2I sit as Priest most skilled in sacrificing: the Maruts and all Deities impel me. Asvins, each day yours is the Adhvaryu's duty: Brahman and wood are here: 'tis yours to offer.

3Who is the Priest? Is he the Priest of Yama? On whom is thrust this God−appointed honour? He springs to life each month, each day that passes; so Gods have made him their oblation−bearer.

4The Gods have made me bearer of oblations, who slipped away and passed through many troubles. Wise Agni shall ordain for us the worship, whether five−wayed, threefold, or seven−threaded.

5So will I win you strength and life for ever. O Gods, that I may give you room and freedom. To Indra's arms would I consign the thunder; in all these battles shall he then be victor.

6The Deities three hundred and thirty−nine, have served and honoured Agni, Strewn sacred grass, anointed him with butter, and seated him as Priest, the Gods' Invoker.