Rig Veda on Charity

2 Thou Savitar whose flame deserves hundred libations, be thou pleased: 3 May Savitar the God, and may Parvata also give us sight; 4 Give sight unto our eye, give thou our bodies sight that they may see: 5 Thus, Surya, may we look on thee, on thee most lovely to behold,

2 For over thee, O Friend from birih, the wrath of man hath no control: 3 As such, with all the Gods, O Son of Strength, auspicious in thy flame. 4 Malignities stay not from wealth the mortal man whom, Agni, thou 5 Sage Agni, be whom thou dost urge, in worship of the Gods, to wealth, 6 Riches with many heroes thou hast for the man who offers gifts: 7 Save us, O Jatavedas, nor abandon us to him who sins, 8 O Agni, let no godless man avert thy bounty as a God: 9 So, Son of Strength, tbou aidest us to what is great and excellent. 10 Let our songs come anear to him beauteous and bright with piercing flame 11 To Agni Jatavedas, to the Son of Strength, that he may give us precious gifts, 12 Agni, made yours by sacrifice, Agni, while holy rites advance; 13 May Agni who is Lord of wealth vouchsafe us food for friendship sake. 14 Solicit with your chants, for help, Agni the God with piercing flame, 15 Agni we laud that he may keep our foes afar, Agni to give us health and strength.

2 Agni, the Bounteous Giver, bright with varied flames, laud thou, O singer Sobhari− 3 Thee have we chosen skilftillest in sacrifice, Immortal Priest among the Gods, 4 The Son of Strength, the blessed, brightly shining One, Agni whose light is excellent. 5 The mortal who hath ministered to Agni with oblation, fuel, ritual lore, 6 Verily swift to run are his fleet−footed steeds, and most resplendent fame is his. 7 May we by thine own fires be well supplied with fire, O Son of Strength, O Lord of Might: 8 Agni, who praises like a guest of friendly mind, is as a car that brings us gear. 9 That man, moreover, merits praise who brings, auspicious Agni, sacrificial gifts 10 He for whose sacrifice thou standest up erect is prosperous and rules o'er men. 11 He in whose dwelling Agni is chief ornament, and, all−desired, loves his laud well, 12 His, or the lauding sage's word, his, Son of Strength! who Is most prompt with sacred gifts, 13 He who with sacrificial gifts or homage bringeth very skilful Agni nigh, 14 The mortal who with blazing fuel, as his laws command, adores the Perfect God, 15 Give us the splendour, Agni, which may overcome each greedy fiend in our abode, 16 That, wherewith Mitra, Varuna, and Aryaman, the Asvins, Bhaga give us light, 17 O Agni, most devout are they, the sages who have set thee Sage exceeding wise, 18 Who have arranged thine altar Blessed God, at morn brought thine oblation, pressed the juice. 19 −May Agni worshipped bring us bliss, may the gift, Blessed One, and sacrifice bring bliss; 20 Show forth the mind that brings success in war with fiends, wherewith thou conquerest in fight.

2 Thee, worth invoking, in the din of battle, heroes invoke in fray for life and sunlight. 3 When fair bright days shall dawn on us, O Indra, and thou shalt bring thy banner near in battle, 4 Thine are we, Indra, thine, both these who praise thee, and those who give rich gifts, O God and Hero. 5 We will address this liberal Lord, this Indra that he may grant us gifts of ample riches:

2 Here is the psalm for wealth, and food, in plenty: let us do many deeds to bring us glory. 3 May we o'ercome our foes with acts of valour, as heaven is over earth, hills over lowlands. 4 Give us not up as prey to death, O Sorna still let us look upon the Sun arising. 5 O Asuniti, keep the soul within us, and make the days we have to live yet longer. 6 Give us our sight again, O Asuniti, give us again our breath and our enjoyment. 7 May Earth restore to us our vital spirit, may Heaven the Goddess and mid−air restore it. 8 May both Worlds bless Subandhu, young Mothers of everlasting Law. 9 Health−giving medicines descend sent down from heaven in twos and threes, 10 Drive forward thou the wagon−ox, O Indra, which brought Usinarani's wagon hither.

2 For him, strong, independent Ruler, Heaven and Earth have fashioned forth for power and might. 3 Fill thyself full, O Lord of wealth, O Indra, with the juice we shed. 4 Changeless in truth, O Maghavan Indra, let it be as thou in wisdom willest it. 5 Indra, with all thy saving helps give us assistance, Lord of power. 6 Increaser of our steeds and multiplying kine, a golden well, O God, art thou, 7 For thou,−come to the worshipper!−wilt find great wealth to make us rich. 8 Thou as thy gift bestowest many hundred herds, yea, many thousands dost thou give. 9 Whether the simple or the sage, Indra, have offered praise to thee, 10 If he the Strong of arm, the breaker−down of forts, the great Destroyer, hear my call, 11 We count not then as sinners, nor as niggardly or foolish men, 12 Him have we yoked in fight, the powerful Conqueror, debt−claimer, not to be deceived. 13 Indra, give us security from that whereof we are afraid. 14 For thou, O liberal Lord of bounty, strengthenest his ample home who worships thee. 15 Indra is Vrtra−slayer, guard, our best defender from the foe. 16 Defend us from behind, below, above, in front, on all sides, Indra, shield us well. 17 Protect us, Indra, each to−day, each morrow, and each following day. 18 A crushing Warrior, passing rich is Maghavan, endowed with all heroic might.

2 O Indra, where the ground is hard to traverse, smite down our foes, the mortals who assail us, 3 God of the fair helm, give Sudas a hundred succours, a thousand blessings, and thy bounty. 4 I wait the power of one like thee, O Indra, gifts of a Helper such as thou art, Hero. 5 Here are the Kutsas supplicating Indra for might, the Lord of Bays for God−sent conquest. 6 With precious things, O Indra, thus content us: may we attain to thine exalted favour.

