in hearing to things in a Yajna manner.
Demigods reside in Brahmarandhra on the scalp, Sahasradal Kamal, Kanda of Kundalini Power,
Aajnaa Chakra, Swaadhishtaan Chakra, Manipur Chakra, Anaahat Chakra, Soorya Chakra, Idaa,
Pingalla, Sushumnaa etc. The Divine powers of invisible worlds are also related to the mind, ego,
intellect, psyche and other mental centers. The Praanaagni Upanishad says: All demigods dwell
in this body. The Atharva Veda (11/8/32) says: A realized saint who knows this Purusha says ‘it is
verily Brahman’. This is because just as cows dwell in cowsheds so too all demigods reside in the
body. The Yajna taking place between the body and cosmos creates a very strong bond. To the
extent this bond remains balanced the body and mind remain healthy. When this bond weakens
or deteriorates distortions ensue. If even a slight imbalance takes place in the general state of
cosmic Divine Powers turbulence manifests in this and other worlds. Accidents, strife and
obstacles too manifest as a result of this.
Yajna is a therapy whereby bodily and spatial demigods’ displeasure, mismanagement and
imbalance is corrected optimally. Vedic Mantra chanting full of deep import, Samidhaa of special
tree wood, special Havya materials and special methodology performed in a congregational
manner induces balance, joy and nurturing in demigods. Thus every type of steadiness and joyful
conduciveness are created.
CHAPTER 18
SATIATING DIVINE POWERS VIA YAJNAS
Demigods are nothing but God’s powers that manage this cosmos. Different powers are given
specific names. It has a strong correlation with various problems faced by the entire world and
man’s individual life pertaining to wealth, joy, advancement, downfall, loss, gain, illness, strife,
stress etc. By attaining pleasure of demigods (divine powers) man can easily throw wide open the
doors of his all round success and prosperity. Assuming that demigods get displeased even
intense effort on the part of that person will reap failure only. Amongst all the spiritual practices
enumerated that help make conducive Divine Powers, Yajnas reign supreme. Yajna pleases
demigods and they bestow apt situations on its devotee. There are many scriptural proofs for this
viz. Matsya Puraana (239/38):
The lotus eyed Lord Vishnu is pleased via Yajnas. If he is appeased the world remains joyous and
if he is content, the world experiences contentment.
During the Yajna conducted by the demon King Bali Lord Janardana as Vaaman (small boy) had
come there. Not as a guest but as an alms asker. As per the Matsya Puraana (246/20):
If that Lord who is not easily pleased even via religious vows/Vratas, fasting etc starts asking for
alms, is it not astounding? All this was the greatness of King Bali’s Yajna.
The Hansa answered the Rishis when asked which actions give which corresponding fruits as per
Vishnoo Dharmottar Puraana (137):
Man on performing Yajnas attains the world of Vishnoo etc. Havans destroy sins. Mantra chanting
satisfies ones desires. Speaking the truth helps attain the supreme state.
Hansa is praising Yajnas in the Vishnoo Dharmottar Puraana (162):
Yajnas sustain demigods and Pitrus/ancestors. World creatures are under the control of
demigods and demigods are controlled by Yajnas. Yajna verily is that Lord Vishnoo in which all
animate/inanimate beings reside. For Yajnas the world of demigods and herbs has been created.
Swayambhu Manuji created this world of humanity for Yajna sake only and said: Yajna bestows
well being on one and all and hence assiduously work in a Yajna fashion. We can overcome sins
by eating remnants of Yajna food. Wise men proclaim that wealth possessed by Yajna doers is
divine.
Via Yajnas saintly people enter heaven where demigods reverently worship them. Hansa told
great Rishis: O divine Rishis! A saintly Yajna performing person on entering heaven attains
innumerable comforts. Hence with intense perseverance worship Almighty God via Yajnas.
Hansaji is describing the methodology of Havans to great Rishis in Vishnoo Dharmottar Puraana
(287/3-4-5-7-15)):
The mouth of demigods who work for world well being is fire and desires can be fulfilled only by
appeasing demigods. Yajna fire verily is the supreme image of Vishnu. By offering materials in
this fire it reaches sun god. Sun helps make clouds which rain water. Water produces food grains
and this in turn creates world living beings (3-4).
