Vedic Hymns, Part II

Introduction: Briefly explains the scope of the volume, stating that it contains the greater part of the Agni hymns of the Ṛg-Veda, namely those of Maṇḍalas I–V. It also acknowledges Professor Max Müller’s assistance in the preparation of the translation. Hymns, Translation and Notes — Maṇḍala I: Presents numerous hymns to Agni, including Hymn 1, the opening hymn of the Ṛg-Veda, as well as Aprī hymns and hymns emphasizing Agni as priest, messenger, protector, household fire, and mediator of sacrifice. Hymns, Translation and Notes — Maṇḍala II: Contains Agni hymns with detailed notes on ritual language, sacrificial formulae, metre, and Agni’s role as Hotṛ, bearer of oblations, and divine presence in the sacrificial order. Hymns, Translation and Notes — Maṇḍala III: Includes hymns to Agni and one hymn to Indra-Agni. This section highlights Agni’s ritual function, divine genealogy, relation to priests, and place within Vedic sacrificial cosmology. Hymns, Translation and Notes — Maṇḍala IV: Presents hymns to Agni with interpretive notes on imagery, grammar, textual variants, ritual symbolism, and Agni’s roles as divine fire, protector, and recipient of praise. Hymns, Translation and Notes — Maṇḍala V: Contains Agni hymns, including an Aprī hymn, and continues the philological explanation of Vedic expressions, ritual references, and theological motifs associated with fire and sacrifice.