26 Who with thrice seven times seventy horses comes to us, invested with the rays of morn, 27 Who hath inclined this glorious one, buunteous himself, to give me gifts. 28 Sole Lord in beauty meet for praise, O Vayu, dropping fatness down, 29 So, as a prize dear to the strong, the sixty thousand have I gained, 30 To me come oxen like a herd, yea, unto me the oxen come. 31 And in the grazing herd he made a hundred camels bleat for me, 32 A hundred has the sage received, Dasa Balbutha's and Taruksa's gifts. 33 And now to Vasa Asvya here this stately woman is led forth,

2 The various doings of all mortal people by thee are ordered, in thy wisdom, Indra. 3 That spear of thine sat firm for us, O Indra: the Maruts set their whole dread power in motion. 4 Vouchsafe us now that opulence, O Indra, as guerdon won by mightiest donation. 5 With thee, O Indra, are most bounteous riches that further every one who lives uprightly. 6 Bring forth the Men who rain down boons, O Indra: exert thee in the great terrestrial region; 7 Heard is the roar of the advancing Maruts, terrific, glittering, and swiftly moving, 8 Give to the Manas, Indra with Maruts, gifts universal, gifts of cattle foremost.

2 Ye who inspire all hymns, Indra and Visnu, ye vessels who contain the Soma juices, 3 Lords of joy−giving draughts, Indra and Visnu, come, giving gifts of treasure, to the Soma. 4 May your foe−conquering horses bring you hither, Indra and Visnu, sharers of the banquet. 5 This your deed, Indra−Visnu, must be lauded: widely ye strode in the wild joy of Soma. 6 Strengthened with sacred offerings, IndraVisnu, first eaters, served with worship ana oblation, 7 Drink of this meath, O Indra, thou, and Visnu; drink ye your fill of Soma, Wonder−Workers. 8 Ye Twain have conquered, ne'er have yc been conquered: never hath either of the Twain been vanquish

2 Swift and impetuous art thou, wondrous amid the well−dressed folk: 3 Even with the weak thou smitest down him 4 O Indra, we are close to thee; to thee we sing aloud our songs: 5 As such, O Caster of the Stone, come with thy succours wonderful, 6 May we be friends of one like thee, O Indra, with the wealth of kine, 7 For thou, O Indra, art alone the Lord of strength that comes from kine 8 They turn thee not another way, when, lauded, Lover of the Song, 9 The Gotamas have sung their song of praise to thee that thou mayst give, 10 We will declare thy hero deeds, what Disa forts thou brakest down, 11 The sages sing those manly deeds which, Indra, Lover of the Song, 12 Indra, the Gotamas who bring thee praises have grown strong by thee. 13 For, Indra, verily thou art the general treasure even of all. 14 Excellent Indra, turn to us: glad thee among us with the juice 15 May praise from us who think Qn thee, O Indra, bring thee near to us. 16 Eat of our sacrificial cake: rejoice thee in the songs we sing. 17 To India for a thousand steeds well−trained and fleet of foot we pray, 18 We make a hundred of thy kine, yea, and a thousand, hasten nigh: 19 We have obtained, a gift from thee, ten water−ewers wrought of gold: 20 A bounteous Giver, give us much, bring much and not a trifling gift: 21 O Vrtra−slayer, thou art famed in many a place as bountiful 22 I praise thy pair of Tawny Steeds, wise Son of him who giveth kine 23 Like two slight images of girls, unrobed, upon a new−wrought post, 24 For me the Bays are ready when I start, or start not, with the dawn, Innocuous in the ways they take.

2 Bring cattle, bring us ornament, bring us embellishment and steeds, 3 And, Bold One, bring in ample store rich jewels to adorn thi; ear, 4 None other is there for the priest, Hero! but thou, to give him gifts, 5 Indra can never be brought low, Sakra can never be subdued: 6 He spieth out the wrath of man, he who can never be deceived: 7 He hath his stomach full of might, the Vrtra−slayer, Conqueror, 8 In thee all treasures are combined, Soma all blessed things in thee, 9 To thee speeds forth my hope that craves the gift of corn, and kine and gold, 10 Indra, through hope in thee alone even this sickle do I grasp.

2 For I have heard that ye give wealth more freely than worthless son−in−law or spouse's brother. 3 Let us not break the cords: with this petition we strive to gain the powers of our forefathers. 4 For you the bowl divine, Indra and Agni, presses the Soma gladly to delight you. 5 You, I have heard, were mightiest, Indra−Agni, when Vrtra fell and when the spoil was parted. 6 Surpassing all men where they shout for battle, ye Twain exceed the earth and heaven in greatness. 7 Bring wealth and give it, ye whose arms wield thunder: Indra and Agni, with your powers protect us. 8 Give, ye who shatter forts, whose hands wield thunder: Indra and Agni, save us in our battles.

May the Swift give us rapture, and like the Sun shine forth from yonder dawning, 7 When the wood−pile, made of good logs, is ready, at the Sun's worship to bind fast the Bullock, 8 Eight steeds thou broughtest down from mighty heaven, when fighting for the well that giveth splendou 9 Thou hurledst forth from heaven the iron missile, brought by the Skilful, from the sling of leather, 10 Bolt−armed, ere darkness overtook the sunlight, thou castest at the veiling cloud thy weapon, 11 The mighty Heaven and Earth, those bright expanses that have no wheels, joyed, Indra, at thine exploit 12 Mount Indra, lover of the men thou guardest, the well−yoked horses of the wind, best bearers. 13 The strong Bay Horses of the Sun thou stayedst: this Etasa drew not the wheel, O Indra. 14 Indra, preserve thou us from this affliction Thunder−armed, save us from the misery near us. 15 Never may this thy loving−kindness fail us; mighty in strength, may plenteous food surround us. 2 Strong to exalt the early invocation are Night and Dawn who show with varied aspect. 3 Cheer us the Roamer round, who strikes at morning, the Wind delight us, pourer forth of waters! 4 And Ausija shall call for me that famous Pair who enjoy and drink, who come to brighten. 5 For you shall Ausija call him who thunders, as, to win Arjuna's assent, cried Ghosa. 6 Hear, Mitra−Varuna, these mine invocations, hear them from all men in the hall of worship. 7 Praised, Mitra, Varuna! is your gift, a hundred cows to the Prksayamas and the Pajra. 8 Praised is the gift of him the very wealthy: may we enjoy it, men with hero children: 9 The folk, O Mitra−Varuna, who hate you, who sinfully hating pour you no libations, 10 That man, most puissant, wondrously urged onward, famed among heroes, liberal in giving, 11 Come to the man's, the sacrificer's calling: hear, Kings of Immortality, joy−givers! 12 Vigour will we bestow on that adorer whose tenfold draught we come to taste, so spake they.

