Matthew 3: 11-12 “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor, gathering his wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
I am so blind! I am so stupid that I didn’t perceive this until now. Why did this not manifest to my understanding when my soul was standing amidst the the churning fiery-light of the Akashic realm. It was all laid out before me yet in my awe, I didn’t understand.
It all hit me as I was reading Heraclitus. I know, I know, what of value can reside within the words of ancient Greek Philosophy. The Rishis are wailing at my pursuit of ideas but Monkey-Brain is happy to be riding with his Master again!
The Holy Spirit, Agni, Asha, Sophia, the Mother of God, the Shekinah Glory, the Word, Fire are all the dim representations of the Akashic, creative light, that descended from within the One. The first manifestation out of which all manifestations came into being.
So let’s start with my friend Heraclitus. We know so little about him and only fragments of what he believed remain. We know that he was an elite in the city of Ephesus and that like St Francis he renounced his position and power. Heraclitus withdrew from society and lived simply in a hut in the woods; yet he was so well known that he had acolytes that visited him to hear his ideas. He cast away all material things in pursuit of the the one thing that mattered to him; the truth of being.
According to Richard Gelhard in “Remembering Heraclitus,” this mystic was part of a worldwide spiritual revolution that took place in around 500 BC when, “…the Buddha, Lao Tse, Confucius, and Zoroaster were alive and teaching in the East…Voegelin called this period the Great Leap of Being because these teachers effectively changed the consciousness of their cultures and thus of the world… At the end of the sixth century B.C. there was the emergence in India of Adviata Vendanta, the non-dualistic religion based on the Hindu Vedas… which emphasized the individua’s autonomous role in transcending the superficial dualism of ordinary existence. Advaita teaches that the human self (atman in Sanskrit) is identical to the soul of all things (Brahman).”
Rejoice, we are also living in an age of a Great Leap of Being!
Heraclitus: Fragment 1: The Logos, which I describe, proves incomprehensible, both before it is heard and even after it is heard. For although all things happen according to the Logos, many act as if they have no experience of it, even when they do experience such words and actions as I explain, as when I separate out each thing according to its nature and state how it is; but as to the rest, they fail to notice what they do after they wake up. Just as they forget what they do when they sleep.”
Fragment 2: It is necessary, therefore, to obey the universal; but although the Logos is universal, most people act as through they have a private understanding.”
Fragment 3: “Listening to the Logos and not to me, it is wise to agree that all things are One.”
Fragment 7: “The way up and the way down are one and the same.”
Fragment 24: The cosmos [the unity of all that is] was not made by immortal or mortal beings, but always was, is and will be an eternal fire, arising and subsiding in measure.”
Fragment 16: “They do not understand how being in conflict it still agrees with itself; there is an opposing coherence, as in the tension of the bow and lyre.” In this he is alluding to the opposing forms in the Akashic realm which are One.“
This is the tension of opposite forms which are held as one within the Akasha, the place of being and becoming that descended from within the One.
Fragment 17: “If we do not expect the unexpected we will not discover it, since it is not to be searched out and is difficult to apprehend.”
Fragment 26: All things equally exchange for fire as does fire for all things, as goods are exchange for gold and gold for goods.”
Again this is stating that what takes place in the material realm is equally interchangeable with what is on the Akashic realm. When we pray to god to intervene in our lives, to heal mind and body; the healing takes place first in the Akashic realm which then is exchanged for the action in the physical world.
We the the Human have the power gifted to us, by the “Holy Spirit,” to be able to manipulate the Akashic realm through faith. We have the power to transcend the Way to the Akasha when the purpose of the request; the exchange of fire for healing or other requests of good intent.
The One is merciful to the humble; the ones who know themselves.
Fragment 39: “Your would not find out the limits of the soul, even by travelling along every path, so deep a logos does it have.”
And this fragment 48, for the ones controlled by demons: “They purify themselves in vain of blood-guilt by defiling themselves with blood, as though one who has stepped into mud were to wash with mud; he would appear insane if anyone noticed him doing this, Further they pray to statues as if one were to carry on conversations with houses, nor recognizing the true nature of gods and spirits.”
My favorite Heraclitus fragment is this one: “Human beings are carried away by every new theory.”
“In the Vedas, Agni is a major and most invoked god along with Indra and Soma; Agni is considered the mouth of the gods and goddesses and the medium that conveys offerings to them in a homa (votive ritual). He is conceptualized in ancient Hindu texts to exist at three levels, on earth as fire, in the atmosphere as lightning, and in the sky as the sun. This triple presence accords him as the messenger between the deities and human beings in the Vedic scriptures. The relative importance of Agni declined in the post-Vedic era, as he was internalized and his identity evolved to metaphorically represent all transformative energy and knowledge in the Upanishads and later Hindu literature.” Wikipedia
Agni, fire-god of Hinduism, second only to Indra in the Vedic mythology of ancient India. He is equally the fire of the sun, of lightning, and of both the domestic and the sacrificial hearth. As the divine personification of the fire of sacrifice, he is the mouth of the gods, the carrier of the oblation, and the messenger between the human and the divine orders. Agni is described in the scriptures as ruddy-hued and having two faces—one beneficent and one malignant. He has three or seven tongues, hair that stands on end like flames, three legs, and seven arms; he is accompanied by a ram, the usual sacrificial animal. “Britanica
Transformative energy of God; the Messenger of God with tongues of fire; sure sounds like the Holy Spirit to me! The being that descends from the Akashic realm and transforms the Human.
Aurobindo Ghose a famous Hindu mystic wrote an essay on the similarities between Heraclitus and Vendanta. Interestingly, he also wrote a book called, “Hymns to the Mystic Fire.” They are translations of the hymns to Agni from the Rig Veda. Just as the Holy Spirit is dead in Christianity, Agni has been forgotten in Hindu philosophy. Here are some speculations and vision of Agni:
“Many of the lines, many whole hymns even of the Veda bear on their face a mystic meaning; they are evidently an occult form of speech, have an inner meaning. When the seer speaks of Agni as “the luminous guardian of the Truth shining out in his own home”, or of Mitra and Varuna or other gods as “in touch with the Truth and making the Truth grow” or as “born in the Truth”, these are words of a mystic poet, who is thinking of that inner Truth behind things of which the early sages were the seekers”
“O Fire, thine are the call and the offering, thine the purification and the order of the sacrifice, thine the lustration; thou art the fire-bringer for the seeker of the Truth. The annunciation is thine, thou becomest the pilgrim-rite: thou art the priest of the Word and the master of the house in our home.”
“O Fire, thou art Twashtri and fashionest fullness of force for thy worshipper; thine, O friendly Light, are the goddess Energies and all oneness of natural kind. Thou art the swift galloper and lavishest good power of the Horse; thou art the host of the gods and great is the multitude of thy riches.”
My favorite: “O Fire, men worship thee with their sacrifices as a father and thee that thou mayst be their brother by their achievement of works when thou illuminest the body with thy light. Thou becomest a son to the man who worships thee; thou art his blissful friend and guardest him from the violence of the adversary.”
“O Fire, when thou art well borne by us thou becomest the supreme growth and expansion of our being, all glory and beauty are in thy desirable hue and thy perfect vision. O Vastness, thou art the plenitude that carries us to the end of our way; thou art a multitude of riches spread out on every side.”
“O Fire, the sons of the indivisible Mother made thee their mouth, the pure Gods made thee their tongue; O Seer, they who are ever close to our giving are constant to thee in the rites of the Path; the Gods eat in thee the offering cast before them.
“O Fire that hast come to perfect birth, thou art with the Gods and thou frontest them in thy might and thou exceedest them too, O God, when here the satisfying fullness of thee becomes all-pervading in its greatness along both the continents, Earth and Heaven.”
Let Fire be the priest of your call, let his presence be around every pilgrim-rite; this is he whom men crown with the word and the offering. He shall play in his growing fires wearing his tiara of golden light; like heaven with its stars he shall give us knowledge of our steps along both the continent-worlds.”
“O Godhead, strewn is the seat on this altar, the hero-guarded seat that ever grows, the seat well-packed for the riches, anointed with the Light. O all Gods, sit on this altar-seat, sons of the indivisible Mother, princes of the treasure, kings of sacrifice.”
“Soon there is born a Hero of golden-red form, an aspirant to the Godheads, a mighty bringer of riches and founder of our growth to wideness. Let the Maker of forms loosen the knot of the navel in us, let him set free the issue of our works; then let him walk on the way of the Gods.”
“I call to you the Fire with his strong delights and his splendours of light, Fire who strips all sin from us, the guest of the peoples. He becomes like a supporting friend, he becomes the God who knows all things born in the man with whom are the Gods.”
“As men who would settle in a home bring into it a beloved friend, the Gods have set the Fire in these human peoples. Let him illumine the desire of the billowing nights, let him be one full of discerning mind in the house for the giver of sacrifice.”
“Delightful is his growth as if one’s own increase, rapturous is his vision as he gallops burning on his way. He darts about his tongue mid the growths of the forest and tosses his mane like a chariot courser”
Agni, the Holy Ghost Fire that illumines the Human that opens the connection to the fire of the Akashic realm.
Sorry, Monkey-Brain was carried away by the effulgence of the vision of what that was just revealed to him; the root of the Word, the Fire the Holy Spirit of the ancient world.
In the thought of the Neo-Platonists all of this would have resonance. Compare these two verses; one from Plotinus and one from Hymns to Mystic Fire:
Plotinus: “Carried off, as it were, by the wave of the Spirit itself, lifted up high by it; as if it were swollen, ‘he suddenly saw without seeing how.’ But the spectacle, filling the eyes with light, did not cause some other object to be seen by its means; rather what was seen was light itself. It is not that there were two things within it: on the one hand a visible object, and on the other its light, nor was there the Spirit and then what is thought by the Spirit; there is only dazzling light, which engenders all these things later.” [VI-7-36}
Hymns: “To the luminous Wise Ones and to him who voices thee, O Fire, be the founder of their growth and expansion, that the Gritsamadas strong with the strength of the Heroes and overcoming the hostile forces may conquer the higher worlds by thy force and take delight of the secret inner space.“
“When a man has firmly established this Fire, he echoes the Words of knowledge and comes to That: for he embraces all seer-wisdoms as the rim surrounds a wheel.“
And here is what I now see clearly: Tongues of Fire relate to the spoken word of the Human. THE WORD brings forth all things because it is the Akashic realm. In ecstasy, the tongue of the Human venerates and becomes unified with the One, through unknown speech. The Akashic realm of fire descends upon the Human, and in this act God and the Human unite as One. Our Human, physical being can only be affected by the One in the Akashic realm. That is why the symbol of fire is used to express the connection of the Human to the Spirit of God.
I thought the Zoroastrians were ignorant “Fire Worshippers;” their beliefs were rooted in a deeper more beautiful understanding of the spiritual realm than most modern Humans could possibly comprehend today.
Fire, Fire everywhere; “the energy of the creator is represented in Zoroastrianism by fire or the sun, both of which embody many of the characteristics of the creative force. As the creative energy, they are enduring, radiant, pure and life-sustaining. In Zoroastrian places of worship, therefore, an urn containing fire, which is kept alive by donations of fragrant sandalwood or myrrh, is the most important feature.”(The world Zoroastrian Organization.)
Ervad Panthaki says, “We find many references in Avesta and Pahlavi literature to show that Fire is venerated, and equated with the glow of Ahura Mazda. We also find that there is a close association of Fire and Asha in Zoroastrianism. Asha primarily means Cosmic Order, similar to what ancient Aryans call it “Rta” in Sanskrit. Aryans was a stock comprised of modern days Hindus and Zoroastrians, and they put forward an ideal to be in tune with cosmic order, and through it, with Omniscient God: From Nature to Nature’s God. In order to achieve this, Zarathustra has provided the path of Asha for mankind. It is well said Yasna 72: Aevo panto yo ashahe, vispe anyeshām apantām “There is only one path, the path of Asha, all the rest are no paths.” Asha has many meanings and connotations such as; Purity of mind and body, Truth, Justice and righteousness. In the mechanics of Ameshā Spentā “Asha” is third in line after Ahura Mazda and Vohumana, and there it is named with an apellation “Vahista” meaning the best. Asha Vahista is presided over Fire, Ahura Mazda’s most glowing creation. In Bundahishn, it is said that “Ohrmazd created fire and attached to it a ray from the endless light.” Aryans too paid glowing tributes to fire in Rig Veda. No doubt that a devotee yearns to have the glimpse of the Supreme Being through the medium of fire.”
“The word ash is derived from the root word, ‘arta’, meaning right or true, from which is also derived the Sanskrit word “rta”, which denotes more or less a similar concept in Hinduism. Just as God creates rta in the Vedic tradition to uphold the worlds and establish Dharma (righteous law), in Zoroastrianism also God creates asha to uphold the entire creation and establish righteousness. God’s creation is an orderly process in which He brings forth various worlds and beings in a sequential fashion and sets them up in space and time in a meaningful and manageable hierarchy. It is like producing a melodious symphony from disparate elements of music and creating a feeling of oneness.”
“In contrast, Ahirman or Angira Mainyu, the evil spirit, represents chaos and confusion (druj). He is opposed to asha because he cannot thrive in it. So he always tries to disrupt the elements and lives of people by throwing them off balance. The battle between good and evil is also a battle between order and chaos. According to Zoroastrian teachings, human beings should be aware of the dangers posed by evil in a chaotic world and strive to bring order and balance into their lives, by performing good deeds and living righteously for order is rooted in righteousness, so that they can keep evil at bay.” Hinduwebsite.com
” I announce (and) carry out (this Yasna) for the pious and good Blessing of the religious man, the Asha-sanctified, (fire sanctified) and for the curse of wisdom, the swift and redoubted Yazad of potency (to blight).”
“To Fire, the son of Ahura Mazda. To you, O Fire, son of Ahura Mazda. With propitiation, for worship, adoration, propitiation, and praise.”
“I announce (and) carry out (this Yasna) for Rapithwin, the Asha-sanctified master of Asha, and for Fradat-fshu, and for Zangtuma, the holy master(s) of Asha; and I celebrate and carry out (this Yasna) to Asha the Best, and to the Fire of Ahura Mazda.”
In Islam there is the Ashʿarite sect which again contains the root of Asha.
The Rig-Veda of the Arians states the following things:
HYMN XCVII. Agni. 1. CHASING with light our sin away, O Agni, shine thou wealth on us. May his light chase our sin away. 2 For goodly fields, for pleasant homes, for wealth we sacrifice to thee. May his light chase our sin away. 3 Best praiser of all these be he; foremost, our chiefs who sacrifice. May his light chase our sin away. 4 So that thy worshippers and we, thine, Agni, in our sons may live. May his light chase our sin away. 5 As ever- conquering Agni’s beams of splendour go to every side, May his light chase our sin away. 6 To every side thy face is turned, thou art triumphant everywhere. May his light chase our sin away. 7 O thou whose face looks every way, bear us past foes as in a ship. May his light chase our sin away. 8 As in a ship, convey thou us for our advantage o’er the flood. May his light chase our sin away.
HYMN XCVIII Agni. 1. STILL in Vaisvanara’s grace may we continue: yea, he is King supreme o’er all things living. Sprung hence to life upon this All he looketh. Vaisvanara hath rivalry with Surya. 2 Present in heaven, in earth, all-present Agni,-all plants that grow on ground hath he pervaded. May Agni, may Vaisvanara with vigour, present, preserve us day and night from foemen. 3 Be this thy truth, Vaisvanara, to us-ward: let wealth in rich abundance gather round us. This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.
HYMN XXVII. Agni. 1 WITH worship will I glorify thee, Agni, like a long-tailed steed, Imperial Lord of sacred rites. 2 May the far-striding Son of Strength, bringer of great felicity, Who pours his gifts like rain, be ours. 3 Lord of all life, from near; from far, do thou, O Agni evermore Protect us from the sinful man. 4 O Agni, graciously announce this our oblation to the Gods, And this our newest song of praise. 5 Give us a share of strength most high, a share of strength that is below, A share of strength that is between. 6 Thou dealest gifts, resplendent One; nigh, as with waves of Sindhu, thou Swift streamest to the worshipper. 7 That man is lord of endless strength whom thou protectest in the fight, Agni, or urgest to the fray. 8 Him, whosoever he may be, no man may vanquish, mighty One: Nay, very glorious power is his. 9 May he who dwells with all mankind bear us with war-steeds through the fight, And with the singers win the spoil. 10 Help, thou who knowest lauds, this work, this eulogy to Rudra, him Adorable in every house. 11 May this our God, great, limitless, smoke-bannered excellently bright, Urge us to strength and holy thought. 12 Like some rich Lord of men may he, Agni the banner of the Gods, Refulgent, hear us through our lauds. 13 Glory to Gods, the mighty and the lesser glory to Gods the younger and the elder! Let us, if we have power, pay the God worship: no better prayer than this, ye Gods, acknowledge.
So Agni is the mediatrix, seven-spirits, priest, helper, preparer of the eucharist meal, priest and messenger between the Gods and Man. This is also the role of the Holy Spirit represented by a blazing spiritual fire.
If you want to read more about Agni there are versed devoted to him from the Rig Veda below.
We see the fire of the Asha-Akasha being called the son of God as so it should be since it is the first emanation from within the One. Asha is the being out of which all forms and opposites are held and released into the material world.
“Thwahyā garemā āthro ashā-aojangho hyat moi Vangheush haze jimat Manangho “And (Thou) shall come to me through the heat (splendor) of Thy Fire, possessing the strength of righteousness and good mind.”1
Sorry Monkey-Brain is intrigued…but there are 750 pages…we need a nap.
“Seed of Asha” is the cosmic energy which is the origin and sustenance of life.”1 I can’t help but notice how close linguistically “asha” is to “akasha.”