Demigods shower in the downward direction and human beings upwardly. The chief upward
showering in fire are materials created from earth (5).
Demigods attain self fulfillment when materials are offered in Havan fire. These satiated
demigods satiate mankind by fulfilling their desires (6).
Yajna performing helps cleanse ones soul of all ‘dirt’ and thus heaven is attained. Yajnas help
destroy all vile activities of the world and none should doubt this. (15).
In the 3rd chapter of Manu Smriti (75-76) it is written:
Those demigods/saintly men associate with Homas are known to nourish/nurture the entire world.
This is because materials offered to the Homa fire reaches Aaditya demigod. This in turn induces
sun to form clouds which shower us with rain. Rain water produces food grains and thus living
beings are created. Hence anyone performing Yajnas are in fact nurturing all world creatures.
In Shri Vishnu Puraana (6) it is written:
O Dharmaraaj! Demigods satiated by Yajnas pour rain which in turn satiated world denizens.
Yajnas always bestow world welfare.
In Kurmapuraana (Poorvaardha 20/40) Bharadwaaj says:
During a Yajna if anyone worships the eternal Lord Vasudeva they are in fact worshipping all
demigods since they are manifestations of Almighty God himself. Thus it connotes that by
worshipping eternal Lord Vasudeva in a Yajna all demigods are automatically worshipped.
In the Shiv Puraana (1/4) it is said:
(Yajna is a supreme means to please Lord Shiva) hence O great Rishis! All of you must go to
planet earth and perorm a long gigantic Yajna for 1000 years.
In the Brihad Naaradpuraana (39/61) it is said:
Those who worship God via Yajna in a selfless manner ‘transports’ his/her 21 generations to
Hari’s temple.
In the Vaaman Puraana (39/64) Sootaji said:
O Rishis! Those devoid of mental attachments worship God and his followers via Yajnas are
known to sanctify the entire world with the sacred dust of their holy feet.
In the Vaaman Puraana (37/46) it is said:
The Lord of all demigods Shri Vishnu took up his Vaaman form so as to satisfy a Yajna and fire
god in the same way as a Ritwija does so to the Yajmaan/Yajna doer.
In the Matsya Puraana (183/1/42) it is said:
Via Yajna and Mantras those who worship me, worship Rudra become devoid of fear.
In the Matsya Puraana (183/1/24) it is said:
Lest my devotees with a strong resolve worship me via Yajnas for salvation or Mukti know for
sure that for thousands and millions of Kalpas he/she will not take rebirth.
In the Kalikaa Puraana (31) it is said:
Via Yajnas demigods and world denizens experience fulfillment. Yajnas produce food grains. Only
Yajnas add to the grandeur of this world. This entire world is Yajna incarnate.
In the Kalikaa Puraana (32) it is said:
Yajnas satiate demigods. The entire world resides in Yajnas. Yajna helps remain steady Mother
Earth. Yajnas liberate world denizens from bondage.
In the Saur Puraana (7/14) it is said:
Lord Shankar is the enjoyer of Yajnas which means he is pleased via Yajnas.
In the Saur Puraana (7/36) it is said:
Yajnas help worship Lord Shankar.
In the Padma Puraana (5) it is said:
Great saints via Yajnas worship God and in turn demigods too get fulfillment.
Shri Parasharji says in this context:
O meritorious one! For Yajna program Brahmaji created the 4 Varnas which are great means of
Yajnas.
In the Yajurveda (11/6/7) Almighty God says that Yajna is man’s righteous duty because Yajna is
the substratum of this world:
Via Yajnas Almighty God created all animals, Rig/Yajur/Saama/Atharva Veda Richaas and via
Yajnas he nurtures them.
Via Yajnas if demigods do not receive their share they tend to weaken with the result the world
faces small/big calamities. In the Kalikaa Puraana (20) Shri Maarkandeyaji says:
Without Yajnas the food of demigods does not reach them. Thus clouds get destroyed and rain
does not pour. Lack of rain water man has to go hungry because of famines and epidemics.
In the Kalikaa Puraana (20/16) it is said:
Without Yajnas world humanity becomes fearful and sorrow ridden and lack of rains world
humanity dies because of strife and stress.
Life devoid of Yajnas and penance leads to stress and hardships because food grains deplete
alarmingly and so does ones wealth.