2 Great in tby power and wisdom, Strong, with thought that comprehendeth all 3 Thou very Mighty One, whose hands by virtue of thy greatness grasp, 4 Your Lord of might that ne'er hath bent, that ruleth over all mankind, 5 Whom, ever furthering, in frays that win the light, in both the hosts 6 Indra, the Strong, the measureless, worthy of praise, Most Bountiful, 7 Him, for his ample bounty, him, this Indra do I urge to drink, 8 Thou Mighty One, whose friendship none of mortals ever hath obtained 9 Aided by thee, with thee allied, in frays for water and for sun, 10 So seek we thee with sacrifice and songs, chief Lover of the Song, 11 O Thunderer, thou whose friendship and whose onward guidance both are sweet, 12 To us, ourselves, give ample room, give for our dwelling ample room 13 We count the banquet of the Gods a spacious pathway for the men, 14 Six men, yea, two and two, made glad with Soma juice, come near to me 15 Two brown−hued steeds, Indrota's gift, two bays from Rksa's son were mine, 16 From Atithigva good car−steeds; from Arksa rein−obeying steeds, 17 Indrota, Atithigva's son, gave me six horses matched with mares 18 Marked above all, amid the brown, is the red mare Vrsanvati, 19 O bound to me by deeds of might, not even the man who loves to blame.

23 As holy food, Agni, to thine'invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

2 Cheered by this meath Indra, whose hand wields thunder, rent piecemeal Ahi who barred up the waters, 3 Indra, this Mighty One, the Dragon's slayer, sent forth the flood of waters to the ocean. 4 To him who worshippeth hath Indra given many and matchless gifts. He slayeth Vrtra. 5 To him who poured him gifts he gave up Surya,−Indra, the God, the Mighty, to the mortal; 6 Once to the driver of his chariot, Kutsa, he gave up greedy Surya, plague of harvest; 7 So have we brought our hymn to thee, O Indra, strengthening thee and fain ourselves for glory. 8 Thus the Grtsamadas for thee, O Hero, have wrought their hymn and task as seeking favour. 9 Now may that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, give in return a boon to him who lauds thee,

2 A hundred necklets from the King, beseeching, a hundred gift−steeds I at once accepted; 3 Horses of dusky colour stood beside me, ten chariots, Svanaya's gift, with mares to draw them. 4 Forty bay horses of the ten cars' master before a thousand lead the long procession. 5 An earlier gift for you have I accepted eight cows, good milkers, and tree harnessed horses, 2 We, sacrificing, call on thee best worshipper, the eldest of Angirases, Singer, with hymns, thee, brilliant 3 He with his shining glory blazing far and wide, he verily it is who slayeth demon foes, slayeth the demo 4 To him, as one who knows, even things solid yield: unrough fire−sticks heated hot he gives his gifts to a 5 Here near we place the sacrificial food for him who shines forth fairer in the night than in the day, with l 6 He, roaring very loudly like the Maruts' host, in fertile cultivated fields adorable, in desert spots adorabl 7 Even as they who sarig forth hymns, addressed to heaven, the Blirgus with their prayer and praise invite 8 Thee we invoke, the Lord of all our settled homes, common to all, the household's guardian, to enjoy, 9 Thou, Agni, most victorious with thy conquering strength, most Mighty One, art born for service of the 10 To him the mighty, conquering with victorious strength, to Agni walking with the dawn, who sendeth 11 Agni, beheld by us in nearest neighbourhood, accordant with the Gods, bring us, with gracious love, gr

23 Ten horses and ten treasure−chests, ten garments as an added gift, 24 Ten cars with extra steed to each, for the Atharvans hundred cows, 25 Thus Srnjaya's son honoured the Bharadvajas, recipients of all noble gifts and bounty. 26 Lord of the wood, be firm and strong in body: be, bearing us, a brave victorious hero 27 Its mighty strength was borrowed from the heaven and earth: its conquering force was brought from 28 Thou Bolt of Indra, Vanguard of the Maruts, close knit to Varuna and Child of Mitra,− 29 Send forth thy voice aloud through earth and heaven, and let the world in all its breadth regard thee; 30 Thunder out strength and fill us full of vigour: yea, thunder forth and drive away all dangers. 31 Drive hither those, and these again bring hither: the War−drum speaks aloud as battle's signal.

2 When, seeking your enjoyment onward from afar, ye, certain of my kinsmen, wandered on your way, 3 Savitar therefore gave you immortality, because ye came proclaiming him whom naught can hide; 4 When they had served with zeal at sacrifice as priests, they, mortal as they were, gained immortality. 5 The Rbhus, with a rod measured, as 'twere a field, the single sacrificial chalice. wide of mouth, 6 As oil in ladles, we through knowledge will present unto the Heroes of the firmament our hymn,− 7 Rbhu to us is Indra freshest in his might, Rbhu with powers and wealth is giver of rich gifts. 8 Out of a skin, O Rbhus, once ye formed a cow, and brought the mother close unto her calf again. 9 Help us with strength where spoil is won, O Indra: joined with the gbhus give us varied bounty.

2 Here let the ignorant ask the means of you who know−for none beside you knoweth aught − 3 Such as ye: are, all−wise, we call you. Ye wise, declare to us this day accepted prayer. 4 Simply, ye Mighty Ones, I ask the Gods of that wondrous oblation hallowed by the mystic word. 5 Forth go the hymn that shone in Ghosa Bhrgu's like, the song wherewith the son of Pajra worships you, 6 Hear ye the song of him who hastens speedily. O Asvins, I am he who sang your praise. 7 For ye were ever nigh to deal forth ample wealth, to give the wealth that ye had gathered up. 8 Give us not up to any man who hateth us, nor let our milch−cows stray, whose udders give us food, 9 May they who love you gain you for their Friends. Prepare ye us for opulence with strengthening food, 10 1 have obtained the horseless car of Asvins rich in sacrifice, 11 May it convey me evermore: may the light chariot pass from men 12 It holdeth slumber in contempt. and the rich who enjoyeth not: 2 He stablished heaven; he poured forth, skilful worker, the wealth of kine, for strength, that nurtures hero 3 Lord of red dawns, he came victorious, daily to the Angirases' former invocation. 4 In joy of this thou didst restore, for worship, the lowing company of hidden cattle. 5 Thine is that milk which thy swift−moving Parents brought down, a strengthening genial gift for conque 6 There is he born.

