Agni is truly the Hotri and the performer of sacrifices. Agni is again the Brahma of the sacrifice. No libations can be poured into the sacrificial fire without uttering Mantras; there can be no penances without a person to perform them; the worship of the gods and men and the Rishis is done by the libations poured with Mantras. Hence, O Agni, you have been considered as the Hotri in sacrifices. You are, again, all the other Mantras that have been declared with regard to the Homa rites of men. The duty of the Brahmanas is to officiate for others in the sacrifices they perform. The two other castes viz., Kshatriyas and Vaishyas, that are included within the twice-born class, have not the same duty, laid down for them. Hence, Brahmanas are like Agni, who uphold sacrifices. The sacrifices strengthen the gods. Thus, strengthened the gods fructify the Earth. But the result that may be gained by the foremost of sacrifices may as well be done through the mouth of the Brahmanas.