Rig Veda on Charity

2 Supreme in sovran power, far−sighted, Chiefs and Kings, most swift to hear from far away, 3 The rapid messenger who runs before you, Mitra−Varuna, with iron head, swift to the draught, 4 He whom no man may question, none may summon back, who stands not still for colloquy,− 5 To Aryaman and Mitra sing a reverent song, O pious one, 6 The true, Red Treasure they have sent, one only Son born of the Three. 7 My songs are lifted up, and acts most splendid are to be performed. 8 Lords of great wealth, when we invoke your bounty which no demon checks, 9 Come, Vayu, drawn by fair hymns, to our sacrifice that reaches heaven. 10 He comes by straightest paths, as ministering Priest, to taste the sacrificial gifts. 11 Verily, Surya, thou art great; truly, Aditya, thou art great. 12 Yea, Surya, thou art great in fame thou evermore, O God, art great. 13 She yonder, bending lowly down, clothed in red hues and rich in rays, 14 Past and gone are three mortal generations: the fourth and last into the Sun hath entered. 15 The Rudras' Mother, Daughter of the Vasus, centre of nectar, the Adityas' Sister− 16 Weak−minded men have as a cow adopted me who came hither from the Gods, a Goddess,

2 So, in thine ancient ways, may he, beloved, with a thousand streams 3 Him who is like a caldron shake: O Indu, shake thy gift to us 4 Indu, invoked with many a prayer, bring down the vigour of these men, 5 Indu, Wealth−giver, with thine help pour out for us a hundred, yea,

2 Yama first found for us a place to dwell in: this pasture never can be taken from 3 Mitali prospers there with Kavyas, Yama with Angiras' sons, Brhaspati with Rkvans: 4 Come, seat thee on this bed of grass, O Yama, in company with Angirases and Fathers. 5 Come, Yama, with the Angirases the Holy, rejoice thee here with children of Virupa. 6 Our Fathers are Angirases, Navagvas, Atharvans, Bhrgus who deserve the Soma. 7 Go forth, go forth upon the ancient pathways whereon our sires of old have gone before us. 8 Meet Yama, meet the Fathers, meet the merit of free or ordered acts, in highest heaven. 9 Go hence, depart ye, fly in all directions: this place for him the Fathers have provided. 10 Run and outspeed the two dogs, Sarama's offspring, brindled, four−eyed, upon thy happy pathway. 11 And those two dogs of thine, Yama, the watchers, four−eyed, who look on men and guard the pathway 12 Dark−hued, insatiate, with distended nostrils, Yama's two envoys roam among the People; 13 To Yama pour the Soma, bring to Yama consecrated gifts: 14 Offer to Yama holy gifts enriched with butter, and draw near: 15 Offer to Yama, to the King, oblation very rich in meath: 16 Into the six Expanses flies the Great One in Trkadru

2 And ye gave mighty Dadhikras, the giver of many gifts, who visiteth all people, 3 Whom, as 'twere down a precipice, swift rushing, each Puru praises and his heart rejoices,− 4 Who gaineth precious booty in the combats and moveth, winning spoil, among the cattle; 5 Loudly the folk cry after him in battles, as 'twere a thief who steals away a garment; 6 And, fain to come forth first amid these armies, this way and that with rows of cars he rushes, 7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat, 8 And at his thunder, like the roar of heaven, those who attack tremble and are affrighted; 9 The people praise the overpowering swiftness of this fleet Steed who giveth men abundance. 10 Dadhikras hath o'erspread the Fivefold People with vigour, as the Sun lightens the waters. 2 I praise the mighty Steed who fills my spirit, the Stallion Dadhikravan rich in bounties, 3 Him who hath honoured, when the flame is kindled at break of dawn, the Courser Dadhikrivan, 4 When we remember mighty Dadhikravan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts, 5 Both sides invoke him as they call on Indra when they stir forth and turn to sacrificing. 6 So have I glorified with praise strong Dadhikravan, conquering Steed.

1 Ye who observe this day be with us even thrice: far−stretching is you bounty, Asvins and your course. 2 Three are the fellies in your honey−bearing car, that travels after Soma's loved one, as all know. 3 Thrice in the self−same day, ye Gods who banish want, sprinkle ye thrice to−day our sacrifice with mea 4 Thrice come ye to our home, thrice to the righteous folk, thrice triply aid the man who well deserves yo 5 Thrice, O ye Asvins, bring to us abundant wealth: thrice in the Gods' assembly, thrice assist our thought 6 Thrice, Asvins, grant to us the heavenly medicines, thrice those of earth and thrice those that the waters 7 Thrice are ye to be worshipped day by day by us: thrice, O ye Asvins, ye travel around the earth. 8 Thrice, O ye Asvins, with the Seven Mother Streams; three are the jars, the triple offering is prepared. 9 Where are the three wheels of your triple chariot, where are the three seats thereto firmly fastened? 10 Nasatyas, come: the sacred gift is offered up; drink the sweet juice with lips that know the sweetness w 11 Come, O Nasatyas, with the thrice−eleven Gods; come, O ye Asvins, to the drinking of the meath. 12 Borne in your triple car, O Asvins, bring us present prosperity with noble offspring.

2 The Sun ascending, the refulgent Star, pours down his beams together with the Dawn. 3 Promptly we woke to welcome thee, O Usas, Daughter of the Sky, 4 Thou, dawning, workest fain to light the great world, yea, heaven, Goddess! that it may be seen. 5 Bring us that wondrous bounty, Dawn, that shall be famed most far away. 6 Give to our princes opulence and immortal fame, and strength in herds of kine to us. 2 O Indra−Varuna, mighty and very rich One of you is called Monarch and One Autocrat. 3 Ye with your strength have pierced the fountains of the floods: the Sun have ye brought forward as the 4 In battels and in frays we ministering priests, kneeling upon our knees for furtherance of our weal, 5 O Indra−Varuna, as ye created all these creatures of the world by your surpassing might, 6 That Varuna's high worth may shine preeminent, these Twain have measured each his proper power and 7 No trouble, no misfortune, Indra−Varuna, no woe from any side assails the mortal man 8 With your divine protection, Heroes, come to us: mine invncation hear, if ye be pleased therewith. 9 In battle after battle, Indra−Varuna, be ye our Champions, ye who are the peoples' strength, 10 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman vouchsafe us glory and great shelter spreading far.

