Katha Upanishad Verse 2.1.8

This verse uses the metaphor of the sacrificial fire (Agni) hidden within the araṇis (fire-sticks) to describe the Atman. Just as a foetus is carefully nourished and protected within the womb, the cosmic fire is lodged within the sticks, waiting to be brought forth by the “watchful offerers” through spiritual practice. This hidden reality is indeed the Brahman.

Sanskrit Verse

अरण्योर्निहितो जातवेदा गर्भ इव सुभृतो गर्भिणीभिः । दिवे दिवे ईड्यो जागृवद्भिर्हविष्मद्भिर्मनुष्येभिरग्निः । एतद्वैतत् ॥ ८ ॥

Transliteration

araṇyornihito jātavedā garbha iva subhṛto garbhiṇībhiḥ | dive dive īḍyo jāgṛvadbhirhaviṣmadbhirmanuṣyebhiragniḥ | etadvaitat || 8 ||

Translation

The fire lodged in the aranis, as the foetus is well-borne by the pregnant woman fit to be worshipped every day by watchful offerers and other men. This verily is that.