THE SCIENTIFIC BASIS OF YAJNAS ALONG WITH ITS WISDOM ASPECT-3

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 9

‘YAJNA’ IS THE BELOVED WORSHIP ICON OF INDIAN PHILOSOPHY

The Spiritual Philosophy and action based goal of Spiritual sciences is related to Yajna

methodology. In the Kathopanishad there is a dialogue between Yama and Nachiketa. In that 5

Pranaagnis (Fire of Vital Force) are described. These are totally separate from Agnihotra and are

in fact is a thought flow that sanctifies ones Vital Force. Within Mimaansaa, Sutra text Braahmana

and Aaranyakas the word ‘Yajna’ is related to Yajna fire sacrifices. When we say Life Yajna it

connotes rendering our thinking and character taintless and brilliant. Agnihotra connotes

manifesting that energy which not only gives Ojas, Tejas, Varchas (divine light/aura) to the body,

mind and soul respectively but that conducive situations get augmented in the external material

world.

Yajna utilizes fire. Within this tradition scriptural scholars have made it clear that in this cosmos

fire has many forms. They all are capably powerful in their specific endeavors. And yet Yajnaagni

or Yajna Fire reigns supreme amongst them all. Although materially it lights up yet it is full of

noble spiritual qualities and hence it is called Almighty God too. It is fire that is eulogized and

worshipped and it makes the Yajna doer sacred and radiant, both within and without. Thus fire

gives us very beneficial and wholesome results.

In the form of an ancient member of Indian Dev Mandal Fire God holds an important position in

Vedic Samhitaas and Braahmana texts. The first Mantra of Rig-Veda commences with a eulogy in

praise of Fire God. It is fire that is the chief priest of a Yajna because it is the reason why we see

form, vision and light in this infinite cosmos. Its aura lights up the entire world. Its divine wisdom

light, conscious energy and status of being the presiding deity is worshipped and meditated on.

Thus man’s life becomes prosperous, his soul advances and he attains the nectar of immortality.

Amongst demigods at first the most powerful amongst them i.e. Fire God manifested. Proof of this

can be found in the Bhagwad Geeta, Vedas etc. Following is one such quote:

“Lord Almighty said: O radiant King! I first created all the worlds via my divine form. For the

benefit of all creatures I first manifested fire from my mouth”.

…………………………Mahabharat-Ashwamedha Parva (19th chapter)

In this 19th chapter (Vaishnava Parava) it is said:

“At first amongst all elements I first created fire and hence scholars/thinkes of Puraanas call it

‘Agni’ or fire”. Fire has 3 regions and 3 major forms viz. 1) sun in space 2) electricity in interstellar

space and 3) ordinary fire on earth.

Majority of the Sooktas in Rig-Veda are devoted to eulogies of fire. In virtually all religions the

ancient form of fire can be found. It is a ‘Grihapati’ or head of the household and has a strong

bond with all family members (Rig-Veda ……. 2/1/9 …… 7/15/12 ……. 1/1/9 ……. 4/1/9). Fire

wards off darkness, nocturnal creatures, black magic, demons and diseases (Rig-Veda …….

3/5/1 ……. 194/5 ……. 8/43 ……. 32 …… 10/88/22).

The Yajna aspect of fire is a gigantic step in the direction of advancement of human civilization.

The vision of progress and energy creation lies in its realm. Yajna Fire dwells in Vedika (Rig-Veda

11/14/1). It becomes potent via wood, Soma juice and clarified butter (Rig-Veda 3/55/10…..

1/94/14). It is a bridge between human beings and demigods and is a messenger too (Rig-Veda

….1……. 26/9……. 1/94 …… 3……. 1/59 ……. 3 …… 1/59/1/7 ……. 2/1……. 1/58/1……..

7/2/5……. 1/17/4…. 3…… 1/17……. 10/2/1….. 1/124). The dive manifestation of fire too has

been detailed in the Vedas (Rig-Veda….. 3/9/5….. 6/8/4). It is the priest of demigods. It is the

King of Yajnas (Rig-Veda ……. 3/11/18 …… 7/11 …….. 4 ……2/8/3 ……8/43/24 etc).

Fire is inseparably conjoined to ethical values. It is same sighted in all directions. It has 100 or

1000 eyes and with its help notes every action of human beings (Braahmana, Rig-Veda …….

10/79/5). It has ‘secret agents’. It knows even the most secretive aspect of man’s day to day

dealings. It protects Rita or Truth (Rig-Veda…..10/8/5). Fire is a witness of our sins and punishes

the sinners (Rig-Veda ……4/3/5-8 …… 4/5/4-5). It also forgives our sins (Rig-Veda ……

9/7/03/7).

Fire has been compared both to Vrihaspati and Brihaspati. It creates Mantra, intellect and

Brahman. This type of non duality has been depicted by the subtlest element. Vedic literature

describes that form of fire which throws a great deal of light on the scientific and philosophical

aspect of world management/propagation.

Vedas are said to be theroot source of Indian Spiritual Philosophy. They give us an understanding

of the methodology of attaining faith, steadfastness and Prajna or Divine Intellect. Vedatrayee is

none other than Tripadaa or 3-legged Gayatri. They connote Sata-Chit-Ananda or Existence-

Consciousness-Bliss, Satyam-Shivam-Sundaram and Jnana-Bhakti-Karma or Wisdom-Devotion-

Actions. Despite Vedic wisdom being 3 fold focuses at one point due to the union of these 3

aspects and this focal point is Yajna. Very briefly put Vedas have been detailed so that Yajna

Science can be understood and then preached to others fairly easily.

Vedas originate from the root word ‘Vid’ which means an infinite vault of Divine Wisdom. The chief

medium to attain wisdom mentioned in the Vedas is Yajna. It is Yajnas that help manifest Divine

Wisdom in ones soul and to put it differently we can say that Vedic wisdom pervades every pore

of a Yajna. It is Yajna Fire that gives us all energy, light and Divine Wisdom. We Indians look upon

fire as divinity incarnate and hence worship it. We offer Aahutis to it and since it is “Agni meelay

purohitam” or priests that carry our Aahutis to demigods we harbor faith that along with Aahutis

demigods also receive our sacred sentiments and aspirations. In turn thus demigods bless

mankind with a long life span, vital force, strength, intellect, wisdom and a rain of all round

prosperity.

