Rig Veda on Creation

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

2 Tvastar's ten daughters, vigilant and youthful, produced this Infant borne to sundry quarters. 4 Who of you knows this secret One? The Infant by his own nature hath brought forth his Mothers. 5 Visible, fair, he grows in native brightness uplifted in the lap of waving waters. 6 The Two auspicious Ones, like women, tend him: like lowing cows they seek him in their manner. 7 Like Savitar his arms with might he stretches; awful, he strives grasping the world's two borders. 8 He makes him a most noble form of splendour, decking him in his home with milk and waters. 9 Wide through the firmament spreads forth triumphant the far−resplendent strength of' thee the Mighty. 10 In dry spots he makes stream, and course, and torrent, and inundates the earth with floods that glisten. 11 Fed with our fuel, purifying Agni, so blaze to us auspiciously for glory.

2 The hymn shone brightly from the seat of worship: to the kine came the Bull, the Heifer's Offipring 3 Indra knows, verily, how to hear our singing, for he, victorious, made a path for Surya. 4 Praised by Angirases, Indra demolished with might the works of the great watery monster 5 The counterpart of heaven and earth is Indra: he knoweth all libations, slayeth Susna. 6 The Vrtra−slaver with his bolt felled Vrtra: the magic of the godless, waxen mighty, 7 When the Dawns come attendant upon Surya their rays discover wealth of divers colours. 8 Far have they gone, the first of all these waters, the waters that flowed forth when Indra sent them. 9 Thou didst free rivers swallowed by the Dragon; and rapidly they set themselves in motion, 10 Yearning together they have sped to Sindhu: the Fort−destroyer, praised, of old, hath loved them.

2 He, Friend of man, most wise, victorious Hero, hears, with far−reaching aid, the singer call him. 3 The lofty axle of thy wheels, O Hero, is not surpassed by heaven and earth in greatness. 4 Strong Lord, thine energies, endowed with vigour, are like the paths of kine converging homeward. 5 One act to−day, another act tomorrow oft Indra makes what is not yet existeni. 6 By song and sacrifice men brought the waters from thee, as from a mountain's ridge, O Indra. 7 That Indra whom nor months nor autumn seasons wither with age, nor fleeting days enfeeble,− 8 Extolled, he bends not to the strong, the steadfast, nor to the bold incited by the Dasyu. 9 Impetuous Speeder through all depth and distance, give strengthening food, thou drinker of the juices. 10 Hasting to help, come hither and protect him, keep him from harm when he is here, O Indra.

2 Whose lofty might−for doubly strong is he−supports the heavens and earth, 3 Such, Praised by many! thou art King alone thou smitest Vrtras dead, 4 We sing this strong and wild delight of thine which conquers in the fray, 5 Wherewith thou also foundest lights for Ayu and for Manu's sake: 6 This day too singers of the hymn praise, as of old, this might of thine: 7 That lofty Indra−power of thine, thy strength and thine intelligence, 8 O Indra, Heaven and Earth augment thy manly power and thy renown; 9 Visnu the lofty ruling Power, Varuna, Mitra sing thy praise: 10 O Indra, thou wast born the Lord of men, most liberal of thy gifts: 11 Ever, alone, O highly−praised, thou sendest Vrtras to their rest: 12 Though here and there, in varied hymns, Indra, men call on thee for aid, 13 Already have all forms of him entered our spacious dwelling−place:

2 The priests beard far away, as they are ordered, serve the three Nirrtis, for well they know them. 3 The Youthful One, well−shaped, with four locks braided, brightened with oil, puts on the ordinances. 4 One of these Birds hath passed into the sea of air: thence he looks round and views this universal world. 5 Him with fair wings though only One in nature, wise singers shape, with songs, in many figures. 6 While they arrange the four and six−and−thirty, and duly order, up to twelve, the measures, 7 The Chariot's majesties are fourteen others: seven sages lead it onward with their Voices. 8 The fifteen lauds are in a thousand places that is as vast as heaven and earth in measure. 9 What sage hath learned the metres' application? Who hath gained Vak, the spirit's aim and object? 10 Yoked to his chariot−pole there stood the Coursers: they only travel round earth's farthest limits.

1 THE chanters hymn thee, they who say the word of praise magnify thee. 2 As up he clomb from ridge to ridge and looked upon the toilsome task, 3 Harness thy pair of strong bay steeds, long−maned, whose bodies fill the girths, 4 Come hither, answer thou the song, sing in approval, cry aloud. 5 To Indra must a laud be said, to strengthen him who freely gives, 6 Him, him we seek for friendship, him for riches and heroic might. 7 Easy to turn and drive away, Indra, is spoil bestowed by thee. 8 The heaven and earth contain thee not, together, in thy wrathful mood. 9 Hear, thou whose ear is quick, my call; take to thee readily my songs 10 We know thee mightiest of all, in battles hearer of our cry. 11 O Indra, Son of Kusika, drink our libation with delight. 12 Lover of song, may these our songs on every side encompass thee:

2 Knowing your birth and rich in gathered treasure, Rbhus, rejoice together with the Rtus. 3 For you was made this sacrifice, O Rbhus, which ye, like men, won for yourselves aforetime. 4 Now for the mortal worshipper, O Heroes, for him who served you, was the gift of riches. 5 Come to us, Heroes, Vajas and Rbhuksans, glorified for the sake of mighty treasure. 6 Come to this sacrifice of ours, ye Children of Strength, invoked with humble adoration. 7 Close knit with Varuna drink the Soma, Indra; close−knit, ilymn−lover! with the Maruts drink it: 8 Rejoice in full accord with the Adityas, in concord with the Parvatas, O Rbhus; 9 Rbhus, who helped their Parents and the Asvins, who formed the Milch−cow and the pair of horses, 10 Ye who have wealth in cattle and in booty, in heroes, in rich sustenance and treasure, 11 Ye were not far: we have not left you thirsting, blameless in this our sacrifice, O Rbhus.

2 Where, like men cleansing corn−flour in a cribble, the wise in spirit have created language, 3 With sacrifice the trace of Vak they foIlowed, and found her harbouring within the Rsis. 4 One man hath ne'er seen Vak, and yet he seeth: one man hath hearing but hath never heard her. 5 One man they call a laggard, dull in friendship: they never urge him on to deeds of valour. 6 No part in Vak hath he who hath abandoned his own dear friend who knows the truth of friendship. 7 Unequal in the quickness of their spirit are friends endowed alike with eyes and hearing. 8 When friendly Brahmans sacrifice together with mental impulse which the heart hath fashioned, 9 Those men who step not back and move not forward, nor Brahmans nor preparers of libations, 10 All friends are joyful in the friend who cometh in triumph, having conquered in assembly. 11 One plies his constant task reciting verses. one sings the holy psalm in Sakvari measures.

2 O Indra, drink the Soma juice pressed out with stones. poured from the reservoir, as an ox drinks the spr 3 He found the treasure brought from heaven that lay concealed, close−hidden, like the nestling of a bird, 4 Grasping his thunderbolt with both hands, Indra made its edge most keen, for hurling, like a carving−kn 5 Thou, Indra, without effort hast let loose the floods to run their free course down, 6 Eager for riches, men have formed for thee this song, like as a skilful craftsman fashioneth a car, so hav 7 For Puru thou hast shattered, Indra ninety forts, for Divodasa thy boon servant with thy bolt, O Dancer, 8 Indra in battles help his Aryan worshipper, he who hath hundred helps at hand in every fray, in frays tha 9 Waxed strong in might at dawn he tore the Sun's wheel off. Bright red, he steals away their speech, the 10 Lauded with our new hymns, O vigorous in deed, save us with strengthening help, thou Shatterer of th

