Rig Veda on Charity

2 Born for us here this day, O Son of Vigour, between both races of born beings, Agni, 3 I laud the ruddy steeds who pour down blessing, dropping oil, flectest through the thoualit of Order. 4 Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna, and Indra with Visnu, of the Gods, Maruts and Asvins− 5 Agni, be this our sacrifice eternal, with brave friends, rich in kine and sheep and horses, 6 The man who, sweating, brings for thee the fuel, and makes his head to ache, thy faithful servant,− 7 Who brings thee food, though thou hast food in plenty, welcomes his cheerful guest and speeds him 8 Whoso sings praise to thee at eve or morning, and, with oblation, doth the thing thou lovest,− 9 Whoso brings gifts to thee Immortal, Agni, and doth thee service with uplifted ladle,− 10 Whose well−wrought worship thou acceptest, Agni, thou God a mortal's gift, thou liberal Giver,− 11 May he who knows distinguish sense and folly of men, like straight and crooked backs of horses. 12 This Sage the Sages, ne'er deceived, commanded, setting him down in dwellings of the living. 13 Good guidance hast thou for the priest, O Agni, who, Youngest God! with outpoured Soma serves thee 14 Now all that we, thy faithful servants, Agni, have done with feet, with hands, and with our bodies, 15 May we, seven sages first in rank, engender, from Dawn the Mother, men to be ordainers. 16 As in the days of old our ancient Fathers, speeding the work of holy worship, Agni, 17 Gods, doing holy acts, devout, resplendent, smelting like ore their human generations. 18 Strong One! he marked them−and the Gods before them−like herds of cattle in a foodful pasture. 19 We have worked for thee, we have laboured nobly−bright Dawns have shed their light upon our worsh 20 Agni, Disposer, we have sung these praises to thee the Wise: do thou accept them gladly.

2 May we enjoy the noblest vivifying force of Savitar the God, that he may give us wealth: 3 Protect our habitation, Savitar, this day, with guardian aids around, auspicious, firm and true. 4 This Savitar the God, the golden−handed, Friend of the home, hath risen to meet the twilight. 5 Like a Director, Savitar hath extended his golden arms, exceeding fair to look on. 6 Fair wealth, O Savitar, to−day, to−morrow, fair wealth produce for us each day that passes.

2 Most wise is he who, forcing doors of Panis, brought the bright Sun to us who feedeth many. 3 Wise, ne.'er deceived, uncircumscribed, refulgent, our gracious guest, a Friend with good attendants, 4 Seeking our gatherings, he, your Jatavedas, hath shone adorable through human ages, 5 Go on thy message to the Gods, and fail not, O Agni, with their band who pray and worship. 6 Vasistha, when enkindling thee, O Agni, hath slain jarutha. Give us wealth in plenty.

2 This very thing do we desire, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 3 These are, each one, our present helps, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman. 4 Ye compass round and guard each man, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 5 Adityas are beyond all foes,−Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 6 These lead us safely over all, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 7 May they give bliss to aid us well, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 8 As in this place, O Holy Ones, ye Vasus freed even the Gaud when her feet were fettered.

2 Indra and Pusan, deft of hand and mighty, well−pleased have drained the heaven's exhaustless udder. 3 Fain to lend vigour to the Bull, the siste.. with reverence recognize the germ within him. 4 Fixing with thought, at sacrifice, the press−stones, I bid the well−formed Heaven and Earth come hither 5 Agni, thy meath−sweet tongue that tastes fair viands, which among Gods is called the far−extended,− 6 Let thy stream give us drink, O God, O Agni, wonderful and exhaustless like the rain−clouds.

2 May he the Immortal, Helper, bard to be deceived among mankind, 3 Around the altar is he led, welcome Chief Priest at solemn rites, 4 Agni in fire at sacrifice, and in the house as Lord thereof, 5 Thou comest as the guide of folk who celebrate a sacrifice, 6 Thou servest as his messenger whose sacrifice thou lovest well, 7 Accept our solemn rite; be pleased, Angiras, with our sacrifice: 8 May thine inviolable car, wherewith thou guardest those who give,

2 The Vasus set that Agni in the dwelling, fair to behold, for help from every quarter: 3 Shine thou before us, Agni, well−enkindled, with flame, Most Youthful God, that never fadeth. 4 Among all fires these fires have shone most brightly, splendid with light, begirt by noble heroes, 5 Victorious Agni, grant us wealth with wisdom, wealth with brave sons, famous and independent, 6 To whom, the Strong, at morn and eve comes, maid−like, the ladle dropping oil, with its oblation. 7 Burn up all malice with those flames, O Agni, wherewith of old thou burntest up Jarutha, 8 With him who lighteth up thy splendour, Agni, excellent, pure, refulgent, Purifier, 9 Agni, the patriarchal men, the mortals who have in many places spread thy lustre,− 10 Let these men, heroes in the fight with foemen, prevail against all godless arts of 4magic,− 11 Let us not sit in want of men, O Agni, without descendants, heroleu, about thee: 12 By sacrifice which the Steeds' Lord ever visits, there make our dwelling rich in seed and offspring, 13 Guard us, O Agni, from the hated demon, guard us from malice of the churlish sinner: 14 May this same fire of mine surpass all others, this fire where offspring, vigorous and firm−handed, 15 This is that Agni, saviour from the foeman, who guards the kindler of the flame from sorrow: 16 This is that Agni, served in many places, whom the rich lord who brings oblation kindles, 17 Agni, may we with riches in possession bring thee continual ofierings in abundance, 18 Agni, bear thou, Eternal, these most welcome oblations to the Deities' assembly: 19 Give us not up, Agni, to want of heroes, to wretched clothes, to need, to destitution. 20 Give strength and power to these my prayers, O Agni; O God, pour blessings on our chiefs and nobles. 21 Thou Agni, swift to hear, art fair of aspect: beam forth, O Son of Strength, in full effulgence.

