Agni

Agni's History

There are few elements as destructive or as purifying as fire. Agni, God of Fire, embodies both of these qualities, with a head for each.

Though the source of his origin warrants debate - for there are many tales of his parentage ranging from two simple sticks rubbed together to the cosmic energy that made all things at the beginning of time - Agni is a pivotal and important God with many duties to the Pantheon. He is the twin brother to Indra, God of the Heavens and Rains, and chief among warriors. Conversely, Agni is chief among priests, acting as a messenger between mortals and gods. Every Hindu ritual and prayer is performed in front of a fire of some kind, so Agni carries the words and sacrifices, traveling between the Earth and the Heavens. He is welcome in every home and every hearth and much beloved by the Faithful.

Through his flames, Agni provides heat and light but also cleanses impurities. Smoke from his pyres creates the air and holds the Heavens aloft. The sun, a source of fire itself, brings life-giving energy to the world, and his lightning streaks the sky during storms.

For all his kindness and service, Agni has two faces. One is the face of kindness and purity, turned towards the people and Gods. His other face, grim and resolute, guides the God of Fire to play his role in the cosmic cycle of creation and destruction, to burn and blacken all the atrocities of the world to ash.