And now for something I truly was not searching for so it was difficult to find. In the book, “Jesus the Phoenician,” in the first pages is found this: “It seems that Isaiah was not originally a Jewish prophet…nor was his book a Jewish book, claimed to have been written around the year 500 BC, (remember the great leap of being from above), Most likely it was copied and manipulated to appear Jewish by Jewish scribes…Yet this book may well have been rooted in Galilee with the Ashayas sometime between the 3rd and 4th century BC and considered sacred to the Phoenicians, Galileans, and the Ashayas, who strongly opposed the Judeans settling in the land at the time. One cannot ignore the similarities between Isaiah, spelled in Hebrew Yeshayahu and the Aramaic Yawshaya or Ashaya. Hence the real name of the prophet Isaiah could well be Ashaya, a purely Aramaic name. It is the same as the Syriac Asaya, which means healer in greek…”
So here it is again, appearing as it were from the dust of time…the root “Asha.” The sons of God indwelled with the fire-like power of the Akashic realm! “At any rate, the Ashayas most probably formed a group of people who lived and prospered in both Mt. Carmel and Galilee. They were also know as Essenes, accurately, Galilean Essenes who were not similar in any way to the other Essens who appeared by the Dead Sea…”
Transformative energy of God; the Messenger of God with tongues of fire; sure sounds like the Holy Spirit to me! The being that descends from the Akashic realm and transforms the Human.
The modern men of ideas see this symbol and worship of fire as an idol, some archaic formulation of unenlightened Humans. The self-righteous always miss the point.
They are worshiping through fire the ever changing being of the Akashic realm. They are worshipping the Word, the Mother, the God of Movement which is fully conscribed by the God of Rest. The One becomes movement through the creative order of the Akashic realm.
The Shekinah was first evident when the Israelites set out from Succoth in their escape from Egypt. There the Lord appeared in a cloudy pillar in the day and a fiery pillar by night: “After leaving Succoth they camped at Etham on the edge of the desert. By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people” (Exodus 13:20–22).
Chronicles: 7 Now when Solomon had finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the house. 2 And the priests could not enter the house of the Lord because the glory of the Lord filled the Lord’s house. 3 All the sons of Israel, seeing the fire come down and the glory of the Lord upon the house, bowed down on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave praise to the Lord, saying, “Certainly He is good, certainly His faithfulness is everlasting.”
“Leviticus 6-12 states: And the Fire upon the alter shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out: and the priest shall burn wood on it every morning. Leviticus 6-13 states: The Fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.”1
During Pentecost when the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, the indwelling presence of God as Tongues of Fire rested on their heads. A direct fiery connection between the third eye and the Akashic realm, giving the keys to the power, serenity and healing; “the very energy of the creator,” of the One; descended into man!
The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost
2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? 9 Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”
13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”
Peter Addresses the Crowd
14 Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15 These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 “‘In the last days, God says,
I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy,
your young men will see visions,
your old men will dream dreams.
18 Even on my servants, both men and women,
I will pour out my Spirit in those days,
and they will prophesy.
19 I will show wonders in the heavens above
and signs on the earth below,
blood and fire and billows of smoke.
20 The sun will be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood
before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.
21 And everyone who calls
on the name of the Lord will be saved.’
God in motion is depicted as fire! God is totally still, yet out of this stillness, bearing the love of God, the Word descends, and motion begins, as the fiery-light power of the One. What descended through the third eye to the Human on Pentecost was a part of the Akashic realm, indwelling them and providing them with power, love and intention. Indwelling the Human with the full presence of the One.
Fire represents cosmic order and energy; Fire represents righteousness, truth and divine law–Fire represents individual spark (ātmā) in every human being Fire represents universal spark (Ahura Mazda-paramātma) unto which all other sparks (fires) finally merge; Man āno āwāyad shudan “I have to reach Him”.1
John 1: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.2 The same was in the beginning with God.3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
Then out of the blue there is this about the virgin Mary in the great book, Jesus the Phoenician, in a quote from the gnostic gospel of Bartholomew 2:1-5 – “Now the apostles were in the place Chitir with Mary. Bartholomew came and said unto Peter and Andrew and John: Let us ask her that is highly favoured how she conceived the incomprehensible, or how she bare him that cannot be carried or how she brought forth so much greatness…But Mary said unto them: Ask me not (or Do ye indeed ask me concerning this mystery. If I should begin to tell you, fire will issue forth out of my mouth and consume all the world.”
During the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles a new Pentecost fell upon the church. The Holy Spirit, The Word, the Fire of God Fell from out of the Akashic realm onto the Human. And it all makes sense, because if there is miraculous healing, if there are signs, if there are wonders, they have to manifest in the fiery Akashic Realm first. The healing of the physical body must be proceeded by the healing of the flaming, etheric body in the Akasha. All things that transpire in the physical realm, first manifest in the Akashic realm of opposite forms.
“I can say, through the power of the Spirit that wherever God can get a people that will come together in one accord and one mind in the Word of God, the baptism of the Holy Ghost will fall upon them, like as at Cornelius’ house.” William Seymour, Father if the Azusa Street Pentecostal movement.“
“…And He did not disappoint us. One sister sang and spoke in ‘tongues’ for five full hours. Souls were saved. The saints were wonderfully built up and strengthened by the presence of the Lord. A number received the ‘baptism,’ and the mission became full fledged for ‘Pentecost.’ One Sunday night the hall was packed out, to the middle of the street. I went to the hall one morning to look up the folks, who had not come home. Several had stayed all night. I found them lost to all but God. They could not get away. A very shekinah glory filled the place. It was awesome, but glorious.”
“…We had no ‘respect of persons.’ The rich and educated were the same as the poor and ignorant, and found a much harder death to die. We only recognized God. All were equal. No flesh might glory in His presence. He could not use the self-opinionated. Those were Holy Ghost meetings, led of the Lord. It had to start in poor surroundings, to keep out the selfish, human element. All came down in humility together, at His feet. They all looked alike, and had all things in common in that sense at least. The rafters were low, the tall must come down. By the time they got to ‘Azusa’ they were humbled, ready for the blessing. The fodder was thus placed for the lambs, not for giraffes. All could reach It.”
The fiery realm of the Akasha is the active God in Motion that descends from the still, motionless God of Rest. At times this “Fire” of God descends from the Akashic realm down to the human, awakening within man the full glory and power of God. It is very similar to Samadhi in that the saint or sage is given over to the full presence of God. The Fire of God.
While the majority of people are caught up in the acquisitiveness of the material world, certain humans travel within to find the pearl of great price; the inner presence of the “fire” of the One.
- FIRE IN AVESTA Presented by Ervad Gustad Panthaki At The North American Mobed Council AGM Montreal, Canada April 14-15 2006
- REMEBERING HERACLITUS. Richard Geldard.
- RETURN TO THE ONE. Brian Hines.
- HOW PENTECOST CAME TO LOS ANGELES, Frank Bartleman.
- RIG-VEDA, verses about Agni.
- file:///C:/Users/bradd/Downloads/IshayaVIshayaPhoenicianHealer.pdf
- ISHAYA VISHAYA: PHOENICIAN HEALER, Patrick di Santo, Union Center for Cultural and Environmental Research
As I read the words of the Rig-Veda about the god-priest Agni I could not stop thinking about a bible passage about another priest who was a forerunner or actually was Jesus the Christ.
The Lord has sworn
and will not change his mind:
“You are a priest forever,
in the order of Melchizedek.”
Hebrews: 7 This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the defeat of the kings and blessed him, 2 and Abraham gave him a tenth of everything. First, the name Melchizedek means “king of righteousness”; then also, “king of Salem” means “king of peace.” 3 Without father or mother, without genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, resembling the Son of God, he remains a priest forever.
Their is but one priest, the Avatar, fully containing the fire of God, the Akashic realm within his being; who reincarnates upon the earth to lead the Human back to God. He is a god-priest just as Agni was a god-priest. An intercessor between the Human and God.
HYMN I. Agni. 1. THOU, Agni, shining in thy glory through the days, art brought to life from out the waters, from the stone: From out the forest trees and herbs that grow on ground, thou, Sovran Lord of men art generatad [sic] pure. 2 Thine is the Herald’s task and Cleanser’s duly timed; Leader art thou, and Kindler for the pious man. Thou art Director, thou the ministering Priest: thou art the Brahman, Lord and Master in our home. 3 Hero of Heroes, Agni! Thou art Indra, thou art Visnu of the Mighty Stride, adorable: Thou, Brahmanaspati, the Brahman finding wealth: thou, O Sustainer, with thy wisdom tendest us. 4 Agni, thou art King Varuna whose laws stand fast; as Mitra, WonderWorker, thou must be implored. Aryaman, heroes’ Lord, art thou, enrich ing all, and liberal Amsa in the synod, O thou God. 5 Thou givest strength, as Tvastar, to the worshipper: thou wielding Mitra’s power hast kinship with the Dames. Thou, urging thy fleet coursers, givest noble steeds: a host of heroes art thou with great store of wealth. 6 Rudra art thou, the Asura of mighty heaven: thou art the Maruts’ host, thou art the Lord of food, Thou goest with red winds: bliss hast thou in thine home. As Pusan thou thyself protectest worshippers. 7 Giver of wealth art thou to him who honours thee; thou art God Savitar, granter of precious things. As Bhaga, Lord of men! thou rulest over wealth, and guardest in his house him who hath served thee well. 8 To thee, the people’s Lord within the house, the folk press forward to their King most graciously inclined. Lord of the lovely look, all things belong to thee: ten, hundred, yea, a thousand are outweighed by thee. 9 Agni, men seek thee as a Father with their prayers, win thee, brightformed, to brotherhood with holy act. Thou art a Son to him who duly worships thee, and as a trusty Friend thou guardest from attack. 10 A Rbhu art thou, Agni, near to be adored thou art the Sovran Lord of foodful spoil and wealth. Thou shinest brightly forth, thou burnest to bestow: pervading sacrifice, thou lendest us thine help. 11 Thou, God, art Aditi to him who offers gifts: thou, Hotri, Bharati, art strengthened by the song. Thou art the hundred-wintered Ila to give strength, Lord of Wealth! Vrtraslayer and Sarasvati. 12 Thou, Agni, cherished well, art highest vital power; in thy delightful hue are glories visible. Thou art the lofty might that furthers each design: thou art wealth manifold, diffused on every side. 13 Thee, Agni, have the Adityas taken as their mouth; the Bright Ones have made thee, O Sage, to be their tongue. They who love offerings cling to thee at solemn rites: by thee the Gods devour the duly offered food. 14 By thee, O Agni, all the Immortal guileless Gods cat with thy mouth the oblation that is offered them. By thee do mortal men give sweetness to their drink. Bright art thou born, the embryo of the plants of earth. 15 With these thou art united, Agni; yea thou, God of noble birth, surpassest them in majesty, Which, through the power of good, here spreads abroad from thee, diffused through both the worlds, throughout the earth and heaven. 16 The princely worshippers who send to those who sing thy praise, O Agni, guerdon graced with kine and steeds,- Lead thou both these and us forward to higher bliss. With brave men in the assembly may we speak aloud.
HYMN II. Agni. 1. WITH sacrifice exalt Agni who knows all life; worship him ‘with oblation and the song of praise, Well kindled, nobly fed; heaven’s Lord, Celestial Priest, who labours at the pole where deeds of might are done. 2 At night and morning, Agni, have they called to thee, like milch-kine in their stalls lowing to meet their young. As messenger of heaven thou lightest all night long the families of men. Thou Lord of precious boons. 3 Him have the Gods established at the region’s base, doer of wondrous deeds, Herald of heaven and earth; Like a most famous car, Agni the purely bright, like Mitra. to be glorified among the folk. 4 Him have they set in his own dwelling, in the vault, like the Moon waxing, fulgent, in the realm of air. Bird of the firmament, observant with his eyes, guard of the place as ’twere, looking to Gods and men. 5 May he as Priest encompass all the sacrifice. men throng to him with offerings and with hymns of praise. Raging with jaws of gold among the growing plants, like heaven with all the stars, he quickens earth and sky. 6 Such as thou art, brilliantly kindled for our weal, a liberal giver, send us riches in thy shine, For our advantage, Agni, God, bring Heaven and Earth hither that they may taste oblation brought by man. 7 Agni, give us great wealth, give riches thousandfold. unclose to us, like doors, strength that shall bring renown. Make Heaven and Earth propitious through the power of prayer, and like the sky’s bright sheen let mornings beam on us. 8 Enkindled night by night at every morning’s dawn, may he shine forth with red flame like the realm of light,- Agni adored in beauteous rites with lauds of men, fair guest of living man and King of all our folk. 9 Song chanted by us men, O Agni, Ancient One, has swelled unto the deathless Gods in lofty heaven- A milch-cow yielding to the singer in the rites wealth manifold, in hundreds, even as he wills. 10 Agni, may we show forth our valour with the steed or with the power of prayer beyond all other men; And over the Five Races let our glory shine high like the realm of light and unsurpassable. 11 Such, Conqueror! be to us, be worthy of our praise, thou for whom princes nobly born exert themselves; Whose sacrifice the strong seek, Agni, when it shines for never-failing offspring in thine own abode. 12 Knower of all that lives, O Agni may we both, singers of praise and chiefs, be in thy keeping still. Help us to wealth exceeding good and glorious, abundant, rich in children and their progeny. 13 The princely worshippers who send to those who sing thy praise, O Agni, guerdon, graced with kine and steeds,- Lead thou both these and us forward to higher bliss. With brave men in the assembly may we speak aloud.
HYMN V. Agni. 1. HERALD and teacher was he born, a guardian for our patrons’ help, Earner by rites of noble wealth. That Strong One may we grasp and guide; 2 In whom, Leader of sacrifice, the seven reins, far extended, meet; Who furthers, man-like, eighth in place, as Cleanser, all the work divine. 3 When swift he follows this behest, bird-like he chants the holy prayers. He holds all knowledge in his grasp even as the felly rounds the wheel. 4 Together with pure mental power, pure, as Director, was he born. Skilled in his own unchanging laws he waxes like the growing boughs. 5 Clothing thern in his hues, the kine of him the Leader wait on him. Is he not better than the Three, the Sisters who have come to us? 6 When, laden with the holy oil, the Sitster [sic] by the Mother stands, The Priest delights in their approach, as corn at coming of the rain. 7 For his support let him perform as ministrant his priestly task; Yea, song of praise and sacrifice: we have bestowed, let us obtain. 8 That so this man well skilled, may pay worship to all the Holy Ones. And, Agni, this our sacrifice which wehave here prepared, to thee.
HYMN XXXI. Agni. 1 Thou, Agni, wast the earliest Angiras, a Seer; thou wast, a God thyself, the Gods’ auspicious Friend. After thy holy ordinance the Maruts, sage, active through wisdom, -with their glittering spears, were born. 2 O Agni, thou, the best and earliest Angiras, fulfillest as a Sage the holy law of Gods. Sprung from two mothers, wise, through all existence spread, resting in many a place for sake of living man. 3 To Matarisvan first thou, Agni, wast disclosed, and to Vivasvan through thy noble inward power. Heaven and Earth, Vasu! shook at the choosing of the Priest: the burthen thou didst bear, didst worship mighty Gods. 4 Agni thou madest heaven to thunder for mankind; thou, yet more pious, for pious Pururavas. When thou art rapidly freed from thy parents, first eastward they bear thee round, and, after, to the west… 7 For glory, Agni, day by day, thou liftest up the mortal man to highest immortality, Even thou who yearning for both races givest them great bliss, and to the prince grantest abundant food…10 Agni, thou art our Providence, our Father thou – we are thy brethren and thou art our spring of life. in thee, rich in good heroes, guard of high decrees, meet hundred, thousand treasures, O infallible! 11 Thee, Agni, have the Gods made the first living One for living man, Lord of the house of Nahusa. Ila they made the teacher of the sons of men, what time a Son was born to the father of my race… 13 Agni, thou art a guard close to the pious man;.. Thou art called Father, caring even for the weak, and wisest, to the simple one thou teachest lore. 15 Agni, the man who giveth guerdon to the priests, like well-sewn armour thou guardest on every side. He who with grateful food shows kindness in his house, an offerer to the living, is the type of heaven. 16 Pardon, we pray, this sin of ours, O Agni, — the path which we have trodden, widely straying, Dear Friend and Father, caring for the pious, who speedest nigh and who inspirest mortals. 17 As erst to Manus, to Yayiti, Angiras, so Angiras! pure Agni! come thou to our hall Bring hither the celestial host and seat them here upon the sacred grass, and offer what they love. 18 By this our prayer be thou, O Agni, strengthened, prayer made by us after our power and knowledge. Lead thou us, therefore, to increasing riches; endow us with thy strengthbestowing favour.
