AGNI
EPISODE
It
happened once the Saptarishis performed a great yagna. Agni then had the
occasion of seeing
the Munipatnis closely. And for long, since he was carrying the ablations to the
gods. Their sublime charm enkindled love in him. He could not fulfil his lust
due to chastity strictly practiced by them. So he was found despaired now and
then. Just during this period Swaha, the lovely daughter of Daksha, who was in
deep love for Agni contrived a plan to marry him by fulfilling his desire.
Accordingly, she assumed the forms of the wives of the Rishis and consorted with
Agni, who ignorant of the trick felt elated.
Except
Arunadathi, she took the
forms of the six rishipatnis
and pleased him, and was pleased too. Every time she consorted with him, she
used to keep the seed in a golden receptacle on a white mountain. This happened
six times. The child thus born to them was called Skanda, since he came into the
world with the seed of Agni and six women. He had six heads and twelve arms, but
one neck and a belly. Agni and Swaha later brought up their child. On account of
taking birth with the seed of that powerful all consuming Fire god, he was
exceptionally strong and invincible. He was chosen as the Army General by
Devendra, when he fought against Danavas. He proved a remarkable War-Chief and
won every war. Devendra then gave his daughter Devasena to him in marriage.
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