2 Through your kind favour, Gods, on some auspicious day, the worshipper subdues his foes. 3 Vasistha will not overlook the lowliest one among you all. 4 Your succour in the battle injures not the man to whom ye, Heroes, grant your gifts. 5 Come hitherward to drink the juice, O ye whose bounties give you joy. 6 Sit on our sacred grass, be graciously inclined to give the wealth for which we long, 7 Decking the beauty of their forms in secret the Swans with purple backs have flown down hither. 8 Maruts, the man whose wrath is hard to master, he who would slay us ere we think, O Vasus, 9 O Maruts, ye consuming Gods, enjoy this offering brought for you, 10 Sharers of household sacrifice, come, Maruts, stay not far away, 11 Here, Self−strong Maruts, yea, even here. ye Sages with your sunbright skins 12 Tryambaka we worship, sweet augmenter of prosperity.

8 Of wealth and homes of men thou art the ruler, and opener of the stable of the cattle. 9 By what great might is he renowned as strongest, wherewith the Lofty One stirs up wild battles? 10 Slay us not; bring, bestow onus the ample gift which thou hast to give to him who offers. 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for the singer.

6 So purifying thee vouchsafe us waters, heaven's light, and cows, offipring and many children. Give us h

2 Thou, verily, Indra, gavest help to Kutsa, willingly giving car to him in battle, 3 O Bold One, thou with all thine aids hast boldly holpen Sudas whose offerings were accepted, 4 At the Gods' banquet, hero−souled! with Heroes, Lord of Bay Steeds, thou slewest many foemen. 5 These were thy mighty powers that, Thunder−wielder, thou swiftly crushedst nine−and−ninety castles: 6 Old are the blessings, Indra, which thou gavest Sudas the worshipper who brought oblations. 7 Give us not up, Lord of Bay Horses, Victor, in this thine own assembly, to the wicked. 8 May we men, Maghavan, the friends thou lovest, near thee be joyful under thy protection. 9 Swiftly, in truth, O Maghavan, about thee men skilled in hymning sing their songs and praises. ' 10 Thine are these lauds, O manliest of heroes, lauds which revert to us and give us riches. 11 Now, lauded for thine aid, Heroic Indra, sped by our prayer, wax mighty in thy body.

2 They paint their bright rays on the sky's far limits. the Dawns come on like tribes arrayed for battle. 3 Wealthy, most like to Indra, Dawn hath risen, and brought forth lauds that shall promote our welfare. 4 Bestow on us, O Dawn, that ample bounty which thou didst send to those who sang thy praises; 5 Impelling every God to grant his bounty sending to us the charm of pleasant voices,

2 Agni, burn up the unfriendly who are near us, burn thou the foeman's curse who pays no worship. 3 With fuel, Agni, and with oil, desirous, mine offering I present for strength and conquest, 4 Give with thy glow, thou Son of Strength, when lauded, great vital power to those who toil to serve thee 5 Give us, O liberal Lord, great gtore of riches, for, Agni, such art thou when duly kindled.

2 For at Gods' worship they are best through vigour; they have become the strongest of the Heroes; 3 Praise those Twain Gods for powers that merit worship, Indra and Varuna, for bliss, the joyous. 4 Though dames and men have waxen strong and mighty, and all the Gods selfpraised among the Heroes, 5 Righteous is he, and liberal and helpful who, Indra−Varuna, brings you gifts with gladness. 6 May wealth which ye bestow in food and treasure on him who brings you gifts and sacrifices, 7 So also, Indra−Varuna, may our princes have riches swift to save, with Gods to guard them− 8 Indra. and Varuna, Gods whom we are lauding, mingle ye wealth with our heroic glory. 9 Now will I sing a dear and far−extending hymn to Varuna the God, sublime, imperial Lord, 10 True to Law, Indra−Varuna, drinkers of the juice, drink this pressed Soma which shall give you raptur 11 Indra and Varuna, drink your fill, ye Heroes, of this invigorating sweetest Soma.

2 Thou art the best of all in sending bounteous gifts, true art thou, lordly in thine act. 3 Prayers unsurpassed are offered up to thee the Lover of the Song. 4 For thou, O Maghavan, art truthful, ne'er subdued and bringest many a Vrtra low. 5 O Indra, thou art far−renowned, impetuous, O Lord of Strength. 6 As such we seek thee now, O Asura, thee most wise, craving thy bounty as our share.

be thou born in the heavens or born in floods, 29 Yea, all the people, all the folk who have good dwellings, each apart, 30 O Agni, so may we, devout, gazed at by men, throughout our days, 31 We venerate with cheerful hearts the cheerful Agni, dear to all, 32 So thou, O Agni rich in light, beaming like Surya with thy rays 33 We pray to thee for this thy gift, Victor the gift that faileth not,

2 Floods great and many, compassed by the Dragon, thou badest swell and settest free, O Hero. 3 For, Hero, in the lauds wherein thou joyedst, in hymns of praise, O Indra, songs of Rudras, 4 We who add strength to thine own splendid vigour, laying within thine arms the splendid thunder− 5 Hero, thou slewest in thy valour Ahi concealed in depths, mysterious, great enchanter, 6 Indra, we laud thy great deeds wrought aforetime, we laud thine exploits later of achievement; 7 Indra, thy Bay Steeds showing forth their vigour have sent a loud cry out that droppeth fatness. 8 Down, never ceasing, hath the rain−cloud settled: bellowing, it hath wandered with the Mothers. 9 Indra hath hurled down the magician Vrtra who lay beleaguering the mighty river. 10 Loud roared the mighty Hero's bolt of thunder, when he, the Friend of man, burnt up the monster, 11 Drink thou, O Hero Indra, drink the Soma; let the joy−giving juices make thee joyful. 12 Singers have we become with thee, O Indra: may we serve duly and prepare devotion. 13 May we be thine, such by thy help, O Indra, as swell thy vigour while they seek thy favour. 14 Give us a friend, give us an habitation; Indra, give us the company of Maruts, 15 Let those enjoy in whom thou art delighted. Indra, drink Soma for thy strength and gladness. 16 Great, verily, are they, O thou Protector, who by their songs of praise have won the blessing. 17 Upon the great Trikadruka days, Hero, rejoicing thee, O Indra, drink the Soma. 18 Hero, assume the might wherewith thou clavest Vrtra piecemeal, the Danava Aurnavabha. 19 May we gain wealth, subduing with thy succour and with the Arya, all our foes, the Dasyus. 20 He cast down Arbuda what time his vigour was strengthened by libations poured by Trta. 21 Now let that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, yield in return a boon to him who lauds thee.