HYMN XXXVI. Agni. 1 WITH words sent forth in holy hymns, Agni we supplicate, the Lord Of many families who duly serve the Gods, yea, him whom others also praise. 2 Men have won Agni, him who makes their strength abound: we, with oblations, worship thee. Our gracious-minded Helper in our deeds of might, be thou, O Excellent, this day. 3 Thee for our messenger we choose, thee, the Omniscient, for our Priest. The flames of thee the mighty are spread wide around: thy splendour reaches to the sky. 4 The Gods enkindle thee their ancient messenger, – Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman. That mortal man, O Agni, gains through thee all wealth, who hath poured offerings unto thee. 5 Thou, Agni, art a cheering Priest, Lord of the House, men’s messenger: All constant high decrees established by the Gods, gathered together, meet in thee. 6 In thee, the auspicious One, O Agni, youthfullest, each sacred gift is offered up: This day, and after, gracious, worship thou our Gods, that we may have heroic sons. 7 To him in his own splendour bright draw near in worship the devout. Men kindle Agni with their sacrificial gifts, victorious o’er the enemies. 8 Vrtra they smote and slew, and made the earth and heaven and firmament a wide abode. The glorious Bull, invoked, hath stood at Kanva’s side: loud neighed the Steed in frays for kine. 9 Seat thee, for thou art mighty; shine, best entertainer of the Gods. Worthy of sacred food, praised Agni! loose the smoke, ruddy and beautiful to see. 10 Bearer of offerings, whom, best sacrificing Priest, the Gods for Manu’s sake ordained; Whom Kanva, whom Medhyatithi made the source of wealth, and Vrsan and Upastuta. 11 Him, Agni, whom Medhyatithi, whom Kanva kindled for his rite, Him these our songs of praise, him, Agni, we extol: his powers shine out preeminent. 12 Make our wealth perfect thou, O Agni, Lord divine: for thou hast kinship with the Gods. Thou rulest as a King o’er widely-famous strength: be good to us, for thou art great. 13 Stand up erect to lend us aid, stand up like Savitar the God: Erect as strength-bestower we call aloud, with unguents and with priests, on thee. 14 Erect, preserve us from sore trouble; with thy flame burn thou each ravening demon dead. Raise thou us up that we may walk and live. so thou shalt find our worship mid the Gods. 15 Preserve us, Agni, from the fiend, preserve us from malicious wrong. Save us from him who fain would injure us or slay, Most Youthful, thou with lofty light. 16 Smite down as with a club, thou who hast fire for teeth, smite thou the wicked, right and left. Let not the man who plots against us in the night, nor any foe prevail o’er us. 17 Agni hath given heroic might to Kainva, and felicity: Agni hath helped our friends, hath helped Medhyitithi, hath helped Upastuta to win. 18 We call on Ugradeva, Yadu, Turvasa, by means of Agni, from afar; Agni, bring Navavastva and Brhadratba, Turviti, to subdue the foe. 19 Manu hath stablished thee a light, Agni, for all the race of men: Sprung from the Law, oil-fed, for Kanva hast thou blazed, thou whom the people reverence. 20 The flames of Agni full of splendour and of might are fearful, not to be approached. Consume for ever all demons and sorcerers, consume thou each devouring fiend.
HYMN XLIV. Agni.10 Thou shonest forth, O Agni, after former dawns, all visible, O rich in light. Thou art our help in battle-strife, the Friend of inan, the great high priest in sacrifice. 11 Like Manu, we will stablish thee, Agni, performer of the rite, Invoker, ministering Priest, exceeding wise, the swift immortal messenger. 12 When as the Gods’ High Priest, by many loved, thou dost their mission as their nearest Friend, Then, like the far-resounding billows of the flood, thy flames, O Agni, roar aloud. 13 Heat-, Agni, who hast ears to hear, with all thy train of escort Gods; Let Mitra, Aryaman,- seeking betimes our rite, seat them upon the sacred grass. 14 Let those who strengthen Law, who bountifully give, the life-tongued Maruts, hear our praise. May Law-supporting Varuna with the Asvins twain and Usas, drink the Soma juice.
So what is Soma, Monkey-Brain wants to know?
HYMN LVIII., Agni .5 With teeth of flame, wind-driven, through the wood he speeds, triumphant like a bull among the herd of cows, With bright strength roaming to the everlasting air: things fixed, things moving quake before him as he flies. 6 The Bhrgus established thee among mankind for men, like as a treasure, beauteous, easy to invoke; Thee, Agni, as a herald and choice-worthy guest, as an auspicious Friend to the Celestial Race. 7 Agni, the seven tongues’ deftest Sacrificer, him whom the priests elect at solemn worship, The Herald, messenger of all the Vasus, I serve with dainty food, I ask for riches. 8 Grant, Son of Strength, thou rich in friends, a refuge without a flaw this day to us thy praisers. O Agni, Son of Strength, with forts of iron preserve thou from distress the man who lauds thee. 9 Be thou a refuge, Bright One, to the singer, a shelter, Bounteous Lord, to those who worship. Preserve the singer from distress, O Agni. May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.
HYMN LIX. Agni. 1 THE other fires are, verily, thy branches; the Immortals all rejoice in thee, O Agni. Centre art thou, Vaigvdnara, of the people, sustaining men like a deepfounded pillar. 2 The forehead of the sky, earth’s centre, Agni became the messenger of earth and heaven. Vaisvanara, the Deities produced thee, a God, to be a light unto the Arya. 3 As in the Sun firm rays are set for ever, treasures are in Vaisvanara, in Agni. Of all the riches in the hills, the waters, the herbs, among mankind, thou art the Sovran. 4 As the great World-halves, so are their Son’s praises; skilled, as a man, to act, is he the Herald. Vaisvanara, celestial, truly mighty, most manly One, hath many a youthful consort. 5 Even the lofty heaven, O Jatavedas Vaisvanara, hath not attained thy greatness. Thou art the King of lands where men are settled, thou hast brought comfort to the Gods in battle. 6 Now will I tell the greatness of the Hero whom Prarti’s sons follow as Vrtra’s slayer: Agni Vaisvanara struck down the Dasyu, cleave Sambara through and shattered down his fences. 7 Vaisvanara, dwelling by his might with all men, far-shining, holy mid the Bharadvajas, Is lauded, excellent, with hundred praises by Purunitha, son of Satavani.
HYMN I. Agni. 1. THOU, Agni, who wilt have the strong, hast made me the Soma’s priest, to worship in assembly. Thou shinest to the Gods, I set the pressstones. I toil; be joyful in thyself, O Agni. 2 East have we turned the rite; may the hymn aid it. With wood and worship shall they honour Agni. From heaven the synods of the wise have learnt it: c’en for the quick and strong they seek advancement. 3 The Prudent, he whose will is pure, brought welfare, allied by birth to Heaven and Earth in kinship. The Gods discovered in the midst of waters beautiful Agni with the Sisters’ labour. 4 Him, Blessed One, the Seven strong Floods augmented, him white at birth and red when waxen mighty. As mother mares run to their new-born you ling, so at his birth the Gods wondered at Agni. 5 Spreading with radiant limbs throughout the region, purging his power with wise purifications, Robing himself in light, the life of waters, lie spreads abroad his high and perfect glories. 6 He sought heaven’s Mighty Ones, the unconsuming, the unimpaired, not clothed and yet not naked. Then they, ancient and young, who dwell together, Seven sounding Rivers, as one germ received him. 7 His piles, assuming every form, are scattered where flow sweet waters, at the spring of fatness; There stood the milch-kine with full-laden udders, and both paired Mighty Mothers of the Wondrous. 8 Carefully cherished, Son of Strength, thou shoncst assuming lasting and refulgent beauties. Full streams of fatness and sweet juice descended, there where the Mighty One grew strong by wisdom. 9 From birth he knew even his Father’s bosom, he set his voices and his streams in motion; Knew him who moved with blessed Friends in secret, with the young Dames of heaven. He stayed not hidden. 10 He nursed the Infant of the Sire and Maker: alone the Babe sucked many a teeming bosom. Guard, for the Bright and Strong, the fellow-spouses friendly to men and bound to him in kinship. 11 The Mighty One increased in space unbounded; full many a glorious flood gave strength to Agni. Friend of the house, within the lap of Order lay Agni, in the Sister Rivers’ service. 12 As keen supporter where great waters gather, light-shedder whom the brood rejoice to look on; He who begat, and will beget, the dawn lights, most manly, Child of Floods, is youthful Agni. 13 Him, varied in his form, the lovely Infant of floods and plants the blessed wood hath gendered. Gods even, moved in spirit, came around him, and served him at his birth, the Strong, the Wondrous. 14 Like brilliant lightnings, mighty luminaries accompany the light-diffusing Agni, Waxen, as ’twere in secret, in his dwelling, while in the boundless stall they milk out Amrta. 15 I sacrificing serve thee with oblations and crave with longing thy goodwill and friendship. Grant, with the Gods, thy grace to him who lauds thee, protect us with thy rays that guard the homestead. 16 May we, O Agni, thou who leadest wisely, thy followers and masters of all treasures, Strong in the glory of our noble offspring, subdue the godless when they seek the battle. 17 Ensign of Gods hast thou become, O Agni, joy-giver, knower of all secret wisdom. Friend of the homestead, thou hast lightened mortals: carborne thou goest to the Gods, fulfilling. 18 Within the house hath sate the King immortal of mortals, filling full their sacred synods. Bedewed with holy oil he shineth widely, Agni, the knower of all secret wisdom. 19 Come unto us with thine auspicious friendship, come speeding, Mighty, with thy mighty succours. Grant us abundant wealth that saves from danger, that brings a good repute, a glorious portion. 20 To thee who art of old these songs, O Agni, have I declared, the ancient and the later. These great libations to the Strong are offiered: in every birth is Jatavedas stablished. 21 Stablished in every birth is Jatavedas, kindled perpetual by the Visvamitras. May we rest ever in the loving-kindness, in the auspicious grace of him the Holy. 22 This sacrifice of ours do thou, O Mighty, O truly Wise, bear to the Gods rejoicing. Grant us abundant food, thou priestly Herald, vouchsafe to give us ample wealth, O Agni. 23 As holy food, Agni, to thine’invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels. To us he born a son, and spreading offspring. Agni, be this thy gracious will to us-ward
HYMN LX. Agni. I As ’twere Some goodly treasure Matarisvan brought, as a gift, the glorious Priest to Bhrgu, Banner of sacrifice, the good Protector, child of two births, the swiftly moving envoy. 2 Both Gods and men obey this Ruler’s order, Gods who are worshipped, men who yearn and worship. As Priest he takes his seat ere break of morning, House-Lord, adorable with men, Ordainer. 3 May our fair praise, heart-born, most recent, reach him whose tongue, e’en at his birth, is sweet as honey; Whom mortal priests, men, with their strong endeavour, supplied with dainty viands, have created. 4 Good to mankind, the yearning Purifier hath among men been placed as Priest choice-worthy. May Agni be our Friend, Lord of the Household, protector of the riches in the dwelling. 5 As such we Gotamas with hymns extol thee, O Agni, as the guardian Lord of riches, Decking thee like a horse, the swift prizewinner. May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.
HYMN II. Agni. 1. To him, Vaisvanara, who strengthens Holy Law, to Agni we present our praise like oil made pure. With thoughtful insight human priests bring him anear, our Herald from of old, as an axe forms a car. 2 He made the heaven and earth resplendent by his birth: Child of two Mothers he was meet to be implored, Agni, oblation-bearer, gracious, ever-young, infallible, rich in radiant light, the guest of men. 3 Within the range of their surpassinq power, by might, the Gods created Agni with inventive thought. I, eager to win strength, address him, like a steed, resplendent with his brilliance, with his ample light. 4 Eager to gain, we crave from him the friendly God strength confident, choiceworthy meet to be extolled: The Bhrgus’ bounty, willing, strong with sages’ lore, even Agni shining forth with light that comes from heaven. 5 For happiness, men, having trimmed the sacred grass, set Agni glorious for his strength before them here; Yea, with raised ladles, him bright, dear to all the Gods, perfecting aims of works, Rudra of solemn rites. 6 Around thy dwelling-place, O brightly-shining Priest, are men at sacrifice, whose sacred grass is trimmed. Wishing to do thee service, Agni, they are there, desirous of thy friendship grant them store of wealth. 7 He hath filled heaven and earth and the great realm of light, when at his birth the skilful held him in their hold. He like a horse is led forth to the sacrifice Sage, graciously inclined, that he may win us strength. 8 Honour the oblation-bearer, him who knows fair rites, serve ye the Household Friend who knows all things that be. He drives the chariot of the lofty ordinance: Agni most active, is the great High Priest of Gods. 9 They who are free from death, fain for him, purified three splendours of the mighty Agni, circling all. To man, for his enjoyment, one of these they gave: the other two have passed into the sister sphere. 10 Man’s sacrificial food hath sharpened like an axe, for brightness, him the Sage of men, the people’s Lord, Busied with sacred rites he mounts and he descends. He hath laid down his vital germ within these worlds. 11 He stirs with life in wombs dissimilar in kind, born as a Lion or a loudlybellowing Bull: Vaisvanara immortal with wide-reaching might, bestowing goods and wealth on him who offiers gifts. 12 Vaisvanara, as of old, mounted the cope of heaven, heaven’s ridge, well greeted, by those skilled in noble songs. He, as of old, producing riches for the folk, still watchful, traverses the common way again. 13 For new prosperity we seek to Agni, him whose course is splendid, gold haired, excellently bright, Whom Matarisvan stablished, dweller in the heaven, meet for high praise and holy, sage and true to Law. 14 As pure and swift of course, beholder of the light, who stands in heaven’s bright sphere a sign, who wakes at dawn, Agni, the head of heaven, whom none may turn aside-to him the Powerful with mighty prayer we seek. 15 The cheerful Priest, the pure, in whom no guile is found, Friend of the House, praise-worthy, dear to all mankind, Fair to behold for beauty like a splendid car,- Agni the Friend of men we ever seek for wealth.
HYMN XIV. Agni. 1 THE pleasant Priest is come into the synod, true, skilled in sacrifice, most wise, Ordainer. Agni, the Son of Strength, whose car is lightning, whose hair is flame, hath shown on earth his lustre. 2 To thee I offer reverent speech: accept it: to thee who markest it, victorious, faithful! Bring, thou who knowest, those who know, and seat thee amid the sacred grass, for help, O Holy. 3 The Two who show their vigour, Night and Morning, by the wind’s paths shall haste to thee O Agni. When men adorn the Ancient with oblations, these seek, as on two chariotseats, the dwelling. 4 To thee, strong Agni! Varuna and Mitra and all the Maruts sang a song of triumph, What time unto the people’s lands thou camest, spreading them as the Sun of men, with lustre. 5 Approaching with raised hands and adoration, we have this day fulfilled for thee thy longing. Worship the Gods with most devoted spirit, a Priest with no unfriendly thought, O Agni. 6 For, Son of Strength, from thee come many succours, and powers abundant that a God possesses. Agni, to us with speech that hath no falsehood grant riches, real, to be told in thousands. 7 Whatever, God, in sacrifice we mortals have wrought is all for thee, strong, wise of purpose! Be thou the Friend of each good chariot’s master. All this enjoy thou here, immortal Agni.
HYMN XXV. Agni. 1. THOU art the sapient Son of Dyaus, O Agni, yes and the Child of Earth, who knowest all things. Bring the Gods specially, thou Sage, for worship. 2. Agni the wise bestows the might of heroes grants strengthening food, preparing it for nectar. Thou who art rich in food bring the Gods hither. 3 Agni, infallible, lights Earth and Heaven, immortal Goddesses gracious to all men,- Lord through his strength, splendid through adorations. 4 Come to the sacrifice, Agni and Indra come to the offerer’s house who hath the Soma. Come, friendly-minded, Gods, to drink the Soma. 5 In the floods’ home art thou enkindled, Agni, O Jatavedas, Son of Strength, eternal, Exalting with thine help the gatheringplaces.
HYMN XXVI. Agni. 1. REVERING in our heart Agni Vaisvanara, the finder of the light, whose promises are true, The liberal, gladsome, car-borne God we Kusikas invoke him with oblation, seeking wealth with songs. 2 That Agni, bright, Vaisvanara, we invoke for help, and Matarisvan worthy of the song of praise; Brhaspati for man’s observance of the Gods, the Singer prompt to hear, the swiftly-moving guest. 3 Age after age Vaisvanara, neighing like a horse, is kindled with the women by the Kusikas. May Agni, he who wakes among Immortal Gods, grant us heroic strength and wealth in noble steeds. 4 Let them go forth, the strong, as flames of fire with might. Gathered for victory they have yoked their spotted deer. Pourers of floods, the Maruts, Masters of all wealth, they who can ne’er be conquered, make the mountains shake. 5 The Maruts, Friends of men, are glorious as the fire: their mighty and resplendent succour we implore. Those storming Sons of Rudra clothed in robes of rain, boon-givers of good gifts, roar as the lions roar. 6 We, band on band and troop following troop, entreat with fair lauds Agni’s splendour and the Maruts’ might, With spotted deer for steeds, with wealth that never fails, they, wise Ones, come to sacrifice at our gatherings. 7 Agni am I who know, by birth, all creatures. Mine eye is butter, in my mouth is nectar. I am light threefold, measurer of the region exhaustless heat am I, named burnt-oblation. 8 Bearing in mind a thought with light accordant, he purified the Sun with three refinings; By his own nature gained the highest treasure, and looked abroad over the earth and heaven. 9 The Spring that fails not with a hundred streamlets, Father inspired of’ prayers that men should utter, The Sparkler, joyous in his Parents’ bosorn, -him, the Truth-speaker, sate ye, Earth and Heaven.
HYMN LXV. Agni. 1 ONE-MINDED, wise, they tracked thee like a thief lurking in dark cave with a stolen cow: Thee claiming worship, bearing it to Gods -. there nigh to thee sate all the Holy Ones. 2 The Gods approached the ways of holy Law; there was a gathering vast as heaven itself. The waters feed with praise the growing Babe, born nobly in the womb, the seat of Law. 3 Like grateful food, like some wide dwelling place, like a fruit-bearing hill, a wholesome stream. Like a steed urged to run in swift career, rushing like Sindhu, who may check his course? 4 Kin as a brother to his sister floods, he cats the woods as a King eats the rich. When through the forest, urged by wind, he spreads, verily Agni shears the hair of earth. 5 Like a swan sitting in the floods he pants wisest in mind mid men he wakes at morn. A Sage like Soma, sprung from Law, he grew like some young creature, mighty, shining far.
HYMN LXVII. Agni. 1. VICTORIOUS in the wood, Friend among men, ever he claims obedience as a King. Gracious like peace, blessing like mental power, Priest was he, offeringbearer, full of thought. 2 He, bearing in his hand all manly might, crouched in the cavern, struck the Gods with fear. Men filled with understanding find him there, when they have sting prayers formed within their heart. 3 He, like the Unborn, holds the broad earth up; and with effective utterance fixed the sky. O Agni, guard the spots which cattle love: thou, life of all, hast gone from lair to lair. 4 Whoso hath known him dwelling in his lair, and hath approached the stream of holy Law,- They who release him, paying sacred rites, -truly to such doth he announce great wealth. 5 He who grows mightily in herbs, within each fruitful mother and each babe she bears, Wise, life of all men, in the waters’ home,-for him have sages built as ’twere a seat.