2 With the most saving medicines which thou givest, Rudra, may I attain a hundred winters. 3 Chief of all born art thou in glory, Rudra, armed with the thunder, mightiest of the mighty. 4 Let us not anger thee with worship, Rudra, ill praise, Strong God! or mingled invocation. 5 May I with praise−songs win that Rudra's favour who is adored with gifts and invocations. 6 The Strong, begirt by Maruts, hath refreshed me, with most invigorating food, imploring. 7 Where is that gracious hand of thine, O Rudra, the hand that giveth health and bringeth comfort, 8 To him the strong, great, tawny, fair−complexioned, I utter forth a mighty hymn of praises. 9 With firm limbs, multiform, the strong, the tawny adorns himself with bright gold decorations: 10 Worthy, thou carriest thy bow and arrows, worthy, thy manyhued and honoured necklace. 11 Praise him the chariot−borne, the young, the famous, fierce, slaying like a dread beast of the forest. 12 I bend to thee as thou approachest, Rudra, even as a boy before the sire who greets him. 13 Of your pure medicines, O potent Martits, those that are wholesomest and healthbestowing, 14 May Rudra's missile turn aside and spare us, the great wrath of the impetuous One avoid us. 15 O tawny Bull, thus showing forth thy nature, as neither to be wroth, O God, nor slay us.

2 Discerning, have they offered gifts: they guard the strength that never wastes. 3 Svaitreya's people, all his men, have gloriously increased in might. 4 I bring, as 'twere, the longed−for milk, the dear milk of the Sister−Pair. 5 Beam of light, come to us in sportive fashion, finding thyself close to the wind that fans thee.

2 May Dyaus and Prthivi, wise, true to Holy Law, keep us in safety from distress and injury. 3 Mother of Mitra and of opulent Varuna, may Aditi preserve us safe from all distress. 4 May ringing press−stones keep the Raksasas afar, ill dream, and Nirrti, and each voracious fiend. 5 Full flow libations; on our grass let Indra sit; Brhaspati the singer laud with Sama hymns! 6 Ye Asvins, make our sacrifice ascend to heaven, and animate the rite that it may send us bliss, 7 Hither I call the band of Maruts, swift to hear, great, purifying, bringing bliss, to he our Friends. 8 We bring the Stay of Life, who makes the waters swell, swift−hearing, Friend of Gods, who waits on 9 Alive ourselves, with living sons, devoid of guilt, may we win this with winners by fair means to win. 10 Hear us, O ye who claim the worship of mankind, and give us, O ye Gods, the gift for which we pray, 11 We crave the gracious favour of the Gods to−day, great favour of great Gods, sublime and free from fo 12 In great enkindled Agni's keeping, and, for bliss, free from all sin before Mitra and Varuna. 13 All ye, the Gods whom Savitar the Father of truth, and Varuna and Mitra govern, 14 Savitar, Savitar from cast and westward, Savitar, Savitar from north and southward,

2 At night and morning, Agni, have they called to thee, like milch−kine in their stalls lowing to meet their 3 Him have the Gods established at the region's base, doer of wondrous deeds, Herald of heaven and earth 4 Him have they set in his own dwelling, in the vault, like the Moon waxing, fulgent, in the realm of air. 5 May he as Priest encompass all the sacrifice. men throng to him with offerings and with hymns of prais 6 Such as thou art, brilliantly kindled for our weal, a liberal giver, send us riches in thy shine, 7 Agni, give us great wealth, give riches thousandfold. unclose to us, like doors, strength that shall bring 8 Enkindled night by night at every morning's dawn, may he shine forth with red flame like the realm of 9 Song chanted by us men, O Agni, Ancient One, has swelled unto the deathless Gods in lofty heaven− 10 Agni, may we show forth our valour with the steed or with the power of prayer beyond all other men; 11 Such, Conqueror! be to us, be worthy of our praise, thou for whom princes nobly born exert themselve 12 Knower of all that lives, O Agni may we both, singers of praise and chiefs, be in thy keeping still. 13 The princely worshippers who send to those who sing thy praise, O Agni, guerdon, graced with kine a

2 For thee, O Purifier, flow the drops of fatness rich in oil. 3 Agni, Most Excellent! for thee the Sage are drops that drip with oil. 4 To thee, O Agni, mighty and resistless, to thee stream forth the drops of oil and fatness. 5 Fatness exceeding rich, extracted from the midst,−this as our gift we offer thee.

2 Indra, accordant, with the banded Maruts, drink Soma, Hero, as wise Vrtra−slayer. 3 And, drinker at due seasons, drink in season, Indra, with friendly Gods, our pressed−out Soma. 4 Drink Soma, Indra, banded with the Maruts who, Maghavan, strengthened thee at Ahi's slaughter, 5 The Bull whose strength hath waxed, whom Maruts follow, free−giving Indra, the celestial Ruler,

2 Thou, of whom having drunk the Steer acts like a steer. drinking of this that finds the light, 3 For, verily, Pavamana, thou bast, splendidest, called all the generations of 4 By whom Dadhyac Navagva opens fastened doors, by whom the sages gained their wish, 5 Effused, he floweth in a stream, best rapture−giver, in the long wool of the sheep, 6 He who from out the rocky cavern took with might the redmrefulgent watery Cows, 7 Press ye and pour him, like a steed, laudworthy, speeding through the region and the flood, 8 Increaser of the water, Steer with thousand streams, dear to the race of Deities; 9 Make splendid glory shine on us, thou Lord of strengthening food, God, as the Friend of Gods: 10 Roll onward to the bowls, O Mighty One, effused, as Prince supporter of the tribes. 11 They have drained him the Steer of heaven, him with a thousand streams, distilling rapturous joy, 12 The Mighty One was born Immortal, giving life, lightening darkness with his shine. 13 Effused is he who brings good things, who brings us bounteous gifts and sweet refreshing food, 14 He whom our Indra and the Marut host shall drink, Bhaga shall drink with Aryarnan, 15 Soma, for Indra's drink do thou, led by the men, well−wcaponcd and most gladdening, 16 Enter the Soma−holder, even Indra's heart, as rivers pass into the sea,

2 Let Aryarnan vouchsafe us wealth, and Bhaga, and Brhaspati. 3 We call King Soma to our aid, and Agni with our songs and hymns, 4 Indra, Vayu, Brhaspati, Gods swift to listen, we invoke, 5 Urge Aryaman to send us gifts, and Indra, and Brhaspati, 6 Do thou, O Agni, with thy fires strengthen our prayer and sacrifice:

2 They spring to birth, the lofty Ones, the Bulls of Heaven, divine, the youths of Rudra, free from spot an 3 Young Rudras, demon−slayers, never growing old, they have waxed, even as mountains, irresistible. 4 With glittering ornaments they deck them forth for show; for beauty on their breasts they bind their chai 5 Loud roarers, giving strength, devourers of the foe, they make the winds, they make the lightnings with 6 The bounteous Maruts with the fatness dropping milk fill full the waters which avail in solenm rites. 7 Mighty, with wondrous power and marvellously bright, selfstrong like mountains, ye glide swiftly on y 8 Exceeding wise they roar like lions mightily, they, all−possessing, are beauteous as antelopes; 9 Heroes who march in companies, befriending man, with serpents' ire through strength, ye greet the earth 10 Lords of all riches, dwelling in the home of wealth, endowed with mighty vigour, singers loud of voice 11 They who with golden fellies make the rain increase drive forward the big clouds like wanderers on th 12 The progeny of Rudra we invoke with prayer, the brisk, the bright, the worshipful, the active Ones 13 Maruts, the man whom ye have guarded with your help, he verily in strength surpasseth all mankind. 14 O Maruts, to the worshippers give glorious strength invincible in battle, brilliant, bringing wealth, 15 Will ye then, O ye Maruts, grant us riches, durable, rich in men, defying onslaught.