2 I sit as Priest most skilled in sacrificing: the Maruts and all Deities impel me. 3 Who is the Priest? Is he the Priest of Yama? On whom is thrust this God−appointed honour? 4 The Gods have made me bearer of oblations, who slipped away and passed through many troubles. 5 So will I win you strength and life for ever. O Gods, that I may give you room and freedom. 6 The Deities three hundred and thirty−nine, have served and honoured Agni,

2 I looked reluctantly on him who cherishes those men of old, 3 Thou mountest, though thou dost not see, O Child, the new and wheel−less car 4 The car which thou hast made to roll hitherward from the Sages, Child! 5 Who was the father of the child? Who made the chariot roll away? 6 When the funeral gift was placed, straightway the point of flame appeared. 7 Here is the seat where Yama dwells, that which is called the Home of Gods:

2 O thou who castest forth the stones crushing the sorceresses' heads, 3 Do thou, O Maghavan, beat off these sorceresses' daring strength. 4 Of whom thou hast ere now destroyed thrice−fifty with thy fierce attacks. 5 O Indra, crush and bray to bits the fearful fiery−weaponed fiend: 6 Tear down the mighty ones. O Indra, hear thou us. For heaven hath glowed like earth in fear, O 7 The pourer of libations gains the home of wealth, pouring his gift conciliates hostilities, yea, the hostiliti

2 May Agni the resplendent hear my calling through all my songs, Immortal, keen of insight. 3 On wood supine they got the well−formed Infant: a germ in various−fashioned plants was Agni; 4 With oil and sacred gifts I sprinkle Agni who makes his home in front of all things living, 5 I pour to him who looks in all directions: may he accept it with a friendly spirit. 6 By choice victorious, recognize thy portion: with thee for envoy may we speak like Manu.

2 Not far for thee are mid−air's loftiest regions: start hither, Lord of Bays, with thy Bay Horses. 3 Fair cheeks hath Indra, Maghavan, the Victor, Lord of a great host, Stormer, strong in action. 4 For, overthrowing what hath ne'er been shaken, thou goest forth alone destroying Vrtras. 5 Yea, Much−invoked! in safety through thy glories alone thou speakest truth as Vrtra's slayer. 6 Forthwith thy Bay steeds down the steep, O Indra, forth, crushing foemen, go thy bolt of thunder! 7 The man to whom thou givest as Provider enjoys domestic plenty undivided. 8 Thou, Indra, Much−invoked! didst crush to pieces Kunaru handless fiend who dwelt with Danu. 9 Thou hast established in her seat, O Indra, the level earth, vast, vigorous, unbounded. 10 He who withheld the kine, in silence I yielded in fear before thy blow, O Indra. 11 Indra alone filled full the earth and heaven, the Pair who meet together, rich in treasures. 12 Surya transgresses not the ordered limits set daily by the Lord of Tawny Coursers. 13 Men gladly in the course of night would look on the broad bright front of the refulgent Morning; 14 A mighty splendour rests upon her bosom: bearing ripe milk the Cow, unripe, advances. 15 Barring the way they come. Be firm, O Indra; aid friends to sacrifice and him who singeth. 16 A cry is beard from enemies most near us: against them send thy fiercest−flaming weapon. 17 Root up the race of Raksasas, O Indra rend it in front and crush it in the middle. 18 When borne by strong Steeds for our weal, O Leader, thou seatest thee at many noble viands. 19 Bestow on us resplendent wealth. O Indra let us enjoy thine overflow of bounty. 20 With kine and horses satisfy this longing with very splendid bounty skill extend it. 21 Lord of the kine, burst the kine's stable open: cows shall be ours, and strength that wins the booty. 22 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,

2 Yea, your birth, Maruts, was with wild commotion, ye who move swiftly, fierce in wrath, terrific. 3 Give ample vital power unto our princes let our fair praises gratify the Maruts. 4 Your favoured singer counts his wealth by hundreds: the strong steed whom ye favour wins a thousand. 5 I call, as such, the Sons of bounteous Rudra: will not the Maruts turn again to us−ward? 6 This eulogy of the Bounteous hath been spoken: accept, ye Maruts, this our hymn of praises.

2 That car of yours, swifter than thought, O Asvins, which drawn by brave steeds cometh to the people, 3 Ye freed sage Atri, whom the Five Tribes honoured, from the strait pit, ye Heroes with his people, 4 Rebha the sage, ye mighty Heroes, Asvins! whom, like a horse, vile men had sunk in water,− 5 Ye brought forth Vandana, ye Wonder−Workers, for triumph, like fair gold that hath been buried, 6 Kaksivan, Pajra's son, must laud that exploit of yours, Nasatyas, Heroes, ye who wander! 7 To Krsna's son, to Visvaka who praised you, O Heroes, ye restored his son Visnapu. 8 Rusati, of the mighty people, Asvins, ye gave to Syava of the line of Kanva. 9 O Asvins, wearing many forms at pleasure, on Pedu ye bestowed a fleet−foot courser, 10 These glorious things are yours, ye Bounteous Givers; prayer, praise in both worlds are your habitation 11 Hymned with the reverence of a son, O Asvins ye Swift Ones giving booty to the singer, 12 Ye Sons of Heaven, ye Mighty, whither went ye, sought ye, for his fair praise the home of Kdvya. 13 Ye with the aid of your great powers, O Asvins, restored to youth the ancient man Cyavana. 14 Ye, ever−youthful Ones, again remembered Tugra, according to your ancient manner: 15 The son of Tugra had invoked you, Asvins; borne on he went uninjured through the ocean. 16 The quail had invocated you, O Asvins, when from the wolf's devouring jaws ye freed her. 17 He whom for furnishing a hundred wethers to the she−wolf, his wicked father blinded, 18 To bring the blind man joy thus cried the she−wolf: O Asvins, O ye Mighty Ones, O Heroes, 19 Great and weal−giving is your aid, O Asvins, ye, objects of all thought, made whole the cripple. 20 Ye, Wonder−Workers, filled with milk for Sayu the milkless cow, emaciated, barren; 21 Ploughing and sowing barley, O ye Asvins, milking out food for men, ye Wonder−Workers, 22 Ye brought the horse's head, Asvins, and gave it unto Dadhyac the offspring of Atharvan.