2 To us may all the Gods come trooped together, Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna concordant, 3 Agni I sing, the guest you love most dearly: the Conqueror through our lauds is friendly−minded. 4 To you I seek with reverence, Night and Morning, like a cow good to milk, with hope to conquer, 5 May the great Dragon of the Deep rejoice us: as one who nourishes her young comes Sindhu, 6 Moreover Tvastar also shall approach us, one−minded with the princes at his visit. 7 Him too our hymns delight, that yoke swift horses, like mother cows who lick their tender youngling. 8 So may the Maruts, armed with mighty weapons, rest here on heaven and earth with hearts in concord, 9 They hasten on to happy termination their orders when they are made known by 10 Incline the Asvins to show grace, and Pusan, for power and might have they, their own possession. 11 This is my reverent thought of you, ye Holy; may it inspire you, make you dwell among us,−

2 Not this way go I forth: hard is the passage. Forth from the side obliquely will I issue. 3 He bent his eye upon the dying Mother: My word I now withdraw. That way I follow. 4 What strange act shall he do, he whom his Mother bore for a thousand months and many autumns? 5 Deeming him a reproach, his mother hid him, Indra, endowed with all heroic valour. 6 With lively motion onward flow these waters, the Holy Ones, shouting, as 'twere, together. 7 Are they addressing him with words of welcome? Will the floods take on them the shame of Indra? 8 I cast thee from me, mine,−thy youthful mother: thee, mine own offspring, Kusava hath swallowed. 9 Thou art mine own, O Maghavan, whom Vyamsa struck to the ground and smote thy jaws in pieces. 10 The Heifer hath brought forth the Strong, the Mighty, the unconquerable Bull, the furious Ind 1 Then to her mighty Child the Mother turned her, saying, My son, these Deities forsake thee. Th

2 Drink thou of this whereof at birth, O Indra, thou drankest, Mighty One for power and rapture. 3 The fire is kindled, Soma pressed, O Indra: let thy Bays, best to draw, convey thee hither. 4 Indra, come hither: evermore thou camest through our great strong desire to drink the Soma. 5 Mayst thou, O Indra, on the day of trial, present or absent, wheresoe'er thou dwellest, 2 With that well−formed most wide−extending palate, wherewith thou ever drinkest streams of sweetness, 3 This drop, steer−strong and omniform, the Soma, hath been made ready for the Bull, for India. 4 Soma when pressed excels the unpressed Soma, better, for one who knows, to give him pleasure. 5 We call on thee, O Indra: come thou hither: sufficient be the Soma for thy body. 2 With Soma go ye nigh to him chief drinker of the Soma's juice: 3 What time, with Soma, with the juice effused, ye come before the God, 4 To him, Adhvaryu! yea, to him give offerings of the juice expressed.

2 Looking on man, O Varuna and Mitra, this Sun ascendeth up by both the pathways, 3 He from their home hath yoked the Seven gold Coursers who, dropping oil and fatness, carry Surya. 4 Your coursers rich in store of sweets have mounted: to the bright ocean Surya hath ascended, 5 For these, even Aryaman, Varuna and Mitra, are the chastisers of all guile and falsehood. 6 These, Mitra, Varuna whom none deceiveth, with great power quicken even the fool to wisdom, 7 They ever vigilant, with eyes that close not, caring for heaven and earth, lead on the thoughtless. 8 When Aditi and Varuna and Mitra, like guardians, give Sudas their friendly shelter, 9 May he with ofierings purify the altar from any stains of Varuna's reviler. 10 Hid from our eyes is their resplendent meeting: by their mysterious might they hold dominion. 11 He who wins favour for his prayer by worship, that he may gain him strength and highest riches, 12 This priestly task, Gods! Varuna and Mitra! hath been performed for you at sacrifices.

2 Indra, who with triumphant wrath smote Vyamsa down, and Sambara, and Pipru the unrighteous one; 3 He whose great work of manly might is heaven and earth, and Varuna and Surya keep his holy law; 4 He who is Lord and Master of the steeds and kine, honoured −the firm and sure− at every holy act; 5 He who is Lord of all the world that moves and breathes, who for the Brahman first before all found the 6 Whom cowards must invoke and valiant men of war, invoked by those who conquer and by those who f 7 Refulgent in the Rudras' region he proceeds, and with the Rudras through the wide space speeds the Da 8 O girt by Maruts, whether thou delight thee in loftiest gathering−place or lowly dwelling, 9 We, fain for thee, strong Indra, have pressed Soma, and, O thou sought with prayer, have made oblation 10 Rejoice thee with thine own Bay Steeds, O Indra, unclose thy jaws and let thy lips be open. 11 Guards of the camp whose praisers are the Maruts, may we through Indra, get ourselves the booty.

2 Inhabiting one dwelling−place in common, strong Stallions and the Mares have come together. 3 The Holy Pair, of wondrous power, have coupled: they formed the Infant, they who bred produced him. 4 For tracks of Order and refreshing viands attend from ancient times the goodly Infant. 5 He, calling loudly to the Seven red Sisters, hath, skilled in sweet drink, brought them to be looked on. 6 Seven are the pathways which the wise have fashioned; to one of these may come the troubled mortal. 7 Not Being, Being in the highest heaven, in Aditi's bosom and in Daksa's birthplace, 3 He who is Lord of all divine oblation, shared by all living men at break of morning, 4 Increasing by his strength. while lauds content him, with easy flight unto the Gods he travels. 5 With songs and adorations bring ye hither Agni who stirs himself at dawn like Indra, 6 In whom all goodly treasures meet together, even as steeds and riders for the booty. 7 Yea, at thy birth, when thou hadst sat in glory, thou, Agni, wast the aim of invocations.

2 Make pleasant hymns, spin out your songs and praises: build ye a ship equipped with oars for transport. 3 Lay on the yokes, and fasten well the traces: formed is the furrow, sow the seed within it. 4 Wise, through desire of bliss from Gods, the skilful bind the traces fast, And lay the yokes on either side 5 Arrange the buckets in their place securely fasten on the straps. 6 I pour the water from the well with pails prepared and goodly straps, 7 Refresh the horses, win the prize before you: equip a chariot fraught with happy fortune. 8 Prepare the cow−stall, for there drink your heroes: stitch ye the coats of armour, wide and many. 9 Hither, for help, I turn the holy heavenly mind of you the Holy Gods, that longs for sacrifice. 10 Pour golden juice within the wooden vessel: with stone−made axes fashion ye and form it. 11 Between both poles the car−horse goes pressed closely, as in his dwelling moves the doubly−wedded. 12 Indra is he, O men, who gives us happiness: sport, urge the giver of delight to win us strength

2 As Priest thou sattest at the seat of worship, furthering us, best Offerer, meet for honour. 3 In thee, still watching, they have followed riches, who goest with much wealth as with an army, 4 They who approached the God's abode with homage, eager for glory, won them perfect glory: 5 On earth the people magnify thee greatly, thee their celestial and terrestrial riches. 6 Dear priest among mankind, adorable Agni hath seated him, joy−giver, skilled in worship. 7 Longing for bliss, pure−minded, God−devoted, Agni, we seek thee, such, meet to be lauded. 8 Sage of mankind, all peoples' Lord and Master, the Bull of men, the sender down of blessings, 9 Agni, the mortal who hath toiled and worshipped, brought thee oblations with his kindled fuel, 10 Mightily let us worship thee the Mighty, with reverence, Agni! fuel and oblations, 11 Thou who hast covered heaven and earth with splendour and with thy glories, glorious and triumphant. 12 Vouchsafe us ever, as man needs, O Vasu, abundant wealth of kine for son and offspring. 13 May I obtain much wealth in many places by love of thee and through thy grace, King Agni;

2 Agni, we know thy three powers in three stations, we know thy forms in many a place divided. 3 The Manly−souled lit thee in sea and waters, man's Viewer lit thee in the breast of heaven, 4 Agni roared out, like Dyaus what time he thunders: he licked the ground about the plants he flickered. 5 The spring of glories and support of riches, rouser of thoughts and guardian of the Soma, 6 Germ of the world, ensign of all creation, be sprang to life and filled the earth and heavens. 7 So among mortals was Immortal Agni stablished as holy wise and willing envoy. 8 Like gold to look on, far he shone refulgent, beaming imperishable life for glory, 9 Whoso this day, O God whose flames are lovely, prepares a cake, O Agni, mixt with butter, 10 Endow him, Agni, with a share of glory, at every song of praise sung forth enrich him. 11 While, Agni, day by day men pay thee worship they win themselves all treasures worth the wishing. 12 Agni, the Friend of men, the Soma's keeper, Vaisvanara, hath been lauded by the Rsis.