As quoted above the greatness of Yajnas has no limits. It is like a freely moving bull that roams
with head held high the world over. Its potency is eulogized in every corner of the globe. Thus
Yajna incarnate bull with its war like cry echoes goodwill in every direction.
In the Go Braahmana (3/7) it is said:
Rig, Yajur, Saama and Atharva Vedas are the horns of the bull called Yajna. Their legs are the
morning, noon and dusk eulogies/prayers. Its 2 heads are Brahmaudan and Pravargya. These 3
are bound to Mantra, Kalpa and Braahmana. Its 7 hands are the 7 metres/ Chhandas of Gayatri
etc.
CHAPTER 19
NOURISHMENT OF DIVINE PRINCIPLES VIA YAJNAS
In the Paanini Sootras the word Yajna comes from:
Yajayaachayatavicha uprakcharaksho nad.
It means worship of God, association with saints and charity. Thus according to Paanini Yajna
means worship of demigods and worship of demigods via Hari. Just as each country elects its
government for managing its nation aptly so as to ward off hardhips and problems faced by its
citizens so too demigods are varius powers of Almighty God that give apt rainfall to the entire
world and keep the cosmos well managed/governed. When the elected government’s tax
collection is poor the lay public faces crime, looting etc. Similarly if Yajnas (tax) are not performed
to appease demigods (government) as mentioned in Vaayu Puraana demigods fail to control
water and other elements. Thus either the world faces floods or total lack of rains like famines etc.
In turn world denizens undergo immense hardships and stressful lives.
In Nirukta (3/19/6) Yajna is synonymous with worship of demigods, fire sacrifices etc. Overhere
demigods are appeased who in turn optimally control water, fire and other powers. In turn as a
result world denizens sustain life without getting destroyed. But today in India because
governments are secular the import of Vedas and Yajnas no longer rule the roost. The dire result
of all this is that the world over, natural calamities have taken over. If only Yajna and Yaagas are
performed everywhere along with other sacred activities natural calamities can be warded off so
that joy and peace can reign everywhere around the globe.
HOW CAN THE ENTIRE WORLD BE NURTURED VIA YAJNAS?
The thing is we must offer demigods their required materials called Havya. We are gross but
demigods are subtle. Suppose we give them their required materials, how will they actually
receive them? They need subtle materials only then can they be propitiated. The solution given
was ‘Yajna’. We must understand its example. We must give ‘food’ to our soul. We are gross and
the food offered by us is gross too whereas the soul is subtle. How can the soul receive gross
food? It requires subtle food. The solution for this is that we swallow this food via our mouths as
an offering to Jatharaagni or fire of the stomach. This fire transforms gross food into a subtle
form. This subtilized food is then imbibed by the soul which also renders our body hale and
hearty. If gross food is not given to the soul our mind, body, sense organs will become diseased.
Thus neither can we benefit nor aid others to do so. Our intellect will not only refuse to work for us
but that it will not help others in need too.
When we offer sacred materials/Havya to the Yajna fire this gross fire transforms Havya into a
subtle form. Further gross fire too becomes subtle in nature which merges into Super Subtle Fire.
This in turn with the help of subtle wind enters the atmosphere and Diu Loka. Overhere demigods
receive their subtle food. Demigods satiated by this subtle food shower rain on earth for food
grain production. As a result mankind oozes with joy and peace. This is spoken of in Manu Smriti
and Vedas too.
In the Nirukta (7/25/1) Shri Durgaachaarya writes that when we please demigods all
animate/inanimate beings will be nurtured aptly because they are dependent on good rainfall and
food grains. The way to please demigods is via Yajnas and hence Yajnas are of great value.
Scriptures proclaim that Yajnas are a must for appeasing demigods. So a pertinent question
asked is who are demigods? How is mankind related to them? We cannot ignore them by not
performing Yajnas and demigods too have their duty towards mankind. In the Bhagwad Geeta it is
written that Prajaapati spoke thus:
Influence demigods appropriately via Yajnas. By satiating them they will satisfy you all. By
mutually satiating one another attain the pinnacles of supreme greatness. The question asked is
which are those demigods who can be pleased via world humanity using Yajna as the means?
How do demigods in return create joyful circumstances for satisfying man’s desires?
