HYMN XV. Agni.

1. To him, the far-renowned, the wise Ordainer, ancient and glorious, a song I offer.

Enthroned in oil, the Asura, bliss-giver, is Agni, firm support of noble, riches.

2 By holy Law they kept supporting Order, by help of sacrifice, in loftiest heaven, -

They who attained with born men to the unborn, men seated on that stay, heaven's firm sustainer.

3 Averting woe, they labour hard to bring him, the ancient, plenteous food as power resistless.

May he, born newly, conquer his assailants: round him they stand as round an angry lion.

4 When, like a mother, spreading forth to nourish, to cherish and regard each man that liveth, -

Consuming all the strength that thou hast gotten, thou wanderest round, thyself,

in varied fashion.

5 May strength preserve the compass of thy vigour, God! that broad stream of thine that beareth riches.

Thou, like a thief who keeps his refuge secret, hast holpen Atri to great wealth, by teaching.