2 Bring swift, for offering, the snare that suits the time, to the pure−drinker Vayu, roaring as he goes, 3 May Savitar the God send us full life, to each who sacrifices, lives aright and pours the juice 4 May Indra evermore be gracious unto us, and may King Soma meditate our happiness, 5 Indra hath given the body with its song and strength: Brhaspati, thou art the lengthener of life. 6 Indra possesseth might celestial nobly formed: the singer in the hotise is Agni, prudent Sage. 7 Not often have we sinned against you secretly, nor, Vasus, have we openly provoked the Gods. 8 May Savitar remove from us our malady, and may the Mountains keep it far away from where 9 Ye Vasus, let the stone, the presser stand erect: avert all enmities and keep them far remote. 10 Eat strength and fatness in the pasture, kine, who are balmed at the reservoir and at the seat of Law. 11 The singer fills the spirit: all mens, love hath he. Indra takes kindly care of those who pour the juice. 12 Wondrous thy spirit−filling light, triumpliant; thy hosts save from decay and are resistless.

2 This Steed which Yama gave hath Trita harnessed, and him, the first of all, hath Indra mounted. 3 Yama art thou, O Horse; thou art Aditya; Trita art thou by secret operation. 4 Three bonds, they say, thou hast in heaven that bind thee, three in the waters, 5 Here−, Courser, are the places where they groomed thee, here are the traces of thy hoofs as winner. 6 Thyself from far I recognized in spirit,−a Bird that from below flew through the heaven. 7 Here I beheld thy form, matchless in glory, eager to win thee food at the Cow's station. 8 After thee, Courser, come the car, the bridegroom, the kine come after, and the charm of maidens. 9 Horns made of gold hath he: his feet are iron: less fleet than he, though swift as thought, is Indra. 10 Symmetrical in flank, with rounded haunches, mettled like heroes, the Celestial Coursers 11 A body formed for flight hast thou, O Charger; swift as the wind in motion is thy spirit. 12 The strong Steed hath come forward to the slaughter, pondering with a mind directed God−ward. 13 The Steed is come unto the noblest mansion, is come unto his Father and his Mother.

27 True undeniabIc strength he found in Yadu and in Turvasa, 28 Him have I magnified, our Lord in, common, Guardian of your folk, 29 Rbhuksan, not to be restrained, who strengthened Tugra's son in lauds, 30 Who for Trisoka clave the hill that formed a wide receptacle, 31 Whate'er thy plan or purpose be, whate'er, in transport, thou wouldst do, 32 But little hath been heard of done upon the earth by one like thee i 33 Thine then shall be this high renown, thine shall these lofty praises be, 34 Not for one trespass, not for two, O Hero, slay us, nor for three, 35 I fear one powerful like thee, the crusherdown of enemies, 36 O wealthy God, ne'er may I live to see my friend or son in need*: 37 What friend, O people, unprovoked, hath ever said unto a friend, 38 Hero, insatiate enjoy this Soma juice so near to thee, 39 Hither I draw those Bays of thine yoked 40 Drive all our enemies away, smite down the foes who press around, 41 O Tndra, that which is concealed in strong firm place precipitous: 42 Great riches which the world of men shall recognize as sent by thbe:

2 The unwasting share of steeds and kine which, Indra, thou hast fast secured, 3 The riteless, godless man who sleeps, O Indra, his unbroken steep,− 4 Whether, O Sakra, thou be far, or, Vrtra−slayer, near at hand, 5 Whether thou art in heaven's bright sphere, or in the basin of the sea; 6 Thou Soma−drinker, Lord of Strength, beside our flowing Soma juice 7 O Indra, turn us not away: be the companion of our feast. 8 Sit down with us, O Indra, sit beside the juice to drink the meath. 9 O Caster of the Stone, nor Gods nor mortals have attained to thee. 10 Of one accord they made and formed for kingship Indra, the Hero who in all encounters overcometh, 11 Bards joined in song to Indra so that he might drink the Soma juice, 12 Tle holy sages form a ring, looking and singing to the Ram. 13 Loudly I call that Indra, Maghavan the Mighty, who evermore possesses power, ever resistless. 14 Thou knowest well, O Sakra, thou Most Potent, with thy strength, Indra, to destroy these castles. 15 May thy truth, Indra, Wondrous Hero be my guard: bear me o'er much woe, Thunderer! as over floods.

2 As God comprising Gods by Law Eternal, bear, as the Chief who knoweth, our oblation, 3 When the cow's nectar wins the God completely, men here below are heaven's sustainers. 4 1 praise your work that ye may make me prosper: hear, Heaven and Earth, Twain Worlds that drop with 5 Hath the King siezed us? How have we offended against his holy ordinance? Who knoweth? 6 'Tis hard to understand the Immortal's nature, where she who is akin becomes astranger. 7 They in the synod where the Gods rejoice them, where they are seated in Vivasvan's dwelling, 8 The counsel which the Gods meet to consider, their secret plan,−of that we have no knowledge. 9 Hear us, O Agni, in your comninn dwell ing: harness thy rapid car, the car of Amrta. 2 When speeding ye came nigh us like twin sisters, religious−hearted votaries brought you forward. 3 Five paces have I risen from Earth. I follow her who hath four feet with devout observance. 4 He, for God's sake, chose death to be his portion. He chose not, for men's good, a life eternal 5 The Seven flow to the Youth on whom the Maruts wait: the Sons unto the Father brought the sacrifice.

2 When in the fulness of their strength the Purus dwell, Beauteous One, on thy two grassy banks, 3 So may Sarasvati auspicious send good luck; she, rich in spoil, is never niggardly in thought, 4 We call upon Sarasvan, as unmarried men who long for wives, 5 Be thou our kind protector, O Sarasvan, with those waves of thine 6 May we enjoy Sarasvan's breast, all−beautiful, that swells with streams, 2 We crave the heavenly grace of Gods to guard us−so may Brhaspati, O friends, exalt us− 3 That Brahmanaspati, most High and Gracious, I glorify with offerings and with homage. 4 May that Brhaspati who brings all blessings, most dearly loved, be seated by our altar. 5 To us these Deathless Ones, erst born, have granted this laud of ours which gives the Immortal pleasure. 6 Him, this Brhaspati, his red−hued horses, drawing together, full of strength, bring hither. 7 For he is pure, with hundred wings, refulgent, with sword of gold, impetuous, winning sunlight. 8 Both Heaven and Earth, divine, the Deity's Parents, have made Brhaspati increase in grandeur. 9 This, Brahmanaspati, is your laudation prayer hath been made to thunderwielding Indra. 10 Ye Twain are Lords of wealth in earth and heaven, thou, O Brhaspati, and thou, O Indra.