If we delve deep into the above questions the names of demigods like Agni, Chandra, Prithvi,
Soorya, Aushadhi, Vanaspati etc come to mind. How do Yajnas give them contentment? This
question too must be pondered over in depth. A gross vision of this has been portrayed by Manuji
in the following verse:
Yajna materials offered to sacred fire contact solar rays. Thus an apt atmosphere is created in
interstellar space which manifests cloud formation. At the right time these clouds shower rain on
earth which help produce herbs, plants, trees, fruits, vegetables, flowers etc. These are not only
beneficial for human beings but that all living beings take full advantage of them to sustain their
very existence. Various types of life forces are present in herbs, plants, trees, fruits, vegetables,
flowers etc which sustain life of all creatures. These life forces are created by demigods like Agni,
Chandra, Prithvi, Soorya, Aushadhi, Vanaspati etc. Therefore if we offer demigods their subtle
food via Yajna fire they will help augment various life forces in a wholesome manner. This then is
the method of satiating demigods via Yajnas. Prajaapati or world creator is performing Yajnas in
the form of sun/moon sending rays to earth, sun sends heat and light, wind circulates life force
and a group of demigods join forces to obstruct ‘demons’ in the form of virus/germs/bacteria from
making us ill or warding off imminent death by them. Hence if we fail to execute Yajnas in a big
way, demigods will refuse to perform their duty towards world creatures. This will then give a free
for all roadway to demons to execute vile activities like epidemics, diseases, famines etc.
If we perform Yajnas methodically it helps in proper nourishing of demigods. This is what we
mean by purifying atmosphere or warding off air pollution via Yajnas. Over here it also connotes
nourishing of all demigods and not merely wind god. Thus all types of atmospheres are purified.
Once demigods are nourished optimally they kill all human enemies like diseases etc which then
go to bestow on man a long healthy life span. It is clearly mentioned in sacred scriptures that
Yajnas are ‘food’ for demigods. In the Shatpath Braahmana it is said:
Prajaapati told demigods that Yajna materials are their food. Suppose we keep demigods humgry
by not performing Yajnas most definitely tainted activities will augment the world over. Man will
become diseased and die prematurely. Today all this is witnessed by us everywhere. It is an
imperative fact that demigods obtain energy to function from Yajnas.
In the Shatpath Braahmana it is said:
Demigods function with means called Stoma. Stoma is a type of Yajna and thus only via Yajnas
can demigods act.
Do Yajnas create beneficial situations or not in the atmosphere? This can be experienced first
hand by one and all. When Yajna materials are offered to Yajna fire a special fragrance is inhaled
by individuals in far off places. Life utility based powers of Yajna materials (Aahutis) are rendered
extremely subtle. The help manifest life forces in demigods like Vayu, Prithvi, Soorya etc and they
in turn sustain the life force of all creatures.
There are many who fear that instead of burning Ghee, grains and other valuable materials in the
Yajna fire why not donate it to individuals in society for their welfare? Why ‘unnecessarily’ burn up
all these materials to ashes? In reality those who question thus are purposely flaunting their
ignorance. Assuming we donate a portion of Ghee to one individual only he/she will benefit
marginally but if that same portion is offered to Yajna fire thousands will benefit by inhaling sacred
Yajna fumes. It is hence that Yajnas are full of selfless service and renunciation. Every individual
associated with it lovingly serves all beings. One portion of Yajna offering/Aahuti becomes so
subtle which activitates infinite fold life forces in demigods. The latter in return give benefits to
thousands of creatures in this world. In the Shatpath Braahmana such sentiments pertaining to
Yajnas has been written beautifully as follows:
Asuras or demons covered all herbs with fatally venomos substances. Men and animals use
herbs to sustain life. They thought that by making them use this we can defeat demigods. But
what happened is that only animals ate those herbs and since human beings did not use them,
demons could not defeat demigods.
One must note minutely in the above story that it is best to abstain eating food/herbs which
contain demons in the form of disease generating bacteria, germs etc. Demons yearn to defeat
demigods by making human and other creatures eat food grains, herbs etc that are infected by
poisonous germs. Of course it is a fact that by not eating food, beings go hungry. How long can
living beings live without food, air and water? And demons are so sly and vile that they do not
reveal themselves very easily. It is difficult to first recognize them and then overcome them.
