HYMN XIII. Agni.

1. AGNI hath looked, benevolently-minded, on the wealth-giving spring of radiant Mornings.

Come, Asvins, to the dwelling of the pious: Surya the God is rising with his splendour.

2 Savitar, God, hath spread on high his lustre, waving his flag like a spoil-seeking hero.

Their stablished way go Varuna and Mitra, what time they make the Sun ascend the heaven.

3 Him whom they made to drive away the darkness, Lords of sure mansions, constant to their object,

Him who beholds the universe, the Sun-God, seven strong and youthful Coursers carry onward.

4 Spreading thy web with mightiest Steeds thou comest, rending apart, thou God, the black-hued mantle.

The rays of Surya tremulously shining sink, like a hide, the darkness in the waters.

5 How is it that, unbound and not supported, he falleth not although directed downward?

By what self power moves he? Who liath seen it? He guards the vault of heaven, a close-set pillar.