2 Bringing the pleasant mcath as 'twere their own dear son, they sport in sportive wise gay at their gatheri 3 To whomsoever, bringer of oblations, they immortal guardians, have given plenteous wealth, 4 Ye who with mighty powers have stirred the regions up, your coursers have sped forth directed by 5 When they in dazzling rush have made the mountains roar, and shaken heaven's high back in their heroi 6 Terrible Maruts, ye with ne'er−diminished host, with grcat benevolence fulfil our heart's desire. 7 Givers of during gifts whose bounties never fail, free from ill−will, at sacrifices glorified, 8 With castles hundredfold, O Maruts, guard ye well the man whom ye have loved from ruin and from sin 9 O Maruts, in your cars are all things that are good: great powers are set as 'twere in rivalry therein. 10 Held in your manly arms are many goodly things, gold chains are on your chests, and glistering 11 Mighty in mightiness, pervading, passing strong, visible from afar as 'twere with stars of heaven, 12 This is your majesty, ye Maruts nobly born, far as the sway of Adid your bounty spreads. 13 This is your kinship, Maruts, that, Immortals, ye were oft in olden time regardful of our call, 14 That, O ye Maruts, we may long time flourish through your abundant riches, O swift movers, 15 May this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's son, Mandarya,

2 Envoy art thou, protector from the foeman, strong God, thou leadest us to higher blessings. 3 May we adore thee in thy loftiest birthplace, and, with our praises, in thy lower station. 4 Agni, best Priest, pay worship with oblation; quickly commend the gift to be presented; 5 The twofold opulence, O Wonder−Worker, of thee new−born each day never decreases.

27 For so much bliss, or even more, O Asvins, Wealthy Gods, than this, 28 Ascend your car with golden seat, O Asvins, and with reins of gold, 29 Golden is its supporting shaft, the axle also is of gold, 30 Thereon, ye Lords of ample wealth, come to us even from afar, 31 From far away ye come to us, Asvins, enjoying plenteous food 32 With splendour, riches, and renown, O Asvins, hither come to us, 33 May dappled horses, steeds who fly with pinions, bring you hitherward 34 The whcel delayeth not that car of yours accompanied by song, 35 Borne on that chariot wrought of gold, with coursers very fleet of foot, 36 O Wealthy Gods, ye taste and find the brisk and watchful wild beast good. 37 As such, O Asvins, find for me my share of new−presented gifts, 38 He who hath given me for mine own ten Kings like gold to look upon. 39 No man, not any, goes upon the path on which the Cedis walk. 2 When the priests, strengthening the Son of Holy Law, present their gifts, 3 Since Kanvas with their lauds have made Indra complete the sacrifice. 4 Before his hot displeasure all the peoples, all the men, bow down, 5 This power of his shone brightly forth when Indra brought together, like 6 The fiercely−moving Vrtra's head he severed with his thunderbolt, 7 Here are−we sing them loudly forth−our thoughts among−the best of songs.

2 As giving power and winning light, for Indra and for Vayu he 3 The men conduct him, Soma, Steer, Omniscient, and the Head of Heaven, 4 Longing for kine, longing for gold hath Indu Pavamana lowed, 5 This Pavamana, gladdening draught, drops on the filtering cloth, and then 6 To Indra in the firmament this mighty tawny Steer hath flowed,

2 Thee, then, O Pusan, like a swift one on his way, I urge with lauds that thou mayst make the foemen fle 3 Thou, Pusan, in whose friendship they who sing forth praise enjoy advantage, even in wisdom, through 4 Not stirred to anger, come, Free−giver, nigh to us, to take this gift of ours, thou who hast goats for steed

2 Well knoweth Savitar, O Child of Waters, where ocean, firmly fixt, o'erflowed its limit. 3 Then, with a full crowd of Immortal Beings, this other realm came later, high and holy. 4 As warriors to their steeds, kine to their village, as fond milk giving cows approach their youngling, 5 Like the Angirasa Hiranvastupa, I call thee, Savitar, to this achievement:

2 Both Bharatas, Devasravas, Devavata, have strongly rubbed to life effectual Agni. 3 Him nobly born of old the fingers ten produced, him whom his Mothers counted dear. 4 He set thee in the earth's most lovely station, in Ila's place, in days of fair bright weather. 5 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

2 Awake all pleasant strains and let the hymns flow forth: raise up abundant fulness: this is our desire. 3 Ye are the bliss of her who groweth old at home, and helpers of the slow although he linger last. 4 Ye made Cyavana, weak and worn with length of days, young again, like a car, that he had power to mo 5 We will declare among the folk your ancient deeds heroic; yea, ye were Physicians bringing health. 6 Listen to me, O Asvins; I have cried to you. Give me−your aid as sire and mother aid their son. 7 Ye, mounted on your chariot brought to Vimada the comely maid of Purumitra as a bride. 8 Ye gave a ain the vigour of his youthful life to tge sage Kali when old age was coming nigh. 9 Ye Asvins Twain, endowed with manly strength, brought forth Reblia when hidden in the cave and 10 On Pedu ye bestowed, Asvins, a courser white, mighty with nine−and−ninety varied gifts of strength, 11 From no side, ye Two Kings whom none may check or stay, doth grief, distress, or danger come u on t 12 Come on that Chariot which the Rbhus wrought for you, the Chariot, Asvins, that is speedier than thou 13 Come, Conquerors of the sundered mountain, to our home, Asvins who made the cow stream milk for 14 We have prepared this laud for you, O Asvins, and, like the Bhrgus, as a car have framed it,

2 Hither hath Soma flowed unto the beakers, like a chariot−horse, a stallion swift upon his way. 3 While thou art cleansed, O Soma, scatter wealth on us; Indu, bestow great bounty as a liberal Prince. 4 Hither let Pusan Pavamana come to us, Varuna, Mitra, bountiful, of one accord, 5 Both Heaven and Earth, the all−invigorating Pair, Vidhatar, Aditi, and Aryaman the God,

2 Eager for wealth, we meditate Agni's effectual praise to−day, 3 May Agni, Priest among mankind, take pleasure in our songs of praise, 4 Thou, Agni, art spread widely forth, Priest dear and excellent; through thee 5 Singers exalt thee, Agni, well lauded, best giver of our strength: 6 Thou Agni, as the felly rings the spokes, encompassest the Gods. 1 yearn for bounty manifold.