Hence demons are said to put on a false garb and façade which deludes and harasses
demigods. As mentioned in the story above demons were hiding in the food grains etc. Hence
demigods vowed to destroy these demons so as to protect themselves from a demonic
onslaught. Someone asked the demigods as to how would they destroy these demons? The
answer given was that via Yajnas this was very much achievable. From this episode it becomes
crystal clear that in order to destroy, germs, venom etc in food grains etc that are responsible for
ill health one has to definitely take recourse to Yajnas. Wherever Yajna programs are conducted
on a regular footing there health destroying bacteria etc dwelling in food, herbs etc are easily
warded off.
The above story’s gist is given in Shatpath Braahmana thus:
Only via yajna health destroying germs were killed that are present in food/herbs partaken by
humans and other beings. As a result not only world humanity but other beings too started
partaking these herbs etc. What more proof is required to point out that Yajnas purify the
atmosphere and thus ward off air pollution? In Braahmana texts there are many more such
examples elucidated in detail. Readers can further refer to Gopath Braahmana’s Uttar Part (1/19)
and Kausheetaki Braahmana (5/1).
In a nutshell one can say that it does not matter whether one is performing Yajnas for desire
fulfillment or a regular Yajna. Its fruits may be material or spiritual but what stands out is that all
Yajnas purify the atmosphere. None can refute this priceless fact. After performing Yajnas we
cannot escape its great results. This is an imperative and most definite result of Yajnas. If we wish
to attain any other goal of Yajnas even then we will have to go through this path. This is an
inseparable bond between demigods and human beings. In this manner it is a root substratum of
human society’s advancement.
It is only when humans successfully complete their Yajna, can demigods perform their appointed
Yajna in return. This is a supreme righteous precept. It is one without a second, great and
incomparable to anything else.
Maharshi Yaaska while commenting on Vedic terminology has the following to say about the word
‘Deva’:
Why are Devas/demigods called thus? The answer is because they donate/give charity. They
throw light, become illumined themselves or stay in Diu Loka. Maharshi Yaaska’s observations
clearly opine that ‘daa dyotana’ meaning illumination or illumining other things. It also connotes
demigods who dwell in space. These qualities help identify demigods easily. Researchers opine
that if you wish to prove anything 2 aspects are most required. What are they? One is
characteristic and the other is proof. Scriptures too say that something can be proved only by
their characteristic and proof. From the above characteristics Soorya, Chandra, Prithvi, Jal, Agni
etc connote demigods/Deva which is their existence’s proof.
In the Yajur Veda (14/20) a Mantra tells us that earth, fire and other matter are clearly demigods:
If the Mantra is read aptly the reader will realize which material objects connote demigods. If
demigods are revered via Yajnas man attains various powers. How does this happen? Let us
understand this answer.
Regular Agnihotra is called Divine Yajna in scriptures. Divine Yajnas mean performing pious acts
keeping demigods in mind. A Yajna pyre is erected and fire is lit in it. On a daily basis Havya or
Yajna materials are offered in this sacred fire. By doing this demigods are pleased or in other
words they are sanctified.
Fire is the mouth of demigods. Hence any material added to fire is received by various demigods.
It is akin to humans eating food which is then passed on to every organ/cell of the body. In the
same way materials added to Yajna fire are easily received by demigods like water, earth, fire,
space etc.
When demigods like water, earth, fire, space etc. get purified it is called ‘honoring’ of demigods.
Via Yajnas demigods are sanctified. Meaning they are purified. These sanctified/pleased
demigods are utilized by householder beings. Via their sense organs all living beings imbibe
these material objects.
This augments the power of our sense organs. Senses become pure, life becomes sacred and
disease free. Our bodily organs made of pure and sacred water, food etc too becomes sanctified.
Your mind is synonymous with the type of food you eat. Is it not power attained when the senses
become potent and the mind is rendered pure and sacred? Which indeed is greater power than
this? With a pure mind man can carry out innumerable tasks for sure.
CHAPTER 20
YAJNA PURUSHA’S GREATNESS
At the time of Pralaya or cosmic annihilation everywhere darkness/Tamas ruled the roost.
