The word Agnihotra consists of the Sanskrit words Agni and Hotra. The literal meaning of Agni and Hotra is fire and offerings. According to the Vedas, Agnihotra is the simplest form of Yajna.
Definition of Agnihotra
The process of offering two oblations of two pinch full of rice smeared with cow’s ghee into the fire prepared out of dried cow dung in a pyramid-shaped copper vessel exactly at local sunrise and sunset times alongside chanting of two specific Sanskrit mantras is called Agnihotra.
A sacred Vedic scripture called Shraut Sutras describes Agnihotra as a healing fire ritual to be performed every sunrise and sunset. In praise of Agnihotra, the Kathak Samhita says that those who practice Agnihotra attain godhood and swargaloka, the state of eternal bliss.
Agnihotra is likened to a boat that leads to Swarg, or eternal bliss, by Shatapat Brahman. Its relevance is indisputable, as it is referred to as Avinashi Yajnya. It is considered a sacred ‘jaramaryam satra’, a ritual that should be repeated without interruption as it is a method for healing and harmonizing life.
Significance & Benefits of Agnihotra Mantra
An agnihotra cleanses and purifies the space element against negative vibrations. Space also purifies all elements that are in orbit. It increases energy, improves overall health and provides clarity of thought.
Agnihotra’s healing wheel benefits all people, plants, and animals within its purview. The oblations are placed into the Fire by one member of the family and the rest join in chanting the mantras. It benefits everyone in the room or area. Ayurveda also uses the Agnihotra technique. In Sanskrit, it is known as Sattvavajaya Chikitsa or positive reaffirmation therapy. By chanting rhythmically during specific times of the day, the meaning of the chant is imprinted on the mind.
Among the benefits of Agnihotra in our everyday lives are: improved concentration levels, reduced stress levels, feeling at peace with yourself and your surroundings, improved motivation, improved family ties, improved immunity, as well as obvious and scientifically proven anti-bacterial effects.
Also read Garuda Mantra – Meaning, Method, and Benefits.
When to perform Agnihotra & How
The Agnihotra time is referred to as ‘Sandhya’, which is the transitional period. It is neither day nor night, nor light nor dark. During this particular period, the Vedas describe it as Tirtha, the passage to enlightenment. The process of transition occurs at sunrise and sunset. During this time band, the mind and body are in perfect harmony.
As a result, the beneficial effects of Agnihotra are enhanced when performed during this time. On these crucial transitional moments, Agnihotra is ordained to be performed precisely.
Also read Gayatri Mantra: Who, What & Why Chant.
The Agnihotra Mantra:
| Agnihotra Mantra for Sunrise | Agnihotra Mantra for Sunset |
| Sooryaya Swáhá (Put unbroken brown rice mixed with ghee into the fire) | Agnaye Swáhá (Put unbroken brown rice mixed with ghee into the fire) |
| (सूर्योदय)सूर्याय स्वाहा सूर्याय इदं न मम ।प्रजापतये स्वाहा प्रजापतये इदं न मम ॥ | (सूर्यास्त)अग्नये स्वाहा अग्नये इदं न मम ।प्रजापतये स्वाहा प्रजापतये इदं न मम ॥ |
Agnihotra & Science Experiments:
Dr. A.G. Mondkar and Shri. Rao carried out a series of experiments under the guidance of a group of microbiologists & pathologists. According to Y.B. Sohoni, the behavior of microflora in Agnihotra’s environment was studied. Over 96% of bacteria growth was inhibited. Similar results were observed in another set of experiments conducted in highly polluted areas.
A study of Kirlian photography concluded that the aura of plants and human handprints changed from high-stress levels to an aura of tranquility.
Also read, Beej Mantras – The Root Sounds.
Dr. Selvamurthy (Sr. Scientist) studied the physiological effects of Agnihotra at the Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS), New Delhi. In the study, Agnihotra was found to have distinct mental and physical benefits that led to calm and serenity. Prana raises the Sattva in the mind due to its high energy, creating an effect that makes the Mind more confident. Additionally, this increases confidence and concentration.
The Mind is then in a better position to handle situations. The result is a reduction of stress levels in the mind, a state of tranquility, and a sense of inner peace.
Science has continually verified the effects of Agnihotra on our ecosystem through numerous experiments completed by scientists worldwide, and the benefits claimed by our sacred saints are true time and time again.
The agnihotra is effective in removing almost 90% of bacteria that cause diseases and infections when exposed to pollution. In addition to formaldehyde, agnihotra fumes contain many substances with inhibitory effects on microorganisms. Additionally, the bioenergetics of individual microorganisms was studied with Agnihotra.
Also read, Important Ganpati Mantras & Atharvashirsham.
In addition to its many functions, Agnihotra acts as an energizing force. By purifying the environment and water resources, it helps undo the effects of pollution. The Agnihotra Farming Method neutralizes harmful radiation and bacteria, so our plants are more effectively nourished. Positive energy is amplified by chanting Sanskrit mantras and using a combination of organic substances to prepare a fire.
