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1 To splendid Agni seated by the altar, loving well his home, I bring the food as 'twere his place of birth. 2 Child of a double birth he grasps at triple food; in the year's course what he hath swallowed grows anew 3 The pair who dwell together, moving in the dark bestir themselves: both parents hasten to the babe, 4 For man, thou Friend of men, these steeds of thine are yoked, impatient, lightly running, ploughing 5 Dispelling on their way the horror of black gloom, making a glorious show these flames Of his fly forth 6 Amid brown plants he stoops as if adorning them, and rushes bellowing like a bull upon his wives. 7 Now covered, now displayed he grasps as one who knows his resting−place in those who know him wel 8 The maidens with long, tresses hold him in embrace; dead, they rise up again to meet the Living One. 9 Licking the mantle of the Mother, far and wide he wanders over fields with beasts that flee apace. 10 O Agni, shine resplendent with our wealthy chiefs, like a loud−snorting bull, accustomed to the house. 11 May this our perfect prayer be dearer unto thee than an imperfect prayer although it please thee well. 12 Grant to our chariot, to our house, O Agni, a boat with moving feet and constant oarage, 13 Welcome our laud with thine approval, Agni. May earth and heaven and freely flowing rivers

2 With brilliant, purifying sheen, with perfect sheen thou liftest up thyself in light. 3 O Jatavedas, Son of Strength, rejoice ihyself, gracious, in our fair hymns and songs. 4 Agni, spread forth, as Ruler, over living things: give wealth to us, Immortal God. 5 To him, the wise, who orders sacrifice, who hath great riches un der his control, 6 The men have set before them them for their welfare Agni, strong, visible to all, the Holy.