Almighty Lord or creator of this world at that time did ‘Eekshana’. This then induced movement in
Prakriti/nature made of 3 Gunas which were initially equipoised. At that time Almighty God was
called Yajna Purusha (Yajur Veda 31 & Taitereya Braahmana 3/3/75). From this Yajna Purusha
manifested various other Yajnas and later as time elapsed, all Yajnas put together manifested as
this Cosmic Yajna in a fully developed manner. Since the Lord himself is Yajna incarnate and so
too is his created cosmos nothing apart from Yajnas exist in this world. This we can say without
overstating. The 4 Vedas too manifested from Yajna incarnate Almighty God (Yajur Veda 31/7 &
Shatpath Braahmana 1/1/4/3). Hence they too are Yajna incarnateand whatever exists is nothing
beyond Yajnas. And say what else can exist? Apart from Yajnas nothing exists. Anything outside
the periphery of Yajnas gets destroyed. Certain Yajna Sciences are called demonic powers but
know for sure that too is God’s Maya or power of illusion (Rig Veda 10/55/2).
In the Bhagwad Geeta it is written that Prajaapati created both Yajnas and creatures together. He
ordered all creatures to attain their desires via Yajnas. On an average in the Atharva Veda Sookta
all types of Yajnas have been enumerated. Further it says that Yajnas manifested from Almighty
God. Their names are Darshapaurnamaas, Vaajpeya, Ashwamedha, Raajasooya etc. Chiefly
these Yajnas were created for human beings. In the Rig Veda (1/84/2) it is said that Indra attends
eulogies sung in praise of Rishis and Yajnas conducted by human beings.
From the above Mantra it is clear as to what special qualities are possessed by man and
demigods. There are other Mantras wherein separate descriptions of mankind and demigods are
given. The above mentioned Mantra should not be misconstrued by believing that Rishis never
performed Yajnas. Rishis did perform Yajnas. And yet what the above mentioned Mantra is trying
to say that predominantly Yajnas are instruments for world humanity to fulfill their desires. In
comparison to what man attains via Yajnas great Rishis attain much more via Sankalpa/power of
resolve and eulogy to Almighty God (Yajur Veda 17/28). But this power of eulogy was attained by
Rishis via fire worship (Atharva Veda 4/23/5) and Rig Veda 10/80/4). In the Mahaabhaarata’s
Shanti Parva it is said that at the beginning of Tretaa Yuga Vaivamvat Manu manifested. Hence
humanity was created in Tretaa Yuga. Yajnas specifically were performed more and more in this
era. This is because era degeneration rendered power of resolve and eulogies that much more
ineffective. Keeping this fact in mind the above Mantra says that man has a special bond with
Yajnas. Krit Yuga is Divine Era. In it nature based Yajnas function optimally and hence at such
times man does not require Yajna help in any major way. During this era there is no variedness or
great potency of Yajnas. At that time earth lived in a Divine Era. If demigods themselves manifest
on planet earth whom will mankind offer Yajnas to? In those times Rishis and demigods were the
chief authors of World Yajnas.
Human Yajnas are just not merely mediums of understanding World Yajnas but are helpers in
directing World Yajnas. Micro Yajnas are transformed into Macro/Cosmic Yajnas by human
Yajnas. These Yajnas are not called Kalpa because of Kalpanaa or imagination. In fact ecause
they have divine potential they are called Kalpa. Anyone who methodically performs Yajnas,
manifest divine energy in their soul/psyche. This happens so that they become capable enough to
direct World Yajnas. Sometimes in the World Yajna controlled by Yajna incarnate Almighty God
some calamities do set in like flooding, famine, earthquake, tsunamis etc. The question asked is
that is all this given to us by God? No! Certainly not! This is not given by God. All this is but the
fruits of our actions. God is not harsh and merciless to induce flooding, famine, earthquake,
tsunamis etc. and thus bring stress and strife in the lives of mankind who are God’s beloved
children. Hence all these taints and distortions definitely man made. It also follows suit that if man
can induce flooding and other calamities he can also induce optimum rainfall, apt circumstances
and wholesome seasons. In a certain sense we are authors and directors of apt seasonal control.
