Derived from the root ‘pri’ (to propitiate, to gain favor or boon), the word ‘Apri’ refers to a group of invocatory hymns belonging to the class of ‘yajyas’ (formulae of consecration). There are ten Aprisuktas in the Rig Veda (1.13; 1.142; 1.188; 2.3 and so on). The yajamana (sacrificer) has to choose from these verses according to his gotra (lineage). They are recited in the Pashubandha sacrifices.
The Significance of Aprisuktas
Purpose and Efficacy: Chanting these hymns is believed to please the concerned deities who then confer boons on the sacrificer. The efficacy of these hymns lies in their ability to invoke divine favor, ensuring the success and sanctity of the ritual.
Personification of Sacrificial Elements: The deities invoked in these hymns are often personified objects related to the sacrifice itself, such as:
- The fuel (Samidha): Symbolizing the offerings made into the fire.
- The sacrificial grass (Kusha): Representing the purity and sanctity of the space.
- The enclosure (Vedi): The altar or sacred space where the ritual is conducted.
These elements are regarded as different forms of Agni, the fire god, who is central to Vedic rituals.
Structure and Usage
Gotra-based Selection: The yajamana must select the appropriate Aprisukta based on his gotra. This lineage-based selection ensures that the hymns are personalized, enhancing their effectiveness.
Pashubandha Sacrifices: These hymns are specifically recited during the Pashubandha sacrifices, which involve the symbolic offering of animals. The chanting of Aprisuktas sanctifies these rituals, ensuring that the offerings are accepted by the deities.
The Deities of Aprisuktas
The deities addressed in the Aprisuktas are varied and represent different aspects of the sacrificial ritual. They include:
- Agni (Fire): The primary deity of Vedic rituals, Agni is considered the mediator between humans and gods.
- Soma: The sacred plant and its juice, offered during rituals.
- Ida: The goddess of speech and nourishment, invoked for the success of the ritual.
- Bharati: Another form of the goddess of speech, associated with the earth.
The Apri hymns are a crucial aspect of Vedic rituals, particularly for those seeking boons and divine favor. By invoking deities through the personification of sacrificial elements, these hymns ensure the ritual's sanctity and effectiveness. The gotra-based selection of these hymns adds a personalized touch, making them a powerful tool in the Vedic sacrificial tradition.