HYMN LXIX. Agni. 1. BRIGHT, splendid, like Dawn’s lover, he bath filled the two joined worlds as with the light of heaven. When born, with might thou hast encompassed them: Father of Gods, and yet their Son wast thou. 2 Agni, the Sage, the humble, who discerns like the cow’s udder, the sweet taste of food, Like a bliss-giver to be drawn to men, sits gracious in the middle of the house. 3 Born in the dwelling like a lovely son, pleased, like a strong steed, he bears on the folk. What time the men and I, with heroes, call, may Agni then gain all through Godlike power. 4 None breaks these holy laws of thine when thou hast granted audience to these chieftains here. This is thy boast, thou smotest with thy peers, and joined with heroes dravest off disgrace. 5 Like the Dawn’s lover, spreading light, well-known as hued like morn, may he remember me. They, bearing of themselves, unbar the doors: they all ascend to the fair place of heaven.
HYMN LXX. Agni. 1. MAY we, the pious, win much food by prayer, may Agni with fair light pervade each act,- He the observer of the heavenly laws of Gods, and of the race of mortal man. 2 He who is germ of waters, germ of woods, germ of all things that move not and that move,- To him even in the rock and in the house: Immortal One, he cares for all mankind. 3 Agni is Lord of riches for the man who serves him readily with sacred songs. Protect these beings thou with careful thought, knowing the races both of Gods and men. 4 Whom many dawns and nights, unlike, make strong, whom, born in Law, all things that move and stand,- He bath been won, Herald who sits in light, making effectual all our holy works. 5 Thou settest value on our cows and woods: all shall bring tribute to us to the light. men have served thee in many and sundry spots, parting, as ’twere, an aged father’s wealth. 6 Like a brave archer, like one skilled and bold, a fierce avenger, so he shines in fight.
HYMN LXXII. Agni. 1. THOUGH holding many gifts for men, he humbleth the higher powers of each wise ordainer. Agni is now the treasure-lord of treasures, for ever granting all immortal bounties. 2 The Gods infallible all searching found not him, the dear Babe who still is round about us. Worn weary, following his track, devoted, they reached the lovely highest home of Agni. 3 Because with holy oil the pure Ones, Agni, served thee the very pure three autumn seasons, Therefore they won them holy names for worship, and nobly born they dignified their bodies. 4 Making them known to spacious earth and heaven, the holy Ones revealed the powers of Rudra. The mortal band, discerning in the distance, found Agni standing in the loftiest station. 5 Nigh they approached, one-minded, with their spouses, kneeling to him adorable paid worship. Friend finding in his own friend’s eye protection, they made their own the bodies which they chastened. 6 Soon as the holy beings had discovered the thrice-seven mystic things contained within thee, With these, one-minded., they preserve the Amrta: guard thou the life of all their plants and cattle. 7 Thou, Agni, knower of men’s works, hast sent us good food in constant course for our subsistence: Thou deeply skilled in paths of Gods becamest an envoy never wearied, offeringbearer. 8 Knowing the Law, the seven strong floods from heaven, full of good thought, discerned the doors of riches. Sarama found the cattle’s firm-built prison whereby the race of man is still supported. 9 They who approached all noble operations making a path that leads to life immortal, To be the Bird’s support, the spacious mother, Aditi, and her great Sons stood in power. 10 When Gods immortal made both eyes of heaven, they gave to him the gift of beauteous glory. Now they flow forth like rivers set in motion: they knew the Red Steeds coming down, O Agni.
HYMN LXXV. Agni. 1. ACCEPT our loudest-sounding hymn, food most delightful to the Gods, Pouring our offerings in thy mouth. 2 Now, Agni, will we say to thee, O wisest and best Afigiras, Our precious, much-availing prayer. 3 Who, Agni, is thy kin, of men? who is thy worthy worshipper? On whom dependent? who art thou? 4 The kinsman, Agni, of mankind, their well beloved Friend art thou, A Friend whom friends may supplicate. 5 Bring to us Mitra, Varuna, bring the Gods to mighty sacrifice. Bring them, O Agni, to thine home.
HYMN LXXVI. Agni. 1. How may the mind draw nigh to please thee, Agni? What hymn of praise shall bring us greatest blessing? Or who hath gained thy power by sacrifices? or with what mind shall we bring thee oblations? 2 Come hither, Agni; sit thee down as Hotar; be thou who never wast deceived our leader. May Heaven and Earth, the all-pervading, love thee: worship the Gods to win for us their favour. 3 Burn thou up all the Riksasas, O Agni; ward thou off curses from our sacrifices. Bring hither with his Bays the Lord of Soma: here is glad welcome for the Bounteous Giver. 4 Thou Priest with lip and voice that bring us children hast been invoked. Here with the Gods be seated. Thine is the task of Cleanser and Presenter: waken us, Wealth-bestower and Producer. 5 As with oblations of the priestly Manus thou worshippedst the Gods, a Sage with sages, So now, O truthfullest Invoker Agni, worship this day with joy-bestowing ladle. How shall we pay oblation unto Agni? What hymn, Godloved, is said to him refulgent? Who, deathless, true to Law, mid men a herald, bringeth the Gods as best of sacrificers? 2 Bring him with reverence hither, most propitious in sacrifices, true to Law, the herald; For Agni, when he seeks the Gods for mortals, knows them full well and worships them in spirit. 3 For he is mental power, a man, and perfect; he is the bringer, friend-,like, of the wondrous. The pious Aryan tribes at sacrifices address them first to him who doeth marvels. 4 May Agni, foe-destroyer, manliest Hero, accept with love our hymns and our devotion. So may the liberal lords whose strength is strongest, urged by their riches, stir our thoughts with vigour. 5 Thus Agni Jatavedas, true to Order, hath by the priestly Gotamas been lauded. May he augment in them splendour and vigour: observant, as he lists, he gathers increase.
HYMN XCV. Agni 1. To fair goals travel Two unlike in semblance: each in succession nourishes an infant. One bears a Godlike Babe of golden colour; bright and fair-shining, is he with the other. 2 Tvastar’s ten daughters, vigilant and youthful, produced this Infant borne to sundry quarters. They bear around him whose long flames are pointed, fulgent among mankind with native splendour. 3. Three several places of his birth they honour, in mid-air, in the heaven, and in the waters. Governing in the cast of earthly regions, the seasons hath he stablished in their order. 4 Who of you knows this secret One? The Infant by his own nature hath brought forth his Mothers. The germ of many, from the waters’ bosom he goes forth, wise and great, of Godlike nature. 5 Visible, fair, he grows in native brightness uplifted in the lap of waving waters. When he was born both Tvastar’s worlds were frightened: they turn to him and reverence the Lion. 6 The Two auspicious Ones, like women, tend him: like lowing cows they seek him in their manner. He is the Lord of Might among the mighty; him, on the right, they balm with their oblations. 7 Like Savitar his arms with might he stretches; awful, he strives grasping the world’s two borders. He forces out from all a brilliant vesture, yea, from his Mothers draws he forth new raiment. 8 He makes him a most noble form of splendour, decking him in his home with milk and waters. The Sage adorns the depths of air with wisdom . this is the meeting where the Gods are worshipped. 9 Wide through the firmament spreads forth triumphant the far-resplendent strength of’ thee the Mighty. Kindled by us do thou preserve us, Agni, with all thy self-bright undiminished succours. 10 In dry spots he makes stream, and course, and torrent, and inundates the earth with floods that glisten. All ancient things within his maw he gathers, and moves among the new fresh-sprouting grasses. 11 Fed with our fuel, purifying Agni, so blaze to us auspiciously for glory. This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.
HYMN XCVI. Agni. 1. HE in the ancient way by strength engendered, lo! straight hath taken to himself all wisdom. The waters and the bowl have made him friendly. The Gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. 2 At Ayu’s ancient call he by his wisdom gave all this progeny of men their being, And, by refulgent light, heaven and the waters. The Gods possessed the wealth. bestowing Agni. 3 Praise him, ye Aryan folk, as chief performer of sacrifice adored and ever toiling, Well-tended, Son of Strength, the Constant Giver. The Gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. 4 That Matarisvan rich in wealth and treasure, light-winner, finds a pathway for his offispring. Guard of our folk, Father of earth and heaven. The Gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. 5 Night and Dawn, changing each the other’s colour, meeting together suckle one same Infant: Golden between the heaven and earth he shineth. The Gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. 6 Root of wealth, gathering-place of treasures, banner of sacrifice, who grants the suppliant’s wishes: Preserving him as their own life immortal, the Gods possessed the wealthbestowing Agni. 7 Now and of old the home of wealth, the mansion of what is born and what was born aforetime, Guard of what is and what will be hereafter,-the Gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. 8 May the Wealth-Giver grant us conquering riches; may the Wealth-Giver grant us wealth with heroes. May the Wealth-Giver grant us food with offspring, and length of days may the Wealth-Giver send us. 9 Fed with our fuel, purifying Agni, so blaze to us auspiciously for glory. This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.
HYMN III. Agni. 1. ASSOCIATE with fires, make your God Agni envoy at sacrifice, best skilled in worship, Established firm among mankind, the Holy, flame-crowned and fed with oil, the Purifier. 2 Like a steed neighing eager for the pasture, when he hath stepped forth from the great enclosure: Then the wind following blows upon his splendour, and, straight, the path is black which thou hast travelled. 3 From thee a Bull but newly born, O Agni, the kindled everlasting flames rise upward. Aloft to heaven thy ruddy smoke ascendeth: Agni, thou speedest to the Gods as envoy. 4 Thou whose fresh lustre o’er the earth advanceth when greedily with thy jaws thy food thou eatest. Like a host hurried onward comes thy lasso: fierce, with thy tongue thou piercest, as ’twere barley. 5 The men have decked him both at eve and morning, Most Youthful Agni, as they tend a courser. They kindle him, a guest within his dwelling: bright shines the splendour of the worshipped Hero. 6 O fair of face, beautiful is thine aspect when, very near at hand, like gold thou gleamest, Like Heaven’s thundering roar thy might approaches, and like the wondrous Sun thy light thou showest. 7 That we may worship, with your Hail to Agni! with sacrificial cakes and fat oblations, Guard us, O Agni, with those boundless glories as with a hundred fortresses of iron. 8 Thine are resistless songs for him who offers, and hero-giving hymns wherewith thou savest; With these, O Son of Strength, O Jatavedas, guard us, preserve these princes and the singers. 9 When forth he cometh, like an axe new-sharpened, pure in his form, resplendent in his body, Sprung, sought with eager longing, from his Parents, for the Gods’ worship, Sage and Purifier: 10 Shine this felicity on us, O Agni: may we attain to perfect understanding. All happiness be theirs who sing and praise thee. Ye Gods, preserve us evermore with blessings.
HYMN I. Agni. 1, THEE Agni, have the Gods, ever of one accord, sent hither down, a God, appointed messenger, yea, with their wisdom sent thee down. The Immortal, O thou Holy One, mid mortal men, the God-devoted God, the wise, have they brought forth, brought forth the omnipresent God-devoted Sage. 2 As such, O Agni, bring with favour to the Gods thy Brother Varuna who loveth sacrifice, True to the Law, the Aditya who supporteth men, the King, supporter of mankind. 3 Do thou, O Friend, turn hither him who is our Friend, swift as a wheel, like two car-steeds in rapid course, Wondrous! to us in rapid course. O Agni, find thou grace for us with Varuna, with Maruts who illumine all. Bless us, thou Radiant One, for seed and progeny, yea, bless us, O thou Wondrous God. 4 Do thou who knowest Varuna, O Agni, put far away from us the God’s displeasure. Best Sacrificer, brightest One, refulgent remove thou far from us all those who hate us. 5 Be thou, O Agni, nearest us with succour, our closest Friend while now this Morn is breaking. Reconcile to us Varuna, be bounteous enjoy the gracious juice; be swift to hear us. 6 Excellent is the glance, of brightest splendour, which the auspicious God bestows on mortals- The God’s glance, longed-for even as the butter, pure, heated, of the cow, the milch-cow’s bounty. 7 Three are those births, the true, the most exalted, eagerly longed-for, of the God, of Agni. He came invested in the boundless region, pure, radiant, friendly, mightily resplendent. 8 This envoy joyeth in all seats of worship, borne on his golden car, sweettongued Invoker: Lovely to look on, with red steeds, effulgent, like a feast rich in food, joyous for ever. 9 Allied by worship, let him give man knowledge: by an extended cord they lead him onward. He stays, effectual in this mortal’s dwelling, and the God wins a share in his possessions. 10 Let Agni -for he knows the way- conduct us to all that he enjoys of Godsent riches, What all the Immortals have prepared with wisdom, Dyaus, Sire, Begetter, raining down true blessings. 11 In houses first he sprang into existence, at great heaven’s base, and in this region’s bosom; Footless and headless, both his ends concealing, in his Bull’s lair drawing himself together. 12 Wondrously first he rose aloft, defiant, in the Bull’s lair, the home of holy Order, Longed-for, young, beautiful, and far-resplendent: and seven dear friends sprang up unto the Mighty. 13 Here did our human fathers take their places, fain to fulfil the sacred Law of worship. Forth drove they, with loud call, Dawn’s teeming Milch-kine bid in the mountain stable, in the cavern. 14 Splendid were they when they had rent the mountain: others, around, shall tell forth this their exploit. They sang their song, prepared to free the cattle: they found the light; with holy hymns they worshipped. 15 Eager, with thought intent upon the booty, the men with their celestial speech threw open, The solid mountain firm, compact, enclosing, confining Cows, the stable full of cattle. 16 The Milch-cow’s earliest name they comprehended: they found the Mother’s thrice-seven noblest titles. This the bands knew, and sent forth acclamation: with the Bull’s sheen the Red One was apparent. 17 The turbid darkness fled, the heaven was splendid! up rose the bright beam of celestial Morning. Surya ascended to the wide expanses, beholding deeds of men both good and evil. 18 Then, afterwards they looked around, awakened, when first they held that Heaven allotted treasure. Now all the Gods abide in all their dwellings. Varuna, Mitra, be the prayer effective. 19 I will call hither brightly-beaming Agni, the Herald, all-supporting, best at worship. He hath disclosed, like the milch cows’ pure udder, the Sorria’s juice when cleansed and poured from beakers. 20 The freest God of all who should be worshipped, the guest who is received in all men’s houses, Agni who hath secured the Gods’ high favour,-may he be gracious, to us Jatavedas.
HYMN III. Agni. 1. WIN, to assist you, Rudra, Lord of worship, Priest of both worlds, effectual Sacrificer, Agni, invested with his golden colours, before the thunder strike and lay you senseless. 2 This shrine have we made ready for thy coming, as the fond dame attires her for her husband. Performer of good work, sit down before us, invested while these flames incline to meet thee. 3 A hymn, O Priest, to him who hears, the gentle, to him who looks on men, exceeding gracious, A song of praise sing to the God Immortal, whom the stone, presser of the sweet juice, worships. 4 Even as true knower of the Law, O Agni, to this our solemn rite he thou attentive. When shall thy songs of festival be sung thee? When is thy friendship shown within our dwelling? 5 Why this complaint to Varuna, O Agni? And why to Heaven? for what is our transgression? How wilt thou speak to Earth and bounteous Mitra? What wilt thou say to Aryaman and Bhaga? 6 What, when thou blazest on the lesser altars, what to the mighty Wind who comes tobless us, True, circumambient? what to Earth, O Agni, what wilt thou say to mandestroying Rudra? 7 How to great Pusan who promotes our welfare,- to honoured Rudra what, who gives oblations? What sin of ours to the far-striding Visnu, what, Agni, wilt thou tell theLofty Arrow. 8 What wilt thou tell the truthful band of Maruts, how answer the great Sun when thou art questioned? Before the Free, before the Swift, defend us: fulfil heaven’s work, allknowing Jatavedas. 9 I crave the cow’s true gift arranged by Order: though raw, she hath the sweet ripe juice, O Agni. Though she is black of hue with milk she teemeth, nutritious, brightly shining, all-sustaining. 10 Agni the Bull, the manly, hath been sprinkled with oil upon his back, by Law eternal. He who gives vital power goes on unswerving. Prsni the Bull hath milked the pure wiiite udder. 11 By Law the Angirases cleft the rock asunder, and sang their hymns together with the cattle. Bringing great bliss the men encompassed Morning: light was apparent at the birth of Agni. 12 By Law the Immortal Goddesses the Waters, with meath-rich waves, O Agni, and uninjured, Like a strong courser lauded in his running, sped to flow onward swiftly and for ever. 13 Go never to the feast of one who harms us, the treacherous neighbour or. unworthy kinsman. Punish us not for a false brother’s trespass. Let us riot feel the might of friend or foeman. 14 O Agni, keep us safe with thy protection, loving us, honoured God! and ever guarding. Beat thou away, destory severe affliction slay e’en the demon when he waxes mighty. 15 Through these our songs of praise be gracious, Agni; moved by ourprayers, O Hero, touch our viands. Accept, O Angiras, these our devotions, and let the praise which Gods desire address thee. 16 To thee who knowest, Agni, thou Disposer, all these wise secret speeches have I uttered, Sung to thee, Sage, the charming words of wisdom, to thee, O Singer, with. my thoughts and Praises.