2 To Indra from all sides go forth my songs of praise, the Lord of Hundred Powers, strong, Hero, like the 3 Where battle's spoil is piled the singer winneth praise, for Indra taketh care of matchless worshippers. 4 Thee, valorous, most heroic of the heroes, shall the priests glorify with songg and praises. 5 Abundant are the gifts he gives to mortals: for him the earth bears a rich store of treasures. 6 To thee, O Indra, Lord of Bays, for ever are offered prayers and songs: accept them gladly. 7 Here, Indra, drink thou Soma with the Maruts, as thou didst drink the juice beside Saryata. 8 So eagerly desirous drink the Soma, our juice, O Indra, with thy friends the Maruts, 9 He was your comrade in your zeal, O Maruts: they, rich in noble gifts, rejoiced in Indra. 10 So, Lord of affluent gifts, this juice hath been pressed for thee with strength 11 Incline thy body to this juice which suits thy Godlike nature well: 12 Brave Indra, let it work through both thy flanks, and through thy head by prayer,

21 I praise with song the Friend of man, whom Gods sent down to be herald and messenger, 22 Thou unto sharp−toothed Agni, Young and Radiant God, proclaimest with thy song the feast− 23 While, served with sacrificial oil, now upward and now downward Agni moves his sword, 24 The God, the Friend of man, who bears our gifts to heaven, the God with his sweet−smelling mouth, 25 Son of Strength, Agni, if thou wert the mortal, bright as Mitra, I worshipped with our gifts! 26 I would not give thee up, Vasu, to calumny, or misery, O Bounteous One. 27 Like a son cherished in his father's houi§e, let our oblation rise unto the Gods. 28 With thine immediate aid may I, excellent Agni, ever gain my wish 29 O Agni, by thy wisdom, by thy bounties, by thy leading may I gather wealth. 30 Agni, he conquers by thine aid that brings him store of noble heroes and great strength, 31 Thy spark is black and crackling, kindled in due time, O Bounteous, it is taken up. 32 We Sobharis have come to him, for succour, who is good to help with thousand powers, 33 O Agni, thou on whom all other fires depend, as branches on the parent stem, 34 The mortal whom, Adityas, ye, Guilelew, lead to the farther bank 35 Whoe'er he be, Man−ruling Kings! the Regent of the race of men− 36 A gift of fifty female slaves hath Trasadasyu given me, Purukutsa's son, 37 And Syava too for me led forth a strong steed at Suvastu's ford: 2 Maruts, Rbhuksans, Rudras come ye with your cars strong−fellied and exceeding bright. 3 For well we know the vigorous might of Rudra's Sons, the Martits, who are passing strong, 4 Islands are bursting forth and misery is stayed: the heaven and earth are joined in one. 5 Even things immovable shake and reel, the mountains and the forest trees at your approach, 6 To lend free course, O Maruts, to your furious rush, heaven high and higher still gives way, 7 After their Godlike nature they, the bull.

2 He, Mighty, knows the gift of wealth, he knows the deep recess of heaven: 3 He knows, a God himself, to guide Gods to the righteous in his home: 4 He is the Herald: well−informed, he doth his errand to and fro, 5 May we be they who gratify Agni with sacrificial gifts, 6 Illustrious for wealth are they, and hero deeds, victorious, 7 So unto us, day after day, may riches craved by many come, 8 That holy Singer in his strength shoots forth his arrows swifter than

29 My praises when the Sun hath risen, my praises at the time of noon, 30 Praise yea, praise him. Of princes these are the most liberal of their gifts, 31 When to the car, by faith, I yoked the horses longing for the way− 32 May he who gave me two brown steeds together with their cloths of gold, 33 Playoga's son Asanga, by ten thousand, O Agni, hath surpassed the rest in giving. 34 What time her husband's perfect restoration to his lost strength and manhood was apparent,

Many−named with this same thought that longs for milk, 18 Much−honoured by libations, may the Vrtra−slayer wake for us: 19 O Hero, with that aid dost thou delight us, with what succour bring 20 With whose libation joys the Strong, the Hero with his team who quells 21 Rejoicing in thy spirit bring thousandfold opulence to us: 22 These juices with their wedded wives flow to enjoyment lovingly: 23 Presented strengthening gifts have sent Indra away at sacrifice, 24 These two who share his feast, Bay Steeds with golden manes, shall bring him to 25 For thee, O Lord of Light, are shed these Soma−drops, and grass is strewn 26 May Indra give thee skill, and lights of heaven, wealth to his votary 27 O Satakratu, wondrous strength and all our lauds I bring to thee: 28 Bring to us all things excellent, O Satakratu, food and strength: 30 Bearing the Soma juice we call, best Vrtra−slayer, unto thee: 31 Come, Lord of rapturous, joys, to our libation with thy Bay Steeds, come 32 Known as best Vrtra−slayer erst, as Indra Satakratu, come 33 O Vrtra−slayer, thou art he who drinks these drops of Soma: come 34 May Indra give, to aid us, wealth handy that rules the Skilful Ones:

2 We pray thee, thou who droppest oil, bright−rayed! who lookest on the Sun, 3 We have enkindled thee, O Sage, bright caller of the Gods to feast. 4 O Agni, come with all the Gods, come to our sacrificial gift: 5 Bring, Agni, to the worshipper who pours the juice, heroic strength: 6 Victor of thousands, Agni, thou, enkindled, cherishest the laws, 7 Set Agni Jatavedas down, the bearer of our sacred gifts, 8 Duly proceed our sacrifice, comprising all the Gods, to−day: 9 So may the Maruts sit thereon, the Asvins, Mitra, Varuna:

2 Thou springest up when worshipped well the drops of butter are thy joy 3 Honoured with gifts he shines afar, Agni adorable with song: 4 Agni with honey in his mouth, honoured with gifts, is balmed with oil, 5 Praised by our hymns thou kindlest thee, Oblation−bearer, for the Gods 6 To that Immortal Agni pay worship with oil, ye mortal men,− 7 O Agni, burn the Raksasas with thine unconquerable flame 8 So, Agni, with thy glowing face burn fierce against the female fiends, 9 Uruksayas have kindled thee, Oblation−bearer, thee, with hymns.

