In the early dawn, as the world stirs to life, the worthy sacrificers—those steadfast in truth—gather with their wives to offer their devotions to Agni, the sacred fire. With well-shaped tongues, they partake of the honeyed offerings, their voices raised in praise as the ritual vaṣaṭ is uttered. Agni, radiant priest awakened by the sun’s first light, calls forth all the gods at the break of day, inviting their presence to the sacred rite. Joined by all the deities, Agni partakes in the Soma honey, sitting with mighty Indra, swift Vāyu, and the powerful Mitra. Appointed by Manu as the Hotar, the chief priest, Agni takes his seat at the sacrifice, performing the sacred worship for the gathered devotees. He yokes his two red steeds—the tawny and the ruddy—to his chariot, and with their strength, brings the gods to the altar. Indra, the mighty one, is called to drink the Soma at the appointed time, the eager drops delighting as they enter his abode. The Maruts, too, are invited to drink in due season, purifying the sacrifice from the moment of offering, for they are generous givers. The goddesses are praised, and the Inviter is called to drink, bestower of treasures and riches. Agni is asked to bring the gods and seat them in the three abodes, adorning the ritual space and drinking the Soma in the right season. Indra is again invited, for the sake of the Brahman’s bounty and the unbroken friendship he extends. Mitra and Varuṇa, steadfast in their vows, skillfully approach the sacrifice, even though they are hard to reach. Those who give wealth, holding stones for the pressing, praise the gods through their rituals. The worshippers pray that the giver of wealth may grant them the famed riches spoken of among the gods, for these are the blessings they desire. They offer and stand forth, seeking the Inviter’s favor in each season, and as they worship for the fourth time, they entreat the giver of wealth to become their supporter. The Ashvins, shining like fire and pure in their vows, are called to drink the honeyed draught, bearing the sacrifice in its due season. By the household fire, the sacrificer leads the rites, worshipping the gods on behalf of the devotee. Indra is summoned once more, his bay steeds drawing him swiftly to the drinking of Soma. His chariot, rich in ghee, brings him joyfully to the most pleasant seat. At morning, at the offering, and at the drinking, Indra is invoked. The worshippers call him to the pressed Soma, eager for his presence. They invite him to the praise and to the pressed libation, urging him to drink like a thirsty bull. The Soma draughts, set upon the sacred grass, are offered to Indra for his strength. The praise offered is foremost, touching the heart, and Indra is asked to drink the pressed Soma now. Ever eager for exhilaration, the slayer of Vṛtra comes to every pressed libation to drink. With a hundredfold power, Indra is entreated to fulfill the desires of the worshippers with cattle and horses, and in return, they promise to praise him, relying on themselves and their devotion. The help of Indra and Varuṇa, sovereign lords, is invoked, and their grace is sought in all endeavors. They are called upon for aid, answering the prayers of the inspired, upholding the peoples with their power. The worshippers seek the favor of these two, young in strength and good thoughts, desiring to be among those who bestow prizes. Indra, giver of a thousandfold gifts, and Varuṇa, worthy of praise, are celebrated for their power. With their help, the devotees hope to prosper and hold firm, seeking advancement and protection from adversaries. They call upon Indra and Varuṇa for splendid bounty and for safety from those who would conquer them, asking for their eager protection. The well-praised hymn is sent forth to reach these mighty lords, upholding the seat of praise. At the heart of the ritual, the Lord of Prayer is asked to make the Soma resound, echoing with inspired voices. The mighty one, who brings wealth, drives away disease, and increases prosperity, is called to aid the worshippers. They pray that no curse, anger, or harm from mortal men may reach them, seeking protection from the Lord of Prayer. For the hero who is defended by Indra, the Lord of Prayer, and by Soma, is not overcome by mortal harm. Thus, through the sacred rites, praises, and offerings, the bond between mortals and the gods is renewed, blessings are sought, and protection is assured for those who worship with devotion and truth.