HYMN V. Agni. 1. How shall we give with one accord oblation to Agni, to Vaisvanara the Bounteous? Great light, with full high growth hath he uplifted, and, as a pillar bears the roof, sustains it. 2 Reproach not him who, God and selfreliant, vouchsafed this bounty unto me a mortal,- Deathless, discerner, wise, to me the simple, Vaisvanara most manly, youthful Aini. 3 Sharp-pointed, powerful, strong, of boundless vigour, Agni who knows the lofty hymn, kept secret As the lost milch-cow’s track, the doubly Mighty,-he hath declared to me this hidden knowledge. 4 May he with sharpened teeth, the Bounteous Giver, Agni, consume with flame most fiercely glowing. Those who regard not Varuna’s commandments and the dear stedfast laws of sapient Mitra. 5 Like youthful women without brothers, straying, like dames who hate their lords, of evil conduct, They who are full of sin, untrue, unfaithful, they have engendered this abysmal station. 6 To me, weak, innocent, thou, luminous Agni, bast boldly given as ’twere a heavy burthen, This Prstha hymn, profound and strong and mighty, of seven elements, and with offered dainties. 7 So may our song that purifies, through wisdom reach in a moment him the Universal, Established on the height, on earth’s best .station, above the beauteous grassy skin of Prsni. 8 Of this my speech what shall I utter further? They indicate the milk stored up in secret When they have thrown as ’twere the cows’ stalls open. The Bird protects earths’ best and well-loved station. 9 This is the Great Ones’ mighty apparition which from of old the radiant Cow hath followed. This, shining brightly in the place of Order, swift, hasting on in secret, she discovered. 10 He then who shone together with his Parents remembered Prsni’s fair and secret treasure, Which, in the Mother Cow’s most lofty station, the Bull’s tongue, of the flame bent forward, tasted. 11 With reverence I declare the Law, O Agni; what is, comes by thine order, Jatavedas. Of this, whate’er it be, thou art the Sovran, yea, all the wealth that is in earth or heaven. 12 What is our wealth therefrom, and what our treasure? Tell us O Jatavedas, for thou knowest, What is our best course in this secret passage: we, unreproached, have reached a t)lace far distant. 13 What is the limit, what the rules, the guerdon? Like fleet-foot coursers speed we to the contest. When will the Goddesses, the Immortal’s Spouses, the Dawns, spread over us the Sun-God’s splendour? 14 Unsatisfied, with speech devoid of vigour, scanty and frivolous and inconclusive, Wherefore do they address thee here, O Agni? Let these who have no weapons suffer sorrow. 15 The majesty of him the Good, the Mighty, aflame, hath shone for glory in the dwelling. He, clothed in light, hath shone most fair to look on, wealthy in boons, as a home shines with riches.
HYMN VI. Agni. 1. PRIEST of our rite, stand up erect, O Agni, in the Gods’ service best of sacrificers, For over eve y thought thou art the Ruler: thou furtherest e’en the wisdom of the pious. 2 He was set down mid men as Priest unerring, Agni, wise, welcome in our holy synods. Like Savitar he hath lifted up his splendour, and like a builder raised his smoke to heaven. 3 The glowing ladle, filled with oil, is lifted; choosing Gods’ service to the right he circles. Eager he rises like the new-wrought pillar which, firmly set and fixed, anoints the victims. 4 When sacred grass is strewn and Agni kindled, the Adhvaryu rises to, his task rej o cing. Agni the Priest, like one who tends the cattle, goes three times round, as from of old he wills it. 5 Agni himself, the Priest, with measured motion, goes round, with sweet speech, cheerful, true to Order. His fulgent flames run forth like vigorous horses; all creatures are affrighted when he blazes. 6 Beautiful and auspicious is thine aspect, O lovely Agni, terrible when spreading. Thy splendours are not covered by the darkness: detraction leaves no stain upon thy body. 7 Naught hindered his production, Bounteous Giver: his Mother and his Sire were free to send him. Then as Friend benevolent, refulgent, Agni shone forth in human habitations. 8 He, Agni, whom the twice-five sisters, dwelling together, in the homes of men engendered, Bright like a spear’s tooth, wakened in the morning, with powerful mouth and like an axe well-sharpened. 9 These thy Bay Coursers, Agni, dropping fatness, ruddy vigorous, speeding straightly forward, And red steeds, wonderful, of mighty muscle, are to this service of the Gods invited: 10 These brightly-shining games of thine, O Agni, that move for ever restless, allsubduing, Like falcons hasting eagerly to the quarry, roar loudly like the army of the Maruts. 11 To thee, O flaming God, hath prayer been offered. Let the priest laud thee: give to him who worships. Men have established Agni as Invoker, fain to adore the glory of the living.
HYMN VII. Agni. 1. HERE by ordainers was this God appointed first Invoker, best at worship, to be praised at rites: Whom Apnavana, and the Bhrgus caused to shine bright-coloured in the wood, spreading from home to home.2 When shall thy glory as a God, Agni, be suddenly shown forth. For mortal men have held thee fast, adorable in all their homes, 3 Seeing thee faithful to the Law, most sapient, like the starry heaven, Illumining with cheerful ray each solemn rite in every house. 4 Vivasvan’s envoy living men have taken as their ensign, swift, The ruler over all mankind, moving like Bhrgu in each home. 5 Him the intelligent have they placed duly as Invoking Priest, Welcome, with sanctifying flame, best worshipper, with sevenfold might; 6 In his Eternal Mothers, in the wood, concealed and unapproached, Kept secret though his flames are bright seekingon all sides, quickly found. 7 That as food spreads forth in this earthly udder, Gods may rejoice them in the home of Order, Great Agni, served with reverence and oblation, flies ever to the sacrifice, the Faithful. 8 Bird of each rite, skilled in an envoy’s duties, knowing both worlds and that which lies between them, Thou goest from of old a willing Herald, knowing full well heaven’s innermost recesses. 9 Bright God, thy path is black: light is before thee: thy moving splendour is the chief of wonders. When she, yet unimpregnate, hath conceived thee, even when newly born thou art an envoy. 10 Yet newly born, his vigour is apparent when the wind blows upon his fiery splendour, His sharpened tongue he layeth on the brushwood, and with his teeth e’en solid food consumeth. 11 When he hath borne off food with swift flame swiftly, strong Agni makes himself a speedy envoy, Follows the rustling of the wind, consuming, and courser-like, speeds, drives the swift horse onward. HYMN VIII. Agni. 1. YOUR envoy who possesses all, Immortal, bearer of your gifts, Best worshipper, I woo with song. 2 He, Mighty, knows the gift of wealth, he knows the deep recess of heaven: He shall bring hitherward the Gods. 3 He knows, a God himself, to guide Gods to the righteous in his home: He gives e’en treasures that we love. 4 He is the Herald: well-informed, he doth his errand to and fro, Knowing the deep recess of heaven. 5 May we be they who gratify Agni with sacrificial gifts, Whocherish and enkindle him. 6 Illustrious for wealth are they, and hero deeds, victorious, Who have served Agni reverently. 7 So unto us, day after day, may riches craved by many come, And power and might spring up for us. 8 That holy Singer in his strength shoots forth his arrows swifter than The swift shafts of the tribes of men.
HYMN XV. Agni. 1. AGNI the Herald, like a horse, is led forth at our solemn rite, God among Gods adorable. 2 Three times unto our solemn rite comes Agni like a charioteer, Bearing the viands to the Gods. 3 Round the oblations hath he paced, Agni the Wise, the Lord of Strength, Giving the offerer precious boons. 4 He who is kindled eastward for Srnjaya, Devavata’s son, Resplendent, tamer of the foe. 5 So mighty be the Agni whom the mortal hero shall command, With sharpened teeth and bountiful. 6 Day after day they dress him, as they clean a horse who wins the prize. Dress the red Scion of the Sky. 7 When Sahadeva’s princely son with two bay horses thought of me, Summoned by him I drew not back. 8 And truly those two noble bays I straightway took when offered me, From Sahadeva’s princely son. 9 Long, O ye Asvins, may he live, your care, ye Gods, the princely son. Of Sahadeva, Somaka. 10 Cause him the youthful prince, the son of Sahadeva, to enjoy Long life, O Asvins, O ye Gods.
HYMN I. Agni 1. Agni is wakened by the people’s fuel to meet the Dawn who cometh like a milch-cow. Like young trees shooting up on high their branches, his flames are rising to the vault of heaven. 2 For worship of the Gods the Priest was wakened: at morning gracious Agni hath arisen. Kindled, his radiant might is made apparent, and the great Deity set free from darkness. 3 When he hath stirred the line of his attendants, with the pure milk pure Agni is anointed. The strength-bestowing gift is then made ready, which spread in front, with tongues, erect, he drinketh. 4 The spirits of the pious turn together to Agni, as the eyes of all to Surya. He, when both Dawns of different hues have borne him, springs up at daybreak as a strong white charger. 5 The noble One was born at days’ beginning, laid red in colour mid the welllaid fuel. Yielding in every house his seven rich treasures, Agni is seated, Priest most skilled in worship. 6 Agni hath sat him down, a Priest most skilful, on a sweet-smelling place, his Mother’s bosom. Young, faithful, sage, preeminent o’er many, kindled among the folk whom he sustaineth. 7 This Singer excellent at sacrifices, Agni the Priest, they glorify with homage. Him who spread out both worlds by Law Eternal they balm with oil, strong Steed who never faileth. 8. He, worshipful House-Friend, in his home is worshipped, our own auspicious guest, lauded by sages. That strength the Bull with thousand horns possesses. In might, O Agni, thou excellest others. 9 Thou quickly passest by all others, Agni, for him to whom thou hast appeared most lovely, Wondrously fair, adorable, effulgent, the guest of men, the darling of the people. 10 To thee, Most Youthful God! to thee, O Agni from near and far the people bring their tribute. Mark well the prayer of him who best extols thee. Great, high, auspicious, Agni, is thy shelter. 11 Ascend to-day thy splendid car, O Agni, in splendour, with the Holy Ones around it. Knowing the paths by mid-air’s spacious region bring hither Gods to feast on our oblation. 12 To him adorable, sage, strong and mighty we have sung forth our song of praise and homage. Gavisthira hath raised with prayer to Agni this laud far-reaching, like gold light to heaven.
HYMN II. Agni. 1. THE youthful Mother keeps the Boy in secret pressed to her close, nor yields him to the Father. But, when he lies upon the arm, the people see his unfading countenance before them. 2 What child is this thou carriest as handmaid, O Youthful One? The Consort Queen hath bome him. The Babe unborn increased through many autumns. I saw him born what time his Mother bare him.3 I saw him from afar gold-toothed, bright-coloured, hurling his weapons from his habitation, What time I gave him Amrta free from mixture. How can the Indraless, the hymnless harm me? 4 I saw him moving from the place he dwells in, even as with a herd, brilliantly shining. These seized him not: he had been born already. They who were grey with age again grow youthful. 5 Who separate my young bull from the cattle, they whose protector was in truth no stranger? Let those whose hands have seized upon them free them. May he, observant, drive the herd to us-ward. 6 Mid mortal men godless have secreted the King of all who live, home of the people. So may the prayers of Atri give him freedom. Reproached in turn be those who now reproach him. 7 Thou from the stake didst loose e’en Sunahsepa bound for a thousand; for he prayed with fervour. So, Agni, loose from us the bonds that bind us, when thou art seated here, O Priest who knowest. 8 Thou hast sped from me, Agni, in thine anger: this the protector of Gods’ Laws hath told me. Indra who knoweth bent his eye upon thee: by him instructed am I come, O Agni. 9 Agni shines far and wide with lofty splendour, and by his greatness makes all things apparent. He conquers godless and malign enchantments, and sharpens both his horns to gore the Raksas. 10 Loud in the heaven above be Agni’s roarings with keen-edged weapons to destroy the demons. Forth burst his splendours in the Soma’s rapture. The godless bands press round but cannot stayhim. 11 As a skilled craftsman makes a car, a singer I, Mighty One! this hymn for thee have fashioned. If thou, O Agni, God, accept it gladly, may we obtain thereby the heavenly Waters. 12 May he, the strong-necked Steer, waxing in vigour, gather the foeman’s wealth with none to check him. Thus to this Agni have the Immortals spoken. To man who spreads the grass may he grant shelter, grant shelter to the man who brings oblation.
HYMN III. Agni. 1. THOU at thy birth art Varuna, O Agni; when thou art kindled thou becomest Mitra. In thee, O Son of Strength, all Gods are centred. Indra art thou to man who brings oblation. 2 Aryaman art thou as regardeth maidens mysterious, is thy name, O Selfsustainer. As a kind friend with streams of milk they balm thee what time thou makcst wife and lord one-minded. 3 The Maruts deck their beauty for thy glory, yea, Rudra! for thy birth fair, brightly-coloured. That which was fixed as Visnu’s loftiest station-therewith the secret of the Cows thou guardest. 4 Gods through thy glory, God who art so lovely! granting abundant gifts gained life immortal. As their own Priest have men established Agni; and serve him fain for praise from him who liveth. 5 There is no priest more skilled than thou in worship; none Self-sustainer pass thee in wisdom. Ile man within whose house as guest thou dwellest, O God, by sacrifice shall conquer mortals. 6 Aided by thee, O Agni may we conquer through our oblation, fain for wealth, awakened: May we in battle, in the days’ assemblies,O Son of Strength, by riches conquer mortals. 7 He shall bring evil on the evil-plottcr whoever turns against us sin and outrage. Destroy this calumny of him, O Agni, whoever injures us with doubledealing. 8 At this dawn’s flushing, God! our ancient fathers served thee with offerings, making thee their envoy, When, Agni, to the store of wealth thou goest, a God cnkindled with good things by mortals. 9 Save, thou who knowest, draw thy father near thee, who counts as thine own son, O Child of Power. O sapient Agni, when wilt thou regard us? When, skilled in holy Law, wilt thou direct us? 10 Adoring thee he gives thee many a title, when thou, Good Lord! acceptest this as Father. And doth not Agni, glad in strength of Godhead, gain splendid bliss when he hath waxen mighty? 11 Most Youthful Agni, verily thou bearest thy praiser safely over all his troubles. Thieves have been seen by us and open foemen: unknown have been the plottings of the wicked. 12 To thee these eulogies have been directed: or to the Vasu hath this sin been spoken. But this our Agni, flaming high, shall never yield us to calumny, to him who wrongs us.
HYMN VIII. Agni. 1. O AGNI urged to strength, the men of old who loved the Law enkindled thee, the Ancient, for their aid, Thee very bright, and holy, nourisher of all, most excellent, the Friend and Master of the home. 2 Thee, Agni, men have stablished as their guest of old, as Master of the household, thee, with hair of flame; High-bannered, multiform, distributor of wealth, kind helper, good protector, drier of the floods. 3 The tribes of men praise thee, Agni, who knowest well burnt offerings, the Discerner, lavishest of wealth, Dwelling in secret, Blest One! visible to all, loud-roaring, skilled in worship, glorified with oil. 4 Ever to thee, O Agni, as exceeding strong have we drawn nigh with songs and reverence singing hymns. So be thou pleased with us, Angiras! as a God enkindled by the noble with man’s goodly light. 5 Thou, Agni! multiform, God who art lauded much! givest in every house subsistence as of old. Thou rulest by thy might o’er food of many a sort: that light of thine when blazing may not be opposed. 6 The Gods, Most Youthful Agni, have made thee, inflamed, the bearer of oblations and the messenger. Thee, widely-reaching, homed in sacred oil, invoked, effulgent, have they made the Eye that stirs the thought. 7 Men seeking joy have lit thee worshipped from of old, O Agni, with good fuel and with sacred oil. So thou, bedewed and waxing mighty by the plants, spreadest thyself abroad over the realms of earth.
HYMN X. Agni. 1. BRING us most mighty splendour thou, Agni, resistless on thy way. With overflowing store of wealth mark out for us a path to strength. 2 Ours art thou, wondrous Agni, by wisdom and bounteousness of power. The might of Asuras rests on thee, like Mitra worshipful in act. 3 Agni, increase our means of life, increase the house and home of these, The men, the princes who have won great riches through our hymns of praise. 4 Bright Agni, they who deck their songs for thee have horses as their meed. The men are mighty in their might, they whose high laud, as that of heaven, awakes thee of its own accord. 5 O Agni, those resplendent flames of thine go valorously forth, Like lightnings flashing round us, like a rattling car that seeks the spoil. 6 Now, Agni, come to succour us; let priests draw nigh to offer gifts; And let the patrons of our rites subdue all regions of the earth. 7 Bring to us, Agni, Angiras, lauded of old and lauded now, Invoker! wealth to quell the strong, that singers may extol thee. Be near us in fight for our success.
HYMN XI. Agni. 1. THE watchful Guardian of the people hath been born, Agni, the very strong, for fresh prosperity. With oil upon his face, with high heaven touching flame, he shineth splendidly, pure, for the Bharatas. 2 Ensign of sacrifice, the earliest Household-Priest, the. men have kindled Agni in his threefold seat, With Indra and the Gods together on the grass let the wise Priest sit to complete the sacrifice. 3 Pure , unadorned, from thy two Mothers art thou born: thou camest from Vivasvan as a charming Sage. With oil they strengthened thee, O Agni, worshipped God: thy banner was the smoke that mounted to the sky. 4 May Agni graciously come to our sacrifice. The men bear Agni here and there in every house. He hath become an envoy, bearer of our gifts: electing Agni, men choose one exceeding wise. 5 For thee, O Agni, is this sweetest prayer of mine: dear to thy spirit be this product of my thought. As great streams fill the river so our song of praise fill thee, and make thee yet more mighty in thy strength. 6 O Agni, the Angirases discovered thee what time thou layest hidden, fleeing back from wood to wood. Thou by attrition art produced as conquer.ing might, and men, O Angiras, call thee the Son of Strength.
HYMN XII. Agni. I. To Agni, lofty Asura, meet for worship, Steer of eternal Law, my prayer I offer; I bring my song directed to the Mighty like pure oil for his mouth at sacrifices. 2 Mark the Law, thou who knowest, yea, observe it: send forth the full streams of eternal Order. I use no sorcery with might or falsehood the sacred Law of the Red Steer I follow. 3 How hast thou, follower of the Law eternal, become the knower of a new song, Agni? The God, the Guardian of the seasons, knows me: the Lord of him who won this wealth I know not. 4 Who, Agni, in alliance with thy foeman, what splendid helpers won for them their riches? Agni, who guard the dwelling-place of falsehood? Who are protectors of the speech of liars? 5 Agni, those friends of thine have turned them from thee: gracious of old, they have become ungracious. They have deceived themselves by their own speeches, uttering wicked words against the righteous. 6 He who pays sacrifice to thee with homage, O Agni, keeps the Red Steer’s Law eternal; Wide is his dwelling. May the noble offipring of Nahusa who wandered forth come hither.