Any material that becomes gaseous also becomes n-fold more widespread which is accepted by

modern scientists too. In an International Scientists meeting of 1966 A.D. held at California

University scientists agreed that any material can be made oxidized by adding it to fire and thus

can be spread manifold times in infinite space. Apart from this fire is said to be the king of all

miracles and that scientists agree that deeper scientific research must be conducted on all

aspects of the fire element.

A pertinent question asked is that if a gust of wind attacks fire the latter is doused. Hence how is it

that fire burns in air itself? Why does it not burn in windless regions? The central/middle portion of

fire is relatively less hot than fire’s surface/outer area. Why is this so? Even in the outer area the

tip of the tongue of flames is believed to be the hottest area. Why? Why does the flame always

point in the upward direction? So far all the information available regarding fire is extremely

miniscule.

If an incense stick is lit its heat is of the temperature of 1500 Celsius. Fire manifesting from a

mixture of fuel like coal and gas emits heat of 2000 Celsius. In the presence of atomic hydrooxygen

the temperature is between 3800 and 4000 Celsius. This mystery has yet not been

unfolded by today’s scientists. Just like electrons, protons and neutrons a lot of information has

been unearthed regarding atoms of light called photons. And yet not much data is available with

reference to the material and chemical aspects of fire flames. It is a new open and widespread

area of research. It is hence that in innumerable scientific laboratories the world over, especially

universities in England are conducting a lot of research on the flames of fire.

When we study the Vedic Richaas which are used in the demigod context it becomes clear no

one apart from Indian seers and Philosophers have studied the ‘fire element’ in such great detail.

They not only delved deep into fire’s material and chemical nature but that they threw great light

on its spiritual prowess and Divine Powers lying latent in their subtle nature. The seemingly

ordinary fire of our material world was looked upon them as so extraordinary that great Rishis

authored a separate Veda for it in the form of Yajurveda. It is because of fire that we creatures

sustain our life force. Fire is responsible for the creation of creatures, strength and sperms. Light,

aura and magnetic attraction seen on mankind’s face is proof of fire’s presence there. When we

die our corpse turns absolutely cold which again shows that while alive our body possessed fire

element. All this goes only to show that great Indian Rishis had attained knowledge of the

subtlemost form of fire element. Man materialists thinking fire worship to be useless look upon

Indian devotees as frail in intellect. And yet they have failed to realize that it was the power of fire

that aided India’s stupendous influence over the entire world in ancient eras. There was no nation

on our globe which escaped the rule of Indian born Chakrawarti emperors (they ruled over the

entire world). In future too know for sure that this demigod’s grace and spiritual philosophy will

advance our potential to show the way to all round progress to entire world beings. In addition our

glory and enterprise too will rule the roost so to speak.

Amongst the 5 great elements “space, wind, fire, water and earth” fire is at the 3rd position. In the

Shatpath Braahmana (6/7/4/3) it is said:

“Fire was first born from Prana or wind (if thee is no wind fire cannot be lit). The light in fire is but

the manifestation of vital force. Its second birth took place when Hiranyagarbha manifested (the

sperm which merges with the female’s ovum is fire manifest). At the time of creation planet earth

was a burning ball of fire which even historians agree with. In this Hiranyagarbha was reinstated a

life unit in the form of Purusha (Purusha means an existence that knows, experiences, speaks,

hears etc. everything). From this standpoint it is fire that manifests in man’s body in the Purusha

form. In the flame of fire the central/middle portion is called ‘Jaataveda Agni’ and is the knower of

all objects (A great scholar of Vedas Angling too has agreed that Jaataveda is the knower of

beings). The 3rd aspect is that from fire took birth Apo or water and just as each element is

harbored by another element in the same way fire merged into water”.

Rig-Veda (2/36/3) too agrees with the above verse as follows:

“Water surrounded fire from all sides”.

Mahaabhaarat (261/4) says:

“Material water apart from having qualities like coolness, juice, wetness, fluidity, smoothness,

serenity, taste etc can also boil”.

The other form of Aapaha (water) is gas or subtle vital force. Aapaha is called Vidhaa too i.e. that

which creates everything (Yajurveda 14/7). In the form of Prana gas or nebula is the underlying

cause of world creation. Today Astronomy research scholars too agree with this. Aapaha was

divine (Jaimini Braahmana 1/45). Prana is in reality a miraculous element and all the qualities of

fire dwell in it.

In the above lines we have given the science of how the divine gaseous form of fire produces

water. A more subtle science is found in Vedic Richaas. After unearthing and understanding it

Indian spiritualists attained divine prowess in the form of vital force mastery, death at will,

spreading good will to all via vital force, fire weapon usage, entering another’s body subtly,

reading others minds etc. In the Kathopanishad there is a dialogue between Lord Yama and

Nachiketa wherein the Panchaagni Vidya (Science of 5 fold fire) is detailed. This deals with the

science of advancing one’s fire in the form of vital force. Further Bhrigu Rishi too gave this

science to Varuna or wind god. Prana Vidya is a science full of deep import which is more

precious than all the worldly potentials put together.

Fire is divided into 3 aspects in Jaimini Braahmana viz. Bhoopati, Bhuvanapati and Bhootaanaam

Patiha. Vishnu Purana dividesthese 3 into 15-25 sections and thus you get 45 types of fire. In the

epic Mahaabhaarat (Shaanti Parva) while elucidating the 10 qualities of fire it is opined that with

the advancement of fire element man can only then contact Spiritual Powers of high stature:

“Ten qualities of fire manifest in the body i.e. 1) Durgarshataa 2) Jyoti 3) Taapa 4) Paaka 5)

Prakaash 6) Shauch 7) Raag 8) Laghu 9) Taikshnya 10) Urdhwagaman. It means bodily strength,

aura, body temperature, fire that digests food, wisdom and destruction of bodily dirt. Fire

possesses magnetic pull and renders the body light and powerful. It is fire which uplifts mental

powers and by conjoining them to Divine Powers the soul advances further.

