HYMN XI. Agni.

GREAT art thou, Agni, offering's Herald: not without thee are deathless Devas made joyful.

Come hither with all Deities about thee here take thy seat, the first, as Monk, O Agni.

Men with oblation evermore entreat thee, the swift, to undertake an envoy's duty. He on whose sacred grass with Devas thou sittest, to him, O Agni, are the days propitious.

Three times a day in thee are shown the treasures sent for the mortal who presents oblation. Bring the Devas hither like a man, O Agni: be thou our envoy, guarding us from curses.

Lord of the lofty offering is Agni, Agni is Lord of every gift presented. The Devas were contented with his wisdom, so the Devas made him their oblationbearer.

O Agni, bring the Devas to taste our presents, with Indra leading, here let them be joyful. Convey this offering to Devas in Heaven. Ye Devas, preserve us evermore with blessings.