2 At high solemnities mortal men glorify him the Immortal, best 3 That he may bear their gifts to heaven, all glorify him Agni, God, 4 Agni shone bright when born, with light killing the Dasyus and the dark: 5 Serve Agni, God adorable, the Sage whose back is balmed with oil: 6 They have exalted Agni, God of all mankind, with oil and hymns

22 Condemn us not to indigence, O Agni, beside these flaming fires which Gods have kindled; 23 O Agni, fair of face, the wealthy mortal who to the Immortal offers his oblation. 24 Knowing our chief felicity, O Agni, bring hither ample riches to our nobles, 25 Give strength and power to these my prayers, O Agni; O God, pour blessings on bur chiefs and nobles.

10 Varuna, Mighty, with a thousand eyes, beholds the paths wherein these rivers run. 11 He, King of kings, the glory of the floods, o'er all that liveth hath resistless sway. 12 May he assist us among all the tribes, and make the envier's praise devoid of light. 13 May the foes' threatening arrow pass us by: may he put far from us our bodies' sin. 14 Agni, oblation−cater, through our prayers aid us: to him our dearest laud is brought. 15 Accordant with the Gods choose for our Friend the Waters' Child: may he be good to us. 16 With lauds I sing the Dragon born of floods: he sits beneath the streams in middle air. 17 Ne'er may the Dragon of the Deep harm us: ne'er fail this faithful servant's sacrifice. 18 To these our heroes may they grant renown: may pious men march boldly on to wealth. 19 Leading great hosts, with fierce attacks of these, they burn their foes as the Sun burns the earth. 20 What time our wives draw near to us, may he, left−handed Tvastar, give us hero sons. 21 May Tvastar find our hymn acceptable, and may Aramati, seeking wealth, be ours. 22 May they who lavish gifts bestow those treasures: may Rodasi and Varunani listen. 23 So may rich Mountains and the liberal Waters, so may all Herbs that grow on ground, and Heaven, 24 To this may both the wide Worlds lend approval, and Varuna in heaven, whose Friend is Indra. 25 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Agni, Waters, Herbs, Trees accept the praise we offer.

2 Protect Tryaruna, as thou art waxing strong and art highly praised, Vaisvanara Agni! 3 So Trasadasyu served thee, God Most Youthful, craving thy favour for the ninth time, Agni; 4 He who declares his wish to me, to Asvamedha, to the Prince, 5 From whom a hundred oxen, all of speckled hue, delight my heart, 6 To Asvamedha who bestows a hundred gifts grant hero power,

2 With stream of sacrifice the brown bright drops have flowed with strength in store 3 To Indra, Vayu, Varuna, to Visnu, and the Maruts, flow 4 Three several words are uttered: kine are ]owing, cows who give their milk: 5 The young and sacred mothers of the holy rite have uttered praise: 6 From every side, O Soma, for our profit, pour thou forth four seas

2 Readily have the purple beams of light shot up; the Red Cows have they harnessed, easy to be yoked. 3 They sing their song like women active in their tasks, along their common path hither from far away, 4 She, like a dancer, puts her broidered garments on: as a cow yields her udder so she bares her breast. 5 We have beheld the brightness of her shining; it spreads and drives away the darkiorne monster. 6 We have o'erpast the limit of this darkness; Dawn breaking forth again brings clear perception. 7 The Gotamas have praised Heaven's radiant Daughter, the leader of the charm of pleasant voices. 8 O thou who shinest forth in wondrous glory, urged onward by thy strength, auspicious Lady, 9 Bending her looks on all the world, the Goddess shines, widely spreading with her bright eye westward. 10 Ancient of days, again again born newly, decking her beauty with the self−same raiment. 11 She hath appeared discovering heaven's borders: to the far distance she drives off her Sister. 12 The bright, the blessed One shines forth extending her rays like kine, as a flood rolls his waters. 13 O Dawn enriched with ample wealth, bestow on us the wondrous gift 14 Thou radiant mover of sweet sounds, with wealth of horses and of kine 15 O Dawn enriched with holy rites, yoke to thy car thy purple steeds, 16 O Asvins wonderful in act, do ye unanimous direct 17 Ye who brought down the hymn from heaven, a light that giveth light to man, 18 Hither may they who wake at dawn bring, to drink Soma both the Gods

2 Make our songs penetrate to him who is the Only One of men; 3 Within whose hands deposited all the Five Peoples' treasures rest. 4 Slay everyone who pours no gift, who, hard to reach, delights thee not. 5 Thou helpest him the doubly strong whose hymns were sung unceasingly. 6 As thou, O Indra, to the ancient singers wast ever joy, like water to the thirsty,

2 Agni, the sacrificial cake hath been prepared and dressed for thee: 3 Agni, enjoy the cake of meal and our oblation three days old: 4 Here at the midday sacrifice enjoy thou the sacrificial cake, wise, Jatavedas! 5 O Agni, at the third libation takewith joy the offered cake of sacrifice, thou, Son of Strength. 6 O waxing Agni, knower, thou, of all, accept our gifts, the cake,

2 The Twain invincible in war, worthy to be renowned in frays, 3 Impetuous is their strength, and keen the lightning of the mighty Pair, 4 Indra and Agni, we invoke you both, as such, to send your cars: 5 These who give increase day by day, Gods without guile for mortal man, 6 The strength−bestowing offering thus to Indra−Agni hath been paid, as butter, purified by stones. Deal t

2 Grant, Indra Maghavan, invoked of many, to these my friends the strength which thou possessest. 3 King of the living world, of men, is Indra, of all in varied form that earth containeth. 4 Maghavan Indra, when we all invoke him, bountiful ever sendeth strength to aid us: 5 Quick, Indra, give us room and way to riches, and let us bring thy mind to grant us treasures,

2 Wait, Maruts, Heroes, upon him the Prosperer in whom is bliss−increasing wealth; 3 As such, O Agni, deal us wealth and hero might, O Bounteous One! 4 He who made all that lives, who passes all in might, who orders service to the Gods, 5 Give us not up to indigence, Agni, nor want of hero sons, 6 Help us to strength, blest Agni! rich in progeny, abundant, in our sacrifice.