These 10 qualities and various functions belong to the 5 Pranas and 5 Sub Pranas (vital force).

Its advancement methodology is an entire science which utilizes techniques like Yajna,

Pranaayaam, meditation, Vedic Mantra Chanting etc. Today alas people are forgetting all this and

hence are losing out on attaining benefits of long life, energy, strength and divine aura by

contacting Divine Powers. There was a natural method whereby one lived a life of self/sense

control and as a result fire of the body advanced manifold times. But again this too is no longer in

vogue. In this manner by ‘antagonizing’ fire element the world over we are burning ourselves in

the fire of hardships and strife. Hence if we wih to throw open wide the gates of physical, mental,

intellectual, social and spiritual progress we must again take recourse to re-discovering that great

fire element. It must be reinstated on top of the rung and we must imbibe the wisdom given to us

by great Rishis of yore.

A little scientific data unearthed by modern scientists definitely proves the point made above.

Today the flame of fire is said to be a chemical function and science says that chiefly it comprises

of atmospheric oxygen. Any material that burns creates a reaction along with oxygen which in

turn produces heat. Assuming that the chemical reaction with oxygen is haphazard or tortuous

and that total oxidization has failed to occur, heat produced will be less. Now again assuming that

oxidization is total carbon dioxide in the form of smoke is emitted. When great Indian Seers said

“pure fire emits water” people mocked them. And yet today’s science says that fire flames do emit

water but that this water is in a gaseous state. In one edition of Hindi Digest of 1968 this

observation has been accepted. On page 49 it is said “Aapo vaa idam sarvamaapna vana” which

means Aapaha or water is all pervasive. In Taitariya Upanishad (5/2/1) fire is called “priyatanu

chanda” i.e. fire is in the form of waves. Thus all doubts are dispelled wherein subtle fire element

present in space i.e. nebulas in which by conjoining vital force fire as the mind one can attain

knowledge of the movements of subtle worlds. At present, only within the realm of manifestation

of material powers along with utility based changes is the fire element predominantly being made

use of. Fire is used today right from cooking to melting ores in large industrial units. In

contemporary times our machines and weapon technology uses oil, coal, steam, gun powder etc.

The utility potential of fire is known only to human beings. In fact other creatures run far away

from fire out of fear. For human progress amongst all means utilized fire holds a prime spot.

Electricity too is a manifestation of fire. Energy that manifests from atomic explosion and radiation

after all is but a form of fire element. It is in fact a special heat flow.

In fact in spiritual endeavors the use of fire is especially greater in measure. Within austerity

based Yoga practices one does so in the vicinity of fire and with its help worship, meditation, rites

etc are conducted. Yajnas chiefly worship fire element. In many scriptures fire’s predominant

usage has been described in devotional, meditation and spiritual endeavors. These scriptures are

1) Nyaaya Darshana (4/1/62) 2) Manu Smriti (1/22) 3) Sidhanta Shiromani (Ganitaadhyaaya)

Gopath Braahmana (1/4/24) 4) Geeta (4/22) 5) Rig-Veda (1/1/1) etc. Fire used in such pursuits is

called Yajnaagni (Yajna Fire). Agnihotra is the methods of manifesting it and using it for various

applications.

Until man unearthed fire he remained totally regressive. In comparison when man discovered this

wonderful potential called fire he made great strides towards peaks of progress. The same can be

said about divine fire without which soul progress remains a mere fleeting dream. Fire’s role in

contacting Divine Energies and attaining its grace is extraordinary. Incense sticks, flame lamps,

Dhoop etc are lit with the help of fire. In fact Yajna Fire is Lord Vishnu incarnate.

According to Rig-Veda (7/11/1) without fire’s aid we cannot attain blessings of demigods.

According to Rig-Veda (7/1/7 and 7/11/1) and Atharva-Veda (5/12/2) fire is that medium which

‘carries’ our prayers and offerings to demigods. According to Shatpath Braahmana (3/7/4/10),

Shaankhaayana Braahmana (3/7) and epic Mahabharat (7/7/10) fire is a quality/characteristic of

demigods. It is through this medium that demigods accept mankind’s gifts and in turn they bless

one and all.

Which is that vehicle that transports us to heaven? While answering this question our scriptures

say: Yajna Fire. This has been detailed in Atharva Veda (118/4/2), Aitareya Braahmana (1/2/10),

Shatpath Braahmana (12/4/7) etc.

Demigods pleased with man’s sacred Yajna activities augment the latter’s joy and comforts. Man

thus becomes great and progressive. This has been elucidated in Atharva (11/7/23 and 18/4/3)

and Rig-Veda (10/64/2) and 11/1/10). A Gayatri devotee must perform Gayatri Yajnas too if

he/she yearns to attain grace of Mother Gayatri and Savita Goddess’ Bharga or divine aura. For

them such an easily available means has been created whereby there is no problem or hardship

for a devotee to perform spiritual practices.

In the Shatpath Braahmana (9/10/14) it is said:

“Yajna is the axis of our world. With its help the wheel of the cosmic activities moves”.

The Philosophy of Yajnas is focused on the 3 fold confluence of generosity, purity and

cooperation. These 3 precepts are such that make the world joyous, beautiful and progressive.

Not only are stars, galaxies etc mutually bound by a force of attraction but that they mutually help

and benefit one another. Atoms and cells of our body too perform their functions optimally on the

basis of this very principle. Ecological principles are definitely at work as far as world creation,

movements and its balanced apt management is concerned. It is the wheel of cooperation in the

realms of nourishment of plants, animals etc, production of fertilizers from creatures bodies which

help plants grow etc that the life of all creatures sustain. Ocean waters form clouds, clouds form

rain, rain fill up rivers and rivers again flow into the ocean. This water cycle builds a bond

between wind and earth and thus apt conditions for nourishment of creatures manifest. The wheel

of life functions smoothly because the bodily organs mutually benefit one another. On the basis of

society creation financial programs and other progressive activities function uninterruptedly. This

Yajna tradition is the reason why both matter and consciousness function in a well managed

manner. As a result the Yajna Principle is called the focal point of this infinite cosmos.

