Vedic Mythology c6.s1.12

c6.s1.12

§ 51. Bhṛgus. — Bhṛgu is a name met with twenty-one times in the RV., besides two occurrences in the adverbial form *bhṛguvat*. It is found only once in the singular; and appears therefore to have properly designated a group of mythical beings. Mentioned twelve times in Agni hymns, they are chiefly connected with the communication of fire to men. Mātariśvan brought Agni as a treasure to Bhṛgu (1, 60¹) or kindled the hidden Agni for ¹ the Bhṛgus (3, 5¹⁰). Mātariśvan and the gods fashioned Agni for Manu, while the Bhṛgus with might produced him (10, 46⁹). The Bhṛgus found Agni lurking in the waters (10, 46²); worshipping him in the waters, they placed him in the abodes of Āyu or man (2, 4² cp. 4). They established Agni like a friend well-deposited in the wood (6, 15²) or as a treasure among men (1, 58⁶). For Agni is the Bhṛgus’ gift (3, 2⁴). Rubbing him they invoked him with prayer (1, 127⁷). With songs of praise they caused him to shine forth (10, 122⁵) in wood (4, 7¹). They brought him to the navel (cp. p. 92) of the earth (1, 143⁴). While Atharvan established rites with sacrifices, the Bhṛgus showed themselves as gods with their dexterity (10, 92¹⁰). Their skill, primarily manifested in producing fire, is incidentally spoken of as artistic. For worshippers make a prayer for Indra or the Aśvins as the Bhṛgus (made) a car (4, 16²⁰; 10, 39¹⁴).