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VEDIC HYMNS.
MANDALA III, HYMN 2. ASHTAKA II, ADHYÅYA 8, VARGA 17-19.
To AGNI VAISVÂNARA. 1. For Vaisvânara, the increaser of Rita, for Agni we produce a Dhishana ? like purified ghee. And verily 3 by their prayer the invoking men (accomplish) him, the Hotri, as the axe accomplishes a chariot.
2. By his birth he has given splendour to both worlds (Heaven and Earth). He became the praiseworthy son of his parents, Agni, the carrier of oblations, never ageing, with satisfied mind, undeceivable, the guest of men, rich in light.
3. Through the power of their mind, within the sphere of their superior strength the gods have procreated Agni by their thoughts. Desirous of winning the prize ? I address Him who shines with his splendour, who is great in his light, as (one who desires to win the prize addresses his) race-horse.
4. Desirous of winning the choice, glorious, and praiseworthy prize (which is the gift) of the joy-giver, we choose the boon of the Bhrigus', the Usig ?, who has the mind of a sage, Agni, who reigns with his heavenly light.
5. Men, having spread the sacrificial grass, holding the sacrificial ladle, have placed here in front (as Purohita), for the sake of the divine) blessing, Agni renowned for strength, with great splendour, united with all the gods, the Rudra of sacrifices', who accomplishes the oblations of active (worshippers).
6. O (Agni) whose flame is purifying, around thy
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