On the basis of whether an Anushthaan is individual or collective in nature small or big Mantras

must be chanted along with it. Yajnas help us overcome various lacks and our sins too are

atoned. Kilvish are sins that accrue vile carrying out vile mental and physical activities. In

Ayurveda form of therapies Yajna is known to solve physical and mental ailments.

“Our good health is protected when we contact demigods, cows, Brahmins, Gurus, senior

citizens, Sidhas and also with the help of Yajna Fire”.

……………………….Charak Sootra (Sthaan 5/8)

In the Bhagwad Geeta (chapter 3 verses 10/11/12) and Yajna Bhvitaaha it is said:

“Prajaapati created both humanity and Yajnas simultaneously and asked them to cooperate with

one another for all round advancement. Demigods who become potent via Yajnas in turn bestow

prosperity on human beings. Those who eat without first offering it to others (Yajna) is a criminal”.

In the Naaraayanopanishad (79) it is said that via Yajna based radiations enemies can be

destroyed. We should note that this destruction is not to kill someone but that enmity gets

replaced by friendship. It is also said:

“Yajna converts enmity into friendship and hence it is supreme in statre”.

In the Shrimad Bhaagwat Mahaapurana (4/14’s verse 18/19/20) it is said:

“Yajna pleases Almighty God and this leads to world well being”.

“Via Yajna activities that Yajna Purusha Almighty God was worshipped. Even laymen by walking

on this royal path can attain divinity and divine aura”.

“There is no sacred action in this world as pure as Agnihotra”.

……………………….Padma Puraana

“Mother Gayatri grace pours on those residents of towns, villages, cities etc who pleade Purusha

via Yajna activities and thus their joy and peace become infinite”.

“Demigods pleased by Yajnas shower well being on mankind”.

……………………..Padma Purana (Srishti Khand 3/124)

Self/soul control too is Yajna. Brahman-Yajna means offering ones desire, aspiration, ego and

yearning at the feet of Almighty God. This is also called surrender to the cosmic soul or God who

is our very self. Our worldly desires should merge into great ideals and thus we can attain Divine

Powers which have their roots in soul welfare, God’s grace and world faith. This self Ahuti

(offering) is called Brahman-Yajna. Lord Manu calls such Yajnas the chief basis of manifestation

of true Brahmin-hood. He says: A layman can attain Brahmin-hood by performing Yajnas and

Super Yajnas. A Brahmin is not born in a particular sect or clan but that via Yajna activities he/she

is molded into Brahmin-hood. Mercury is a well known chemical and its ordinary form is made

extraordinarily nectarine via certain transformation methodology. In the same way anyone

contacting a Yajna atmosphere not only makes his/her body and mind potent but that his/her soul

too advances by leaps and bounds. Such a person becomes a true Brahmin. They used to be

called omnipotent and after prostrating at their feet blessings were invoked. In turn their blessings

were potent because they were the result of various intense spiritual practices executed by them.

Amongst these spiritual practices Yajnas’ prime spot and importance was extraordinary.

In Brahmin tradition Yajna performing is most required. Brahmins have 6 activities to execute.

They are called the three ‘couples’ too viz. 1) studying wisdom-teaching it to others 2) giving

charity-encouraging others to do so 3) performing Yajnas-directing others to do so. All these 3 are

conjoined to Yajnas. Another interpretation is that one third of every Brahmin’s life is devoted to

Yajnas. Just like ‘Sandhyaa Vandan’ Agnihotra too is a regular/daily duty that must be performed.

The most precious benefit of this is that one remains disease free, both mentally and physically.

This in turn helps us contribute optimally to world welfare activities. Thus contact with Yajnas

gives us such priceless dual gains. Keeping this fact in mind in order to attain high stature

prowess spiritual practices must give Yajnas a prime spot.

Every Indian citizen knows that Yajnas ward off air pollution, it destroys poison in air inhaled and

thus our health is protected aptly. With reference to good health Yajna Therapy wards off

diseases and bodily/mental strength becomes more potent. No doubt other means can do this but

the problem is that sacredness in them is totally amiss. Certain tonics etc made of flesh and

alcohol also augment our strength but along with these their Tamasic (indolence/inertia)

characteristics too enter the patients’ psyche. Thus the strength is not of high stature and one day

gets utilized in vile lowly activities. And thus since our earnings too accrue from unwholesome

activities our mind too will become tainted so as to make our life miserable to say the least. We

cannot ignore the fact that to add strength both physical and mental is of prime importance and

yet its true benefit accrues when its means to attain it is sacred and taintless. The medium of

Yajnas subtle are very taintless and when such taintless potency accrues our activities and

endeavors too will be of high stature without doubt.

For Brahmins this soul potency is most required. Instead of it being utilized for wallowing in

material comforts it must be used for imbibing high stature thoughts and faith. Such a person is

then worshipped akin to divinity. Not everyone can attain the true state of Brahmin-hood. This is

because at every step in a Brahmin’s life he/she has to pass tests of inner greatness and glory.

Even one minor glitch and you fall from the status of true Brahmin-hood. Hence Yajna activities

are imperative for Brahmins since they remind him/her of imbibing true Brahmin characteristics.

Association with anything helps imbibe those qualities. Associating with fire helps imbibe heat,

radiant aura, high thinking and spiritual tenets via Lord Yajna. Those who after realizing this fact

starts imbibing it they attain credentials to enter the portals of true Brahmin-hood. Yajna is a

wholesome combination of sacred wisdom, sacred actions and good will towards all

animate/inanimate beings.

This Life Yajna is an inspiration from the activities of Yajna Fire activities. We can move speedily

towards divinity via the Yajna rituals mentioned thus far. Those Divine Powers can be attained

which are associated with demigods.

