Lord Agni: God of Fire | DevMarg

Vedic Role & Importance

Agni is invoked at the start of most Vedic hymns. He exists in three forms: as fire on earth, as lightning in the atmosphere, and as the sun in the sky. The first word of the Rigveda is "Agni," establishing his primacy in Vedic worship.

Agni in Rituals

Every havan (fire ritual) and yajna (sacrifice) requires Agni. The seven steps (Saptapadi) around the sacred fire constitute the legal Hindu marriage. Agni witnesses all vows and oaths, making him the god of truth and commitment.

Iconography & Forms

Agni is depicted as a red-complexioned deity with two heads, seven tongues of flame, and riding a ram. His seven tongues have individual names and consume different types of offerings. He carries a flaming javelin.

Spiritual Symbolism

Agni represents transformation — raw food becomes cooked, offerings become divine substance. He symbolizes the digestive fire within every being (Jatharagni). In yoga, the internal fire (tapas) purifies the practitioner on the spiritual path.