1 THIS is that Agni whence the longing Indra took the pressed Soma deep within his body. 2 That light of thine in heaven and earth, O Agni, in plants, O Holy One, and in the waters, 3 O Agni, to the sea of heaven thou goest: thou hast called hither Gods beheld in spirit. 4 Let fires that dwell in mist, combined with those that have their home in floods, 5 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

2 Let not the Gods here injure us, O Agni, nor Fathers of old time who know the region, 3 My wishes fly abroad to many places: I glance back to the ancient sacrifices. 4 King Universal, born to sundry quarters, extended through the wood be lies on couches. 5 Lodged in old plants, he grows again in younger, swiftly within the newly−born and tender. 6 Now lying far away, Child of two Mothers, he wanders unrestrained, the single youngling. 7 Child of two Mothers, Priest, sole Lord in synods, he still precedes while resting as foundation. 8 As to a friendly warrior when he battles, each thing that comes anear is seen to meet him. 9 Deep within these the hoary envoy pierceth; mighty, he goeth to the realm of splendour, 10 Visnu, the guardian, keeps the loftiest station, upholding dear, immortal dwelling−places. 11 Ye, variant Pair, have made yourselves twin beauties: one of the Twain is dark, bright shines the other; 12 Where the two Cows, the Mother and the Daughter, meet and give suck yielding their lordly nectar, 13 Loud hath she lowed, licking the other's youngling. On what world hath the Milch−cow laid her udder 14 Earth weareth beauties manifold: uplifted, licking her Calf of eighteen months, she standeth. 15 Within a wondrous place the Twain are treasured: the one is manifest, the other hidden. 16 Let the milch−kine that have no calves storm downward, yielding rich nectar, streaming, unexhausted, 17 What time the Bull bellows in other regions, another herd receives the genial moisture; 18 Let us declare the Hero's wealth in horses, O all ye folk: of this the Gods have knowledge. 19 Tvastar the God, the omniform. Creator, begets and feeds mankind in various manner. 20 The two great meeting Bowls hath he united: each of the Pair is laden with histreasure. 21 Yea, and on this our earth the All−Sustainer dwells like a King with noble friends about him. 22 Rich in their gifts for thee are herbs and waters, and earth brings all her wealth for thee, O Indra.

2 Who will be gracious? Who will come most uickly of all the Gods? Who will 3 So many days do ye come swiftly hither, as Indra to give help in stress of battle. 4 What is the prayer that we should bring you, Asvins, whereby ye come to us when invocated? 5 In the wide space your chariot reacheth heaven, what time it turneth hither from the ocean. 6 Let Sindhu with his wave bedew your horses: in fiery glow have the red birds come hither.

2 Verily no one knoweth whence they sprang: they, and they only, know each other's birth. 3 They strew each other with their blasts, these Hawks: they strove together, roaring like the wind. 4 A sage was he who knew these mysteries, what in her udder mighty Prsni bore. 5 Ever victorious, through the Maruts, be this band of Heroes, nursing manly strength, 6 Most bright in splendour, flectest on their way, close−knit to glory, strong with varied power. 7 Yea, mighty is your power and firm your strength: so, potent, with the Maruts, be the band. 8 Bright is your spirit, wrathful are your minds: your bold troop's minstrel is like one inspired. 9 Ever avert your blazing shaft from us, and let not your displeasure reach us here 10 Your dear names, conquering Maruts, we invoke, calling aloud till we are satisfied. 11 Well−armed, impetuous in their haste, they deck themselves, their forms, with oblations: to you, the pu 12 Pure, Maruts, pure yourselves, are your oblations: to you, the pure, pure sacrifice I offer. 13 Your rings, O Maruts, rest upon your shoulders, and chains of gold are twined upon your bosoms. 14 Wide in the depth of air spread forth your glories, far, most adorable, ye bear your titles. 15 If, Maruts, ye regard the praise recited here at this mighty singer invocation, 16 The Maruts, fleet as coursers, while they deck them like youths spectators of a festal meeting, 17 So may the Maruts help us and be gracious, bringing free room to lovely Earth and Heaven. 18 The priest, when seated, loudly calls you, Maruts, praising in song your universal bounty. 19 These Maruts bring the swift man to a stand−still, and strength with mightier strength they break and 20 These Maruts rouse even the poor and needy: the Vasus love him as an active champion. 21 Never, O Maruts, may we lose your bounty, nor, car−borne Lords! be hitidmost when ye deal it. 22 What time the men in fury rush together for running streams, for pastures, and for houses.

2 The wealthy ones adorn thee, they who bring us horses as their gift: 3 The holy statutes rest by thee, as 'twere with ladles that o'erflow. 4 O Agni, what thou deemest wealth, Victorious and Immortal One! 5 Skilled in all lore is Agni, he whom erst Atharvan brought to life. 6 At sacrifices they adore thee, Agni, when the rite proceeds. 7 Men, Agni, have established thee as welcome Priest at holy rites, 8 Wide and aloft thou spreadest thee, O Agni, with tby brilliant flame.