2 With this hymn let us honour thee, seeker of horses, Son of Strength, 3 As such, lover of song, with songs, wealth−lover, giver of our wealth! 4 Be thou for us a liberal Prince, giver and Lord of precious things. 5 Such as thou art, give rain from heaven, give strength which no man may resist: 6 To him who lauds thee, craving help, most youthful envoy! through our song, 7 Between both races, Agni, Sage, well skilled thou passest to and fro, 8 Befriend us thou as knowing all. Sage, duly worship thou the Gods,

2 Whoso to thee, the Mighty, brings oblation, pure Soma unto thee, pure−drinking Vayu, 3 The God whom both these worlds brought forth for riches, whom heavenly Dhisana for our wealth 4 The spotless Dawns with fair bright days have broken; they found the spacious light when they were 5 These with their truthful spirit, shining brightly, move on provided with their natural insight. 6 May these who give us heavenly light, these rulers, with gifts of kine and horses, gold and treasures. 7 Like coursers seeking fame will we Vasisthas, O Indra−Vayu, with our fair laudations.

2 Ye who behold the light of heaven, Rbhuksans, give our rich patrons unmolested riches. 3 For thou, O Bounteous One, art used to giving, at parting treasure whether small or ample. 4 Indra, high−famed, as Vaja and Rbhuksans, thou goest working, singing to the dwelling. 5 Thou winnest swift advancement for thy servant, through hymns, Lord of Bay Steeds, which thou hast 6 To us thy priests a home, as 'twere, thou givest: when, Indra wilt thou recognize our praises? 7 Though Nirrti the Goddess reigneth round him, Autumns with food in plenty come to Indra. With three

2 Tlou shalt be Aditi as thou hast entered within, appeaser of celestial anger. 3 We have drunk Soma and become immortal; we have attained the light, the Gods discovered. 4 Absorbed into the heart, be sweet, O Indu, as a kind father to his son, O Soma, 5 These glorious drops that give me freedom have I drunk. Closely they knit my joints as straps secure a c 6 Make me shine bright like fire produced by friction: give us a clearer sight and make us better. 7 May we enjoy with an enlivened spirit the juice thou givest, like ancestral riches. 8 King Soma, favour us and make us prosper: we are thy devotees; of this be mindful. 9 For thou hast settled in each joint, O Soma, aim of men's eyes and guardian of our bodies. 10 May I be with the Friend whose heart is tender, who, Lord of Bays! when quaffed will never harm me 11 Our maladies have lost their strength and vanished: they feared, and passed away into the darkness. 13 Associate with the Fathers thou, O Soma, hast spread thyself abroad through earth and heaven. 14 Give us your blessing, O ye Gods' preservers. Never may sleep or idle talk control us. 15 On all sides,. Soma, thou art our life−giver: aim of all eyes, light−finder, come within us.

2 Through piety they came to Indra for his aid, they whose libations give theejoy. 3 Agreeing in your spirit, all ye Deities, come nigh to us. 4 May Pusan, Visnu, and Sarasvati befriend, and the Seven Streams, this call of mine: 5 Indra, with thine own bounteous gift, most liberal of the Mighty Ones, 6 Leader of heroes, Lord of battle, lead thou us to combat, thou Most Sapient One. 7 Our hopes rest on the Faithful One: in Indra is the people's life. 8 Thee would we worship, Indra, with our songs of praise: O Satakratu, be thou ours.

2 Visit, to prove us free from sin, O Surya Lord of great might, the bright Gods sprung from Daksa, 3 And, O ye Heaven and Earth, a wide dominion, O ye most blissful Worlds, our lofty shelter, 4 This day invited may the Sons of Rudra, resistless, excellent, stoop down to meet us; 5 To whom the Goddess Rodasi clings closely, whom Pusan follows bringing ample bounty. 6 With a new hymn extol, O thou who singest, the Lover of the Song, the Hero Indra. 7 Give full protection, Friends of man, ye Waters, in peace and trouble, to our sons and grandsons. 8 May Savitar come hither and approach us, the God who rescues, Holy, goldenhanded, 9 And thou, O Son of Strength, do thou turn hither the Gods to−day to this our holy service. 10 Come also to my call, O ye Nasatyas, yea, verily, through my prayers, ye Holy Sages. 11 O Gods, bestow upon us riches, splendid with strength and heroes, bringing food in plenty. 12 May Rudra and Sarasvati, accordant, Visnu and Vayu, pour down gifts and bless us; 13 May this God Savitar, the Lord, the Offspring of Waters, pouring down his dew be gracious, 14 May Aja−Ekapad and Ahibudhnya, and Earth and Ocean hear our invocation; 15 So with my thoughts and hymns of praise the children of Bharadvaja sing aloud to please you.

