Rig Veda

Book 1, Hymn LXXIV. Agni

1. As forth to sacrifice we go, a hymn to a hymn let us say,
Who hears us even when afar;

2 Who, from of old, in carnage, when the people gathered, hath preserved
His household for the worshipper.

3 And let men say, Agni is born, e’en he who slayeth Vṛtra, he
Who winneth wealth in every fight.

4 Him in whose house an envoy thou lovest to taste his offered gifts,
And strengthenest his sacrifice,

5 Him, Aṅgiras, thou Son of Strength, all men call happy in his God,
His offerings, and his sacred grass.

6 Hitherward shalt thou bring these Gods to our laudation and to taste.
These offered gifts, fair-shining One.

7 When, Agni, on thine embassage thou goest not a sound is heard of steed or straining of thy car.

8 Aided by thee uninjured, strong, one after other, goes he forth:
Agni, the offerer forward steps.

9 And splendid strength, heroic, high, Agni, thou grantest from the Gods,
Thou God, to him who offers gifts.