Significance of Agnikunda

Agnikunda, according to Vaishnavism, refers to several important concepts across religious texts and practices. It is identified as a ritual site at Prabhasa where Shri Baladeva bathed, a sacred pit associated with fire during Lord Arjuna's rule, and a powerful site featuring submarine fire. In Pancaratra, it denotes a receptacle for fire offerings, while in science, it describes an inverted pyramid container used for burning herbs in the Havana process, showcasing its multifaceted significance in various contexts.

Synonyms: Fire altar, Sacrificial pit, Sacred fire pit

In Dutch: Agnikunda; In German: Agnikunda; In Finnish: Agnikunda; In Spanish: Agnikuda

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Agnikunda'

Hinduism Books

Agnikunda in Hinduism refers to a sacred site associated with fire, including a pit for rituals, a location of spiritual significance, and a receptacle used for fire offerings, highlighting its ritualistic and cultural importance.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Devi Bhagavata Purana

(1) The fire place where cow dung is reduced to ashes.[1]

From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)

(1) A sacred pit where fire is kept, referenced in the context of Lord Arjuna's reign.[2]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.

Significance in Pancaratra (worship of Nārāyaṇa):
Pancaratra Books

From: Parama Samhita (English translation)

(1) The receptacle for fire, prepared for performances involving fire offerings.[3]

Pancaratra represents a tradition of Hinduism where Narayana is revered and worshipped. Closeley related to Vaishnavism, the Pancaratra literature includes various Agamas and tantras incorporating many Vaishnava philosophies.

Significance in Vaishnavism (Vaishava dharma):
Vaishnavism Books

From: Chaitanya Bhagavata

(1) Agni-kunda is a specific place at Prabhasa where Shri Baladeva took a bath, indicating a location of ritual importance.[4]

Vaishnava or vaishnavism (vaishnavism) represents a tradition of Hinduism worshipping Vishnu as the supreme Lord. Similar to the Shaktism and Shaivism traditions, Vaishnavism also developed as an individual movement, famous for its exposition of the dashavatara (‘ten avatars of Vishnu’).