1 To this fair sacrifice to drink the milky draught thou art invoked: 2 No mortal man, no God exceeds thy mental power, O Mighty one − 3 All Gods devoid of guile, who know the mighty region of mid−air: 4 The terrible, who sing their song, not to be overcome by might: 5 Brilliant, and awful in their form, mighty, devourers of their foes': 6 Who sit as Deities in heaven, above the sky−vault's luminous sphere: 7 Who scatter clouds about the sky, away over the billowy sea: 8 Who with their bright beams spread them forth over the ocean in their might 9 For thee, to be thine early draught, I pour the Soma−mingled meath: 1 FOR the Celestial Race this song of praise which gives wealth lavishly 2 They who for Indra, with their mind, formed horses harnessed by a word, 3 They for the two Nasatyas wrought a light car moving every way: 4 The Rbhus with effectual prayers, honest, with constant labour, made 5 Together came your gladdening drops with Indra by the Maruts girt, 6 The sacrificial ladle, wrought newly by the God Tvastar's hand− 7 Vouchsafe us wealth, to him who pours thrice seven libations, yea, to each 8 As ministering Priests they held, by pious acts they won themselves,

2 Rejoicing in his friendship, let the priest be seated over man, 3 Him, glowing bright beyond all thought, they seek among the race of man; 4 He hath inflamed the twofold plain: lifegiving, he hath climbed the wood, 5 Wandering here the radiant Calf finds none to fetter him, and seeks 6 And now that great and mighty team, the team of horses that are his, 7 The seven milk a single cow; the two set other five to work, 8 Entreated by Vivasvan's ten, Indra cast down the water−jar 9 Three times the newIy−kindled flame proceeds around the sacrifice: 10 With reverence they drain the fount that circles with its wheel above, 11 The pressing−stones are set at work: the meath is poured into the tank, 12 Ye cows, protect the fount: the two Mighty Ones bless the sacrifice. 13 Pour on the juice the ornament which reaches both the heaven and earth 14 These know their own abiding−place: like calves beside the mother cows 15 Devouring in their greedy jaws, they make sustaining food in heaven, 16 The Pious One milked out rich food, sustenance dealt in portions seven, 17 I took some Soma when the Sun rose up, O Mitra, Varuna. 18 From where oblations must be laid, which is the Well−beloved's home,

2 Win thou the light, win heavenly light, and, Soma, all felicities; 3 Win skilful strength and mental power. O Soma, drive away our foes; 4 Ye purifiers, purify Soma for Indra, for his drink: 5 Give us our portion in the Sun through thine own mental power and aids; 6 Through thine own mental power and aid long may we look upon the Sun; 7 Well−weaponed Soma, pour to usa stream of riches doubly great; 8 As one victorious unsubdued in battle pour forth wealth to us; 9 By worship, Pavamana! men have strengthened thee to prop the Law: 10 O Indu, bring us wealth in steeds, manifold. quickening all life; 2 He, Pavamana, Self−produced, speeds onward sharpening his horns: 3 Brilliant like wealth, adorable, with splendour Pavamana shines, 4 The tawny Pavamana, who strews from of old the grass with might, 5 The golden, the Celestial Doors are lifted with their frames on high, 6 With passion Pavamana longs for the great lofty pair, well−formed 7 Both Gods who look on men I call, Celestial Heralds: Indra's Self 8 This, Pavamana's sacrifice, shall the three beauteous Goddesses, 9 1 summon Tvastar hither, our protector, champion, earliest−born, 10 O Pavamana, with the meath in streams anoint Vanaspati, 11 Come to the consecrating rite of Pavamana, all ye Gods,−

2 They come trooping together bearing milk to him, and bring him sustenance who gives support to all. 3 One priest announces what the institutor gives: one, altering the forms, zealously plies his task, 4 Dealing out food unto their people there they sit, like wealth to him who comes, more than the back can 5 Thou hast created earth to look upon the sky: thou, slaying Ahi, settest free the river's paths. 6 Thou givest increase, thou dealest to us our food: thou milkest from the moist the dry, the rich in sweets 7 Thou who hast spread abroad the streams by stablished law, and in the field the plants that blossom and 8 Who broughtest Narmara with all his wealth, for sake of food, to slay him that the fiends might be 9 Thou boundest up the Dasa's hundred friends and ten, when, at one's hearing, thou belpest thy worshipp 10 All banks of rivers yielded to his manly might; to him they gave, to him, the Strong, gave up their weal 11 Meet for high praise, O Hero, is thy power, that with thy single wisdom thou obtainest wealth, 12 Thou for Turviti heldest still the flowing floods, the river−stream for Vayya easily to pass 13 Prepare thyself to grant us that great bounty, O Vasu, for abundant is thy treasure.

2 In each succeeding sacrifice that mortal honoureth the Gods, 3 Ye who are Rulers over all, great is your sovran power as Gods. 4 These are the joyous Kings of Immortality, Parijman, Mitra, Aryaman, and Varuna. 5 Come also to our dwelling, Lords of ample wealth, common partakers of our waters, Sun and Moon, 6 And let the Asvins, Lords of splendour, set us free,− both Gods, and, with their Laws, Mitra and Varuna 7 Yea, let the Asvins Twain he gracious unto us, even Rudras, and all Gods, Bhaga, Rathaspati; 8 Prompt is Rbhuksan, prompt the worshipper's strong drink: may thy fleet Bay Steeds, thine who sperdes 9 O God Savitar, harmed by none, lauded, give us a place among wealthy princes. 10 To these men present here, O Heaven and Earth, to us grant lofty fame extending over all mankind. 11 This speaker, Indra−for thou art our Friend−wherever he may be, guard thou, Victor! for help, ever for 12 So have they strengthened this mine hymn which seems to take its bright path to the Sun, and reconcil 13 Whose chariot−seat hath come again laden with wealth and bright with gold, 14 This to Duhsima Prthavana have I sung, to Vena, Rama, to the nobles, and the King. 15 Besides, they showed us seven −and−seventy horses here.

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

2 Auspicious Friends to us be Bhaga, Sathsa, auspicious be Purandhi aid all Riches; 3 Kind unto us he Maker and Sustainer, and the far−reaching Pair with God−like natures. 4 Favour us Agni with his face of splendour, and Varuva and Mitra and the Asvins. 5 Early invoked, may Heaven and Earth be friendly, and Air's mid−region good for us to look on. 6 Be the God Indra with the Vasus friendly, and, with Adityas, Varuna who blesseth. 7 Blest unto us be Soma, and devotions, blest be the Sacrifice, the Stones for pressing. 8 May the far−seeing Sun rise up to bless us: be the four Quarters of the sky auspicious. 9 May Adid through holy works be gracioas, and may the Maruts, loud in song, be friendly. 10 Prosper us Savitar, the God who rescues, and let the radiant Mornings be propitious. 11 May all the fellowship of Gods befriend us, Sarasvati, with Holy Thoughts, be gracious. 12 May the great Lords of Truth protect and aid us: blest to us be our horses and our cattle. 13 May Aja−Ekapad, the God, be gracious, gracious the Dragon of the Deep, and Ocean. 14 So may the Rudras, Vasus, and Adityas accept the new hymn which we now are making. 15 They who of Holy Gods are very holy, Immortal, knowing Law, whom man must worship,−

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.

1 I GLORIFY that Ram who finds the light of heaven, whose hundred nobly−natured ones go forth with h 2 Like as a mountain on firm basis, unremoved, he, thousandfold protector, waxed in mighty strength, Wh 5 To him, as in wild joy he fought with him who stayed the rain, his helpers sped like swift streams down 6 Splendour encompassed thee, forth shone thy warrior might: the rain−obstructer lay in mid−air's lowest 7 The hymns which magnify thee, Indra, reach to thee even as water−brooks flow down and fill the lake. 8 When, Indra, thou whose power is linked with thy Bay Steeds hadst smitten Vrtra, causing floods to flo 9 In fear they raised the lofty self−resplendent hymn, praise giving and effectual, leading up to heaven, 10 Then Heaven himself, the mighty, at that Dragon's roar reeled back in terror when, Indra, thy thunderb 11 O Indra, were this earth extended forth tenfold, and men who dwell therein multiplied day by day, 12 Thou, bold of heart, in thine own native might, for help, upon the limit of this mid−air and of heaven, 13 Thou art the counterpart of earth, the Master of lofty heaven with all its mighty Heroes: 14 Whose amplitude the heaven and earth have not attained, whose bounds the waters of mid−air have ne 15 The Maruts sang thy praise in this encounter, and in thee all the Deities delighted,

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 What time the Maruts sang their song to Indra, joyous when he had drunk of Soma juices, 3 And, O ye Brahmans, Maruts, so may Indra drink draughts of this my carefully pressed Sorna; 4 Then heaven and earth he sundered and supported: wrapped even in these he struck the Beast with terror 5 Thus all the Gods, O Maghavan, delivered to thee of their free will the draught of Soma; 6 When Maghavan with the thunderbolt demolished his nine−and−ninety castles all together, 7 As friend to aid a friend, Agni dressed quickly three hundred buffaloes, even as he willed it. 8 When thou three hundred buffaloes' flesh hadst eaten, and drunk, as Maghavan, three lakes of Soma, 9 What time ye came with strong steeds swiftly speeding, O Usana and Indra, to the dwelling, 10 One car−wheel of the Sun thou rolledst forward, and one thou settest free to move for Kutsa. 11 The lauds of Gauriviti made thee mighty to Vidathin's son, as prey, thou gavest Pipru. 12 Navagvas and Dasgvas with libations of Soma juice sing hymns of praise to Indra. 13 How shall I serve thee, Maghavan, though knowing full well what hero deeds thou hast accomplished? 14 Resistless from of old through hero courage, thou hast done all these many acts, O Indra. 15 Indra, accept the prayers which now are offered, accept the new prayers, Mightiest! which we utter.