CHAPTER 10

‘YAJNA’-SUPREME PHILOSOPHY OF THE ENTIRE WORLD

Philosophy is a thought flow that influences our faith and aspirations. On the basis of time, place

and circumstances all philosophies the world over aim at attaining this goal. There may be

differences as far as their form and functionality is concerned but their fundamental aim is

singular. Thus every philosophy has one aim in mind viz. man’s thinking be made idealistic and

full of sacred principles. Such thought flows are given that urge man to walk on the path of

supreme greatness. All theistic philosophies of the world definitely ordain their followers to

achieve inner greatness and glory. How can mankind become great? How can he live a life of

sacred ideals? This is the root goal of all world theistic philosophies and they manifest as per

times and needs of world humanity. Philosophies of the world play an extraordinary role in

‘dragging’ mankind to peaks of human glory and supreme greatness.

And despite all this a lot of disagreements and controversies rage amongst all world philosophies.

Although the goal is clear enough yet the form is full of differences and so man experiences

delusion and veers away from its true goal. Lack of clarity on the nature and form of philosophy

steers man far away from its true aim. As against this Indian Rishis were special because they

unfolded the most useful secrets that bring well being to world humanity. And these are definitely

not difficult to imbibe. Yajna is its supreme example. Yajna Philosophy includes cosmic thinking,

divine inspiration, faith transformation and reinstating of sacred ideals, on a sound footing. Thus

Yajna is a very powerful instrument/medium. Its thought flow inspires and motivates mankind to

become supremely great, of charitable disposition and magnanimous. In this small word ‘Yajna’

all those philosophical principles are embedded which purify and make sacred our theistic

leanings. If one so desires to search for a philosophy which is full of wisdom and without

controversies most definitely it will be the age old Yajna Philosophy.

Yajna by itself is a very powerful and all round philosophy. It’s facile and wisdom oriented

inspirations makes mankind generous and magnanimous. No other philosophy has such powerful

high stature precepts. Hence in Indian Culture Yajnas are given a prime slot. Yajna is called

Indian Culture’s father. Father means one who rears and nourishes us in an all round manner.

Yajnas nurture and protect society like a beloved father. This is that chief substratum wherein

society attains true progress and prosperity. Yajna Philosophy makes man and society at large

great, pious and advanced. By itself it is all encompassing and oozes with unlimited potentials. If

only Yajna inspirations manifest in our day to day transactions the strong foundation of eternal

bliss and peace will be laid down.

It is quite possible that certain people will not have faith in the action or functional aspect of

Yajnas. And yet its philosophy is so indomitable and inspirational that no difference of opinion can

creep into it. It is so powerful that even an avowed atheist cannot denounce its inspirations and

utility value. Of course it goes without saying that the action aspect of Yajna too is extremely

potent and full of deep import. In the reinstating of faith reformation and sacred ideals Yajna

methodology proves to be a potent spiritual endeavor. Psychiatrists and psychologists know too

well that via gross images and examples people understand the subtle underlying principle with

greater ease. In fact education, inspirations and speeches do not function as powerfully. Yajna

process is a very powerful method of psychology based education. Through it an indirect but a

permanent influence occurs. Thus sacred and desired psychic imprints get enhanced in a big

way. If ones viewpoint remains unbiased every action aspect of Yajnas can give world humanity

inspirations of great utility value. These are not some superficial acts. In fact it is a potent

psychological method of establishing wholesome imprints in the human psyche.

Looking at the Yajna process differences of opinion may arise. Even if this aspect is ignored yet

Yajna’s philosophy gives useful inspirations to world humanity without exception. Scriptures give

3 meanings of the word ‘Yajna’: 1) charity 2) association with divinity/congregationalism 3)

worship of divinity/service to world creatures. These 3 are three principles which form the

substratum of material/spiritual advancement of the entire world. If these 3 basis of Yajnas are

deeply imbibed the firm foundation of neo creation and progress can be laid down.

The one and only means of man’s advancement are Yajnas. In the Atharvaveda (4/11/5) it is

written:

“He/she becomes Vishwajeet (gain world victory) who performs actions for world well being and

that they manifest bliss breathing which all creatures become prosperous”. It means whosoever

surrenders his/her entire being for world prosperity gains victory over the world.

The above subject has been elucidated further in the Chandogya Upanishad. It says that man is

Yajna incarnate and that he should make his life a Yajna. This is because apart from this path true

advancement in an all encompassing manner can never be attained. All wise seers of the world

proclaim man does not remain human if his life lacks spiritual good will to the world. Instead they

are called demons and downfallen ones. And indeed why should they not be called thus? This is

because life is created and functions on the basis of a Yajna attitude. Yajnas are actions rooted

firmly in true knowledge and wisdom. The functioning of every particle of nature called inert by us

all and all creatures of various species tell us that it is only a man of self realization who while

giving importance to spiritual values in his daily transactions attains true name, fame, glory and

material comforts of high stature. Man who is called that rare jewel-creation of God starts

wallowing in a life of sheer selfish narrow minded pursuits will definitely stare at downfall and

hardships in a very short time span. Thus it is well nigh an understatement to call such a person

foolish and downright stupid.

A glimpse of the Yajna activity of inert nature is being penned in the following lines. Mother Earth

becomes a support for all animate/inanimate beings and thus is spiritually very benevolent. She

does not shed even one tear of anguish when we creatures dig her, drill her, pound her etc. Like

our beloved mother she gives joy to one and all. Like a mother’s affectionate lap, she gives joy to

everyone without exception. Her generosity clearly indicates that her existence came into being

for showering well being on all. It is her in born nature that makes her shower us with various

fruits, vegetables, herbs etc in various seasons and innumerable materials like ores of silver,

gold, copper etc. For protection of life on earth she has given us mountains, oceans, rivers,

forests, palatial homes, caves etc. This is nothing but a mere fraction of her loving compassion

towards all beings. In order that life in this world oozes with the fragrance of prosperity she never

errs even for a moment. A mere hint should help us realize that the silent bit inspirational ‘words’

of every pore of nature exhort us to work for the material/spiritual welfare of the world. Say who is

unaware that tastes like sourness, bitterness, pungency etc are the admixture of earth and water?