2 Come now, ye Asvins, on your car decked with a sun−bright canopy, 3 Come hither from the Nahusas, come, drawn by pure hymns, from mid−air. 4 Come to us hither from the heavens, come from mid−air, well−loved by us: 5 Come, Asvins, to give car to us, to drink the Soma, Asvins, come. 6 As, Heroes, in the olden time the Rsis called you to their aid, 7 Even from the luminous sphere of heaven come to us, ye who find the light, 8 Do others more than we adore the Asvins with their hymns of praise? 9 The holy singer with his hymns hath called you, Asvins, hither−ward; 10 What time, ye Lords of ample wealth, the Lady mounted on your car, 11 Come thence, O Asvins, on your car that hath a thousand ornaments: 12 Cheerers of many, rich in goods, discoverers of opulence, 13 O Asvins, grant us all rich gifts wherewith no man mav interfere. 14 Whether, Nasatyas, ye be nigh, or whether ye be far away, 15 Vatsa the Rsi with his songs, Nasatyas, hath exalted you: 16 Bestow on him, O Asvins, food that strengthens, and that drops with oil, 17 Come to us, ye who slay the foe, Lords of rich treasure, to this hymn. 18 The Priyamedhas have invoked you with all succours that are yours, 19 Come to us, Asvins, ye Who bring felicity, auspicious Ones, 20 Aid us, O Heroes, for those hymns for which ye helped GoSarya erst, 21 And favoured Trasadasyu, ye Heroes, in spoil−deciding fray: 22 O Asvins, may pure hymns of ours, and songs and praises, honour you: 23 Three places of the Asvins, erst concealed, are made apparent now. Both

2 Lord of Bay Steeds, fair−helmed, rejoice thee: this we crave. Here the disposers wait on thee. 3 Turning, as 'twere, to meet the Sun, enjoy from Indra all good things. 4 Praise him who sends us wealth, whose bounties injure none: good are the gifts which Indra. grants. 5 Thou in thy battles, Indra, art subduer of all hostile bands. 6 The Earth and Heaven clung close to thy victorious might as to their calf two mother−cows. 7 Bring to your aid the Eternal One, who shoots and none may shoot at him, 8 Arranger of things unarranged, e'en Satakratu, source of might, 2 The food of meath in foremost place I give thee, thy Soma shall be pressed, thy share appointed. 3 Striving for strength bring forth a laud to Indra, a truthful hymn if he in truth existeth. 4 Here am I, look upon me here, O singer. All that existeth 1 surpass in greatness. 5 When the Law's lovers mounted and ap. proached me as 1 sate lone upon the dear sky's summit. 6 All these thy deeds must be declared at Soma−feasts, wrought, Indra, Bounteous Lord, for him who she 7 Now run ye forth your several ways: he is not here who kept you back. 8 On−rushing with the speed of thought within the iron fort he pressed: 9 Deep in the ocean lies the bolt with waters compassed round about, 10 When, uttering words which no one comprehended, Vak, Queen of Gods, the Gladdener, was seated, 11 The Deities generated Vak the Goddess, and animals of every figure speak her. 12 Step forth with wider stride, my comrade Visnu; make room, Dyaus, for the leaping of the lightning.

1 WITH worship will I glorify thee, Agni, like a long−tailed steed, 2 May the far−striding Son of Strength, bringer of great felicity, 3 Lord of all life, from near; from far, do thou, O Agni evermore 4 O Agni, graciously announce this our oblation to the Gods, 5 Give us a share of strength most high, a share of strength that is below, 6 Thou dealest gifts, resplendent One; nigh, as with waves of Sindhu, thou 7 That man is lord of endless strength whom thou protectest in the fight, 8 Him, whosoever he may be, no man may vanquish, mighty One: 9 May he who dwells with all mankind bear us with war−steeds through the fight, 10 Help, thou who knowest lauds, this work, this eulogy to Rudra, him 11 May this our God, great, limitless, smoke−bannered excellently bright, 12 Like some rich Lord of men may he, Agni the banner of the Gods, 13 Glory to Gods, the mighty and the lesser glory to Gods the younger and the elder! 1 THERE where the broad−based stone raised on high to press the juices out, 2 Where, like broad hips, to hold the juice the platters of the press are laid, 3 There where the woman marks and leans the pestle's constant rise and fall, 4 Where, as with reins to guide a horse, they bind the churning−staff with cords, 5 If of a truth in every house, O Mortar thou art set for work, 6 O Sovran of the Forest, as the wind blows soft in front of thee, 7 Best strength−givers, ye stretch wide jaws, O Sacrificial Implements, 8 Ye Sovrans of the Forest, both swift, with swift pressers press to−day 9 Take up in beakers what remains: the Soma on the filter pour,

2 Having gone up on high, the God broadhanded spreads his arms widely forth that all may mark him. 3 Though borne by swift steeds he will yet unyoke them: e'en the fleet chariot hath he stayed from going. 4 What was spread out she weaves afresh, re−weaving: the skilful leaves his labour half−completed. 5 Tlirough various dwellings, through entire existence, spreads, manifest, the household light of Agni. 6 He comes again, unfolded, fain for conquest: at home was he, the love of all things moving. 7 The wild beasts spread through desert places seeking their watery share which thou hast set in waters. 8 With utmost speed, in restless haste at sunset Varuna seeks his watery habitation. 9 Him whose high law not Varuna nor Indra, not Mitra, Aryaman, nor Rudra breaketh, 10 May they who strengthen bliss, and thought and wisdom, and the Dames' Lord and Narasamsa aid us. 11 So come to us our hearts' desire, the bounty bestowed by thee, from heaven and earth and waters, 2 Moving at morning like two chr−borne heroes, like to a pair of goats ye come electing; 3 Like to a pair of horns come first to usward, like to a pair of hoofs with rapid motion; 4 Bear us across the rivers like two vessels, save us as ye were yokes, naves, spokes and fellies. 5 Like two winds ageing not, two confluent rivers, come with quick vision like two eyes before us. 6 Even as two lips that with the mouth speak honey, even as two breasts that nourish our existence, 7 Like two hands give ye us increasing vigour; like heaven and earth constrain the airy regions. 8 These prayers of ours exalting you, O Asvins, have the GrtSamadas, for a laud, made ready.

2 He who brings gifts to him the Ancient and the Last, to Visnu who ordains, together with his Spouse, 3 Him have ye satisfied, singers, as well as ye know, primeval germ of Order even from his birth. 4 The Sovran Varuna and both the Asvins wait on this the will of him who guides the Marut host. 5 Even he the Heavenly One who came for fellowship, Visnu to Indra, godly to the godlier,

2 O'er all the region with their uniform advance these have spread out the lore that giveth heroes strength. 3 With pressing−stones and with the bright beams of the day he hurls his broadest bolt against the Guilefu 4 I, to enjoy the beauty of his form, behold that rapid rush of his as 'twere an axe's edge, 5 Four−faced and nobly clad, Varuna, urging on the pious to his task, stirs himself with the tongue.

