At the Fire

Agni, kindled, has sent his flame up to heaven, her hymn begins; facing the dawn he shines out far and wide. Viśvavārā goes eastward, praising the gods with words of homage and with the oblation, holding the ladle full of ghee.

She sang that Agni, when he is kindled, stays beside the one who makes the offering, to bring him well-being: The man you favour gains every kind of wealth, and he sets before you, Agni, the welcome due to a guest.

Agni, show your strength for great good fortune, she sang; let your splendours be the highest. Make the bond of husband and wife well ordered; tread down the might of those who would be our enemies.

And she called on the others gathered at the rite to honour Agni, who carries their offering to the gods: Pour the offering, honour Agni as the rite goes forward; choose him, the bearer of the offering.