2 Dispelling manifold mishap, giving the courser's progeny, 3 Bringing prosperity to kine, they make perpetual Ila flow 4 Strong, mountain−born, the stalk hath been 5 Fair is the God−loved juice; the plant is washed in waters, pressed by men 6 As drivers deck a courser, so have they adorned the meath's juice for 7 Thou, Indu, with thy streams that drop sweet juices, which were poured for 8 So flow thou onward through the fleece, for Indra flow, to be his drink, 9 As giving room and freedom, as most sweet, pour butter forth and milk, 10 Most active and benevolent, this Pavamana, sent to us 11 Queller of curses, mighty, with strong sway, this Pavamana shall 12 Pour thou upon us thousandfold possessions, both of kine and steeds, 13 Wandering far, with wise designs, the juice here present is effused, 14 For Indra flows the gladdening drink, the measurer of the region, Sage, 15 Born on the inountain, lauded here, Indu for Indra is set down, 16 Pressed by the men, as 'twere to war hath Soma Pavamana sped, 17 That he may move, they yoke him to the three−backed triple−seated car 18 Drive ye that Tawny Courser, O ye pressers, on his way to war, 19 Pouring all glories hither, he, effused and entering the jar, 20 Indu, the living men milk out the juice to make the rapturous draught: 21 Pour for the Gods into the sieve our Soma very rich in sweets, 22 Into his stream who gladdens best these Soma juices have been poured, 23 Thou flowest to enjoy the milk, and bringest valour, being cleansed: 24 And, hymned by Jamadagnis, let all nourishment that kine supply, 25 Soma, as leader of the song flow onward with thy wondrous aids, 26 Do thou as leader of the song, stirring the waters of the sea, 27 O Soma, O thou Sage, these worlds stand ready to attest thy might: 28 Like showers of rain that fall from heaven thy streams perpetually flow 29 For potent Indra purify Indu effectual and strong, 30 Soma, true, Pavamana, Sage, is seated in the cleansing sieve,

2 Borne on by rapid steeds of mighty pinion, or proudly trusting in the Gods' incitements. 3 Yea, Asvins, as a dead man leaves his riches, Tugra left Bhujyu in the cloud of waters. 4 Bhujyu ye bore with winged things, Nasatyas, which for three nights, three days full swiftly travelled, 5 Ye wrought that hero exploit in the ocean which giveth no support, or hold or station, 6 The white horse which of old ye gave Aghasva, Asvins, a gift to be his wealth for ever,− 7 O Heroes, ye gave wisdom to Kaksivan who sprang from Pajra's line, who sang your praises. 8 Ye warded off with cold the fire's fierce burning; food very rich in nouripliment ye furnished. 9 Ye lifted up the well, O ye Nasatyas, and set the base on high to open downward. 10 Ye from the old Cyavana, O Nasatyas, stripped, as 'twere mail, the skin upon 11 Worthy of praise and worth the winning, Heroes, is that your favouring succour O Nasatyas, 12 That mighty deed of yours, for gain, O Heroes, as thunder heraldeth the rain, I publish, 13 In the great rite the wise dame called, Nasatyas, you, Lords of many treasures, to assist her. 14 Ye from the wolf's jaws, as ye stood together, set free the quail, O Heroes, O Nasatyas. 15 When in the time of night, in Khela's battle, a leg was severed like a wild bird's pinion, 16 His father robbed Rjrasva of his eyesight who for the she−wolf slew a hundred wethers. 17 The Daughter of the Sun your car ascended, first reaching as it were the goal with coursers. 18 When to his house ye came, to Divodasa, hasting to Bharadvaja, O ye Asvins, 19 Ye, bringing wealth with rule, and life with offspring, life rich in noble heroes; O Nasatyas, 20 Ye bore away at night by easy pathways Jahusa compassed round on every quarter, 21 One morn ye strengthened Vaga for the battle, to gather spoils that might be told in thousands. 22 From the deep well ye raised on high the water, so that Rcatka's son, Sara, should drink it; 23 To Visvaka, Nasatyas!

2 May the joy−giving drops, O Vayu gladden thee, effectual, well prepared, directed to the heavens, stron 3 Two red steeds Vayu yokes, Vayu two purple steeds, swift−footed, to the chariot, to the pole to draw, m 4 For thee the radiant Dawns in the fardistant sky broaden their lovely gannents forth in wondrous beams, 5 For thee the pure bright quickly−flowing Soma−drops, strong in their heightening power, hasten to 6 Thou, Vayu, who hast none before thee, first of all hast right to drink these offerings of Soma juice, hast

2 Who may give you aught, Vasus, for your favour, for what, at the Cow's place, ye grant through worshi 3 As erst for Tugra's son your car, sea−crossing, strong, was equipped and set amid the waters, 4 May this my praise preserve Ucathya's offispring: let not these Twain who fly with wings exhaust me. 5 The most maternal streams, wherein the Dilsas cast me securely bound, have not devoured me. 6 Dirghatamas the son of Mamati hath come to length of days in the tenth age of human kind.

