HYMN VII. Agni.

1. O AGNI, shared by all men living bring us good luck for sacrifice from earth and heaven.

With us be thine intelligence, WonderWorker! Protect us, God, with thy far-reaching blessings.

2 These hymns brought forth for thee, O Agni, laud thee for bounteous gifts, with cattle and with horses.

Good Lord, when man from thee hath gained enjoyment, by hymns, O noblyborn, hath he obtained it.

3 Agni I deem my Kinsman and my Father, count him my Brother and my Friend for ever.

I honour as the face of lofty Agni in heaven the bright and holy light of Surya.

4 Effectual, Agni, are our prayers for profit. He whom, at home thou, Priest for ever, guardest

Is rich in food, drawn by red steeds, and holy: by day and night to him shall all be pleasant.

5 Men with their arms have generated Agni, helpful as some kind friend, adorned with splendours,

And stablished as Invoker mid the people the ancient Priest the sacrifice's lover.

6 Worship, thyself, O God, the Gods in heaven: what, void of knowledge, shall the fool avail thee?

As thou, O God, hast worshipped Gods by seasons, so, nobly-born! to thine own self pay worship.

7 Agni, be thou our Guardian and Protector bestow upon us life and vital vigour.

Accept, O Mighty One, the gifts we offer, and with unceasing care protect our bodies.