Book 2: Hymn 6: A prayer to Agni for protection

1Half-years and seasons strengthen thee, O Agni, the years, and all the Verities, and Rishis! p. a39 Flash forth with thy celestial effulgence: illumine all four regions of the heavens. 2Kindle thee, Agni, and make this man prosper: rise up erect for high and happy fortune. Agni, be those uninjured who adore thee, and may thy priests be glorious and no others. 3These Brāhmans have elected thee, O Agni: be thou propitious in our sacred chamber. Slayer of rivals, Agni, quell our foemen: watch in our house with care that never ceases. 4Seize, Agni, on thy power and firmly hold it: contend thou with the Friend by way of friendship. Placed in the centre of our fellows, Agni, flash forth to be invoked by kings around thee. 5Past those who slay, past enemies, past thoughtless men, past those who hate, Yea, Agni, hear us safe past all distresses: give thou us opulence with men about us.