21 They who, from home, have gladdened thee, thy servants Parasara, Vasistha, Satayatu, 22 Priest−like, with praise, I move around the altar, earning Paijavana's reward, O Agni, 23 Gift of Paijavana, four horses bear me in foremost place, trained steeds with pearl to deck them. 24 Him whose fame spreads between wide earth and heaven, who, as dispenser, gives each chief his porti 25 Attend on him O ye heroic Maruts as on Sudas's father Divodasa.

2 Ye to Varosusaman come, Nasatyas, for this glorious rite. 3 So with oblations we invoke you, rich in ample wealth, to−day, 5 Asvins, who send us precious gifts, even when offended, think of him: 6 For, Wonder−Workers, with fleet steeds ye fly completely round this All, 7 With all−sustaining opulence, Asvins, come hitherward to us, 8 To welcome this mine offering, O ye Indra−like Nasatyas, come 9 For we, like Vyasva, lifting up our voice like oxen, call on you: 10 O Rsi, laud the Asvins well. Will they not listen to thy call? 11 O Heroes, listen to the son of Vyasva, and regard me here, 12 Gods whom we yearn for, of your gifts, of what ye bring to us, bestow 13 Him whom your sacrifices clothe, even as a woman with her robe, 14 Whoso regards your care of men as succour widest in its reach, 15 Come to us ye who pour down wealth, come to the home which men must guard: 16 Most fetching of all calls, the laud, as envoy, Heroes, called to you 17 Be ye in yonder sea of heaven, or joying in the home of food, 18 This river with his lucid flow attracts you, more than all the streams,− 19 O Asvins, with that glorious fame come hither, through our brilliant song, 20 Harness the steeds who draw the car, O Vasu, bring the well−fed pair. 21 Wonderful Vayu, Lord of Right, thou who art Tvastar's son−in−law, 22 To Tvastar's son−in−law we pray for wealth whereof he hath control: 23 From heaven, auspicious Vayu, come drive hither with thy noble steeds: 24 We call thee to the homes of men, thee wealthiest in noble food, 25 So, glad and joyful in thine heart, do thou, God, Vayu, first of all

2 Give us a portion of the sap, the most auspicious that ye have, 3 To you we gladly come for him to whose abode ye send us on; 4 The Waters. be to us for drink, Goddesses for our aid and bliss: 5 1 beg the Floods to give us balm, these Queens who rule o'er precious things, 6 Within the Waters−Soma thus hath told me−dwell all balms that heal, 7 O Waters, teem with medicine to keep my body safe from harm, 8 Whatever sin is found in me, whatever evil I have wrought, 9 The Waters I this day have sought, and to their moisture have we come: 2 Thy friend loves not the friendship which considers her who is near in kindred as stranger. 3 Yea, this the Immortals seek of thee with longing, progeny of the sole existing mortal. 4 Shall we do now what we ne'er did aforetime? we who spake righteously now talk impurely? 5 Even in the womb God Tvastar, Vivifier, shaping all forms, Creator, made us consorts. 6 Who knows that earliest day whereof thou speakest? Who hatb beheld it? Who can here declare it? 7 I, Yami, am possessed by love of Yama, that I may rest on the same couch beside him. 8 They stand not still, they never close their eyelids, those sentinels of Gods who wander round us. 9 May Surya's eye with days and nights endow him, and ever may his light spread out before him. 10 Sure there will come succeeding times when brothers and sisters will do acts unmeet for kinsfolk. 11 Is he a brother when no lord is left her? Is she a sister when Destruction cometh? 12 I will not fold mine arms about thy body: they call it sin when one comes near his sister.

2 With invocations, on the gracious Father's mind, and on the Mother's great inherent power I muse. 3 These Sons of yours well skilled in work, of wondrous power, brought forth to life the two great Mother 4 They with surpassing skill, most wise, have measured out the Twins united in their birth and in their ho 5 This is to−day the goodliest gift of Savitar: this thought we have when now the God is furthering us.

2 Ours art thou, wondrous Agni, bywisdom and bounteousness of power. 3 Agni, increase our means of life, increase the house and home of these, 4 Bright Agni, they who deck their songs for thee have horses as their meed. 5 O Agni, those resplendent flames of thine go valorously forth, 6 Now, Agni, come to succour us; let priests draw nigh to offer gifts; 7 Bring to us, Agni, Angiras, lauded of old and lauded now,

4 The new−born Vrtra−slayer asked his Mother, as he seized his shaft, 5 Savasi answered, He who seeks thine enmity will battle like 6 And hear, O Maghavan; to him who craves of thee thou grantest all 7 What time the Warrior Indra goes to battle, borne by noble steeds, 8 Repel, O Thunder−armed, in all directions all attacks on us: 9 May Indra set our car in front, in foremost Place to win the spoil, 10 Thine enmity may we escape, and, gakra, for thy bounty, rich 11 Softly approaching, Thunder−armed wealthy by hundreds, rich in steeds, 12 For thine exalted excellence gives to thy worshippers each day 13 Indra, we know thee breaker−down even of trong forts, winner of spoil, 14 Though thou art highest, Sage and Bold let the drops cheer thee when we come 15 Bring unto us the treasure of the opulent man who, loth to give, 16 Indra, these friends of ours, supplied with Soma, wait and look to thee, 17 And thee who art not deaf, whose cars are quick to listen, for our aid, 18 When thou hast listened, make our call one which thou never wilt forget, 19 When even now, when we have been in trouble, we have thought of thee, 20 O Lord of Strength, we rest on thee, as old men rest upon a staff: 21 To Indra sing a song of praise, Hero of mighty valour, him 22 Hero, the Soma being shed, I pour the juice for thee to drink: 23 Let not the fools, or those who mock beguile thee when they seek thine aid 24 Here let them with rich milky draught cheer thee to great munificence: 25 Proclaim in our assemblies what deeds, new and ancient, far away, 26 In battle of a thousand arms Indra drank Kadru's Soma juice:

1 STRONG are the Somas; come thou nigh; these juices have been mixt with milk: 2 Both Deities who touch the heaven, Indra and Vayu we invoke 3 The singers' for their aid, invoke Indra and Vayu, swift as mind, 4 Mitra and Varupa, renowned as Gods of consecrated might, 5 Those who by Law uphold the Law, Lords of the shining light of Law, 6 Let Varuna be our chief defence, let Mitra guard us with all aids 7 Indra, by Maruts girt, we call to drink the Soma juice: may he 8 Gods, Marut hosts whom Indra leads, distributers of Pusan's gifts, 9 With conquering Indra for ally, strike Vrtra down, ye bounteous Gods 10 We call the Universal Gods, and Maruts to the Soma draught, 11 Fierce comes the Maruts' thundering voice, like that of conquerors, when ye go 12 Born of the laughing lightning. may the Maruts guard us everywhere 13 Like some lost animal, drive to us, bright Pusan, him who bears up heaven, 14 Pusan the Bright has found the King, concealed and bidden in a cave, 15 And may he. duly bring to me the six bound closely, through these drops, 16 Along their paths the Mothers go, Sisters of priestly ministrants, 17 May Waters gathered near the Sun, and those wherewith the Sun is joined, 18 I call the Waters, Goddesses, wherein our cattle quench their thirst; 19 Amrit is in the Waters in the Waters there is healing balm 20 Within the Waters−Soma thus hath told me−dwell all balms that heal, 21 O Waters, teem with medicine to keep my body safe from harm, 22 Whatever sin is found in me, whatever evil I have wrought. 23 The Waters I this day have sought, and to their moisture have we come: 24 Fill me with splendour, Agni; give offspring and length of days; the Gods

2 Heaven trembled at the birth of thine effulgence; Earth trembled at the fear of thy displeasure. 3 Hurling his bolt with might he cleft the mountain, while, putting forth his strength, he showed his vigou 4 Thy Father Dyaus esteemed himself a hero: most noble was the work of Indra's Maker, 5 He who alone o'erthrows the world of creatures, Indra the peoples' King, invoked of many− 6 All Soma juices are his own for ever, most gladdening draughts are ever his, the Mighty, 7 Moreover, when thou first wast born, O Indra, thou struckest terror into all the people. 8 The ever−slaying, bold and furious Indra, the bright bolt's Lord, infinite, strong and mighty, 9 Alone renowned as Maghavan in battles, he frighteneth away assembled armies. 10 Renowned is he when conquering and when slaying: 'fis he who winneth cattle in the combat. 11 Indra hath won all kine, all gold, all horses,−Maghavan, he who breaketh forts in pieces; 12 What is the care of Indra for his Mother, what cares he for the Father who begat him? 13 Maghavan makes the settled man unsettled: he scatters dust that he hath swept together, 14 He urged the chariot−wheel of Surya forward: Etasa, speeding on his way, he rested. 15 As in the night the sacrificing priest. 16 Eager for booty, craving strength and horses, we−singers stir Indra, the strong, for friendship, 17 Be thou our guardian, show thyself our kinsman, watching and blessing those who pour the Soma; 18 Be helping Friend of those who seek thy friendship. give life, when lauded, Indra, to the singer. 19 Alone, when Indra Maghavan is lauded, he slayeth many ne'er−resisted Vrtras. 20 E’en so let Maghavan, the loud−voiced Indra, give us true blessings, foeless, men's upholder. 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers for the singer.

2 In the man's home who offers gifts, where grass is trimmed, Agni is Priest, 3 Whom, as an infant newly−born, the kindling−sticks have brought to life, 4 Yea, very hard art thou to grasp, like offspring of the wriggling snakes, 5 Whose flames, when thou art sending forth the smoke, completely reach the mark, 6 O Agni, by thy succour and by Mitra's friendly furtherance, 7 O Agni, to our heroes bring such riches, thou victorious God.

2 May Mitra, Varuna, Aryaman, and Ayu, Indra Rbhuksan, and the Maruts, love us, 3 You will I call to feed the car−horse, Asvins, with the wind's flight swiftest of those who travel: 4 The heavenly Victor, he whose priest is Kanva, Trta with Dyaus accordant, Vata, Agni, 5 Bring ye your riches forward borne on horses: let thought be framed for help and gain of treasure. 6 Bring hither him who yokes the car, your Vayu, who praises with his songs, the God and Singer; 7 I speed to you with powers that should be honoured, with songs distinguishing Heaven's mighty Daught 8 You I extol, the nourishers of heroes bringing you gifts, Vastospati and Tvastar− 9 Ours be the Parvatas, even they, for offspring, free−moving, who are Heroes like the Vasus. 10 Trta praised him, germ of the earthly hero, with pure songs him the Offspring of the Waters. 11 How shall we speak to the great might of Rudra? How speak to Bhaga who takes thought for riches? 12 May the swift Wanderer, Lord of refreshments listen to our songs, who speeds throuih cloudy heaven: 13 We know your ways, ye Mighty Ones receiving choice meed, ye Wonderful, we will proclaim it. 14 Celestial and terrestrial generations, and Waters will I summon to the feasting. 15 Duly to each one hath my laud been offered. Strong be Varutri with her powers to succour. 16 How may we serve the Liberal Ones with worship, the Maruts swift of course in invocation, the Marut 17 Thus thinking, O ye Gods, the mortal wins you to give him increase of his herds of cattle: the mortal w 18 O Gods, may we obtain from you this favour, strengthening food through the Cow's praise, ye Vasus. 19 May Ila, Mother of the herds of cattle, and Urvasi with all the streams accept us;

2 Or, Indra, when with Ruma, Rusama, Syavaka, and Krpa thou rejoicest thee, 3 Even as the wild−bull, when he thirsts, goes to the desert's watery pool, 4 May the drops gladden thee, rich Indra, and obtain bounty for him who pours the juice. 5 With mightier strength he conquered strength, with energy he crushed their wrath. 6 He who wins promise of thine aid goes girt as with a thousand mighty men of war. 7 With thee, the Mighty, for our Friend, we will riot fear or feel fatigue. 8 On his left hip the Hero hath reclined himself: the proffered feast offends him not. 9 Indra, thy friend is fair of form and rich in horses, cars, and kine. 10 Come like a thirsty antelope to the drinking−place: drink Soma to thy heart's desire. 11 Priest, let the Soma juice flow forth, for Indra longs to drink thereof. 12 The man with whom thou fillcst thee with Soma deems himself a pious worshipper. 13 Press out the Soma juice, ye priests, for Indra borne upon his car. 14 To the brown juice may his dear vigorous Bay Steeds bring Indra, to our holy task. 15 Pusan, the Lord of ample wealth, for firm alliance we elect. 16 Sharpen us like a razor in the barber's hands: send riches thou who settest free. 17 Pusan, I long to win thy love, I long to praise thee, Radiant God. 18 My kine, O Radiant God, seek pasture where they will, my during wealth, Immortal One. 19 Rich was the gift Kurunga gave, a hundred steeds at morning rites. 20 What by his morning songs Kanva, the powerful, hath, with the Priyamedhas, gained− 71 The herds of sixty thousand pure and spotless kine, have I, the Rsi, driven away. 21 The very trees were joyful at my coming: kine they obtained in plenty, steeds in plenty.