What is the sacred law of the red steer?
HYMN XV. Agni. 1. To him, the far-renowned, the wise Ordainer, ancient and glorious, a song I offer. Enthroned in oil, the Asura, bliss-giver, is Agni, firm support of noble, riches. 2 By holy Law they kept supporting Order, by help of sacrifice, in loftiest heaven,- They who attained with born men to the unborn, men seated on that stay, heaven’s firm sustainer. 3 Averting woe, they labour hard to bring him, the ancient, plenteous food as power resistless. May he, born newly, conquer his assailants: round him they stand as round an angry lion. 4 When, like a mother, spreading forth to nourish, to cherish and regard each man that liveth,- Consuming all the strength that thou hast gotten, thou wanderest round, thyself, in varied fashion. 5 May strength preserve the compass of thy vigour, God! that broad stream of thine that beareth riches. Thou, like a thief who keeps his refuge secret, hast holpen Atri to great wealth, by teaching.
HYMN XVI. Agni. 1. GREAT power is in the beam of light, sing praise to, Agni, to the God Whom men have set in foremost place like Mitra with their eulogies. 2 He by the splendour of his arms is Priest of every able man. Agni conveys oblation straight, and deals, as Bhaga deals, his boons. 3 All rests upon the laud and love of him the rich, high-flaming God, On whom, loud-roaring, men have laid great strength as on a faithful friend. 4 So, Agni, be the Friend of these with liberal gift of hero strength. Yea, Heaven and Earth have not surpassed this Youthful One in glorious fame. 5 O Agni, quickly come to us, and, glorified, bring precious wealth. So we and these our princes will assemble for the good of all. Be near in fight to prosper us.
HYMN XX. Agni. 1. AGNI, best winner of the spoil, cause us to praise before the Gods As our associate meet for lauds, wealth which thou verily deemest wealth. 2 Agni, the great who ward not off the anger of thy power and might Stir up the wrath and hatred due to one who holds an alien creed. 3 Thee, Agni, would we choose as Priest, the perfecter of strength and skill; We who bring sacred food invoke with song thee Chief at holy rites. 4 Here as is needful for thine aid we toil, O Conqueror, day by day, For wealth, for Law. May we rejoice, Most Wise One! at the feast, with kine, rejoice, with heroes, at the feast.
HYMN XXIV. Agni. 1. O AGNI, be our nearest Friend, be thou a kind deliverer and a gracious Friend. 2 Excellent Agni, come thou nigh to us, and give us wealth most splendidly renowned. 3 So hear us, listen to this call of ours, and keep us far from every sinful man. 4 To thee then, O Most Bright, O Radiant God, we come with prayer for happiness for our friends.
HYMN XXV. Agni. 1. I WILL sing near, for grace, your God Agni, for he is good to us. Son of the Brands, may he give gifts, and, righteous, save us from the foe. 2 For be is true, whom men of old enkindled, and the Gods themselves, The Priest with the delicious tongue, rich with the light of glorious beams. 3 With wisdom that surpasseth all, with gracious will most excellent, O Agni, worthy of our choice, shine wealth on us through hymns of praise. 4 Agni is King, for he extends to mortals and to Gods alike. Agni is bearer of our gifts. Worship ye Agni with your thoughts. 5 Agni gives to the worshipper a son, the best, of mightiest fame, Of deep devotion, ne’er subdued, bringer of glory to his sire. 6 Agni bestows the hero-lord who conquers with the men in fight. Agni bestows the fleet-foot steed, the victor never overcome. 7 The mightiest song is Agni’s: shine on high, thou who art rich in light. Like the Chief Consort of a King, riches and strength proceed -from thee. 8 Resplendent are thy rays of light: loud is thy voice like pressing-stones. Yea, of itself thy thunder goes forth like the roaring of the heaven. 9 Thus, seeking riches, have we paid homage to Agni Conqueror. May he, most wise, as with a ship, carry us over all our foes.
HYMN XXVI. Agni. 1. O AGNI, Holy and Divine, with splendour and thy pleasant tongue Bring hither and adore the Gods. 2 We pray thee, thou who droppest oil, bright-rayed! who lookest on the Sun, Bring the Gods hither to the feast. 3 We have enkindled thee, O Sage, bright caller of the Gods to feast. O Agni, great in Sacrifice. 4 O Agni, come with all the Gods, come to our sacrificial gift: We choose thee as Invoking Priest. 5 Bring, Agni, to the worshipper who pours the juice, heroic strength: Sit with the Gods upon the grass. 6 Victor of thousands, Agni, thou, enkindled, cherishest the laws, Laud-worthy, envoy of the Gods. 7 Set Agni Jatavedas down, the bearer of our sacred gifts, MostYouthful, God and Minister. 8 Duly proceed our sacrifice, comprising all the Gods, to-day: Strew holy grass to be their seat. 9 So may the Maruts sit thereon, the Asvins, Mitra, Varuna: The Gods with all their company.
HYMN XXVIII. Agni. 1. AGNI inflamed hath sent to heaven his lustre: he shines forth widely turning unto Morning. Eastward the ladle goes that brings all blessing, praising the Godswith homage and oblation. 2 Enkindled, thou art King of the immortal world: him who brings offerings thou attendest for his weal. He whom thou urgest on makes all possessions his: he sets before thee, Agni, gifts that guests may claim. 3 Show thyself strong for mighty bliss, O Agni, most excellent be thine effulgent splendours. Make easy to maintain our household lordship, and overcome the might of those who hate us. 4 Thy glory, Agni, I adore, kindled, exalted in thy strength. A Steer of brilliant splendour, thou art lighted well at sacred rites. 5 Agni, invoked and kindled, serve the Gods, thou skilled in sacrifice: For thou art bearer of our gifts. 6 Invoke and worship Agni while the sacrificial rite proceeds: For offering-bearer choose ye him.
HYMN XXIX. Agni. 1. MAN’S worship of the Gods hath three great lustres, and three celestial lights have they established The Maruts gifted with pure strength adore thee, for thou, O Indra, art their sapient Rsi. 2 What time the Maruts sang their song to Indra, joyous when he had drunk of Soma juices, He grasped his thunderbolt to slay the Dragon, and loosed, that they might flow, the youthful Waters. 3 And, O ye Brahmans, Maruts, so may Indra drink draughts of this my carefully pressed Sorna; For this oblation found for man the cattle, and Indra, having quaffed it, slew the Dragon. 4 Then heaven and earth he sundered and supported: wrapped even in these he struck the Beast with terror. So Indra forced the Engulfer to disgorgement, and slew the Danava. panting against him. 5 Thus all the Gods, O Maghavan, delivered to thee of their free will the draught of Soma; When thou for Etasa didst cause to tarry the flying mares of Surya racing forward. 6 When Maghavan with the thunderbolt demolished his nine-and-ninety castles all together, The Maruts, where they met, glorified Indra: ye with the Trustup hymn obstructed heaven. 7 As friend to aid a friend, Agni dressed quickly three hundred buffaloes, even as he willed it. And Indra, from man’s gift, for Vrtra’s slaughter, drank ofr at once three lakes of pressed-out Soma. 8 When thou three hundred buffaloes’ flesh hadst eaten, and drunk, as Maghavan, three lakes of Soma, All the Gods raised as ’twere a shout of triumph to Indra praise because he slew the Dragon. 9 What time ye came with strong steeds swiftly speeding, O Usana and Indra, to the dwelling, Thou camest thither -conquering together with Kutsa and the Gods: thou slewest Susna. 10 One car-wheel of the Sun thou rolledst forward, and one thou settest free to move for Kutsa. Thou slewest noseless Dasyus with thy weapon, and in their home o’erthrewest hostile speakers. 11 The lauds of Gauriviti made thee mighty to Vidathin’s son, as prey, thou gavest Pipru. Rjisivan drew thee into friendship dressing the sacred food, and thou hast drunk his Soma. 12 Navagvas and Dasgvas with libations of Soma juice sing hymns of praise to Indra. Labouring at their task the men laid open the stall of Kine though firmly closed and fastened. 13 How shall I serve thee, Maghavan, though knowing full well what hero deeds thou hast accomplished? And the fresh deeds which thou wilt do, Most Mighty! these, too, will we tell forth in sacred synods. 14 Resistless from of old through hero courage, thou hast done all these many acts, O Indra. What thou wilt do in bravery, Thunder-wielder! none is there who may hinder this thy prowess. 15 Indra, accept the prayers which now are offered, accept the new prayers, Mightiest! which we utter. Like fair and well-made robes, I, seeking riches, as a deft craftsman makes a car, have wrought them.
HYMN I. Agni. 1. THOU, first inventor of this prayer, O Agni, Worker of Marvels, hast become our Herald. Thou, Bull, hast made us strength which none may conquer, strength that shall overcome all other prowess. 2 As Priest thou sattest at the seat of worship, furthering us, best Offerer, meet for honour. So first to thee have pious men resorted, turning thy mind to thoughts of ample riches. 3 In thee, still watching, they have followed riches, who goest with much wealth as with an army,The radiant Agni, lofty, fair to look on, worshipped with marrow, evermore resplendent. 4 They who approached the God’s abode with homage, eager for glory, won them perfect glory: Yea, they gained even sacrificial titles, and found delight in thine auspicious aspect. 5 On earth the people magnify thee greatly, thee their celestial and terrestrial riches. Thou, Helper, must be known as our Preserver, Father and Mother of mankind for ever. 6 Dear priest among mankind, adorable Agni hath seated him, joy-giver, skilled in worship. Let us approach thee shining in thy dwelling, kneeling upon our knees, with adoration. 7 Longing for bliss, pure-minded, God-devoted, Agni, we seek thee, such, meet to be lauded. Thou, Agni, leddest forth our men to battle, refulgent with the heaven’s exalted splendour. 8 Sage of mankind, all peoples’ Lord and Master, the Bull of men, the sender down of blessings, Still pressing on, promoting, purifying, Agni the Holy One, the Lord of riches. 9 Agni, the mortal who hath toiled and worshipped, brought thee oblations with his kindled fuel, And well knows sacrifice with adoration, gains every joy with thee to guard and help him. 10 Mightily let us worship thee the Mighty, with reverence, Agni! fuel and oblations, With songs, O Son of Strength, with hymns, with altar: so may we strive for thine auspicious favour. 11 Thou who hast covered heaven and earth with splendour and with thy glories, glorious and triumphant. Continue thou to shine on us, O Agni, with strength abundant, rich, and long enduring. 12 Vouchsafe us ever, as man needs, O Vasu, abundant wealth of kine for son and offspring. Food noble, plenteous, far from sin and evil, he with us, and fair fame to make us happy. 13 May I obtain much wealth in many places by love of thee and through thy grace, King Agni; For in thee Bounteous One, in thee the Sovran, Agni, are many boons for him who serves thee.
HYMN II. Agni. 1. THOU, Agni, even as Mitra, hast a princely glory of thine own. Thou, active Vasu, makest fame increase like full prosperity. 2 For, verily, men pray to thee with sacrifices and with songs. To thee the Friendly Courser, seen of all, comes speeding through the air. 3 Of one accord men kindle thee Heaven’s signal of the sacrifice, When, craving bliss, this race of man invites thee to the solemn rite. 4 Let the man thrive who travails sore, in prayer, far thee the Bountiful. He with the help of lofty Dyaus comes safe through straits of enmity. 5 The mortal who with fuel lights thy flame and offers unto thee, Supports a house with many a branch, Agni, to live a hundred years. 6 Thy bright smoke lifts itself aloft, and far-extended shines in heaven. For, Purifier! like the Sun thou beamest with thy radiant glow. 7 For in men’s houses thou must be glorified as a well-loved guest, Gay like an elder in a fort, claiming protection like a son. 8 Thou, Agni, like an able steed, art urged by wisdom in the wood. Thou art like wind; food, home art thou, like a young horse that runs astray. 9 E’en things imperishable, thou, O Agni, like a gazing ox, Eatest, when hosts, Eternal One! of thee the Mighty rend the woods. 10 Agni, thou enterest as Priest the home of men who sacrifice. Lord of the people, prosper them. Accept the ofrering, Angiras! 11 O Agni, God with Mitra’s might, call hither the favour of the Gods from earth and heaven. Bring weal from heaven, that men may dwell securely. May we o’ercome the foe’s malign oppressions, may we o’ercome them, through thy help o’ercome them.
HYMN III. Agni. 1. TRUE, guardian of the Law, thy faithful servant wins ample light and dwells in peace, O Agni, Whom thou, as Varuna in accord with Mitra, guardest, O God, by banishing his trouble. 2 He hath paid sacrifices, toiled in worship, and offered gifts to wealthincreasing Agni. Him the displeasure of the famous moves not, outrage and scorn affect not such a mortal. 3 Bright God, whose look is free from stain like Surya’s, thou, swift, what time thou earnestly desirest, Hast gear to give us. Come with joy at evening, where, Child of Wood, thou mayest also tarry. 4 Fierce is his gait and vast his wondrous body: he champeth like a horse with bit and bridle, And, darting forth his tongue, as ’twere a hatchet, burning the woods, smelteth them like a smelter. 5 Archer-like, fain toshoot, he sets his arrow, and whets his splendour like the edge of iron: The messenger of night with brilliant pathway, like a tree-roosting bird of rapid pinion. 6 In beams of morn he clothes him like the singer, and bright as Mitra with his splendour crackles. Red in the night, by day the men’s possession: red, he belongs to men by day, Immortal. 7 Like Heaven’s when scattering beams his voice was uttered: among the plants the radiant Hero shouted, Who with his glow in rapid course came hither to fill both worlds, wellwedded Dames, with treasure. 8 Who, with supporting streams and rays that suit him, hath flashed like lightning with his native vigour. Like the deft Ma
HYMN IV Agni. 1. As at man’s service of the Gods, Invoker, thou, Son of Strength, dost sacrifice and worship, So bring for us to-day all Gods together, bring willingly the willing Gods, O Agni. 2 May Agni, radiant Herald of the morning, meet to be known, accept our praise with favour. Dear to all life, mid mortal men Immortal, our guest, awake at dawn, is Jatavedas. 3 Whose might the very heavens regard with wonder: bright as the Sun he clothes himself with lustre. He who sends forth,, Eternal Purifier, hath shattered e’en the ancient works of Asna. 4 Thou art a Singer, Son! our feast-companion: Agni at birth prepared his food and pathway. Therefore vouchsafe us strength, O Strength-bestower. Win like a King: foes trouble not thy dwelling. 5 Even he who cats his firm hard food with swiftness,and overtakes the nights as Vayu kingdoms. May we o’ercome those who resist thine orders, like a steed casting down the flying foemen. 6 Like Surya with his fulgent rays, O Agni, thou overspreadest both the worlds with splendour. Decked with bright colour he dispels the darkness, like Ausija, with clear flame swifily flying. 7 We have elected thee as most delightful for thy beams’ glow: hear our great laud, O Agni. The best men praise thee as the peer of Indra in strength, mid Gods, like Viyu in thy bounty. 8 Now, Agni, on the tranquil paths of riches come to us for our weal: save us from sorrow. Grant chiefs and bard this boon. May we live happy, with hero children, through a hundred winters.
HYMN V. Agni. 1. I INVOCATE your Son of Strength, the Youthful, with hymns, the Youngest God, whose speech is guileless; Sage who sends wealth comprising every treasure, bringer of many boons, devoid of malice. 2 At eve and morn thy pious servants bring thee their precious gifts, O Priest of many aspects, On whom, the Purifier, all things living as on firm. ground their happiness have stablished. 3 Thou from of old hast dwelt among these people, by mental power the charioteer of blessings. Hence sendest thou, O sapient Jatavedas, to him who serves thee treasures in succession. 4 Agni, whoever secretly attacks us, the neighbour, thou with Mitra’s might! who harms us, Burn him with thine own Steers for ever youthful, burning with burning heat, thou fiercest burner. 5 He who serves thee with sacrifice and fuel, with hymn, O Son of Strength, and chanted praises, Shines out, Immortal! in the midst of mortals, a sage, with wealth, with splendour and with glory. 6 Do this, O Agni, when we urge thee, quickly, triumphant in thy might subdue our foemen. When thou art praised with words and decked with brightness, accept this chanted hymn, the singer’s worship. 7 Help us, that we may gain this wish, O Agni, gain riches, Wealthy One! with store of heroes. Desiring strength from thee may we be strengthened, and win, Eternal! thine eternal glory.
HYMN VI. Agni. 1. HE who seeks furtherance and grace to help him goes to the Son of Strength with newest worship, Calling the heavenly Priest to share the banquet, who rends the wood, bright, with his blackened pathway. 2 White-hued and thundering he dwells in splendour, Most Youthful, with the loudvoiced and eternal- Agni, most variform, the Purifier, who follows crunching many ample forests. 3 Incited by the wind thy flames, O Agni, move onward, Pure One! pure, in all directions. Thy most destructive heavenly Navagvas break the woods down and devastate them boldly. 4 Thy pure white horses from their bonds are loosened: O Radiant One, they shear the ground beneath them, And far and wide shines out thy flame, and flickers rapidly moving over earth’s high ridges. 5 Forth darts the Bull’s tongue like the sharp stone weapon discharged by him who fights to win the cattle. Agni’s fierce flame is like a hero’s onset: dread and resistless he destroys the forests. 6 Thou with the sunlight of the great Impeller hast boldly over-spread the earth’s expanses. So drive away with conquering might all perils. fighting out foemen burn up those who harm us. 7 Wondrous! of wondrous power! give to the singer wealth wondrous, marked, most wonderful, life-giving. Wealth bright, O Bright One, vast, with many heroes, give with thy bright flames to the man who lauds thee.