3 Thou, thou alone, hast tamed the Dasyus; singly thou hast subdued the people for the Arya. 4 For true, I deem, thy strength is, thine the Mighty, thine, O Most Potent, thine the Conquering Victor; 5 Be this our ancient bond of friendship with you and with Angirases here who speak of Vala. 6 With holy thoughts must he be called, the Mighty, showing his power in the great fight with Vrtra. 7 He in his might, with name that lives for ever, hath far surpassed all human generations. 8 Stranger to guile, who ne'er was false or faithless, bearing a name that may be well remembered, 9 With saving might that must be praised and lauded, Indra, ascend thy car to smite down Vrtra. 10 As Agni, as the dart burns the dry forest, like the dread shaft burn down the fiends, O Indra; 11 With wealth, by thousand paths come hither, Agni, paths that bring ample strength, O thou Most Splen 12 From heaven, from earth is bruited forth the greatness of him the firm, the fiery, the resplendent. 13 This day the deed that thou hast done is famous, when thou, for him, with many thousand others 14 In thee, O God, the wisest of the Sages, all Gods were joyful when thou slewest Ahi. 15 This power of thine both heaven and earth acknowledge, the deathless Gods acknowledge it, O Indra.

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

1 Come, fain for booty let us seek to Indra: yet more shall he increase his care that guides us. 2 I fly to him invisible Wealth−giver as flies the falcon to his cherished eyrie, 3 Mid all his host, he bindeth on the quiver he driveth cattle from what foe he pleaseth: 4 Thou slewest with thy bolt the wealthy Dasyu, alone, yet going with thy helpers, Indra! 5 Fighting with pious worshippers, the riteless turned and fled, Indra! with averted faces. 6 They met in fight the army of the blameless. then the Navagvas put forth all their power. 7 Whether they weep or laugh, thou hast o'erthrown them, O Indra, on the sky's extremest limit. 8 Adorned with their array of gold and jewels, they o'er the earth a covering veil extended. 9 As thou enjoyest heaven and earth, O Indra, on every side surrounded with thy greatness, 10 They who pervaded earth's extremest limit subdued not with their charms the Wealth−bestower: 11 The waters flowed according to their nature; he raid the navigable streams waxed mighty. 12 Indra broke through Ilibisa's strong castles, and Suspa with his horn he cut to pieces: 13 Fierce on his enemies fell Indra's weapon: with. his sharp bull he rent their forts in pieces. 14 Indra, thou helpest Kutsa whom thou lovedst, and guardedst brave Dagadyu when he battled, 15 Svitra's mild steer, O Maghavan thou helpest in combat for the land, mid Tugra's houses.

2 He who fixed fast and firm the earth that staggered, and set at rest the agitated mountains, 3 Who slew the Dragon, freed the Seven Rivers, and drove the kine forth from the cave of Vala, 4 By whom this universe was made to tremble, who chased away the humbled brood of demons, 5 Of whom, the Terrible, they ask, Where is He? or verily they say of him, He is not. 6 Stirrer to action of the poor and lowly, of priest, of suppliant who sings his praises; 7 He under whose supreme control are horses, all chariots, and the villages, and cattle; 8 To whom two armies cry in close encounter, both enemies, the stronger and the weaker; 9 Without whose help our people never conquer; whom, battling, they invoke to give them succour; 10 He who hath smitten, ere they knew their danger, with his hurled weapon many grievous sinners; 11 He who discovered in the fortieth autumn Sambara as he dwelt among the mountains; 12 Who with seven guiding reins, the Bull, the Mighty, set free the Seven great Floods to flow at pleasure 13 Even the Heaven and Earth bow down before him, before his very breath the mountains tremble. 14 Who aids with favour him who pours the Soma and him who brews it, sacrificer, singer. 15 Thou verily art fierce and true who sendest strength to the man who brews and pours libation.

2 Where are ye, Asvins, in the evening, where at morn? Where is your haltingplace, where rest ye for the 3 Early ye sing forth praise as with a herald's voice, and, meet for worship, go each morning to the house. 4 Even as hunters follow two wild elephants, we with oblations call you down at morn and eve. 5 To you, O Asvins, came the daughter of a King, Ghosa, and said, O Heroes, this I beg of you: 6 O Asvins, ye are wise: as Kutsa comes to men, bring your car nigh the folk of him who sings your prais 7 To Bhujyu and to Vasa ye come near with help, O Asvins, to Sinjara and to Usana. 8 Krsa and Sayu ye protect, ye Asvins Twain: ye Two assist the widow and the worshipper; 9 The Woman hath brought forth, the Infant hath appeared, the plants of wondrous beauty straightway ha 10 They mourn the living, cry aloud, at sacrifice: the men have set their thoughts upon a distant cast. 11 Of this we have no knowledge. Tall it forth to us, now the youth rests within the chambers of the bride. 12 Your favouring grace hath come, ye Lords of ample wealth: Asvins, our longings are stored up within 13 Even so, rejoicing in the dwelling−place of man, give hero sons and riches to the eloquent. 14 O Asvins, Wonder−Workers, Lords of lustre, where and with what folk do ye delight yourselves to−da

2 For the strong band of Maruts will we frame a hymn: the chiefs shall bring forth sacrifice for Indra's tro 3 May Indra with the Vasus keep our dwelling safe, and Aditi with Adityas lend us sure defence. 4 Aditi, Heaven and Earth, the great eternal Law, Indra, Visnu, the Maruts, and the lofty Sky. 5 With Holy Thoughts Sarasvan, firm−lawed Varuna, great Vayu, Pusan, Visnu, and the Asvins Twain, 6 Strong be the sacrifice, strong be the Holy Ones, strong the preparers of oblation, strong the Gods. 7 To win us strength I glorify the Mighty Twain, Agni and Soma, Mighty Ones whom many laud. 8 Potent, with firm−fixt laws, arranging sacrifice, visiting solemn rites in splendour of the day, 9 The Holy Ones engendered, for their several laws, the heavens and earth, the waters, and the plants and 10 May they who bear up heaven, the Rbhus deft of hand, and Vata and Parjanya of the thundering Bull, 11 Sindhu, the sea, the region, and the firmament, the thunder, and the ocean, Aja−Ekapad, 12 May we, be yours, we men, to entertain the Gods: further our sacrifice and give it full success. 13 I follow with success upon the path of Law the two celestial Hotars, Priests of oldest time. 14 Vasistha's sons have raised their voices, like their sire. Rsi−like praying to the Gods for happiness. 15 Immortal Gods have I, Vasistha, lauded, Gods set on high above all other beings.

