| In Sayana's
commentary on this text the sloka of Mann is quoted as referring to the efficacy of homa
in reaching the Sun and thereby causing the rains through the Sun's rays. The clouds
bestow rain on the world.The rains help food production, which in turn sustains all
beings. Hence it is said that the Vedas enjoin the performance of yajnas for the benefit
of mankind. The yajna is therefore, an act of service to mankind. The Vedas enjoin also on
all those who follow its authority the performance of the five-fold duty in life. It is
called the Maha Yajna. These duties are: (1)
Deva Yajna, (2) Pitr Yajna (3) Bootha Yajna (4) Manushya Yajna and (5) Brahma Yajna. Deva
Yajna is the ritual to propitiate the Devas. Pitr Yajna is for propitiating the Pitrs or
manes. Bootha Yajna is offering food and help to all animals. Manushya Yajna is offering
food and succour to men. Brahma Yajna is the attainment of spirituality by studying and
reciting all scriptures. These are specifically mentioned in the Vedas, Brahma Yajna is
sometimes referred to as the Rishi Yajna viz. the duty that we owe to the Rishis who have
been responsible for the Vedic utterances.
Though often In the commentaries on this passage of the Vedas
the word 'yajna' is given this restricted meaning, it is not necessary to confine it to
the sense in which it is used here. Any philanthropic act done to one's fellow-men thereby
relieving suffering and pain and conferring benefit upon another will come under the scope
of the word 'Yajna '. The Lord has given Himself this comprehensive meaning to the
word ‘Yajna’ in Adhyaya of the Bhagawad, Gita Himself. Many yajnas are referred
to and they are Dravya Yajna. Tapo Yajna, Yoga Yajna, Swadhyaya Yajna, Jnana Yajna etc.
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