HYMN VII. Agni. 1. Him, messenger of earth and head of heaven, Agni Vaisvanara, born in holy Order, The Sage, the King, the guest of men, a vessel fit for their mouths, the Gods have generated. 2 Him have they praised, mid-point of sacrifices, great cistern of libations, seat of riches. Vaisvanara, conveyer of oblations, ensign of worship, have the Gods engendered. 3 From thee, O Agni, springs the mighty singer, from thee come heroes who subdue the foeman. O King, Vaisvanara, bestow thou on us excellent treasures worthy to belonged fo r. 4 To thee, Immortal! when to life thou springest, all the Gods sing for joy as to their infant. They by thy mental powers were made immortal, Vaisvanara, when thou shonest from thy Parents. 5 Agni Vaisvanara, no one hath ever resisted these thy mighty ordinances, When thou, arising from thy Parents’ bosom, foundest the light for days’ appointed courses. 6 The summits of the heaven are traversed through and through by the Immortal’s light, Vaisvanara’s brilliancy. All creatures in existence rest upon his head. The Seven swift-flowing Streams have grown like branches forth, 7 Vaisvanara, who measured out the realms of air, Sage very wise who made the lucid spheres of heaven, The Undeceivable who spread out all the worlds, keeper is he and guard of immortality.
HYMN IX. Agni. 1. ONE half of day is dark, and bright the other: both atmospheres move on by sage devices. Agni Vaisvanara, when born as Sovran, hath with his lustre overcome the darkness. 2 I know not either warp or woof, I know not the web they weave when moving to the contest. Whose son shall here speak words that must be spoken without assistance from the Father near him? 3 For both the warp and woof he understandeth, and in due time shall speak what should be spoken, Who knoweth as the immortal world’s Protector, descending, seeing with no aid from other. 4 He is the Priest, the first of all: behold him. Mid mortal men he is the light immortal. Here was he born, firm-seated in his station Immortal, ever waxing in his body. 5 A firm light hath been set for men to look on: among all things that fly the mind is swiftest. All Gods of one accord, with one intention, move unobstructed to a single purpose. 6 Mine ears unclose to hear, mine eye to see him; the light that harbours in my spirit broadens. Far roams my mind whose thoughts are in the distance. What shall I speak, what shall I now imagine? 7 All the Gods bowed them down in fear before thee, Agni, when thou wast dwelling in the darkness. Vaisvanara be gracious to assist us, may the Immortal favour us and help us.
HYMN XI. Agni. 1. EAGERLY Sacrifice thou, most skilful, Agni! Priest, pressing on as if the Maruts sent thee. To our oblation bring the two Nasatyas, Mitra and Varuna and Earth and Heaven. 2 Thou art our guileless, most delightful Herald, the God, among mankind, of holy synods. A Priest with purifying tongue, O Agni, sacrifice with thy mouth to thine own body. 3 For even the blessed longing that is in thee would bring the Gods down to the singer’s worship, When the Angirases’ sagest Sage, the Poet, sings the sweet measure at the solemn service. 4 Bright hath he beamed, the wise, the far-refulgent. Worship the two widespreading Worlds, O Agni, Whom as the Living One rich in oblations the Five Tribes, bringing gifts, adorn with homage. 5 When I with reverence clip the grass for Agni, when the trimmed ladle, fullof oil, is lifted, Firm on the seat of earth is based the altar: eye-like, the sacrifice is directed Sun-ward. 6 Enrich us, O thou Priest of many aspects, with the Gods, Agni, with thy fires, enkindled. O Son of Strength, clad in the robe of riches, may we escape from woe as from a prison.
HYMN XIV. Agni. 1. WHOSO to Agni hath endeared his thought and service by his hymns, That mortal cats before the rest, and finds sufficiency of food. 2 Agni, in truth, is passing wise, most skilled in ordering, a Seer. At sacrifices Manus’ sons glorify Agni as their Priest. 3 The foeman’s wealth in many a place, Agni, is emulous to help. Men fight the fiend, and seek by rites to overcome the riteless foe. 4 Agni bestows the hero chief, winner of waters, firm in fray. Soon as they look upon his might his enemies tremble in alarm. 5 For with his wisdom Agni, God, protects the mortal from reproach, Whose conquering wealth is never checked, is never checked in deeds of might. 6 O Agni, God with Mitra’s might call hither the favour of the Gods from earth and heaven. Bring weal from heaven that men may dwell securely. May we o’ercome the foe’s malign oppressions, may we o’ercome them, through thy help o’ercome them.
HYMN XV. Agni. 1. WITH this my song I strive to reach this guest of yours, who wakes at early morn, the Lord of all the tribes. Each time he comes from heaven, the Pure One from of old: from ancient days the Child cats everlasting food. 2 Whom, well-dissed, the Blirgus stablished as a rriend, whom men must glorify, high-flaming in the wood. As such, most friendly, thou art every day extolled in lauds by Vitahavya, O thou wondrous God. 3 Be thou the foeless helper of the skillful man, subduer of the enemy near or far away. Bestow a wealthy home on men, O Son of Strength. Give Vitahavya riches spreading far and wide, give Bharadvaja wide-spread wealth. 4 Him, your refulgent guest, Agni who comes from heaven, the Herald of mankind, well-skilled in sacred rites, Who, like a holy singer, utters heavenly words, oblation-bearer, envoy, God, I seek with hymns. 5 Who with his purifying, eye-attracting form hath shone upon the earth as with the light of Dawn; Who speeding on, as in the fight of Etaia, cometh, untouched by age, as one athirst in heat. 6 Worship ye Agni, Agni, with your log of wood; praise your beloved, your beloved guest with songs. Invite ye the Immortal hither with your hymns. A God among the Gods, he loveth what is choice, loveth our service, God mid Gods. 7 Agni inflamed with fuel in my song I sing, pure, Cleanser, steadlast, set in front at sacrifice. Wise Jatavedas we implore with prayers for bliss the Priest, the holy Singer, bounteous, void of guile. 8 Men, Agni, in each age have made thee, Deathiess One, their envoy, offering-bearer, guard adorable. With reverence Gods and mortals have established thee, the ever-watchful, omnipresent Household Lord. 9 Thou, Agni, ordering the works and ways of both, as envoy of the Gods traversest both the worlds. When we lay claim to thy regard and gracious fare, be thou to us a thrice protecting friendly guard. 10 Him fair of face, rapid, and fair to look on, him very wise may we who know not follow. Let him who knows all rules invite for worship, Agru announce our o
HYMN XVI. Agni. 1. PRIEST of all sacrifices hast thou been appointed by the Gods, Agni, amid the race of man. 2 So with thy joyous tongues for us sacrifice nobly in this rite. Bring thou the Gods and worship them. 3 For well, O God, Disposer, thou knowest, straight on, the paths and ways, Agni, most wise in sacrifice. 4 Thee, too, hath Bharata of old, with mighty men, implored for bliss. And worshipped thee the worshipful. 5 Thou givest these abundant boons to Divodasa pouring forth, To Bharadvaja offering gifts. 6 Do thou, Immortal Messenger, bring hither the Celestial Folk; Hearing the singer’s eulogy. 7 Mortals with pious thought implore thee, Agni, God, at holy rites, To come unto the feast of Gods. 8 I glorify thine aspect and the might of thee the Bountiful. All those who love shall joy in thee, 9 Invoker placed by Manus, thou, Agni, art near, the wisest Priest: Pay worship to the Tribes of Heaven. 10 Come, Agni, lauded, to the feast; come to the offering of the gifts. As Priest be seated on the grass. 11 So, Angiras, we make thee strong with fuel and with holy oil. Blaze high, thou youngest of the Gods. 12 For us thou winnest, Agni, God, heroic strength exceeding great, Far-spreading and of high renown. 13 Agni, Atharvan brought thee forth, by rubbing, from the lotus-flower, The head of Visva, of the Priest. 14 Thee. Vrtra’s slayer, breaker down of castles, hath Atharvan’s son, Dadhyac the Rsi, lighted up. 15 The hero Pathya kindled thee the Dasyus’. most destructive foe, Winner of spoil in every fight. 16 Come, here, O Agni, will I sing verily other songs to thee, And with these drops shalt thou grow strong. 17 Where’er thy mind applies itself, vigour preeminent bast thou: There wilt thou gain a dwelling-place. 18 Not for a moment only lasts thy bounty, good to many a one! Our service therefore shalt thou gain. 19 Agni, the Bharata, hath been sought, the Vrtra-slayer, marked of all, Yea, Divodasa’s Hero Lord. 20 For he gave riches that surpass in greatness all the things of earth, Fighting untroubled, unsubdued. 21 Thou, Agni, as in days of old, with recent glory, gathered light, Hast overspread the lofty heaven. 22 Bring to your Agni, O my friends, boldly your laud and sacrifice: Give the Disposer praise and song. 23 For as sagacious Herald he hath sat through every age of man, Oblation-bearing messenger. 24 Bring those Two Kings whose ways are pure, Adityas, and the Marut host, Excellent God! and Heaven and Earth. 25 For strong and active mortal man, excellent, Agni, is the look Of thee Immortal, Son of Strength 26 Rich through his wisdom, noblest be the giver serving thee to-day: The man hath brought his hymn of praise. 27 These, Agni, these are helped by thee, who strong and active all their lives, O’ercome the malice of the foe, fight down the malice of the foe. 28 May Agni with his pointed blaze cast down each fierce devouring fiend May Agni win us wealth by war. 29 O active Jatavedas, bring riches with store of hero sons: Slay thou the demons, O Most Wise. 30 Keep us, O Jatavedas, from the troubling of the man of sin: Guard us thou Sage who knowest prayer. 31 Whatever sinner, Agni, brings oblations to procure our death, Save us from woe that he would work. 32 Drive from us with thy tongue, O God, the man who doeth evil deeds, The mortal who would strike us dead. 33 Give shelter reaching far and wide to Bharadvaja, conquering Lord! Agni, send wealth most excellent. 34 May Agni slay the Vrtras,-fain for riches, through the lord of song, Served with oblation, kindled, bright. 35 His Father’s Father, shining in his Mother’s everlasting side, Set on the seat of holy Law. 36 O active Jatavedas, bring devotion that wins progeny, Agni, that it may shine to heaven. 37 O Child of Strength, to thee whose look is lovely we with dainty food, O Agni, have poured forth our songs. 38 To thee for shelter are we come, as to the shade from fervent heat Agni, who glitterest like gold. 39 Mighty as one who slays with shafts, or like a bull with sharpened horn, Agni, thou breakest down the forts. 40 Whom, like an infant newly born, devourer, in their arms they bear, Men’s Agni, skilled in holy rites. 41 Bear to the banquet of the Gods the God best finder-out of wealth, Let him he seated in his place. 42 In Jatavedas kindle ye the dear guest who hath now appeared In a soft place, the homestead’s Lord. 43 Harness, O Agni, O thou God, thy steeds which are most excellent: They bear thee as thy spirit wills. 44 Come hither, bring the Gods to us to taste the sacrificial feast, To drink the draught of Soma juice. 45 O Agni of the Bharatas, blaze high with everlasting might, Shine forth and gleam, Eternal One. 46 The mortal man who serves the God with banquet, and, bringing gifts at sacrifice, lauds Agni, May well attract, with prayer and hands uplifted, the Priest of Heaven and Earth, true Sacrificer. 47 Agni, we bring thee, with our hymn, oblation fashioned in the heart. Let these be oxen unto thee, let these be bulls and kine to thee. 48 The Gods enkindle Agni, best slayer of Vrtra, first in rank, The Mighty, One who brings us wealth and crushes down the Raksasas.
HYMN XLVIII. Agni and Others. 1. SING to your Agni with each song, at every sacrifice, for strength. Come, let us praise the Wise and Everlasting God, even as a well-beloved Friend, 2 The Son of Strength; for is he not our gracious Lord? Let us serve him who bears our gifts. In battle may he be our help and strengthener, yea, be the saviour of our lives. 3 Agni, thou beamest forth with light, great Hero, never changed by time. Shining, pure Agni! with a light that never fades, beam with thy fair beams brilliantly. 4 Thou worshippest great Gods: bring them without delay by wisdom and thy wondrous power. O Agni, make them turn hither to succour us. Give strength, and win it for thyself. 5 He whom floods, stones, and trees support, the offspring of eternal Law; He who when rubbed with force is brought to life by men upon the lofty height of earth; 6 He who hath filled both worlds fult with his brilliant shine, who hastens with his smoke to heaven; He made himself apparent through the gloom by night, the Red Bull in the darksome nights, the Red Bull in the darksome nights. 7 O Agni, with thy lofty beams, with thy pure brilliancy, O God, Kindled, Most Youthful One! by Bharadvaja’s hand, shine on us, O pure God, with wealth, shine, Purifier! splendidly. 8 Thou art the Lord of house and home of all the tribes, O Agni, of all tribes of men. Guard with a hundred forts thy kindler from distress, through hundred winters, Youngest God! and those who make thy singers rich. 9 Wonderful, with thy favouring help, send us thy bounties, gracious Lord. Thou art the Charioteer, Agni, of earthly wealth: find rest and safety for our seed. 10 With guards unfailing never negligent speed thou our children and our progeny. Keep far from us, O Agni, all celestial wrath and wickedness of godless men. 11 Hither, O friends, with newest song drive her who freely pours her milk; Loose her who never turns away; 12 Who, for the host of Maruts bright with native sheen, hath shed immortal fame like milk; Whom the impetuous Maruts look upon with love, who moves in splendour on their ways. 13 For Bharadvaja she poured down in days of old The milch-cow yielding milk for all, and food that gives all nourishment. 14 Your friend like Indra passing wise, with magic power like Varuna. Like Aryaman joy-giving, bringing plenteous food like ViSnxu for my wish, I praise,15 Bright as the host of Maruts mighty in their roar. May they bring Pusan free from foes; May they bring hither hundreds, thousands for our men: may they bring hidden stores to light, and make wealth easy to be found. 16 Haste to me, Pusan, in thine car, bright Deity: I fain would speak: Most sinful is our foeman’s hate. 17 Tear not up by the roots the Kakambira tree: destroy thou all malignity. Let them not snare by day the neck of that Celestial Bird the Sun. 18 Uninjured let thy friendship be, like the smooth surface of a skin, A flawless skin, containing curds, full to the mouth, containing curds. 19 For thou art high above mankind, in glory equal to the Gods. Therefore, O Pusan, look upon us in the fight: now help us as in days of old. 20 May the kind excellence of him the Kind, loud Roarers! be our guide, Be it the God’s, O Maruts, or a mortal man’s who worships, ye impetuous Ones! 21 They whose high glory in a moment like the God, the Sun, goes round the space of heaven, The Maruts have obtained bright strength, a sacred name, strength that destroys the Vrtras, strength Vrtra-destroying excellent. 22 Once, only once, the heaven was made, once only once, the earth was formed- Once, only Prsni’s milk was shed: no second, after this, is born.
HYMN VIII. Agni 1. THE King whose face is decked with oil is kindled with homage offered by his faithful servant. The men, the priests adore him with oblations. Agni hath shone forth when the dawn is breaking. 2 Yea, he hath been acknowledged as most mighty, the joyous Priest of men, the youthful Agni. He, spreading o’er the earth, made light around him, and grew among the plants with blackened fellies.. 3 How dost thou decorate our hymn, O Agni? What power dost thou exert when thou art lauded? When, Bounteous God, may we be lords of riches, winners of precious wealth which none may conquer? 4 Far famed is this the Bharata’s own Agni he shineth like the Sun with lofty splendour. He who hath vanquished Puru in the battle, the heavenly guest hath glowed in full refulgence. 5 Full many oblations are in thee collected: with all thine aspects thou hast waxen gracious. Thou art already famed as praised and lauded, yet still, O nobly born, increase thy body. 6 Be this my song, that winneth countless treasure, engendered with redoubled force for Agni, That, splendid, chasing sickness, slaying demons, it may delight our friend and bless the singers. 7 We, the Vasisthas, now implore thee, Agni, O Son of Strength, the Lord of wealth and riches. Thou hast brought food to singers and to nobles. Ye Gods, preserve us evermore with blessings.
HYMN X. Agni. 1. HE hath sent forth, bright, radiant, and refulgent, like the Dawn’s Lover, his far-spreading lustre. Pure in his splendour shines the golden Hero: our longing thoughts hath he aroused and wakened. 2 He, like the Sun, hath shone while Morn is breaking, and priests who weave the sacrifice sing praises, Agni, the God, who knows their generations and visits Gods, most bounteous, rapid envoy. 3 Our songs and holy hymns go forth to Agni, seeking the God and asking him for riches, Him fair to see, of goodly aspect, mighty, men’s messenger who carries their oblations. 4 joined with the Vasus, Agni, bring thou Indra bring hither mighty Rudra with the Rudras, Aditi good to all men with Adityas, Brhaspati All-bounteous, with the Singers. 5 Men eagerly implore at sacrifices Agni, Most Youthful God, the joyous Herald. For he is Lord and Ruler over riches, and for Gods’ worship an unwearied envoy.
HYMN XII. Agni. 1. WE with great reverence have approached The Youngest who hath shone forth well-kindled in his dwelling, With wondrous light between wide earth and heaven, well-worshipped, looking forth in all directions. 2 Through his great might o’ercoming all misfortunes, praised in the house is Agni Jatavedas. May he protect us from disgrace and trouble, both us who laud him and our noble patrons. 3 O Agni, thou art Varuna and Mitra: Vasisthas with their holy hymns exalt thee. With thee be most abundant gain of treasure. Ye Gods, preserve us evermore with blessings.