1 In the great synod will I laud thy two Bay Steeds: I prize the sweet strong drink of thee the Warrior−Go 2 Ye who in concert sing unto the goldhued place, like Bay Steeds driving onward to the heavenly seat, 3 His is that thunderbolt, of iron, goldenhued, gold−coloured, very dear, and yellow in his arms; 4 As if a lovely ray were laid upon the sky, the golden thunderbolt spread out as in a race. 5 Thou, thou, when praised by men who sacrificed of old. hadst pleasure in their lauds, O Indra 6 These two dear Bays bring hither Indra on his car, Thunder−armed, joyous, meet for laud, to drink his fi 7 Tle gold−hued drops have flowed to gratify his wish: the yellow dro s have urged the swift Bays to the 8 At the swift draught the Soma−drinker waxed in might, the Iron One with yellow beard and yellow hair. 9 His yellow−coloured jaws, like ladles move apart, what time, for strength, he makes the yellow−tinted s 10 Yea, to the Dear One's seat in homes of heaven and earth the Bay Steeds' Lord hath whinnied like a ho 11 Thou, comprehending with thy might the earth and heaven, acceptest the dear hymn for ever new and 12 O Indra, let the eager wishes of the folk bring thee, delightful, golden−visored, on thy car, 13 Juices aforetime, Lord of Bays, thou drankest; and thine especially is this libation.

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 Wherewith thou bolpest Adhrigu, the great Dasagva, and the God 3 Wherewith thou dravest forth like cars Sindhu and all the mighty floods 4 Accept this laud for aid, made pure like oil, thou Caster of the Stone, 5 Be pleased, Song−lover, with this song it flows abundant like the sea. 6 The God who from afar hath sent gifts to maintain our friendship's bond, 7 The beams that mark him have grown strong, the thunder rests between his arms, 8 When, Mighty Lord of Heroes, thou didst cat a thousand buffaloes, 9 Indra consumeth with the rays of Surya the malicious man: 10 This newest thought of ours that suits the time approaches unto thee: 11 The pious germ of sacrifice directly purifies the soul. 12 Indra who wins the friend hath spread himself to drink the Soma−draught: 13 He whom the sages, living men, have gladdened, offering up their hymns, 14 Aditi also hath brought forth a hymn for Indra, Sovran Lord: 15 The ministering priests have sung their songs for aid and eulogy: 16 If, Indra, thou drink Soma by Visnu's or Trta Aptya's side, 17 Or, Sakra, if thou gladden thee afar or in the sea of air, 18 Or, Lord of Heroes if thou aid the worshipper who shed; the, juice, 19 To magnify the God, the God, Indra, yea, Indra for your help, 20 With worship, him whom men adore, with Soma, him who drinks it most, 21 His leadings are with power and might and his instructions manifold: 22 For slaying Vrtra have the Gods set Indra in the foremost place.

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

2 Thine is the Herald's task and Cleanser's duly timed; Leader art thou, and Kindler for the pious man. 3 Hero of Heroes, Agni! Thou art Indra, thou art Visnu of the Mighty Stride, adorable: 4 Agni, thou art King Varuna whose laws stand fast; as Mitra, Wonder−Worker, thou must be implored. 5 Thou givest strength, as Tvastar, to the worshipper: thou wielding Mitra's power hast kinship with the 6 Rudra art thou, the Asura of mighty heaven: thou art the Maruts' host, thou art the Lord of food, 7 Giver of wealth art thou to him who honours thee; thou art God Savitar, granter of precious things. 8 To thee, the people's Lord within the house, the folk press forward to their King most graciously incline 9 Agni, men seek thee as a Father with their prayers, win thee, bright−formed, to brotherhood with holy a 10 A Rbhu art thou, Agni, near to be adored thou art the Sovran Lord of foodful spoil and wealth. 11 Thou, God, art Aditi to him who offers gifts: thou, Hotri, Bharati, art strengthened by the song. 12 Thou, Agni, cherished well, art highest vital power; in thy delightful hue are glories visible. 13 Thee, Agni, have the Adityas taken as their mouth; the Bright Ones have made thee, O Sage, to be thei 14 By thee, O Agni, all the Immortal guileless Gods cat with thy mouth the oblation that is offered them. 15 With these thou art united, Agni; yea thou, God of noble birth, surpassest them in majesty, 16 The princely worshippers who send to those who sing thy praise, O Agni, guerdon graced with kine an

2 The will and thoughts within my breast exert their power: they yearn with love, and fly to all the regions 3 To Narasamsa and to Pusan I sing forth, unconcealable Agni kindied by the Gods. 4 How is the Sage extolled whom the loud singers praise? What voice, what hymn is used to laud Brhaspa 5 Aditi, to the birth of Daksa and the vow thou summonest the Kings Mitra and Varuna. 6 May all those vigorous Coursers listen to our cry, hearers of invocation, speeding on their way; 7 Bring ye Purandbi, bring Vayu who yokes his steeds, for friendship bring ye Pusan with your songs of 8 The thrice−seven wandering Rivers, yea, the mighty floods, the forest trees, the mountains, Agni to our 9 Let the great Streams come hither with their mighty help, Sindhu, Sarasvati, and Sarayu with waves. 10 And let Brhaddiva, the Mother, hear our call, and Tvastar, Father, with the Goddesses and Dames. 11 Pleasant to look on as a dwelling rich in food is the blest favour of the Maruts, Rudra's Sons. 12 The thought which ye, O Maruts, Indra and ye Gods have given to me, and ye, Mitra and Varuna,− 13 O Maruts, do ye never, never recollect and call again to mind this our relationship? 14 The Mothers, Heaven and Earth, those mighty Goddesses, worthy of sacrifice, ecune with the race of 15 This invocation wins all good that we desire Brhaspati, highly−praised Aramati, are here, 16 Thus hath the sage, skilled in loud singers' duties, desiring riches, yearning after treasure, 17 Thus hath the thoughtful sage the son of Plati, praised you, O Aaiti and all Adityas.

2 Drawn by thy team, O Vayu, come; to thee is offered this, the pure. 3 Indra and Vayu, drawn by teams, ye Heroes, come today and drink. 4 This Soma hath been shed for you, Lawstrengtheners, Mitra−Varuna! 5 Both Kings who never injure aught seat them in their supremest home, 6 Fed with oblation, Sovran Kings, Adityas, Lords of liberal gifts. 7 With kine, Nasatyas, and with steeds, come, Asvins, Rudras, to the house 8 Such, wealthy Gods! as none afar nor standing nigh to us may harm, 9 As such, O longed−far Asvins, lead us on to wealth of varied sort, 10 Verily Indra, conquering all, driveth e'en mighty fear away, 11 Indra be gracious unto us: sin shall not reach us afterward, 12 From all the regions of the world let Indra send security, 13 O all ye Gods, come hitherward: hear this mine invocation, seat 14 Among ihe gunahotras strong for you is this sweet gladdening draught. 15 Ye Martus led by Indra, Gods with Pri§an for your bounteousest, 16 Best Mother, best of Rivers, best of Goddesses, Sarasvati, We are, as 'twere, of no repute and dear Mot 17 In thee, Sarasvati, divine, all generations have their stay. 18 Enriched with sacrifice, accept Sarasvati, these prayers of ours, 19 Ye who bless sacrifice, go forth, for verily we choose you both, 20 This our.effectual sacrifice, reaching the sky, shall Heaven and Earth 21 In both your laps, ye guileless Ones, the Holy Gods shall sit them down 2 Let not the falcon kill thee, nor the eagle let not the arrow−bearing archer reach thee. 3 Bringing good tidings, Bird of happy omen, call thou out loudly southward of our dwellings,

2 So, too, like charioteers are they, Mitra and sapient Varuna, 3 These Twain, possessors of all wealth, most glorious, for supremest sway 4 Great Varuna and Mitra, Gods, Asuras and imperial Lords, 5 The offspring of a lofty Power, Daksa's Two Sons exceeding strong, 6 Ye who have gathered up your gifts, celestial and terrestrial food, 7 The Twain, who from the lofty sky seem to look down on herds below, 8 They, true to Law, exceeding strong, have sat them down for savran rule: 9 Pathfinders even better than the eye, with unobstructed sight, 10 So may the Goddess Aditi, may the Nasatyas guard us well, 11 Do ye, O Bounteous Gods, protect our dwelling lace by day and night: 12 May we, unharmed, serve bountiful Visnu, the God who slayeth none: 13 This sure protection we elect, desirable and reaching far, 14 And may the Sindhu of the floods, the Maruts, and the ASvin Pair, 15 Because these warring Heroes stay the enmity of every foe, 16 Here this one God, the Lord of men, looks forth exceeding far and wide: 17 We keep the old accustomed laws, the statutes of supremacy, 18 He who hath measured with his ray the boundaries of heaven and earth, 19 Surya hath spread his light aloft up to the region of the sky, 20 With him who sits afar the word is lord of food that comes from kine, 21 So unto Surya, Heaven, and Earth at morning and at eve I speak. 22 From Uksanyayana a bay, from Harayana a white steed, 23 These two shall bring me further gain of troops of tawny−coloured steeds, 24 And the two sages have I gained who hold the reins and bear the whip,