2 Laid in the bowl, pure−flowing on to Vayu and the Asvins, may 3 Soma, as thou art purified, incite to bounty Indra's heart, 4 The ten swift fingers deck thee forth, seven ministers impel thee on: 5 When through the filter thou art poured, we clothe thee with a robe of milk 6 When purified within the jars, Soma, brightred and golden−hued, 7 Flow on to us and make us rich. Drive all our enemies away. 9 May we obtain thee, Indra's drink, who viewest men and findest light,

2 He whom of old I called on, him I call on now. He is to be invoked; his name is He who Gives, 3 Fat may the horses be wherewith thou specdest on: Lord of the Wood, unharming, strengthen thou thyse 4 From Hotar's cup and Potar's he hath drunk and joyed: the proffered food hath pleased him from the 5 Yoke, O ye Twain, to−day your hero−bearing car, swift−moving hitherward: your loosing−place is here 6 Agni, accept the fuel and our offered gift: accept the prayer of man, accept our eulogy,

2 Come to the sacrifice, O ye whose ways are right, whose laws are true, 3 O Singer, with the singers, O Gracious, with those who move at dawn, 4 To Indra and to Vayu dear, this Soma, by the mortar pressed, 5 Vayu, come hither to the feast, wellpleased unto our sacred gifts: 6 Ye, Indra, Vayu, well deserve to drink the juices pressed by us. 7 For Indra and for Vayu pressed are Soma juices blent with curd, 8 Associate with all the Gods, come, with the Asvins and with Dawn, 9 Associate with Varuna, with Mitra, Soma, Visnu, come, 10 Associate with Vasus, with Adityas, Indra, Viyu, come, Agni as erst with Atri, so enjoy the juice. 11 May Bhaga and the Asvins grant us health and wealth, and Goddess Adid and he whom none resist. 12 Let us solicit Vayu for prosperity, and Soma who is Lord of all the world for weal; 13 May all the Gods, may Agni the beneficent, God of all men, this day be with us for our weal. 14 Prosper us, Mitra, Varuna. O wealthy Pathya, prosper us. 15 Like Sun and Moon may we pursue in full prosperity our path, 2 For in their boldness they are friends of firm and sure heroic strength. 3 Like steers in rapid motion they advance and overtake the nights; 4 With boldness to your Maruts let us offer laud and sacrifice: 5 Praiseworthy, givers of good gifts, Heroes with full and perfect strength − 6 The lofty Heroes cast their spears and weapons bright with gleaming gold. 7 They who waxed mighty, of the earth, they who are in the wide mid−air, 8 Praise thou the Maruts' company, the valorous and truly strong, 9 Fair−gleaming, on Parusni they have clothed themselves in robes of wool, 10 Whether as wanderers from the way or speeders on or to the path, 11 To this the Heroes well attend, well do their teams attend to this. 12 Hymn−singing, seeking water, they, praising, have danced about the spring. 13 Sublime, with lightnings for their spears, Sages and Orderers are they. 14 Rsi, invite the Marut band with offerings, as a maid her friend.

2 Flashing like fire, be thou, O conquering Manyu, invoked, O Victor, as our army's leader. 3 O Manyu, overcome thou our assailant on! breaking, slaying, crushing down the foemen. 4 Alone or many thou art worshipped, Manyu: sharpen the spirit of each clan for battle. 5 Unyielding bringing victory like Indra, O Manyu, be thou here our Sovran Ruler. 6 Twin−born with power, destructive bolt of thunder, the highest conquering might is thine, Subduer! 7 For spoil let Varuna and Manyu give us the wealth of both sides gathered and collected;

29 Susoma, Saryakiavan, and Arjika full of homes, have they. 30 When, Maruts, ye come to him, the singer who invokes you thus, 31 What now? where have ye still a friend since ye left Indra all alone? 32 The Kanvas sing forth Agni's praise together with our Maruts' who 33 Hither for new felicity may I attract the Impetuous Ones, 34 Before them sink the very hills deerning themseives abysses: yea, 35 Steeds flying on their tortuous path through mid−air carry them, and give 36 Agni was born the first of all, like Surya lovely with his light:

2 White−hued and thundering he dwells in splendour, Most Youthful, with the loudvoiced and eternal− 3 Incited by the wind thy flames, O Agni, move onward, Pure One! pure, in all directions. 4 Thy pure white horses from their bonds are loosened: O Radiant One, they shear the ground beneath the 5 Forth darts the Bull's tongue like the sharp stone weapon discharged by him who fights to win the cattle. 6 Thou with the sunlight of the great Impeller hast boldly over−spread the earth's expanses. 7 Wondrous! of wondrous power! give to the singer wealth wondrous, marked, most wonderful, life−givi

2 Hear this laud, Radiant Priest of many aspects, O Agni with the fires of man enkindled, 3 Mid mortal men that singer thrives in glory who offers gifts with hymns of praise to Agni, 4 He, at his birth, whose path is black behind him, filled heaven and earth with far−apparent splendour: 5 With thy most mighty aid, confer, O Agni, wonderful wealth on us and on our princes, 6 Agni, accept this sacrifice with gladness, which, seated here, the worshipper presenteth. 7 Scatter our foes, increase our store. May we he glad a hundred winters with brave sons.

1 O BRAHMANAPSATI, make him who presses Soma glorious, 2 The rich, the healer of disease, who giveth wealth, increaseth store, 3 Let not the foeman's curse, let not a mortal's onslaught fall on us 4 Ne'er is the mortal hero harmed whom Indra, Brahmanaspati, 5 Do, thou, O Brahmanaspati, and Indra, Soma, Daksina, 6 To the Assembly's wondrous Lord, to Indra's lovely Friend who gives 7 He without whom no sacrifice, e'en of the wise man, prospers; he 8 He makes the oblation prosper, he promotes the course of sacrifice: 9 I have seen Narasamsa, him most resolute, most widely famed,

2 This most delightful eulogy awaits you in the man's house drink−offering hath been heated, 3 Whatever dwellings ye possess, O Asvins, in fields of men or in the streams of heaven, 4 Delight yourselves, ye Gods, in plants and waters when Rsis give them and ye find they suit You. 5 Asvins, though ye have heard them oft aforetime, regard the many prayers which Rsis offer. 6 Come to the sacrifice offered you, Nasatyas, with men, oblations, and prayer duly uttered. 7 This is the thought, this is the song, O Asvins: accept this hymn of ours, ye Steers, with favour.