2 We know thee mighty in thy deeds, of mighty bounty, mighty wealth, 3 Hero, when thou art fain to give, neither may Gods nor mortal men 4 Come, let us glorify Indra, Lord supreme of wealth, Self−ruling King: 5 Let prelude sound and following chant so let him hear the Saman sung, 6 O Indra, with thy right hand bring, and with thy left remember us. 7 Come nigh, O Bold One, boldly bring hither the riches of the churl 8 Indra, the booty which thou hast with holy singers to receive, 9 Indra, thy swiftly−coming spoil, the booty which rejoices all,

2 On, onward to a glorious home; dear to the people void of guile, 3 He, the bright Son, when born illumed his Parents who had sprung to life, 4 Urged by the seven devotions he hath stirred the guileless rivers which 5 These helped to might theYouthful One, high over all, invincible, 6 The immortal Courser, good to draw, looks down upon the Seven: the fount 7 Aid us in holy rites, O Man: O Pavamana, drive away 8 Make the paths ready for a hymn newer and newer evermore: 9 Give, Pavamana, high renown, give kine and steeds and hero sons:

7 She bringeth bounty and sweet charm of voices. The flushing Dawn is sung by the Vasist 2 Turned to this All, far−spreading, she hath risen and shone in brightness with white robes about her. 3 Bearing the Gods' own Eye, auspicious Lady, leading her Courser white and fair to look on, 4 Draw nigh with wealth and dawn away the foeman: prepare for us wide pasture free from danger. 5 Send thy most excellent beams to shine and light us, giving us lengthened days, O Dawn, O Goddess, 6 O Usas, nobly−born, Daughter of Heaven, whom the Vasisthas with their hymns make mighty,

2 Be thou To us, while now the morn is breaking, be thou a guardian when the Sun hath mounted.. 3 Bull, who beholdest men, through many mornings, among the dark ones shine forth red, O Agni. 4 Shine forth, a Bull invincible, O Agni, winning by conquest all the forts and treasures, 5 Lighting Gods hither, Agni, wisest Singer, bring thou to us many and flawless shelters. 6 Swell, O thou Bull and give those powers an impulse, e'en Earth and Heaven who yield their milk in ple 7 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker, give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

2 Who hath with prayer bowed to the Soma−lover? What pious man endues the beams of morning? 3 Who claims to−day the Deities' protection, asks Aditi for light, or the Adityas? 4 To him shall Agni Bharata give shelter: long shall he look upon the Sun up−rising, 5 Him neither few men overcome, nor many to him shall Aditi give spacious shelter. 6 This Hero curbs the mighty for the zealous: the presser's brew Indra possesses solely: 7 Not with the wealthy churl who pours no Soma doth Indra, Soma−drinker, bind alliance. 8 Highest and lowest, men who stand between diem, going, returning, dwelling in contentment,

2 Rich shall he be in gold and kine and horses. Indra bestows on him great vital power, 3 Longing, I came this morning to the pious, the son of sacrifice, with car wealth. laden. 4 Health−bringing streams, as milch−cows, flow to profit him who hath worshipped, him who now will 5 On the high ridge of heaven he stands exalted, yea, to the Gods he goes, the liberal giver. 6 For those who give rich meeds are all these splendours, for those who give rich meeds suns shine in hea 7 Let not the liberal sink to sin and sorrow, never decay the pious −chiefs who worship!

12 To Vayu joined with Pusan, with the Maruts, and the host of Gods, 13 Come hither to enjoy the gifts prepared with cry of Glory! Come,

2 His pair of Tawny Coursers bring Indra of unresisted might 3 Slayer of Vrtra, mount thy car; thy Bay Steeds have been yoked by prayer. 4 This poured libation, Indra, drink, immortal, gladdening, excellent. 5 Sing glory now to Indra, say to him your solemn eulogies. 6 When, Indra, thou dost yoke thy Steeds, there is no better charioteer: 7 He who alone bestoweth on mortal man who offereth gifts, 8 When will he trample, like a weed, the man who hath no gift for him? 9 He who with Soma juice prepared amid the many honours thee,− 10 The juice of Soma thus diffused, sweet to the taste, the bright cows drink, 11 Craving his touch the dappled kine mingle the Soma with their milk. 12 With veneration, passing wise, honouring his victorious might, 13 With bones of Dadhyac for his arms, Indra, resistless in attack, 14 He, searching for the horse's head, removed among the mountains, found 15 Then verily they recognized the essential form of Tvastar's Bull, 16 Who yokes to−day unto the pole of Order the strong and passionate steers of checkless spirit, 17 Who fleeth forth? who suffereth? who feareth? Who knoweth Indra present, Indra near us? 18 Who with poured oil and offering honours Agni, with ladle worships at appointed seasons? 19 Thou as a God, O Mightiest, verily blessest mortal man. 20 Let not thy bounteous gifts, let not thy saving help fail us, good Lord, at any time;

2 Lead us anew to happiness, O Agni; lead us beyond all danger and affliction. 3 Far from us, Agni, put thou all diseases let them strike lauds that have no saving Agni. 4 Preserve us, Agni, with perpetual succour, refulgent in the dwelling which thou lovest. 5 Give not us up a prey to sin, O Agni, the greedy enemy that brings us trouble; 6 Such as thou art, born after Law, O Agni when lauded give protection to our bodies, 7 Thou, well discerning both these classes, comest to men at early morn, O holy Agni. 8 To him have we addressed our pious speeches, I, Mana's son, to him victorious Agni.

1 NE'ER doth the man repent, who, seeking profit, bringeth his gift to the far−striding Visnu. 2 Thou, Visnu, constant in thy courses, gavest good−will to all men, and a hymn that lasteth, 3 Three times strode forth this God in all his grandeur over this earth bright with a hundred splendours. 4 Over this earth with mighty step strode Visnu, ready to give it for a home to Manu. 5 To−day I laud this name, O gipivista, I, skilled in rules, the name of thee the Noble. 6 What was there to be blamed in thee, O Visnu, when thou declaredst, I am Sipivista? 7 O Visnu, unto thee my lips cry Vasat! Let this mine offering, Sipivista, please thee.