Who may we say does not require the nectar of water to remain alive and kicking? Who is that

individual the world over who does not need the nectarine qualities of fire, wind, water etc? Not

only does mankind benefit from all these gifts of nature but that he experiences untold satiation

and bliss as a result.

Rig-Vedas the infinite vault of divine wisdom has elucidated the 4-fold means of all round

advancement in the life of world humanity. Whether you are rich or poor, king or a subject, old or

young, male or female right from an inanimate being to human beings all are equal inheritors of

Almight God’s vault of both material and spiritual wealth. Each one according to their credentials

and capacity can enjoy this wealth. When Almighty Lord manifested all these materials he never

had any bias in his mind in the form of ‘this is for the rich and that is for the poor’. For God no one

is high and no one is low in stature. Almighty God loves and blesses everybody without exception

equally. Via high stature actions we attain joy else other lowly actions lead to nothing ut sheer

agony and strife. All living beings enjoy God’s material gifts as per their understanding. Socially

we say this land, river, trees, wisdom, family, propert etc are ‘mine’ and thus our daily transactions

are executed. And yet despite it ‘belonging’ to us it is in fact a part and parcel of the Lord’s infinite

storehouse of material/spiritual wealth. Charity is executed every moment and that too devoid of

ego/selflessly. And hence we human beings must learn this teaching of leading a life of Yajna

from nature and its creator Almighty God.

Despite this selfish mankind has rendered this world venomous and poisonous. Hence it is least

amazing that when man produces various materials (houses, cars, fridges etc) he does not use it

after sharing the same with others in society. But what is truly amazing is that even objects

created by God (water, air, oxygen, land etc) are usurped by mankind selfishly saying ‘this is

mine’ and thus other creatures are left high and dry as far as their usage is concerned. Mankind is

least bothered that it is hurting weak, ignorant and poor living beings by crushing their very

existence to naught. Forget a charitable disposition mankind is spreading venomous thinking too

in all directions encouraging nothing but selfish myopic gains. If a so called wealthy person

wishes to build a palatial house he/she will not hesitate in destroying small huts of his/her poor

and downtrodden brethren. Even for the sake of his titillated taste buds he/she experiences no

qualms or compunctions in killing other creatures (fish, chicken, cow, goat etc). Simply in order to

earn money by fair or foul means he can either kill people or instill fear in their psyche. He is least

bothered that his criminal deeds are hurtling his country, society, community etc in the crater of

downfall. This is because for him money is the be all and end all of life. Never mind if in the

process others are hurt or even killed! Today since mankind’s pursuits are sheer material in

nature as days go by artificially needs are also created. Thus to fulfill these bloated ‘needs’ he

pursues selfishness which in the long run results in envy, hatred and stress. With the result

spiritual values and an attitude of selfless service goes straight out of the window so to speak.

That knowledge, wisdom, wealth meant for higher spiritual pursuits is misused in making others

and himself envious, demeaned and harassed. In doing so, mankind does not harbor even a

twinge of guilt when he/she loots and cunningly grabs the rightful share of others in society. And

yet what is even more painful that that very man called literate, progressive and highly cultured is

in reality far from what he/she appears to be (“Appearances are often deceptive”). This fact

cannot remain hidden wherein in whichever nation, community, society etc the number of selfish

people rise alarmingly there not only glory and respect go down the drain but that their very

existence remains a big question mark.

It is spiritual ignorance that propels world humanity to work only for fleeting selfish gains. Those

imbued with even a little bit of wisdom can definitely understand this fact. For example if 4 selfish

people gather together and are told to behave selfishly with one another the result will be that

none of them will get satiated. This is because each one is so alert about his selfish gains that

when he contacts another selfish person they will share fist blows with one another. Readers who

can clearly visualize the chaotic state of these 4 will truly understand the unruly state of the world

at large when it teems with innumerous selfish narrow minded human beings. Lord Manu’s

precept given as follows must be deeply cogitated over by people who out of sacred association

with great seer and strength of character try to mould their day to day life on the principles of

spiritual values:

“The purest of the pure must be shared on a give and take basis with everyone. Those whose

social transactions are not taintless can never attain greatness of character. Such a person can

never become the beloved child of Almighty God. If we desire that our future becomes great and

that we live a life of high stature our day to day living must become taintless and sacred”.

You must change your very standpoint in all the activities transacted by you daily in a wholesome

manner. Suppose you are a doctor, sincerely check the patient’s symptoms and honestly

administer apt medicine with a yearning that the patient regains good health very soon. Those

who sell medicines must take a profit margin of maximum 25 percent and not even an iota more.

Your behavior towards all must be ethical and sweet natured. If you actually do this from the very

bottom of your heart know for sure that you will earn much more wealth than those doctors who

do not follow this method and instead earn cash by harassing their patients with the aim of

emptying their pockets. If you opt for the ethical wholesome method the number of patients

coming to you for medical treatment will augment and not only will your wealth augment but that

name and fame too will follow suit.

Suppose you are a shop owner, you must sell stuff to your customers that is measured aptly and

that is not adulterated. The profit margin should be very fair and never sell stuff that is out dated

or old by calling it falsely as ‘new’. While dealing with customers speak politely, honestly and with

a sense of oneness of soul. In this manner your customers will start trusting you more and more

and there will be a long queue of customers eager to buy stuff from your shop. In this manner on

the one hand you ethically please your customers and on the other you earn a lot of money too.

Suppose you are a salaried worker, resolve to responsibly carry out your duties without any dilly

dallying. You must be committed and accountable in your jobs to your bosses. If you take bribes

etc know for sure you are executing criminal unethical actions. As a result your soul/conscience

gets tarnished and tainted. People who take bribes foolishly fail to realize that they get only as

much their destiny decides to shell out for them. Even if they renounce tainted sinful actions their

past misdeeds catch up with them and through other maims they undergo stress and strife as a

result. Sins proliferate due to spiritual ignorance and weakness of the psyche. When the layman

contacts such a sinful person in a friendly and loving manner there are great chances of the sinful

person transforming for the better. Thus both of them can get spiritually uplifted.

In the Yajurveda (40) it is said:

“O mankind! You may reside in any Varna, Ashrama or in any corner of the globe. But the fact is

that the results of your deeds make you a king, servant, leader, citizen, healthy, diseased (lame,

dumb, blind etc), boss, employee etc. Hence you must yearn to live for a 100 years while

executing Vedic high stature actions. These great actions can never give you sorrow. It is high

stature activity that will give you eternal joy and no other reason can do so. Spiritual activity is a

supreme endeavor. When you help a person who is either poor or in anguish the latter’s mind

always blesses you and thinks constantly of your well being”. It is generally seen that when you

help those in need either physically, mentally or materially he/she during your times of dire

circumstances will always even lay down his/her life to help you get out of a crisis. Those who are

ungrateful and downfallen, if they once in a blue moon help those who were his/her benefactor no

doubt may experience a shred of light ray in their dark gloomy activities yet their tough egos

overall tend to prevail. Suppose such a person wipes the tears of one in anguish and to an extent

lessens his/her anguish, suppose at the time of dire need he/she helps someone, suppose

he/she has donated some wealth yet in his/her bosom will rise thoughts in an egoistic fashion

saying ‘I’ am a great benefactor, ‘I’ am spiritually very advanced, ‘I’ work hard for others uplifting

and so on and so forth. To such people we say: O one of lowly intellect! At least imbibe some

inspiration from Almighty God’s cosmic Yajna! On the one hand you use materials created by God

in an unruly wanton manner but egoistically fail to even donate materials not used by you to those

who lie in a downtrodden poverty stricken state. What kind of justice or wisdom is this? Despite

the Lord’s gigantic Yajna executed right under your nose you fail to imbibe it in your day to day

living. Isn’t it a shame on your part? You must remember always that without spiritual pursuits if

you yearn for eternal bliss it is like trying to grow flowers in the sky hanging high up there! Know

for sure that true humanity is synonymous with actions that ooze with well being of the entire

world at large.

In the Atharvaveda it is said:

“O mankind! You all must experience oneness of heart with each other, your psyche should ooze

with a yearning to work selflessly for world welfare and it should not harbor even an iota of hatred

towards anybody. You must adore each other so much that it should be comparable to a cow

loving its newborn calf. Man should wriggle out of the quicksand of selfishness and instead stand

high up on the rock of world welfare. The difference exists only in ones inner sentiments

(Bhaavanaa) and attitude. If we all do this there will be nothing but benefits/gains. Good hearted

people rise above the petty ego and its resultant selfishness. When they endeavor to ward off the

pain and anguish of those in grief, poverty etc. the Lord’s law starts working wherein the good

deeds are returned in full measure with fame, honor and salvation. Today our nation India is in a

sorry state for the prime reason that selfishness is in total vogue everywhere. What we need to do

is bang opposite to this i.e. welfare of all and well being of the world. By overcoming our tainted

selfish leanings one must with a sense of humble sacrifice serve/worship all creatures as

manifestations of divinity.

If we study India’s history it becomes clear that just as in the past great seers lived a Yajna based

life so too today in the modern era we all can follow in their hallowed footsteps. For example Lord

Shankara for the well being of world denizens drank the most potent Halahala poison. Maharshi

Dadhichee to bestow blessings on divine beings and warding off demonic elements donated his

very bones. Lord Indra made the Vajra or thunderbolt weapon from these bones. If you sift

through the pages of ancient world history it is easy to deduce that not just one or two but virtually

all great leaders, sages etc lived a life for world well being in a selfless/egoless manner. Mahatma

Gandhi fought for India’s freedom from alien rule. This he did not do for himself only. Shri

Subhashchandra Bose built the Azaad Hind Senaa not for his freedom but for India’s freedom. In

the same way all great leaders renounced selfish narrow minded interests and worked selflessly

for world well being. Great scientists too underwent immense hardships to discover new scientific

laws and inventions so that world humanity could be served selflessly. Today we worship them,

eulogize them and remember them time and again. Our history tells us that whenever anyone

worked selflessly for others well being eternal joy and all round prosperity followed them

everywhere. It is lack of selfless service that breeds stress and strife. If there is any Vashikaran

Mantra that makes the world dance to your tune know for sure it is none other than selfless

service to all world creatures without exception. A true Rishi, demigod or human being is one

whose taintless mind dances with thoughts of selfless service to the world.

It is not as though only selfish is bad or that only selflessness too is not good. But the fact is that

when both merge into one it is called spiritual welfare of the world. It is this that is called Yajna

attitude wherein our own well being or that of the world manifests without any obstacle

whatsoever. Yajna based life is that which oozes with a sense of true well being of the world and

that leads one and all to spiritual liberation/salvation/Moksha.

Almighty Lord out of sheer limitless compassion has given mankind the path of Yajna oriented

living which speedily shall bestow him/her with salvation. If we so wish in every aspect of our lives

each moment we can walk on this royal path. In the Yajurveda (Chapter 40) it is said:

“O mankind! By visualizing the Almighty Lord’s existence in every unit of the cosmos use all its

powers with a sense of renunciation/sacrifice for world well being. Never ever get lured by the

thought of snatching wealth and materials rightfully belonging to others. The Lord’s laws are all

the time noting all your actions”.

According to Vedas Yajna actions are those that bestow well being on others in society. They help

in soul advancement. In the Yajurveda (Chapter 31) it is said:

“Divine men via Yajnas perform Yajnas of Yajnas. This the is the very prime duty of human

beings. Those who perform such actions become advanced and attain heavenly joys. This very

joy has been attained by spiritual aspirants in the past”.