1 To give first thought to them, I worship Heaven and Earth, and Agni, fair bright glow, to hasten their 2 Ample, unfailing, they have mounted as it were an eloquent car that ye may think of us and give. 3 Ye by the might which heavenly nectar giveth you are in supreme dominion Lords of all these folk. 4 The aids wherewith the Wanderer through his offipring's might, or the Two−Mothered Son shows swift 5 Wherewith ye raised from waters, prisoned and fast bound, Rebha, and Vandana to look upon the light; 6 Wherewith ye rescued Antaka when languishing deep in the pit, and Bhujyu with unfailing help. 7 Wherewith ye gave gucanti wealth and happy home, and made the fiery pit friendly for Atri's sake; 8 Mighty Ones, with what powers ye gave Paravrj aid what time ye made the blind and lame to see and w 9 Wherewith ye quickened the most sweet exhaustless flood, and comforted Vasistha, ye who ne'er decay; 10 Wherewith ye helped, in battle of a thousand spoils, Vispala seeking booty, powerless to move. 11 Whereby the cloud, ye Bounteous Givers, shed sweet rain for Dirghasravas, for the merchant Ausija, 12 Wherewith ye made Rasa swell full with water−floods, and urged to victory the car without a horse; 13 Wherewith ye, compass round the Sun when far away, strengthened Manddatar in his tasks as lord of 14 Wherewith, when Sambara was slain, ye guarded well great Atithigva, Divodisa, Kasoju, 15 Wherewith ye honoured the great drinker Vamra, and Upastuta and Kali when he gained his wife, 16 Wherewith, O Heroes, ye vouchsafed deliverance to Sayu, Atri, and to Manu long ago; 17 Wherewith Patharva, in his majesty of form, shone in his course like to a gathered kindled fire; 18 Wherewith, Angirases!

like Heroes, dazzling and impetuous, wear 8 The pivot of the Sobharis' chariot within the golden box is balmed with milk. 9 Bring, ye who sprinkle balmy drops. oblations to your vigorous Marut company, 10 Come hither, O ye Mares, on your stronghorsed car, solid in look, with solid naves. 11 Their decoration is the same: their omaments of gold are bright upon their arms; 12 They toil not to defend their bodies from attack, strong Heroes with their mighty arms. 13 Whose name extendeth like a sea, alone, resplendent, so that all have joy in it, 14 Pay honour to these Maruts and sing praise to them, for of the wheel−spokes of the car 15 Blest by your favouring help was he, O Maruts, at the earlier flushings of the morn, 16 The strong man to whose sacrifice, O Heroes, ye approach that ye may taste thereof, 17 Even as Rudra's Sons, the brood of the Creator Dyaus, the Asura, desire, 18 And these the bounteous, worthy of the Maruts who move onward pouring down the rain− 19 O Sobhari, with newest song sing out unto the youthful purifying Bulls, 20 Who, like a celebrated boxer, overcome the challengers in every fight: 21 Allied by common ancestry, ye Maruts, even the Cows, alike in energy, 22 Even mortal man, ye Dancers breast adorned with gold, attains to brotherhood with you. 23 O Maruts, rich in noble gifts, bring us a portion of the Maruts' medicine, 24 Haters of those who serve you not, bliss−bringers, bring us bliss with those auspicious aids 25 Maruts, who rest on fair trimmed grass, what balm soever Sindhu or Asikni hath, 26 Ye carry on your bodies, ye who see it all: so bless us graciously therewith.

2 May Narasamsa lighting up the chambers, bright in his majesty through threefold heaven, 3 Adored in heart, as is thy right, O Agni, serve the Gods first to−day before the mortal. 4 O Grass divine, increasing, rich in heroes, strewn for wealth' sake, well laid upon this altar,− 5 Wide be the Doors, the Goddesses, thrown open, easy to pass, invoked, through adorations, 6 Good work for us, the glorious Night and Morning, like female weavers, waxen from aforetime, 7 Let the two heavenly Heralds, first, most wise, most fair, present oblation duly with the sacred verse, 8 Sarasvati who perfects our devotion, Ila divine, Bharati all surpassing,− 9 Born is the pious hero swift of hearing, like gold in hue, well formed, and full of vigour. 10 Vanaspati shall stand anear and start us, and Agni with his arts prepare oblation. 11 Oil has been mixt: oil is his habitation. In oil he rests: oil is his proper province. 2 Bhrgus who served him in the home of waters set him of old in houses of the living. 3 Among the tribes of men the Gods placed Agni as a dear Friend when they would dwell among them. 4 Sweet is his growth as of one's own possessions; his look when rushing fain to burn is lovely. 5 Since they who honour me have praised my greatness,−he gave, as 'twere, his hue to those who love hi 6 Like one athirst, he lighteth up the forests; like water down the chariot ways he roareth. 7 Around, consuming the broad earth, he wanders, free roaming like an ox without a herdsman,− 8 I, in remembrance of thine ancient favour have sung my hymn in this our third assembly. 9 May the Grtsamadas, serving in secret, through thee, O Agni, overcome their neighbours,

2 The Son of Strength; for is he not our gracious Lord? Let us serve him who bears our gifts. 3 Agni, thou beamest forth with light, great Hero, never changed by time. 4 Thou worshippest great Gods: bring them without delay by wisdom and thy wondrous power. 5 He whom floods, stones, and trees support, the offspring of eternal Law; 6 He who hath filled both worlds fult with his brilliant shine, who hastens with his smoke to heaven; 7 O Agni, with thy lofty beams, with thy pure brilliancy, O God, 8 Thou art the Lord of house and home of all the tribes, O Agni, of all tribes of men. 9 Wonderful, with thy favouring help, send us thy bounties, gracious Lord. 10 With guards unfailing never negligent speed thou our children and our progeny. 11 Hither, O friends, with newest song drive her who freely pours her milk; 12 Who, for the host of Maruts bright with native sheen, hath shed immortal fame like milk; 13 For Bharadvaja she poured down in days of old 14 Your friend like Indra passing wise, with magic power like Varuna. 15 Bright as the host of Maruts mighty in their roar. May they bring Pusan free from foes; 16 Haste to me, Pusan, in thine car, bright Deity: I fain would speak: 17 Tear not up by the roots the Kakambira tree: destroy thou all malignity. 18 Uninjured let thy friendship be, like the smooth surface of a skin, 19 For thou art high above mankind, in glory equal to the Gods. 20 May the kind excellence of him the Kind, loud Roarers! be our guide, 21 They whose high glory in a moment like the God, the Sun, goes round the space of heaven, 22 Once, only once, the heaven was made, once only once, the earth was formed−

