Materials for the Study of the Early History of the Vaishnava Sect c8.44

c8.44

The prominent position held by Vishnu in the Brāhmaṇic period is also manifest in the Aitareya Brāhmaṇa where he is said to occupy the highest place among the gods (Agnirvaidevānāmavamo Viṣṇuḥ paramaḥ).⁴ He is one of the 'Dīkṣāpālau'—the two guardians of the 'dīkṣā' or initiation.⁵ He protects the defects in the sacrifice (from producing any evil consequences), while Varuṇa protects the fruits arising from its successful performance.⁶ Vishnu also figures in this work as a helper of Indra against the Asuras. "The Asuras after having been turned out, entered the Śastra of the Achchhāvāka (Priest). Indra said, "Who will join me, that we both turn out the Asuras from here?" Vishnu answered, "I (will join you)." Indra and Vishnu then turned the Asuras out.¹