२५

1. having kept the Veda (grass-brush) on the lap, sitting down within the altar (the sacrificer) mutters the Atīmokṣa (-formulae).¹

2. According to some ritualists (he takes) the Viṣṇu-strides (with the verses in the Jagatī-metre) at this stage.

3. Having caused the Prājahita¹ (-fire)—(and also) the Śālamukhīya² -fire as the second in the case of a Gataśrī³ (sacrificer)-(mystically) to mount (upon the kindling sticks)⁴ having gone out with his face either to the east or to the north,⁵ having settled down in the (new) place of sacrifice with idamū nu Śreyovasānam…⁶ having churned out the fire, (the Adhvaryu) starts the procedure of the Udavasānīyā (-offering).

4. Having added fuel to the fires, having prepared Veda (grass-brush), having scattered (sacrificial grass) around the fires, he performs the ritual beginning with the washing of the hands. The arrangement of the utensils (should be done) in accordance with the requirement.

5. At the time of pouring out (of the oblation-material) he pours out (the oblation-material viz. the unhusked-rice grains) for the sacrificial bread to be prepared on five¹ potsherds for Agni; or …. on eight² potsherds…… If the sacrificial bread is prepared on five potsherds then the Saṁyājyās³ should be in Gāyatri metre. If … on eight potsherds…. in Paṅkti metre.

6. An ox (should be given as) the sacrificial gift; or gold of the worth of an ox.

7. The offering stands completely established in the usual manner. According to the opinion of the Vājasaneyins there should be a full-spoon-libation¹ in the place of the Udavasānīyā (ofering).

8. Having filled the ladle with twelve-times scooped ghee, the Adhvaryu, standing erect within the altar, offers it with idaṁ viṣṇur vi cakrame.¹

9. He offers the evening Agnihotra at whatever time of the night when the offering stands completely established¹. He offers the morning Agnihotra at the proper time.²

² Cf. ŚB IV.5.1.16.

10. The Agniṣṭoma stands completely established (i.e. concluded) hereby.