The Ekagni Kanda, also known as the Mantrapatha, is a significant section within the Apastamba Kalpasutras, belonging to the Krishna Yajurveda. This ancient Hindu text is part of the Vedangas, which are auxiliary works associated with the Vedas. The Vedangas serve as guides for understanding and correctly performing the rituals outlined in the Vedas.
The term "Ekagnikanda" is derived from the
practice it primarily focuses on—the maintenance of a single fire (eka + agni)
by an average householder. Specifically, it refers to the garhapatya fire or
the grihyagni, which is a sacred fire used in various domestic rituals.
Haradatta Mishra, in his commentary from the 11th century
CE, provides valuable insights into Ekagni Kanda. His commentary adds depth and
clarity to the understanding of the rites and rituals detailed in this section.
The Ekagnikanda consists of two chapters. The first chapter
contains 131 mantras distributed across 18 khandas or sections, while the
second chapter comprises 356 mantras in 22 khandas. The topics covered in
Ekagni Kanda predominantly fall within the realm of dharmashastras, dealing with
ethical and moral principles.
The rituals discussed in Ekagnikanda include various
samskaras or sacraments, such as vivaha (marriage), upanayana (sacred thread
ceremony), samavartana (graduation from the guru-kula), rites related to
pregnancy and childbirth, construction of a new house, offering cooked food
from the first agricultural crop, shraddhas (obsequial rites), different forms
of japa (repetition of sacred mantras), and various religious ceremonies aimed
at countering life's adversities. Additionally, the text covers rituals intended
to fulfill specific desires and minor rites.
Overall, Ekagnikanda serves as a comprehensive guide for
householders, offering detailed instructions on a wide range of rituals and
ceremonies integral to the Hindu way of life, providing a valuable resource for
understanding and practicing the ancient Vedic traditions.