In this manner in order to make World Yajnas well managed and regular time and again, God
gave great Rishis at the commencement of creation ‘technology’ called Yajna. Via God’s regular
duties there is arrangement of proper rainfall everywhere and yet on certain occasions excess or
lack of rainfall is witnessed by us all the world over. Via Kaareerishta Yajnas Rishis create
monsoon seasons. Germs, bacteria etc found in natural dwellings, various places seasons are
destroyed by Rishis via Bhaishajya Yajnas. Putreshti Yajna helps childless married couples to
give birth to children. Via great Yajnas called Ashwamedha, Raajasooya and Vaajpeya partial
Yajnas of the microcosm along with its energy is rendered equivalent to that of World Yajnas.
Hence we can say that human Yajnas are simply means to understand Cosmic Yajnas and are
their reformers, controllers and aides too. They destroy sins and generate grandeur plus Divine
Powers.
Generally we perform Yajnas in the form of Agnihotra wherein fire is lit. Never ever look upon this
fire as material and wordly (Yajur Veda 5/4). Vedas proclaim that within this material fire manifests
one more fire. This added fire can be visualized only via a divine vision or Rishis who are imbued
with Divine Powers. In other words great saints via these powers manifest one more fire in the
material fire of Agnihotra. This inner fire present in the cave of material fire is said to the ‘son’ of
great Rishis. How then do Rishis create this subtle fire? A general answer would be via friction.
This is friction takes place in divine vision, divine speech and divine thinking/reflection.
In previous verses (Yajur Veda 5/20) it is said that fire is churned via Mantras. On reflection a
question asked is whether the second fire that emerges from churning is Almighty God in his
Cosmic Fire form or is it some other fire. Scholarly and wise men must deeply reflect over this
point. I forone simply has to say this that the ordinarly loking Yajna fire must never be looked
upon as worldly or material. Within it there definitely exists another fire which Vedas are indicating
in various verses. Keeping this inner subtle fire in mind we must perform Yajnas with intense faith
(Yajur Veda 3/11). If faith is lacking Yajnas never succeed. Yajna oozes with both material and
spiritual grandeur. Yajna protects everybody. Yajnas help destroy all our sins. Yajnas help fire
enact extraordinary feats and tasks. A great responsibility rests on the shoulders of those Yajna
devotees who harbor intense faith. Hence they must prove to world humanity the enormous
power and influence of Yajnas (Yajur Veda 1/2; Rig Veda 1/24/14; Rig Veda 6/3/5; Rig Veda
8/23/8; Atharva Veda 12/2/37).
From the above facts it is crystal clear that the aura and radiance of an individual who does not
perform Yajna gets destroyed. In order to protect this aura and radiance Yajnas are most required
and imperative. In the Purusha Sookta of the Vedas Almighty God is called Yajna. It simply means
that God created this world in an optimal fashion and that it is well managed in an unanarchic
manner. Secondly this world itself is Yajna incarnate. All its tasks are carried out under such
stringent laws that all objects function aptly in their appointed tasks. Just as this world is a
gigantic Yajna in the same way man’s life akin to a cog in the wheel too is a Yajna. Its aim is to
induce mankind to create a semblance of balance between his inner and outer being. In this
manner he/she can forge a strong bond optimally with the entire world.
The above observations help us conclude that in ancient eras Yajnas were not considered to be a
special spiritual task or some miraculous mantra chanting. In fact Yajnas were very much a part
and parcel of life in those times. Yajnas are categorized chiefly in 3 ways viz. seasonal basis,
man’s righteous duties and nation’s governance and management. Thus in order to solve
problems related to economy, culture and political governance certain cooperative and social
endeavors were pursued with. These tasks were rooted in Yajnas. So in ancient eras Indian
society and culture were nothing short of Yajna manifestation. Gopath Braahmana Yajna names
and methodology are enumerated wherein it becomes clear that ancient Indian citizens verily
lived a life of true Yajna. As a result they oozed with great health, good charactered progeny,
good rainfall, good governance, knowledge, wisdom, science and God or Self Realization.
Following are the types of endeavors fulfilled via Yajnas:
1) Health is of 2 types. One is individual and the other is social. Seasonal illnesses like cold,
cough, diaorrhea etc and epidemics like plague, malaria etc can attack anyone and everyone. A
lone individual is just not capable enough to overcome them. In days of yore Yajnas based
season wise could help decrease drastically disease based distortions. Thus society enjoyed
good health. In fact because of this Gopath Braahmana calls them Bhaishajya Yajnas.
