Rig-Veda, Book 3: HYMN XVII. Agni.

HYMN XVII. Agni.

1. DULY enkindled after ancient customs, bringing all treasures, he is balmed with unguents,—
Flame-haired, oil-clad, the purifying Agni, skilled in fair rites, to bring the Gods for worship.
2 As thou, O Agni, skilful Jātavedas, hast sacrificed as Priest of Earth, of Heaven,
So with this offering bring the Gods, and prosper this sacrifice today as erst for Manu.
3 Three are thy times of life, O Jātavedas, and the three mornings are thy births, O Agni.
With these, well-knowing, grant the Gods’ kind favour, and help in stir and stress the man who worships.
4 Agni most bright and fair with song we honour, yea, the adorable, O Jātavedas.
Thee, envoy, messenger, oblation-bearer, the Gods have made centre of life eternal.
5 That Priest before thee, yet more skilled in worship, stablished of old, health-giver by his nature,—
After his custom offer, thou who knowest, and lay our sacrifice where Gods may taste it.