2 How shall he praise you now who is distraught in mind? Ye Twain give wisdom for the gainof what is 3 Already have ye Twain, possessors of great wealth, prospered Visnapu thus for gain of what is good. 4 And that Impetuous Hero, winner of the spoil, though he is far away, we call to succour us, 5 About the holy Law toils Savitar the God the horn of holy Law hath he spread far and wide.

2 To him the tones of sacred song have sounded, Steer of the triple height, the Life−bestower. 3 Great Conqueror, warnor−girt, Lord of all heroes, flow on thy way as he who winneth riches; 4 Giving security, Lord of wide dominion, send us both earth and heaven with all their fulness. 5 O Soma, gladden Varuna and Mitra; cheer, Indu Pavamana! Indra, Visnu. 6 Thus like a wise and potent King flow onward, destroying with thy vigour all misfortunes.

2 With brilliant, purifying sheen, with perfect sheen thou liftest up thyself in light. 3 O Jatavedas, Son of Strength, rejoice ihyself, gracious, in our fair hymns and songs. 4 Agni, spread forth, as Ruler, over living things: give wealth to us, Immortal God. 5 To him, the wise, who orders sacrifice, who hath great riches un der his control, 6 The men have set before them them for their welfare Agni, strong, visible to all, the Holy.

2 They ask of him: not all learn by their questioning what he, the Sage, hath grasped, as 'twere, with his o 3 To him these ladles go, to him these racing mares: he only will give ear to all the words I speak. 4 Whate'er he meets he grasps and then runs farther on, and straightway, newly born,creeps forward with 5 He is a wild thing of the flood and forest: he hath been laid upon the highest surface.

2 Brhaspati, God immortal! verily the Gods have gained from thee, the wise, a share in holy rites. 3 When thou hast chased away revilers and the gloom, thou mountest the refulgent car of sacrifice; 4 Thou leadest with good guidance and preservest men; distress o'ertakes not him who offers gifts to thee. 5 No sorrow, no distress from any side, no foes, no creatures double−tongued have overcome the man,− 6 Thou art our keeper, wise, preparer of our paths: we, for thy service, sing to thee with hymns of praise. 7 Him, too, who threatens us without offence of ours, the evilminded, arrogant, rapacious man,− 8 Thee as protector of our bodies we invoke, thee, saviour, as the comforter who loveth us. 9 Through thee, kind −prosperer, O Brahmanaspati, may we obtain the wealth of Men which all desire: 10 With thee as our own rich and liberal ally may we, Brhaspati, gain highest power of life. 11 Strong, never yielding, hastening to the battle−cry, consumer of the foe, victorious in the strife, 12 Whoso with mind ungodly seeks to do us harm, who, deeming him a man of might mid lords, would 13 The mover mid the spoil, the winner of all wealth, to be invoked in fight and reverently adored, 14 Burn up the demons with thy fiercest flaming brand, those who have scorned thee in thy manifested mi 15 Brhaspati, that which the foe deserves not which shines among the folk effectual, splendid, 16 Give us not up to those who, foes in ambuscade, are greedy for the wealth of him who sits at ease, 17 For Tvastar, he who knows each sacred song, brought thee to life, preeminent o'er all the things that be 18 The mountain, for thy glory, cleft itself apart when, Angiras! thou openedst the stall of kine. 19 O Brahmanaspati, be thou controller of this our hymn and prosper thou our children.

2 I sing to cattle and to Earth, to trees, to Dawns, to Night, to plants. 3 Forth go, with Agni, to the Gods our sacrifice of ancient use, 4 Lords of all wealth, may they be strengtheners of man, destroyers of his enemies. 5 Come to us with one mind to−day, come to us all with one accord, 6 Send us delightful things, ye Maruts, on your steeds: come ye, O Mitra, to our gifts. 7 We who have trimmed the grass for you, and set the banquet in array, 8 O Maruts, Visinu, Asvins, Pusan, haste away with minds turned hitherward to Me. 9 Ye Guileless Gods, bestow on us a refuge strong on every side, 10 Kinship have I with you, and close alliance O ye Gods, destroyers of our foes. 11 For now have I sent forth to you, that I may win a fair reward, 12 Excellent Savitar hath mounted up on high for you, ye sure and careful Guides. 13 Singing their praise with God−like thought let us invoke each God for grace, 14 For of one spirit are the Gods with mortal man, co−sharers all of gracious gifts. 15 I laud you, O ye Guileless Gods, here where we meet to render praise. 16 He makes his house endure, he gathers plenteous food who pays obedience to your will. 17 E'en without war he gathers wealth, and goes hisway on pleasant paths, 18 E'en on the plain for him ye make a sloping path, an easy way where road is none: 19 If ye appoint the rite to−day, kind Rulers, when the Sun ascends, 20 Or, Asuras, when ye have sheltered the worshipper who goes to sacrifice, at eve 21 If ye to−day at sunrise, or at noon, or in the gloom of eve, 22 Then we, imperial Rulers, claim of you this boon, your wide protection, as a son.

2 The Son left not his portion to the brother, he made a home to hold him who should gain, it. 3 Agni was born trembling with tongue that flickered, so that the Red's great children should be honoured. 4 Conquering bands upon the Warrior waited: they recognized great light from out the darkness. 5 The sages freed them from their firmbuilt prison: the seven priests drove them forward with their spirit. 6 When Sarama had found the mountain's fissure, that vast and ancient place she plundered thoroughly. 7 Longing for friendship came the noblest singer: the hill poured forth its treasure for the pious. 8 Peer of each noble thing, yea, all excelling, all creatures doth he know, he slayeth Susna. 9 They sate them down with spirit fain for booty, making with hymns a way to life eternal. 10 Drawing the milk of ancient seed prolific, they joyed as they beheld their own possession. 11 Indra drove forth the kine, that Vrtra−slayer, while hymns of praise rose up and gifts were offered. 12 They made a mansion for their Father, deftly provided him a great and glorious dwelling; 13 What time the ample chalice had impelled him, swift waxing, vast, to pierce the earth and heaven,− 14 I crave thy powers, I crave thy mighty friendship: full many a team goes to the Vrtra−slayer. 15 He, having found great, splendid, rich dominion, sent life and motion to his friends and lovers. 16 Vast, the House−Friend, he set the waters flowing, all−lucid, widely spread, that move together. 17 To thee proceed the dark, the treasure−holders, both of them sanctified by Surya's bounty. 18 Be Lord of joyous songs, O Vrtra−slayer, Bull dear to all, who gives the power of living. 19 Like Angiras I honour him with worship, and renovate old song for him the Ancient. 20 Far forth are spread the purifying waters convey thou us across them unto safety.