MAY our divine and radiant hymn go forth, like a swift chariot crafted well.
The waters listen as they flow along; they know the origin of heaven and earth.
Yea, the broad waters swell their flood for him; strong heroes think of him amidst their foes.
Set for him the horses to the pole; like Indra, Thunderer, is the Golden-armed.
Arise like the days, to sacrifice speed gladly like a traveler on the way.
Go swift to battles, to the sacrifice; set up a flag, a hero for the folk.
From his strength rises as if a light; it bears the load as earth bears living things.
Agni, no demon do I invoke the Gods; by law completing it, I form a hymn.
Close about you lay your heavenly song, and send your voice to where the Gods abide.
VARUṨA, Mighty, with a thousand eyes, beholds the paths wherein these rivers run.
He, King of kings, the glory of the floods, over all that lives has irresistible sway.
May he assist us among all the tribes, and make the envier’s praise devoid of light.
May the foes’ threatening arrow pass us by; may he put far from us our bodies’ sin.
AGNI, oblation-cater, through our prayers aid us; to him our dearest laud is brought.
Accordant with the Gods choose for our friend the Waters’ Child; may he be good to us.
With lauds I sing the Dragon born of floods; he sits beneath the streams in middle air.
Ne’er may the Dragon of the Deep harm us; ne’er fail this faithful servant’s sacrifice.
To these our heroes may they grant renown; may pious men march boldly on to wealth.
Leading great hosts, with fierce attacks of these, they burn their foes as the Sun burns the earth.
What time our wives draw near to us, may he, left-handed Tvaṣṭar, give us hero sons.
May Tvaṣṭar find our hymn acceptable, and may Aramati, seeking wealth, be ours.
May they who lavish gifts bestow those treasures; may Rodasī and Varuṇānī listen. May he, with the Varūtrīs,