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 The Fair, the Bright is come with her white offspring; to her the Dark One hath resigned her dwelling. 3 Common, unending is the Sisters' pathway; taught by the Gods, alternately they travel. 4 Bright leader of glad sounds, our eyes behold her; splendid in hue she hath unclosed the portals. 5 Rich Dawn, she sets afoot the coiled−up sleeper, one for enjoyment, one for wealth or worship, 6 One to high sway, one to exalted glory, one to pursue his gain, and one his labour: 7 We see her there, the Child of Heaven apparent, the young Maid, flushing in her shining raiment. 8 She first of endless morns to come hereafter, follows the path of morns that have departed. 9 As thou, Dawn, hast caused Agni to be kindled, and with the Sun's eye hast revealed creation. 10 How long a time, and they shall be together,−Dawns that have shone and Dawns to shine hereafter? 11 Gone are the men who in the days before us looked on the rising of the earlier Morning. 12 Foe−chaser, born of Law, the Law's protectress, joy−giver waker of all pleasant voices, 13 From days eternal hath Dawn shone, the Goddess, and shows this light to−day, endowed with riches. 14 In the sky's borders hath she shone in splendour: the Goddess hath thrown off the veil of darkness. 15 Bringing all life−sustaining blessings with her, showing herself she sends forth brilliant lustre. 16 Arise! the breath, the life, again hath reached us: darkness hath passed away and light approacheth. 17 Singing the praises of refulgent Mornings with his hymn's web the priest, the poet rises. 18 Dawns giving sons all heroes, kine and horses, shining upon the man who brings oblations,− 19 Mother of Gods, Aditi's forui of glory, ensign of sacrifice, shine forth exalted. 20 Whatever splendid wealth the Dawns bring with them to bless the man who offers praise and worship,

2 Seven to the one−wheeled chariot yoke the Courser; bearing seven names the single Courser draws it. 3 The seven who on the seven−wheeled car are mounted have horses, seven in tale, who draw them onwa 4 Who hath beheld him as he sprang to being, seen how the boneless One supports the bony? 5 Unripe in mind, in spirit undiscerning, I ask of these the Gods' established places; For up above the year 6 I ask, unknowing, those who know, the sages, as one all ignorant for sake of knowledge, 7 Let him who knoweth presently declare it, this lovely Bird's securely founded station. 8 The Mother gave the Sire his share of Order: with thought, at first, she wedded him in spirit. 9 Yoked was the Mother to the boon Cow's car−pole: in the dank rows of cloud the Infant rested. 10 Bearing three Mothers and three Fathers, single he stood erect: they never make him weary. 11 Formed with twelve spokes, by length of time, unweakened, rolls round the heaven this wheel of durin 12 They call him in the farther half of heaven the Sire five−footed, of twelve forms, wealthy in watery sto 13 Upon this five−spoked wheel revolving ever all living creatures rest and are dependent. 14 The wheel revolves, unwasting, with its felly: ten draw it, yoked to the far−stretching car−pole. 15 Of the co−born they call the seventh single−born; the six twin pairs are called Rsis, Children of Gods. 16 They told me these were males, though truly females: he who hath eyes sees this, the blind discerns no 17 Beneath the upper realm, above this lower, bearing her calf at foot the Cow hath risen. 18 Who, that the father of this Calf discerneth beneath the upper realm, above the lower, 19 Those that come hitherward they call departing, those that depart they call directed hither.

6 To seat your Indra, I will spread abroad with power this song of praise. 7 A recent Friend, he found the skilful priest: he drank, and showed forth treasure from the Gods. 8 In course of Law the sapient juice was quaffed: the Deities to glory turned their mind. 9 Bestow on us the most illustrious strength ward off men's manifold malignities. 10 We turn to thee as Giver, liberal Indra. Lord of the Bay Steeds, be not thou ungracious. 11 Give us not up, Strong Hero! to the hungry: unharmed be we whom thou, so rich, befriendest. 12 As Indra thundering impels the rain−clouds, so doth he send us store of kine and horses. 13 Adbyaryu, hero, bring to mighty Indrafor he is King thereof−the pressed−out juices; 14 In the wild joy of this hath Indra, knowing full many a form, struck down resistless Vrtras. 15 May Indra drink this Soma poured to please him, and cheered therewith slay Vrtra with his thunder. 16 The cup whence Indra drinks the draught is present: the Amrta dear to Indra hath been drunken, 17 Therewith enraptured, Hero, slay our foemen, the unfriendly, Maghavan be they kin or strangers, 18 O Indra Maghavan, in these our battles win easy paths for us and ample freedom. 19 Let thy Bay Stallions, harnessed, bring thee hither, Steeds with strong chariot and strong reins to hold 20 Beside the vat, Strong God! stand thy strong Horses, shining with holy oil, like waves exulting. 21 Thou art the Bull of earth, the Bull of heaven, Bull of the rivers, Bull of standing waters. 22 This God, with might, when first he had his being, with Indra for ally, held fast the Pani. 23 The Dawns he wedded to a glorious Consort, and set within the Sun the light that lights him. 24 He stayed and held the heaven and earth asunder: the chariot with the sevenfold reins he harnessed.

2 Thou hast a car more swift than thought, O Indra; thercon come hither, come to drink the Soma. 3 Deck out thy body with the fairest colours, with golden splendour of the Sun adorn it. 4 O thou whose grandeur in thy festive transports not even these two great worlds have comprehended. 5 Pressed for thy joyous banquet is the Soma, Soma whereof thou, Indra, ever drinking, 6 Found from of old is this thy cup, O Indra: Satakratu, drink therefrom the Soma. 7 From many a side with proffered entertainment the folk are calling thee, O Mighty Indra. 8 I will declare thy deeds of old, O Indra, the mighty acts which thou hast first accomplished. 9 Lord of the hosts, amid our bands be seated: they call thee greatest Sage among the sages. 10 Aim of our eyes be thou, for we implore thee, O Maghavan, Friend of friends and Lord of treasures. 2 This majesty of his Visnu extols and lauds, making the stalCthat gives the meath flow forth with inight. 3 When, bearing warlike weapons, fain to win thee praise, thou mettest Vrtra, yea, the Dragon, for the fig 4 Soon as he sprang to life he forced asun. der hosts: forward the Hero looked to manly deed and war. 5 Indra hath evermore possessed surpassing power: he forced, far from each other, heaven and earth apart. 6 Then to the mighty powers of Indra, to his wrath, his the fierce Stormer, loud of voice, they came with 7 Even in the first of those heroic acts which they who strove together came with might to execute, 8 Then all the Gods extolled, with eloquence inspired by draughts of Soma juice, thy deeds of manly mig 9 Proclaim his many friendships, met with friendship, made with singers, with the skilful and the eloquent 10 Give riches manifold with noble horses, to be remembered while my songs address thee.

1 INDRA and Agni I invoke fain are we for their song of praise 2 Praise ye, O men, and glorify Indra−Agni in the holy rites: 3 Indra and Agni we invite, the Soma−drinkers, for the fame 4 Strong Gods, we bid them come to this libation that stands ready here: 5 Indra and Agni, mighty Lords of our assembly, crush the fiends: 6 Watch ye, through this your truthfulness, there in the place of spacious view 1 WAKEN the Asvin Pair who yoke their car at early morn: may they 2 We call the Asvins Twain, the Gods borne in a noble car, the best 3 Dropping with honey is your whip, Asvins, and full of pleasantness 4 As ye go thither in your car, not far, O Asvins, is the home 5 For my protection I invoke the golden−handed Savitar. 6 That he may send us succour, praise the Waters' Offspring Savitar: 7 We call on him, distributer of wondrous bounty and of wealth, 8 Come hither, friends, and seat yourselves Savitar, to be praised by us, 9 O Agni, hither bring to us the willing Spouses of the Gods, 10 Most youthful Agni, hither bring their Spouses, Hotra, Bharati, 11 Spouses of Heroes, Goddesses, with whole wings may they come to us 12 Indrani, Varunani, and Agnayi hither I invite, 13 May Heaven and Earth, the Mighty Pair, bedew for us our sacrifice, 14 Their water rich with fatness, there in the Gandharva's steadfast place, 15 Thornless be thou, O Earth, spread wide before us for a dwelling−place: 16 The Gods be gracious unto us even from the place whence Visnu strode 17 Through all this world strode Visnu; thrice his foot he planted, and the whole 18 Visnu, the Guardian, he whom none deceiveth, made three steps; thenceforth 19 Look ye on Visnu's works, whereby the Friend of Indra, close−allied, 20 The princes evermore behold that loftiest place where Visnu is, 21 This, Vishnu's station most sublime, the singers, ever vigilant,