HYMN XVII. Agni.

1. DULY enkindled after ancient customs, bringing all treasures, he is balmed with unguents, -

Flame-haired, oil-clad, the purifying Agni, skilled in fair rites, to bring the Gods for worship.

2 As thou, O Agni, skilful Jatavedas, hast sacrificed as Priest of Earth, of Heaven,

So with this offering bring the Gods, and prosper this sacrifice today as erst for Manu.

3 Three are thy times of life, O Jatavedas, and the three mornings are thy births, O Agni.

With these, well-knowing, grant the Gods' kind favour, and help in stir aiid stress the man who worships.

4 Agni most bright and fair with song we honour, yea, the adorable, O Jatavedas.

Thee, envoy, messenger, oblation-bearer, the Gods have made centre of life eternal.

5 That Priest before thee, yet more skilled in worship, stablished of old, healthgiver by his nature, -

After his custom offer, thou who knowest, and lay our sacrifice where Gods may taste it.