2 These hymns brought forth for thee, O Agni, laud thee for bounteous gifts, with cattle and with horses. 3 Agni I deem my Kinsman and my Father, count him my Brother and my Friend for ever. 4 Effectual, Agni, are our prayers for profit. He whom, at home thou, Priest for ever, guardest 5 Men with their arms have generated Agni, helpful as some kind friend, adorned with splendours, 6 Worship, thyself, O God, the Gods in heaven: what, void of knowledge, shall the fool avail thee? 7 Agni, be thou our Guardian and Protector bestow upon us life and vital vigour.

2 The ribs that compass me give pain and trouble me like rival wives. 3 As rats eat weavers' threads, cares are consuming me, thy singer, gatakratu, me. 4 I the priests' Rsi chose as prince most liberal Kurusravana, 5 Whose three bays harnessed to the car bear me straight onward: I will laud 6 The sire of Upamasravas, even him whose words were passing sweet, 7 Mark, Upamasravas, his son, mark, grandson of Mitratithi: 8 If I controlled Immortal Gods, yea, even were I Lord of men, 9 None lives, even had he hundred lives, beyond the statute of the Gods

1 ALL sacred songs have magnified Indra expansive as the sea, 2 Strong in thy friendship, Indra, Lord of power and might, we have no fear. 3 The gifts of Indra from of' old, his saving succours, never fail, 4 Crusher of forts, the young, the wise, of strength unmeasured, was he born 5 Lord of the thunder, thou didst burst the cave of Vala rich in cows. 6 I, Hero, through thy bounties am come to the flood addressing thee. 7 The wily Susna, Indra! thou o'er−threwest with thy wondrous powers. 8 Our songs of praise have glorified Indra who ruleth by his might,

2 Thou, Hero, art a warrior, thou art giver of abundant spoil. 3 When war and battles are on foot, booty is laid before the bold. 4 Mighty through wisdom, as he lists, terrible, he hath waxed in strength. 5 He filled the earthly atmosphere and pressed against the lights in heaven. 6 May he who to the offerer gives the foeman's man−sustaining food, 7 He, righteous−hearted, at each time of rapture gives us herds of kine. 8 Refresh thee, Hero, with the juice outpoured for bounty and for strength. 9 These people, Indra, keep for thee all that is worthy of thy choice.

2 Come, team−drawn, with thy hundred helps, with Indra, seated in the car, 3 May steeds a thousand bring you both, Indra. and Vayu, hitherward 4 For ye, O Indra−Vayu, mount the goldenseated car that aids 5 On far−refulgent chariot come unto the man who offers gifts: 6 Here, Indra−Vayu, is the juice: drink it, accordant with the Gods, 7 Hither, O Indra−Vayu, be your journey here unyoke your steeds, 2 O Vayu, thou and Indra are meet drinkers of these Soma−draughts, 3 O Indra−Vayu, mighty Twain, speeding together, Lords of Strength, 4 The longed−for teams which ye possess, O Heroes, for the worshipper,

2 Swift in their motion, hasting to their duty, reaching the central point of life immortal, 3 Steer, Sea, Red Bird with strong wings, he hath entered the dwelling−place of the Primeval Father. 4 Four bear him up and give him rest and quiet, and ten invigorate the Babe for travel. 5 Wondrous, O people, is the mystic knowledge that while the waters stand the streams are flowing: 6 For him they lenghten prayers and acts of worship: the Mothers weave garments for him their offspring. 7 Be this our praise, O Varuna and Mitra may this be health and force to us, O Agni.

2 At eve and morn thy pious servants bring thee their precious gifts, O Priest of many aspects, 3 Thou from of old hast dwelt among these people, by mental power the charioteer of blessings. 4 Agni, whoever secretly attacks us, the neighbour, thou with Mitra's might! who harms us, 5 He who serves thee with sacrifice and fuel, with hymn, O Son of Strength, and chanted praises, 6 Do this, O Agni, when we urge thee, quickly, triumphant in thy might subdue our foemen. 7 Help us, that we may gain this wish, O Agni, gain riches, Wealthy One! with store of heroes.

2 Sing forth, ye men who long for help, to Pavamana, to the Sage, 3 The Soma−drops with thousand powers are purified for victory, 4 Yea, as thou flowest bring great store of food that we may win the spoil 5 May they in flowing give us wealth in thousands, and heroic power,− 6 Like coursers by their drivers urged, they were poured forth, for victory, 7 Noisily flow the Soma−drops, like milch−kine lowing to their calves: 8 As Gladdener whom Indra loves, O Pavamana, with a roar 9 O Pavamamas, driving off the godless, looking on the light, Sit in the place of s

2 O Indu, while they cleanse thee bring, O Soma, doubly−waxing wealth 3 Set free the. song which mind hath yoked, even as thunder frees the rain: 4 Thy stream when thou art pressed runs on like some victorious warrior's steed 5 Flow on, Sage Soma, with thy stream to give us mental power and strength, 6 Flow to the filter with thy stream, effused, best winner, thou, of spoil, 7 The mothers, void of guiles, caress thee Golden−coloured, in the sieve, 8 Thou, Pavamana, movest on with wondrous rays to great renown. 9 Lord of great sway, thou liftest thee above the heavens, above the earth.

2 His eyes are turned away, his head is hidden: unsated with his tongue he eats the fuel. 3 Seeking, as 'twere, his Mother's secret bosom, he, like a child, creeps on through wide−spread bushes. 4 This holy Law I tell you, Earth and Heaven: the Infant at his birth dovours his Parents. 5 This man who quickly gives him food, who offers his gifts of oil and butter and supports him, − 6 Agni, hast thou committed sin or treason among the Gods? In ignorance I ask thee. 7 He born in wood hath yoked his horses rushing in all directions, held with reins that glitter.

