Mandala 1 / 10Contains 75 सुक्त and 765 श्लोक . The रिग् वेद 's fifth Mandala contains hymns that particularly extol अग्नि , the fire deity, and इन्द्र , the deity of rain and thunder. अग्नि , with his transformative power and brilliance, is central in rituals, symbolizing a bridge between mortals and the divine. At dawn, he is kindled by priests, marking the start of daily rituals with offerings to liberate from the night's darkness [rv-5-1-2 ] . His seven rays signify sustenance, attracting the reverence of sages and worshippers [rv-5-1-5 ] . Hidden yet fiercely radiant, अग्नि embodies strength, overcoming adversities and blessing those who honor him [rv-5-2] .
A unique theme throughout the मन्दल is अग्नि ’s multifaceted role in sacred rites, where he transforms into other deities like वरुण , इन्द्र , and विस्ह्नु to support worshippers [rv-5-3-1 ] . His contributions to prosperity and unity are widely celebrated [rv-5-3-4 ] , and as a source of vast riches and sustenance, he is beseeched for food, protection, and fortune [rv-5-4-1 ] . The hymn dedicated to him also highlights the importance of divine invocations, urging the inclusion of goddesses like इऌआ and सरस्वती , while emphasizing entities like इन्द्र and वनस्पति for ritual success [rv-5-5] .
The narrative on इन्द्र takes a distinct turn, chronicling his mighty exploits. Revered as a beacon of strength, इन्द्र 's thunderbolt-wielding prowess is glorified through his victories over giants like अहि and वृत्र , battles that secured cosmic order and prosperity [rv-5-29, rv-5-30] . इन्द्र 's assistance is recognized in restoring light after स्वर्भानु 's darkness, showcasing his power in preserving cosmic harmony [rv-5-40] . His divine interventions and successes in battles affirm his position as a protector and a benefactor, rewarding dedication with wealth and power [rv-5-31, rv-5-32] .
Other deities such as मित्र , वरुण , and the मरुत्स् are also extensively revered. The मरुत्स् , known for their formidable presence, bring life-sustaining rains and prosperity to the world, resembling valiant heroes in cosmic stories [rv-5-52, rv-5-54] . मित्र and वरुण feature prominently as celestial guardians, whose guidance on righteous paths fosters happiness and divine favor [rv-5-62, rv-5-64] . Together, they ensure earthly abundance, maintaining the cosmic balance necessary for human and divine realms [rv-5-69] .
Dawn herself, personified as उषस् , receives homage for dispelling darkness and bestowing treasures with her graceful presence. She is deemed youthful and perpetual, key in ensuring the continuity of light and prosperity across cycles [rv-5-79, rv-5-80] . Additionally, the narration celebrates सविता for his cosmic sovereignty and influence, lauding his capability to grant wealth and dispel adversities, reinforcing cheerfulness and harmony in daily lives [rv-5-81, rv-5-82] .
The hymns not only focus on divine figures but also illustrate how these deities enhance rituals and sacred ceremonies, thus underlining the importance of devotion and the ethical conduct required to attract divine assistance. Through intricate rituals and precise invocations, worshippers strive to secure blessings, protection, and prosperity, emphasizing the reciprocal dynamics between the divine and humanity inherent in वेदिच् traditions [rv-5-18, rv-5-43] .
In conclusion, the fifth मन्दल of the रिग् वेद presents a vivid tapestry of divine narratives. It encapsulates the transformative power of fire through अग्नि , the cosmic order maintained by इन्द्र , and the protective embrace of deities like मित्र and वरुण . Together, these hymns emphasize the harmonious symphony of divine interactions that sustain the natural world, inviting praise and offerings from those seeking divine favor and prosperity.
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