In the ancient times, Agni, the eternal fire, was invoked to protect the beloved paths of the cattle, concealing the cows in secret places, safeguarding their abundance. Those who perceive Agni’s hidden presence, and who sit at the stream of immortality, are blessed; for Agni dwells in secrecy, yet his power is known to those who seek. The seekers of truth move apart, searching, and when they find it, they speak forth the treasures to Agni. He, Agni, divides the great abundance among heroes and distributes it among offspring and progeny, ensuring prosperity for all. The wise, possessing all life, have crafted a wondrous abode for the waters, a house fashioned with understanding, where Agni presides. Hearing the prayers, Agni approaches the sky with brightness, covering the chariot of the standing one with his radiant rays. Among the gods, Agni became the god of all gods, encompassing the greatness of the deities. From that moment, all accepted his resolve, for Agni was born alive from the dry, a miracle among the elements. All beings share in the divine nature, seeking truth and attaining immortality by their own paths. Messengers of truth, guided by thoughts of truth and possessing all life, have fashioned all the waters, honoring Agni’s presence. To those who serve Agni or whom he teaches, the wise one grants wealth and blessing. The Hotar, Agni, seated among the offspring of Manu, is the lord of dwellings and riches. Desiring progeny, beings come together, each knowing and acting with their own powers, not lacking in wisdom. The sons accept the resolve of their father, eager to hear and swiftly obey his command. Agni, generous, has spread wide the wealth for the many, and the householder has adorned the heavens with supports. Bright and shining forth like the lover of dawn, Agni aligns himself with the light of heaven, reaching out to all. Born in many places, Agni has become by his own will; he is both father and son of the gods. The wise, unsated Agni, knowing all, draws forth the udder of cows, bringing the sweet drink cherished by the fathers. Among people, Agni is invoked, delightful and charming in the house, seated in the midst. Like a son born, Agni is delightful in the home; like a pleased steed, he brings the people across obstacles. When he calls the peoples and men gather, Agni, in his divinity, embraces all. No one violates the laws he sets, for Agni grants hearing to those who honor him. Harnessed with men, Agni’s power destroys obstacles. Like a radiant lover at dawn, he reveals his known form to those who seek him. Carrying burdens with his own strength, Agni removes what is far, and all the shining ones approach him. With ancient wisdom, the people seek to attain Agni’s bright flame, which fulfills all desires. Wise, Agni knows the divine laws and the birth of the human race. He is the embryo of waters, forests, and all that stands and moves. Even within stones, in hidden chambers, Agni dwells, self-sustaining among the people, like the immortal. Agni is the guardian of riches by night, worthy of worship, bringing benefit through hymns. Knowing these truths, Agni protects the vast earth, wise in the birth of gods and mortals. He increases many nights, taking various forms, guiding the chariot of the one who stands with truth. Established as the priest, Agni is seated in the light, accomplishing all true deeds. Among cows and in forests, praise is offered to him; all bring tribute to the shining one. Everywhere, men honor Agni as sons honor their father, bringing offerings with knowledge. Steadfast and not greedy, Agni is like a hero, formidable in battle, like a fierce warrior. The eager sisters, like cows at dawn, approach Agni, their constant lord, giving birth to him in secret. Even the firm ones, like fathers with hymns, the Angiras broke the rock with their cry, making a path to the vast heaven; the dawns recognized the sign of the day. They uphold truth and enrich Agni’s insight. The ancient ones, desiring, are generous, and the waters, never weary, go forth, growing the birth of the gods with their effort. When the carrier, Mātariśvan, churned them, the white, noble Agni was born in every house; then, like a mighty king, he joined, and the Bhṛgus took up the messenger’s task, spreading his sacred fire far and wide.