HYMN XXXIX. Agni. 1. THE glorious Agni have I praised, and worshipped with. the sacred food. May Agni deck the Gods for us. Between both gathering-places he goes on his embassy, the Sage. May all the others die away. 2 Agni, burn down the word within their bodies through our newest speech, All hatreds of the godless, all the wicked man’s malignity’s. Away let the destroyers go. May all the others die away. 3 Agni, I offer hymns to thee, like holy oil within thy mouth. Acknowledge them. among the Gods, for thou art the most excellent, the worshipper’s blissful messenger. Let all the others die away. 4 Agni bestows all vital power even as each man supplicates. He brings the Vasus strengthening gifts, and grants delight, in rest and stir, for every calling on the Gods. Let all the others die away. 5 Agni hath made himself renowned by wonderful victorious act. He is the Priest of all the tribes, chosen with sacrificial meeds. He urges Deities to receive. Let all the others die away. 6 Agni knows all that springs from Gods, he knows the mystery of men. Giver of wealth is Agni, he uncloses both the doors to us when worshipped with our newest gift. Let all the others die away. 7 Agni inhabiteth with Gods and men who offer sacrifice. He cherisheth with great delight much wisdom, as all things that be, God among Gods adorable. May all the others die away. 8 Agni who liveth in all streams, Lord of the Sevenfold Race of men, Him dweller in three homes we seek, best slayer of the Dasytis for Mandhatar, first in sacrifice. Let all the others die away. 9 Agni the Wise inhabiteth three gathering-places, triply formed. Decked as our envoy let the Sage bring hither and conciliate the Thrice Eleven Deities. Let all the others die away. 10 Our Agni, thou art first among the Gods, and first mid living men. Thou only rulest over wealth. Round about thee, as natural dams, circumfluous the waters run. Let all the others die away.
HYMN XV. Agni. 1. OFFER oblations in his mouth, the bounteous God’s whom we must serve. His who is nearest kin to us: 2 Who for the Fivefold People’s take hath seated him in every home Wise, Youthful, Master of the house. 3 On all sides may that Agni guard our household folk and property; May he deliver us from woe. 4 I have begotten this new hymn for Agni, Falcon of the sky: Will he not give us of his wealth? 5 Whose lories when he glows in front of sacrite are fair to see, Like wealth of one with hero sons. 6 May he enjoy this hallowed gift, Agni accept our songs, who bears Oblations, best of worshippers. 7 Lord of the house, whom men must seek, we set thee down, O Worshipped Onel Bright, rich in heroes, Agni! God 8 Shine forth at night and morn: through thee with fires are we provided well. Thou, rich in heroes, art our Friend. 9 The men come near thee for their gain, the singers with their songs of praise: Speech, thousandfold, comes near to thee. 10 Bright, Purifier, meet for praise, Immortal with refulgent glow, Agni drives Raksasas away. 11 As such, bring us abundant wealth, young Child of Strength, for this thou canst May Bhaga give us what is choice. 12 Thou, Agni, givest hero fame: Bhaga and Savitar the God, And Did give us what is good. 13 Agni, preserve us from distress: consume our enemies, O God, Eternal, with the hottest flames. 14 And, irresistible, be thou a mighty iron fort to us, With hundred walls for man’s defence. 15 Do thou preserve us, eve and morn, from sorrow, from the wicked men, Infallible! by day and night.
HYMN XVI. Agni. 1. WITH this my reverent hymn I call Agni for you, the Son of Strength, Dear, wisest envoy, served with noble sacrifice, immortal messenger of all. 2 His two red horses, all-supporting, let him yoke: let him, well-worshipped, urge them fast. Then hath the sacrifice good prayers and happy end, and heavenly gift of wealth to men. 3 The flame of him the Bountiful, the Much-invoked, hath mounted up, And his red-coloured smoke-clouds reach and touch the sky: the men are kindling Agni well. 4 Thee, thee Most Glorious One we make our messenger. Bring the Gods hither to the feast. Give us, O Son of Strength, all food that fcedeth man: give that for which we pray to thee. 5 Thou, Agni, art the homestead’s Lord, our Herald at the sacrifice. Lord of all boons, thou art the Cleanser and a Sage. Pay worship, and enjoy the good. 6 Give riches to the sacrificer, O Most Wise, for thou art he who granteth wealth. Inspire with zeal each priest at this our solemn rite; all who are skilled in singing praise. 7 O Agni who art worshipped well, dear let our princes he to thee, Our wealthy patrons who are governors of men, who part, as gifts, their stalls of kine. 8 They in whose home, her hand bearing the sacred oil, Ila sits down wellsatisfied- Guard them, Victorious God, from slander and from harm. give us a refuge famed afar. 9 Do thou, a Priest with pleasant tongue, most wise, and very near to us, Agni, bring riches hither to our liberal chiefs, and speed the oflering of our gifts. 10 They who bestow as bounty plenteous wealth of steeds, moved by desire of great renown- Do thou with saving help preserve them from distress, Most Youthful! with a hundred forts. 11 The God who gives your wealth demands a full libation poured to him. Pour ye it forth, then fill the vessel full again: then doth the God pay heed to you.12 Him have the Gods appointed Priest of sacrifice, oblation-bearer, passing wise. Agni gives wealth and valour to the worshipper, to folk who offer up their gifts.
HYMN XI. Agni. 1. THOU Agni, God mid mortal men, art guard of sacred rites, thou art To be adored at sacrifice. 2 O Mighty Agni, thou must be glorified at our festivals, Bearing our offerings to the Gods. 3 O Jatavedas Agni, fight and drive our foes afar from us, Themand their godless enmities. 4 Thou, Jatavedas, seekest not the worship of a hostile man, However nigh itbe to thee. 5 We sages, mortals as we are, adore the mighty name oof thee, Immortal Jatavedas’ name. 6 Sages, we call the Sage to help, mortals, we call the God to aid: We call on Agni with our songs. 7 May Vatsa draw- thy mind away even from thy loftiest dwelling-place, Agni, with song that yearns for thee. 8 Thou art the same in many a place: mid all the people thou art Lord. In fray and fightt we call on thee. 9 When we are seeking strength we call Agni to help us in the strife, The giver of rich gifts in war. 10 Ancient, adorablie at sacrifices, Priest from of old, meet for our praise, thou sittest. Fill full and satisfy thy body, Agni, and win us happiness by offering worship.
HYMN XIX. Agni. 1. SING praise to hiin, the Lord of Light. The Gods have made the God to be their messenger, And sent oblation to Gods. 2 Agni, the Bounteous Giver, bright with varied flames, laud thou, O singer Sobhari- Him who controls this sacred food with Soma blent, who hath first claim to sacrifice. 3 Thee have we chosen skilftillest in sacrifice, Immortal Priest among the Gods, Wise finisher of this holy rite: 4 The Son of Strength, the blessed, brightly shining One, Agni whose light is excellent. May be by sacrifice win us in heaven the grace of Mitra, Varuna, and the Floods. 5 The mortal who hath ministered to Agni with oblation, fuel, ritual lore, And reverence, skilled in sacrifice. 6 Verily swift to run are his fleet-footed steeds, and most resplendent fame is his. No trouble caused by Gods or wrought by mortal man from any side o’ertaketh him. 7 May we by thine own fires be well supplied with fire, O Son of Strength, O Lord of Might: Thou as our Friend hast worthy men. 8 Agni, who praises like a guest of friendly mind, is as a car that brings us gear. Also in thee is found perfect security thou art the Sovran Lord of wealth. 9 That man, moreover, merits praise who brings, auspicious Agni, sacrificial gifts May he win riches by his thoughts. 10 He for whose sacrifice thou standest up erect is prosperous and rules o’er men. He wins with coursers and with singers killed in song: with heroes he obtains the prize.11 He in whose dwelling Agni is chief ornament, and, all-desired, loves his laud well, And zealously tends his offerings- 12 His, or the lauding sage’s word, his, Son of Strength! who Is most prompt with sacred gifts, Set thou beneath the Gods, Vasu, above mankind, the speech of the intelligent. 13 He who with sacrificial gifts or homage bringeth very skilful Agni nigh, Or him who flashes fast with song, 14 The mortal who with blazing fuel, as his laws command, adores the Perfect God, Blest with his thoughts in splendour shall exceed all men, as though he overpassed the floods. 15 Give us the splendour, Agni, which may overcome each greedy fiend in our abode, The wrath of evil-hearted folk. 16 That, wherewith Mitra, Varuna, and Aryaman, the Asvins, Bhaga give us light, That may we, by thy power finding best furtherance, worship, O Indra, helped by thee. 17 O Agni, most devout are they, the sages who have set thee Sage exceeding wise, O God, for men to look upon: 18 Who have arranged thine altar Blessed God, at morn brought thine oblation, pressed the juice. They by their deeds of strength have won diem, mighty wealth, who have set all their hope in thee. 19 -May Agni worshipped bring us bliss, may the gift, Blessed One, and sacrifice bring bliss; Yea, may our praises bring us bliss.sacrifice bring bliss; Yea, may our praises bring us bliss. 20 Show forth the mind that brings success in war with fiends, wherewith thou conquerest in fight. Bring down the many firm hopes of our enemies, and let us vanquish with thine aid. 21 I praise with song the Friend of man, whom Gods sent down to be herald and messenger, Best worshipper, bearer of our gifts. 22 Thou unto sharp-toothed Agni, Young and Radiant God, proclaimest with thy song the feast- Agni, who for our sweet strains moulds heroic strength when sacred oil is offered him, 23 While, served with sacrificial oil, now upward and now downward Agni moves his sword, As doth the Asura his robe. 24 The God, the Friend of man, who bears our gifts to heaven, the God with his sweet-smelling mouth, Distributes, skilled in sacrifice, his precious things, Invoking Priest, Immortal God. 25 Son of Strength, Agni, if thou wert the mortal, bright as Mitra, I worshipped with our gifts! And I were the Immortal God 26 I would not give thee up, Vasu, to calumny, or misery, O Bounteous One. My worshipper should feel no hunger or distress, nor, Agni, should he live in sin. 27 Like a son cherished in his father’s houi§e, let our oblation rise unto the Gods. 28 With thine immediate aid may I, excellent Agni, ever gain my wish A mortal with a God to help. 29 O Agni, by thy wisdom, by thy bounties, by thy leading may I gather wealth. Excellent Agni, thou art called my Providence: delight thou to be liberal. 30 Agni, he conquers by thine aid that brings him store of noble heroes and great strength, Whose bond of friendship is thy choice. 31 Thy spark is black and crackling, kindled in due time, O Bounteous, it is taken up. Thou art the dear Friend of the mighty Mornings: thou shinest in glimmerings of the night. 32 We Sobharis have come to him, for succour, who is good to help with thousand powers, The Sovran, Trasadasyu’s Friend. 33 O Agni, thou on whom all other fires depend, as branches on the parent stem, I make the treasures of the folk, like songs, mine own, while I exalt thy sovran might. 34 The mortal whom, Adityas, ye, Guilelew, lead to the farther bank Of all the princes, Bounteous Ones 35 Whoe’er he be, Man-ruling Kings! the Regent of the race of men- May we, O Mitra, Varuna, and Aryaman, like him be furtherers of your law. 36 A gift of fifty female slaves hath Trasadasyu given me, Purukutsa’s son, Most liberal, kind, lord of the brave. 37 And Syava too for me led forth a strong steed at Suvastu’s ford: A herd of three times seventy kine, good lord of gifts, he gave to me
HYMN XLIV. Agni. 1. PAY service unto Agni with your fuel, rouse your Guest with oil: In him present your offerings. 2 Agni, do thou accept my laud, be magnified by this my song: Welcome my sweedy-spoken words. 3 Agni, envoy, I place in front; the oblation-bearer I address: Here let him seat the Deities. 4 Agni, the lofty flames of’ thee enkindled have gone up on high, Thy bright flames, thou Refulgent One. 5 Beloved! let my ladles full of sacred oil come near to thee: Agni, accept our offerings. 6 I worship Agni-may he hear!-the cheerful, the Invoker, Priest, Of varied splendour, rich in light. 7 Ancient Invoker, meet for praise, beloved Agni, wise and strong, The visitant of solemn rites. 8 Agni, best Angiras, accept straightway these offerings, and guide The seasonable sacrifice. 9 Excellent God, with brilliant flames, enkindled bring thou hitherward, Knowing the way, the Heavenly Host. 10 Him, Sage and Herald, void of guile, ensign of sacrifices, him Smoke-bannered, rich in light, we seek. 11 O Agni, be our Guardian thou, God, against those who injure us: Destroy our foes, thou Son of Strength. 12 Making his body beautiful, Agni the Sage hath waxen by The singer and his ancient hymn. 13 I invocate the Child of Strength, Agni with purifying flame, At this well-ordered sacrifice. 14 So Agni, rich in many friends, with fiery splendour, seat thyself With Gods upon our sacred grass. 15 The mortal man who serves the God Agni within his own abode, For him he causes wealth to shine. 16 Agni is head and height of heaven, the Master of the earth is he: He quickeneth the watere seed. 17 Upward, O Agni, rise thy flames, pure and resplendent, blazing high, Thy lustres, fair effulgences. 18 For, Agni, thou as Lord of Light rulest o’er choicest gifts: may I, Thy singer, find defence in thee. 19 O Agni, they who understand stir thee to action with their thoughts: So let our songs enhance thy might. 20 We ever claim the friendship of Agni, the singing messenger, Of God-like nature, void of guile. 21 Agni who bears most holy sway, the holy Singer, holy Sage, Shines holy when we worship him. 22 Yea, let my meditations, let my songs exalt thee evermore. Think, Agni, of our friendly bond, 23 If I were thou and thou wert I, O Agni, every prayer of thine Should have its due fulfilment here. 24 For Excellent and Lord of wealth. art thou O Agni, rich in light: May we enjoy thy favouring grace. 25 Agni, to thee whose laws stand fast our resonant songs of praise speed forth, As rivers hasten to the sea. 26 Agni, the Youthful Lord of men, who stirreth much and eateth all, The Sage, I glorify with hymns. 27 To Agni let us haste with lauds, the Guide of sacrificial rites, Armed with sharp teeth, the Mighty One. 28 And let this man, good Agni, be with thee the singer of thy praise: Be gracious, Holy One, to him. 29 For thou art sharer of our feast, wise, ever watchful as a Sage: Agni, thou shinest in the sky. 30 O Agni, Sage, before our foes, before misfortunes fall on us, Excellent Lord, prolong our lives.
HYMN LX. Agni. 1. O AGNI, with thy mighty wealth guard us from all malignity, Yea, from all hate of mortal man. 2 For over thee, O Friend from birih, the wrath of man hath no control: Nay, Guardian of the earth art thou. 3 As such, with all the Gods, O Son of Strength, auspicious in thy flame. Give us wealth bringing all things good. 4 Malignities stay not from wealth the mortal man whom, Agni, thou Protectest while he offers gifts. 5 Sage Agni, be whom thou dost urge, in worship of the Gods, to wealth, With thine assistance winneth kine. 6 Riches with many heroes thou hast for the man who offers gifts: Lead thou us on to higher bliss. 7 Save us, O Jatavedas, nor abandon us to him who sins, Unto the evil-hearted man. 8 O Agni, let no godless man avert thy bounty as a God: Over all treasures thou art Lord. 9 So, Son of Strength, tbou aidest us to what is great and excellent. Those, Vasu! Friend! who sing thy praise. 10 Let our songs come anear to him beauteous and bright with piercing flame Our offerings, with our homage, to the Lord of wealth, to him whom many praise, for help: 11 To Agni Jatavedas, to the Son of Strength, that he may give us precious gifts, Immortal, from of old Priest among mortal men, the most delightful in the house. 12 Agni, made yours by sacrifice, Agni, while holy rites advance; Agni, the first in songs, first with the warrior steed; Agril to win the land for us. 13 May Agni who is Lord of wealth vouchsafe us food for friendship sake. Agni we ever seek for seed and progeny, the Vasu who protects our lives. 14 Solicit with your chants, for help, Agni the God with piercing flame, For riches famous Agni, Purumilha and ye men! Agni to light our dwelling well. 15 Agni we laud that he may keep our foes afar, Agni to give us health and strength. Let him as Guardian be invoked in all the tribes, the lighter-up of glowing brands.
HYMN XCI. Agni. 1. LORD of the house, Sage, ever young, high power of life, O Agni, God, Thou givest to thy worshipper. 2 So with our song that prays and serves, attentive, Lord of spreading light, Agni, bring hitherward the Gods. 3 For, Ever-Youthful One, with thee, best Furtherer, as our ally, We overcome, to win the spoil. 4 As Aurva Bhrgu used, as Apnavana used, I call the pure Agni who clothes him with the sea. 5 1 call the Sage who sounds like wind, the Might that like Parjanya roars, Agni who clothes him with the sea. 6 As Savitar’s productive Power, as him who sends down bliss, I call Agni who clothes him with the sea. 7 Hither, for powerful kirship, I call Agni, him Who prospers you, Most frequent at our solemn rites 8 That through this famed One’s power, he may stand by us even as Tvastar comes Unto the forms that must he shaped. 9 This Agni is the Lord supreme above all glories mid the Gods: May he come nigh to us with strength. 10 Here praise ye him the most renowned of all the ministering Priests, Agni, the Chief at sacrifice; 11 Piercing, with purifying flame, enkindled in our homes, most high, Swiftest to hear from far away. 12 Sage, laud the Mighty One who wins the spoil of victory like a steed, And, Mitra like, unites the folk. 13 Still turning to their aim in thee, the oblation-bearer’s sister hymns Have come to thee before the wind. 14 The waters find their place in him, for whom the threefold sacred grass Is spread unbound, unlimited. 15 The station of the Bounteous God hath, through his aid which none impair, A pleasant aspect like the Sun. 16 Blazing with splendour, Agni, God, through pious gifts of sacred oil, Bring thou the Gods and worship them. 17 The Gods as mothers brought thee forth, the Immortal Sage, O Afigiras, The bearer of our gifts to heaven. 18 Wise Agni, Gods established thee, the Seer, noblest messenger, As bearer of our sacred gifts. 19 No cow have I to call mine own, no axe at hand wherewith to work, Yet what is here I bring to thee. 20 O Agni, whatsoever be the fuel that we lay for thee, Be pleased therewith, Most Youthful God 21 That which the white-ant cats away, that over which the emmet crawls- May all of this be oil to thee. 22 When he enkindles Agni, man should with his heart attend the song: I with the priests have kindled him.