2 O'er all thou rulest with these Two which, Soma Pavamana, stand, 3 Wise Soma Pavamana, thou encompassest on every side 4 Flow onward, generating food, for precious boons of every kind, 5 Upon the lofty ridge of heaven thy bright rays with their essences, 6 O Soma, these Seven Rivers flow, as being thine, to give command: 7 Flow onward, Soma in a stream, effused to gladden Indra's heart, 8 Driving thee in Vivasvan's course, the Seven Sisters with their hymns 9 The virgins deck thee o'er fresh streams to drive thee to the sieve when thou, 10 The streams of Pavamana, thine, Sage, Mighty One, have pouredthem forth.

2 He with his friend is active, lauded, good to man, Indra who must be glorified by one like me. 3 Who are the men whom thou wilt further, Indra, who strive to win thy bliss allied with riches? 4 Thou, Indra, through the holy prayer art mighty, worthy of sacrifice at all libations. 5 Help now, as Highest, those who toil at sacrifice: well do the people know thy great protecting might. 6 All these libations thou makest effectual, of which thou art thyself supporter, Son of Power. 7 They who with flowing Soma pray to thee, O Sage, to pour on them thy gifts of opulence and wealth,

2 Who, from of old, in carnage, when the people gathered, hath preserved 3 And let men say, Agni is born, e'en he who slayeth Vrtra, he 4 Him in whose house an envoy thou lovest to taste his offered gifts, 5 Him, Angiras, thou Son of Strength, all men call happy in his God, 6 Hitherward shalt thou bring these Gods to our laudation and to taste. 7 When, Agni, on thine embassage thou goest not a sound is heard of steed or straining of thy car. 8 Aided by thee uninjured, strong, one after other, goes he forth: 9 And splendid strength, heroic, high, Agni, thou grantest from the Gods,

2 Accept, O Indra, and enjoy the well−dressed sacrificial cake: Oblations are poured forth to thee. 3 Consume our sacrificial cake, accept the songs of praise we sing, 4 Famed from of old, accept the cake at our libation poured at dawn, 5 Let roasted corn of our midday libation, and sacrificial cake here please thee, Indra, 6 At the third sacrifice, O thou whom many praise, give glory to the roasted corn and holy cake. 7 The groats have we prepared for thee with Pusan, corn for thee, Lord of Bay Steeds, with thy horses. 8 Bring forth the roasted corn to meet him quickly, cake for the bravest Hero mid the heroes.

2 Sustainer of the heaven, Lord of the whole world's life, the Sage, he putteth on his golden−coloured mai 3 He hath filled full the regions of the heaven and earth: the God for his own strengthening waketh up the 4 Lighting all living creatures, neer to be deceived, Savitar, God, protects each holy ordinance. 5 Savitar thrice surrounding with his mightiness mid−air, three regions, and the triple sphere of light, 6 Most gracious God, who brings to life and lulls to rest, he who controls the world, what moves not and 7 With the year's seasons hath Savitar, God, come nigh: may he prosper our home, give food and noble so

2 Even as thou thinkest in thy heart, thither my wishes also tend. 3 Earth, like a bounteous lady, liberal of her gifts, struck down and shaken, yet exultant, comes to us. 4 They who with mighty strength o'erthrow like oxen difficult to yoke, 5 Rise up! even now with lauds I call the very numerous company, 6 Bind to your car the bright red mares, yoke the red coursers to your car. 7 Yea, and this loudly−neighing bright red vigorous horse who hath been sutioned, fair to see, 8 The Maruts' chariot, ever fain to gather glory, we invoke, 9 I call that brilliant band of yours, adorable, rapid on the car

2 O Asvins, like a pair of deer, like two wild cattle to the mead: 3 O Asvins rich in gifts, accept our sacrifice to prosper it: 4 As Atri when descending to the cavem called on you loudly like a wailing woman. 5 Tree, part asunder like the side of her who bringeth forth a child. 6 For Saptavadhri, for the seer affrighted when he wept and wafled, 7 Like as the wind on every side ruffles a pool of lotuses, 8 Like as the wind, like as the wood, like as the sea is set astir, 9 The child who hath for ten months' time been lying in his mother's side,−

2 Thus, Indra−Agnip verily your greatness merits loftiest praise, 3 These who delight in flowing juice, like fellow horses at their food, 4 Indra and Agni, Friends of Law, served with rich gifts, your speech is kind 5 What mortal understands, O Gods, Indra and Agni, this your way? 6 First, Indra−Agni, hath this Maid come footless unto those with feet. 7 E'en now, O Indra−Agni, men hold in their arms and stretch their bows. 8 The foeman's sinful enmities, Indra and Agni, vex me sore. 9 Indra and Agni, yours are all the treasures of the heavens and earth. 10 O Indra−Agni, who accept the laud, and hear us for our praise,

2 Ye bounteous riders on the car, ye Vrtra−slayers unsubdued: 3 The men with pressing−stones have pressed this meath of yours which gives delight: 4 Accept our sacrifice for weal, sharers of praise! the Soma shed: 5 Be pleased with these libations which attract you to our sacred gifts 6 Accept this eulogy of mine whose model is the Gayatri: 7 Come with the early−faring Gods, ye who are Lords of genuine wealth: 8 Hear ye the call of Atris, hear Syavasva as he sheds the juice: 9 Thus have I called you to our aid as sages called on you of old: 10 Indra's and Agni's grace I claim, Sarasvati's associates

2 To him sang forth the flowing streams of Holy Law, encompassed in the home and birth−place of the G 3 Seeking in course altern to reach the selfsame end the two copartners strive to win this beauteous form. 4 He whom the two copartners with observance tend, the pair who dwell together in the same abode, 5 Him the ten fingers, the devotions. animate: we mortals call on him a God to give us help. 6 For, Agni, like a herdsman, thou by thine own might rulest o'er all that is in heaven and on the earth; 7 Agni, accept with joy, be glad in this our prayer, joy−giver, self−sustained, strong, born of Holy Law!

