HYMN IX. Agni.

1. ACCUSTOMED to the Herald's place, the Herald hath seated him, bright, splendid, passing mighty,

Whose foresight keeps the Law from violation, excellent, pure-tongued, bringing thousands, Agni.

2 Envoy art thou, protector from the foeman, strong God, thou leadest us to higher blessings.

Refulgent, be an ever-heedful keeper, Agni, for us and for our seed offspring.

3 May we adore thee in thy loftiest birthplace, and, with our praises, in thy lower station.

The place whence thou issued forth I worship: to thee well kindled have they paid oblations.

4 Agni, best Priest, pay worship with oblation; quickly commend the gift to be presented;

For thou art Lord of gathered wealth and treasure. of the bright song of praise thou art inventor.

5 The twofold opulence, O Wonder-Worker, of thee new-born each day never decreases.

Enrich with food the man who lauds thee, Agni: make him the lord of wealth with noble offspring.

6 May he, benevolent with this fair aspect, best sacrificer, bring the Gods to bless us.

Sure guardian, our protector from the foemen, shine, Agni, with thine affluence and splendour.