HYMN XCIII. Indra-Agni.

1. SLAYERS of enemies, Indra and Agni, accept this day our new-born pure laudation.

Again, again I call you prompt to listen, best to give quickly strength to him who craves it.

2 For ye were strong to gain, exceeding mighty, growing together, waxing in your vigour.

Lords of the pasture filled with ample riches, bestow upon us strength both fresh and lasting.

3 Yea when the strong have entered our assembly, and singers seeking with their hymns your favour,

They are like steeds who come into the race-course, those men who call aloud on Indra-Agni.

4 The singer, seeking with his hymns your favour, begs splendid riches of their first possessor.

Further us with new bounties, Indra-Agni, armed with strong thunder, slayers of the foeman.

5 When two great hosts, arrayed against each other, meet clothed with brightness, in the fierce encounter

Stand ye beside the godly, smite the godless; and still assist the men who press the Soma.

6 To this our Soma-pressing, Indra-Agni, come ye prepared to show your loving-kindness,

For not at any time have ye despised us. So may I draw you with all strengthenings hither.

7 So Agni, kindled mid this adoration, invite thou Mitra, Varuna, and Indra.

Forgive whatever sin we have committed may Aryaman and Aditi remove it.

8 While we accelerate these our sacrifices, may we win strength from both of you, O Agni:

Ne'er may the Maruts, Indra, Visnu slight us. Preserve us evermore, ye Gods, with blessings.