2 Let not man's guile annoy us, secret or by day: give not us up a prey to these calamities. 3 Bring hither with benignant mind the willing Cow teeming with plenteous milk, full, inexhaustible. 4 With eulogy I call on Raka swift to hear may she, auspicious, hear us, and herself observe. 5 All thy kind thoughts, O Raka, lovely in their form, wherewith thou grantest wealth to him who offers 6 O broad−tressed Sinivali, thou who art the Sister of the Gods, 7 With lovely fingers, lovely arms, prolific Mother of many sons− 8 Her, Sinivali, her, Gungu, her, Raka, her, Sarasvati, Indrani to mine aid I call, and Vartunani for my wea

2 Rouse us this day to high and happy fortune: to great felicity, O Dawn, promote us. 3 See, lovely Morning's everlasting splendours, bright with their varied colours, have approached us. 4 She yokes her chariot far away, and swiftly visits the lands where the Five Tribes are settled, 5 She who is rich in spoil, the Spouse of Surya, wondrously opulent, rules all wealth and treasures. 6 Apparent are the steeds of varied colour, the red steeds carrying resplendent Morning. 7 True with the True and Mighty with the Mighty, with Gods a Goddess, Holy with the Holy, 8 O Dawn, now give us wealth in kine and heroes, and horses, fraught with manifold enjoyment.

2 O Agni, graciously accept this song of mine, thou passing−wise who knowest every ordinance. 3 Immortal, wandering round the seven stations, give, a liberal Giver, to the pious worshipper, 4 The seven who bring oblations worship thee, the Strong, the first, the Great Chief Priest, Ensign of 5 First messenger art thou, meet for election: drink thou thy fill invited to the Anirta, 6 Milking the teeming Cow for all−sustaining food. O Wise One, for the worship−loving worshipper, 7 They who at flushing of this dawn appointed thee their messenger, these men have paid thee reverence. 8 Arrangers in our synods, Agni, while they sang Vasisistha s sons have called thee down, the Potent One

2 Daughter of Heaven, thou dawnedst on Sunitha Sucadratha's son, 3 So, bringing treasure, dawn to−day on us thou Daughter of the Sky, 4 Here round about thee are the priests who laud thee, Bright One, with their hymns, 5 Whatever these thy bands perform to please thee or to win them wealth, 6 Give to these wealthy patrons fame, O affluent Dawn, with hero sons, 7 Bring lofty and resplendent fame, O thou munificent Dawn, to these 8 Bring us, O Daughter of the Sky, subsistence in our herds of kine, 9 O Daughter of the Sky, shine forth; delay not to perform thy task. 10 So much, and more exceedingly, O Dawn, it suits thee to bestow,

2 Bring us the wealth that men require, a manly master of a house, 3 Even him who would not give, do thou, 4 Clear paths that we may win the prize; scatter our enemies afar. 5 Penetrate with an awl, O Sage, the hearts of avaricious churls, 6 Thrust with thine awl, O Pusan: seek that which the niggard's heart holds dear, 7 Tear up and read in pieces, Sage, the hearts of avaricious churls, 8 Thou, glowing Pusan, carriest an awl that urges men to prayer; 9 Thou bearest, glowing Lord! a goad with horny point that guides the cows 10 And make this hymn of ours produce kine, horses, and a store of wealth

2 Indu, the well−armed God, is flowing onward, who quells the curse and guards from treacherous onslau 4 This thine own Soma rich in meath, O Indra, Steer for the Steer, hath flowed into the filter. 5 These Somas are for wealth of countless cattle, renown therefor, and mighty strength immortal. 6 He, while he cleanses him, invoked of many, hath flowed to give the people all enjoyment. 7 This Soma, pressed into the cleansing filter, hath run as 'twere a host let loose, the Courser; 8 He issued forth from out the loftiest mountain, and found kine hidden somewhere in a stable. 9 Cleansing thyselr, and borne along with Indra, Soma, thou goest round the herd of cattle.

2 Drive, Pusan, from our road the wolf, the wicked inauspicious wolf, 3 Who lurks about the path we take, the robber with a guileful heart: 4 Tread with thy foot and trample out the firebrand of the wicked one, 5 Wise Pusan, Wonder−Worker, we claim of thee now the aid wherewith 6 So, Lord of all prosperity, best wielder of the golden sword, 7 Past all pursuers lead us, make pleasant our path and fair to tread: 8 Lead us to meadows rich in grass: send on our way no early heat: 9 Be gracious to us, fill us full, give, feed us, and invigorate: 10 No blame have we for Pusan; him we magnify with songs of praise:

2 This God, made ready with the hymn, runs swiftly through the winding ways, 3 This God while flowing is adorned, like a bay steed for war, by men 4 He, like a warrior going forth with heroes, as he flows along 5 This God, as he is flowing on, speeds like a car and gives his gifts: 6 Praised by the sacred bards, this God dives into waters, and bestows 7 Away he rushes with his stream, across the regions, into heaven, 8 While flowing, meet for sacrifice, he hath gone up to heaven across 9 After the 'way of ancient time, this God, pressed out for Deities, 10 This Lord of many Holy Laws, even at his birth engendering strength,