In the Shatpath Braahmana it is written:

“Swayambhoo Manu performed austerities and saw that austerities are not full of limitlessness. At

that time for all beings he performed Havan of his soul and by doing this he attained greatness,

self rule and his kingdom”.

“In this manner that human being who sacrifices his all for the welfare of all beings in the world

attains greatness, self rule and a kingdom”.

We all are witness to the Lord executing a mammoth cosmic Yajna each passing moment in a

pause less manner. Every living being on the bais of its intellect and effort attains benefits. The

Lord’s creation i.e. the sun and moon gives the world life, light, juices etc. thus the earth and all

creatures get dwellings, food, herbs, plants etc. Further we are all blessed by God since we avail

his air, water, space etc. In a nutshell all this gives us an impetus to live a life of Yajna or selfless

service to the world. In actuality if man wishes to advance in life in a comprehensive manner the

one and only path is living a life of Yajna i.e. selfless service to the world.

Yajna is aso synonymous with worship of divinity. Divine people are those who are full of nonviolence,

truth, ireless, bravery, charity, forgiveness, sense/self control, self study/introspection,

austerities, straightforwardness etc. Hence worship of divinity means honoring and congregating

such divine people and associating with them for our material/spiritual uplifting.

Congregationalism is selfless actions executed for a huge gathering of the lay public so as to

bestow on them both material and spiritual prosperity. Wealth given to organizations that dig

wells, build schools, colleges, hospitals etc so as to serve the lay public is called true charity or

donation. We all know very well that the lives of all great men and leaders of the world oozed with

the Yajna attitude of selfless service.

It is indeed a truth devoid of illusion that even to attain worldly joy like long life, energy, children,

wealth, name, fame, education etc Yajna attitude and activities are imperative. King Dashrath

performed the Putreshti Yajna so as to sire a son, Ashwamedha Yajna was performed to attain

rule over the entire world and Gomedha Yajnas are famous for worship of divinity. In fact a true

Ashwamedha Yajna involves making the earth extremely fertile for greater crop yield and

Gomedha Yajna means mastering our 5 sense organs (ear, nose, tongue, skin, eyes). A

Sanyaasin (mendicant) via Naramedha Yajnas resolved to unite the world peacefully as a family

and work selflessly for this goal. For this he/she traveled the length and breadth of the world. A

devotee who intensely yearns for God/Self Realization performed Yajna using the

Praahapatyaagni (fire) daily and would vow 6 times:

“O Almighty Lord! Your gigantic ceaseless Yajna continues in the world with your blessings.

Hence I offer my soul as Samidhaa (wood) in this Yajna of yours so as to augment it n-fold. In

order to enhance this Yajna of service to the world selflessly I will use all my mental, physical and

financial strength for the same”.

Which are the words used in praying to the Lord by spiritual seekers who yearn to attain Self

Realization? The following Vedic Mantras give a vivid description of it (Yajurveda….chapter 18):

“May our life span be used for Yajnas and only for Yajnas may we remain alive. May our social,

spiritual and bodily powers be used for Yajnas. Meaning may we use our eyes for others’ well

being and may it look upon others’ daughters, sisters etc as its own mother. Others’ wealth should

be dust for our eyes and others’ soul as ones very own soul; may our ears hear sacred Vedic

Mantras. On seeing other living beings undergo hardships, may we have the strength, to help

overcome the same. Our ears should never listen to vilification of others’ character. Our speech

should be measured and controlled and although it must speak the truth it should never be done

harshly. Our speech must have radiant wisdom so that it can overcome taints of vile people and

help gather great people for working towards world peace and prosperity. Our mind and soul

should be without distortions and they must think only well being of all without exception. Our

wisdom and speech must be utilized for Yajna execution and via robot like senses perform

spiritual Yajnas. This must be done so that we never harbor the egoistic sense of doer ship ‘I’”.

Yajnas are supreme actions and without due wisdom they can never be performed aptly. Those

who aspire for Divine Wisdom must associate with divine saintly personages (Sadguru). This is

because saintly association and performance of daily spiritual practices (Saadhanaa) the selfish

ego is nullified. It is then that one becomes a true human being after which there is no need to run

here and there for God Realization. In fact every moment they ‘see’ God in the soul of all

inanimate/animate world objects and in selfless activities that benefit the world. In the Bhagwad

Geeta it is written:

“The omnipresent Lord is for ever performing a cosmic Yajna”. Those who aspire for a human

rebirth or that in a higher world must deeply meditate on this verse of Mahaabhaarata Epic’s

Shaanti Parva: “Without Yajna activity human rebirth or a higher world is impossible to attain”.

Man is said to be the greatest amongst all creatures but the fact is that the dirt produced by man’s

body far exceeds that of other creatures. It is not as though mankind is content with spreading

bodily dirt all over the place instead over and above this they pollute the world via atomic bomb

testing, poisonous gases from various mills/factories, cigarette smoking etc. Thus Almighty God’s

otherwise fragrant world is letting off a foul stench. If man truly is best amongst all creatures he

should be living a life of Yajna and thus manifest heavenly situations in all corners of the globe.

He should make the world divinely fragrant by performing Yajnas and offering fragrant herbs to

the sacred Yajna fire. This in turn would help augment crop yield, diseases could decrease

drastically and the mind too can become taintless and serene. When the minds of such men and

women unite children born to them can become great and radiant in character.

The greatest method of sacred and secret charity can be learnt from Yajnas. The materials

offered to the Yajna fire become gaseous and are inhaled by thousands of people thus pleasing

them with its heavenly fragrance. And at this end the Yajna performer experiences a sense of joy

and contentment. The one inhaling fragrance does not know the Yajna doer and vice versa.

Hence charity is going on in a selfless manner. In this manner as long as selfless Yajnas

persisted in ancient India it experienced joy, peace and material comforts. And hence it became

the World Guru (Jagad Guru). As against this today due to an abject lack of spiritual and material

Yajnas the world is faced with strife and stress. The more man uses his energy for spiritual

pursuits the results too will be n-fold more bright.

 

Om Tat Sat
                                                        
(Continued...) 

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