2) If one is childless and wants a great child with a long life span we are ordained to perform
Putrakaameshti Yajna. A certain portion of this Yajna is also conjoined to Sanskaaras like
Garbhaadhaan, Punsavan and Seemantonnayan and also to Pitru Yajna.
3) Yajnas have a special relationship with rainfall because the prime basis of wealth generation
by the lay public depends on rainfall. In ancient eras when a drought like situation occurred great
Rishis would manifest rainfall via Yajnas. This has been detailed in many places and even in
today’s contemporary times these Yajnas have proved fruitful.
4) The true import of wealth means materials of good utility value in our life. Currencies and
other avenues are merely means of buying/selling these materials and can be changed any time.
Thus true wealth connotes food, livestock, clothes, shelter etc. which are a must for comfortable
living. This type of wealth is definitely required even for conducting Yajnas. For this Gomedha
Yajnas are prescribed wherein wealth belonging to society augments a great deal.
5) In ancient culture a kingdom was such wherein society was governed in an optimal manner.
All world human society was tied in a bond of oneness so that joy and peace prevailed
everywhere. This helped people overcome fear of wars and strife and instead used their precious
time and energy not only for personal benefits but for society at large. In order to work for world
welfare Ashwamedha Yajnas were conducted on a gigantic scale. This in turn helped anarchic
and unruly regions in the world get transformed into aptly governed ones. Thus no longer could
they break peace and welfare that ruled the roost everywhere.
6) Via 5 great Yajnas the solar and lunar worlds were made radiant and as a result guests,
aged, ill, downfallen, animals, birds etc were fed sumptuously. Hence say is there anything
greater than such selfless service and pious sentiments of compassion? It is because of such
Yajnas that mankind manifested sacred sentiments of forgiveness, compassion, non-violence etc.
Thus their lives were not limited to mad material pursuits but that divine qualities too were given
an apt platform to proliferate.
7) After doing all this when a true devotee says ‘Idam na mama’ meaning O Lord all that exists
is not mine but yours only, he/she can never experience bondage to the world and any
actions/Karmas. This selflessness is a very special characteristic of Yajna. In the Bhagwad Geeta
Lord Krishna says: Apart from Yajna actions all other actions lead to bondage. In this manner a
person who realizes the deep import of Yajnas also acts accordingly and hence becomes capable
enough of attaining salvation or liberation (Moksha/Mukti).
It has been proved beyond doubt that in ancient Indian culture Yajnas were given utmost
importance and from here its sacred precept spread all over the world. Of course it is but natural
that because of disparity as far as region and society is concerned the methodology, actions,
materials etc of Yajnas vary in different regions. And yet the root source of Yajna sentiments is the
same in any country and culture. In ancient Greek and Roman civilization Yajna culture did exist
and even today Parsis are devout fire worshippers. Within Jainism and Buddhism incense and
flame lamps used are subtle forms of Yajna only. In Jewish, Christianity, Islam and other semetic
sects traditions of lighting flame lamps, candles etc are definitely found. Chinese tradition calls
Yajna ‘Ghoma’ which appears to be a resultant of the word ‘Homa’. Ancient indwellers of Egypt
and Red Indians of America too were known to perform Yajnas. From this it can be proved that
Yajna has been the root righteous duty of human civilization and it was spread everywhere by
Indian Aryans. As long as Indian citizens understood the Science of Yajnas and put it into practice
in their day to day living, so long India remained the crest jewel amongst all world nations. In fact
India then was called Jagadguru or the Preceptor of the World. But alas when people started
ignoring the sacred sentiments of Yajnas it resulted in them killing animals for sacrificial offering in
Yajnas and eating/drinking those items which are taboo (animal flesh, intoxicants etc). Since then
India went head on to a downfall because inner weaknesses started ruling the roost. Even today
Indian society can be uplifted and reformed only if the true precept of Yajna is first understood
deeply and then imbibed in ones day to day transactions.
END OF THIS E-BOOK
LET US PRAY FOR WORLD PEACE AND BROTHERHOOD SO AS TO CREATE
“A BEAUTIFUL BORDERLESS WORLD”.




Om Tat Sat
                                                        
(End...) 


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



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