1 MAKE glad with songs that Ram whom many men invoke, worthy of songs of praise, Indra, the sea of 2 As aids the skilful Rbhus yearned to Indra strong to save, who fills mid−air, encompassed round with 3 Thou hast disclosed the kine's stall for the Angirases, and made a way for Atri by a hundred doors. 4 Thou hast unclosed the prisons of the waters; thou hast in the mountain seized the treasure rich in gifts. 5 With wondrous might thou blewest enchanter fiends away, with powers celestial those who called on th 6 Thou savedst Kutsa when Susna was smitten down; to Atithigva gavest Sambara for a prey. 7 All power and might is closely gathered up in thee; thy bounteous spirit joys in drinking Soma juice. 8 Discern thou well Aryas and Dasyus; punishing the lawless give them up to him whose grass is strewn. 9 Indra gives up the lawless to the pious man, destroying by the Strong Ones those who have no strength. 10 The might which Usana hath formed for thee with might rends in its greatness and with strength both 11 When Indra hath rejoiced with Kavya Usana, he mounts his steeds who swerve wider and wider yet. 12 Thou mountest on thy car amid strong Soma draughts: Saryata brought thee those in which thou hast 13 To old Kaksivin, Soma−presser, skilled in song, O Indra, thou didst give the youthful Vrcaya. 14 The good man's refuge in his need is Indra, firm as a doorpost, praised among the Pajras. 15 To him the Mighty One, the self−resplendent, verily strong and great, this praise is uttered.

2 For unto thee, O Angiras, O Son of Strength, move ladles in the sacrifice. 3 Agni, thou art Disposer, Sage, Herald, bright God! and worshipful, 4 Most Youthful and Eternal, bring the longing Gods to me, the guileless, for the feast. 5 Famed art thou, Agni, far and wide, Preserver, righteous, and a Sage. 6 Shine, Most Resplendent! blaze, send bliss unto the folk, and to thy worshipper 7 O Agni, as thou burnest down to earth even high−grown underwood, 8 Give us not as a prey to mortal enemy, nor to the wicked friend of fiends. 9 Protect us, Agni, through the first, protect us through the second hymn, 10 Preserve us from each fiend who brings the Gods no gift, preserve thou us in deeds of strength: 11 O Holy Agni, give us wealth renowned with men and strengthening life. 12 Wherewith we may o'ercome our rivals in the war, o'erpowering the foe's designs. 13 Agni is even as a bull who whets and brandishes his horns. 14 Not to be stayed, O Bull, O Agni, are thy teeth when thou art spreading far and wide. 15 Thou liest in the wood: from both thy Mothers mortals kindle thee. 16 And so the seven priests, O Agni, worship thee, Free−giver, Everlasting One. 17 For you let us whose grass is trimmed call Agni, Agni, restless God. 18 Agni, with noble psalm that tells his wish he dwells, thinking on thee who guardest him. 19 Agni, Praise−singer! Lord of men, God burner−up of Raksasas, 20 Let no fiend come among us, O thou rich in light, no spell of those who deal in spells.

2 O Agni, Indra, Varuna, and Mitra, give, O ye Gods, and Marut host, and Visnu. 3 Indra and Agni, Mitra, Varuna, Aditi, the Waters, Mountains, Maruts, Sky, and Earth and Heaven, 4 May Visnu also and Vata who injures none, and Soma granter of possessions give us joy; 5 So may the band of Maruts dwelling in the sky, the holy, come to us to sit on sacred grass; 6 And may the Mountains famed in noble eulogies, and the fair−gleaming Rivers keep us safe from harm. 7 May the Gods' Spouses aid us of their own freewill, aid us to offspring and the winning of the spoil. 8 May the Dames, wives of Gods, enjoy our presents, Rat, Asvini, Agnayi, and Indrani.

1 COME, Indra, and delight thee with the juice at all the Soma feasts, 2 To Indra pour ye forth thejuice, the active gladdening juice to him 3 O Lord of all men, fair of cheek, rejoice thee in the gladdening lauds, 4 Songs have outpoured themselves to thee, Indra, the strong, the guardian Lord, 5 Send to us bounty manifold, O Indra, worthy of' our wish, 6 O Indra, stimulate thereto us emulously fain for wealth, 7 Give, Indra, wide and lofty fame, wealthy in cattle and in strength, 8 Grant us high fame, O Indra, grant riches bestowing thousands, those 9 Praising with songs the praise−worthy who cometh to our aid, we call 10 To lofty Indra, dweller by each libation, the pious man

2 For thou art offering−bearer and loved messenger, the charioteer of sacrifice: 3 As messenger we choose to−day Agni the good whom many love, 4 Him noblest and most youthful, richly worshipped guest, dear to the men who offer gifts, 5 Thee, Agni, will I glorify, deathless nourisher of the world, 6 Tell good things to thy praiser, O most youthful God, as richly worshipped, honey−tongued, 7 For the men, Agni, kindle thee as all possessor and as Priest; 8 At dawn of day, at night, Usas and Savitar, the Asvins, Bhaga, Agni's self: 9 For, Agni, Lord of sacrifice and messenger of men art thou: 10 Thou shonest forth, O Agni, after former dawns, all visible, O rich in light. 11 Like Manu, we will stablish thee, Agni, performer of the rite, 12 When as the Gods' High Priest, by many loved, thou dost their mission as their nearest Friend, 13 Heat−, Agni, who hast ears to hear, with all thy train of escort Gods; 14 Let those who strengthen Law, who bountiUly give, the life−tongued Maruts, hear our praise. 2 Agni, the Gods who understand give ear unto the worshipper: 3 O Jatavedas, great in act, hearken thou to Praskanva's call, 4 The sons of Priyamedha skilled in lofty praise have called for help 5 Hear thou, invoked withholy oil, bountiful giver of rewards, 6 O Agni, loved by many, thou of fame most wondrous, in their homes 7 Thee, Agni, best to find out wealth, most widely famous, quick to hear, 8 Singers with Soma pressed have made thee, Agni, hasten to the feast, 9 Good, bounteous, Son of Strength, this day seat here on sacred grass the Gods 10 Bring with joint invocations thou, O Agni, the celestial host:

1 SPEAK forth three words, the words which light precedeth, which milk this udder that produceth nectar 2 Giver of growth to plants, the God who ruleth over the waters and all moving creatures, 3 Now he is sterile, now begetteth offspring, even as he willeth doth he change his figure. 4 In him all living creatures have their being, and the three heavens with triplyflowing waters. 5 May this my song to Sovran Lord Parjanya come near unto his heart and give him pleasure. May we obt 1 SING forth and laud Parjanya, son of Heaven, who sends the gift of rain 2 Parjanya is the God who forms in kine, in mares, in plants of earth, 3 Offer and pour into his mouth oblation rich in savoury juice: