1MAY we, the pious, win much food by prayer, may Agni with fair light pervade each act,—

2He the observer of the heavenly laws of Gods, and of the race of mortal man.

3He who is germ of waters, germ of woods, germ of all things that move not and that move,—

4To him even in the rock and in the house: Immortal One, he cares for all mankind.

5Agni is Lord of riches for the man who serves him readily with sacred songs.

6Protect these beings thou with careful thought, knowing the races both of Gods and men.

7Whom many dawns and nights, unlike, make strong, whom, born in Law, all things that move and stand,—

8He hath been won, Herald who sits in light, making effectual all our holy works.

9Thou settest value on our cows and woods: all shall bring tribute to us to the light.

10Men have served thee in many and sundry spots, parting, as ’twere, an aged father's wealth.

11Like a brave archer, like one skilled and bold, a fierce avenger, so he shines in fight.