Rig Veda on Desire

1 LET thy Bay Steeds bring thee, the Strong, hither to drink the Soma draught− Those, Indra, who are 2 Here are the grains bedewed with oil: hither let the Bay Coursers bring 3 Indra at early morn we call, Indra in course of sacrifice, 4 Come hither, with thy long−maned Steeds, O Indra, to− the draught we pour 5 Come thou to this our song of praise, to the libation poured for thee 6 Here are the drops of Soma juice expressed on sacred grass: thereof 7 Welcome to thee be this our hymn, reaching thy heart, most excellent: 8 To every draught of pressed−out juice Indra, the Vrtra−slayer, comes, 9 Fulfil, O Satakratu, all our wish with horses and with kine: 1 I CRAVE help from the Imperial Lords, from Indra−Varuna; may they 2 Guardians of men, ye ever come with ready succour at the call 3 Sate you, according to your wish, O Indra−Varuna, with wealth: 4 May we be sharers of the powers, sharers of the benevolence 5 Indra and Varuna, among givers of thousands, meet for praise, 6 Through their protection may we gain great store of wealth, and heap it up 7 O Indra−Varuna, on you for wealth in many a form I call: 8 O Indra−Varuna, − through our songs that seek to win you to ourselves, 9 O Indra−Varuna, to you may fair praise which I offer come,

2 Him, to be praised at each tribe's sacrifices, the Two young Matrons' sober−minded Herald, 3 Unlike in form are the Red God's two Daughters: one is the Sun's, and stars bedeck the other. 4 I with a lofty song call hither Vayu, all−bounteous, filler of his car, most wealthy. 5 That chariot of the Asvins, fair to look on, pleaseth me well, yoked with a thought, refulgent, 6 Bulls of the Earth, O Vata and Parjanya, stir up for us the regions of the water. 7 So may Sarasvati, the Hero's Consort, brisk with rare life, the lightning's Child, inspire us, 8 I praise with eloquence him who guards all pathways. He, when his love impelled him, went to Arka. 9 May Herald Agni, fulgent, bring for worship Tvastar adored, in homes and swift to listen, 10 Rudra by day, Rudra at night we honour with these our songs, the Universe's Father. 11 Ye who are youthful, wise, and meet for worship, come, Martits, to the longing of the singer. 12 Even as the herdsman driveth home his cattle, I urge my songs to him the strong swift Hero 13 He who for man's behoof in his afiliction thrice measured out the earthly regions, Visnu− 14 Sweet be this song of mine to Ahibudhnya, Parvata, Savitar, with Floods and Lightnings; 15 Give riches borne on cars, with many heroes, contenting men, the guard of mighty Order.

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

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

2 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 Surely men crave and gain their wish. Close to her husband clings the wife. 3 O never may that light, ye Gods, fall from its station in the sky. 4 I ask the last of sacrifice. As envoy he shall tell it forth. 5 Ye Gods who yonder have your home in the three lucid realms of heaven, 6 What is your firm support of Law? What Varuna's observant eye? 7 1 am the man who sang of old full many a laud when Soma flowed. 8 Like rival wives on every side enclosing ribs oppress me sore. 9 Where those seven rays are shining, thence my home and family extend. 10 May those five Bulls which stand on high full in the midst of mighty heaven, 11 High in the mid ascent of heaven those Birds of beauteous pinion sit. 12 Firm is this new−wrought hymn of praise, and meet to be told forth, O Gods. 13 Worthy of laud, O Agni, is that kinship which thou hast with Gods. 14 Here seated, man−like as a priest shall wisest Agni to the Gods 15 Varuna makes the holy prayer. To him who finds the path we pray. 16 That pathway of the Sun in heaven, made to be highly glorified, 17 Trta, when buried in the well, calls on the Gods to succour him. 18 A ruddy wolf beheld me once, as I was faring on my path. 19 Through this our song may we, allied with Indra, with all our heroes conquer in the battle.

2 He who with might bowed down the things that should be bowed, and in his fury rent the holds of Samb 3 That was a great deed for the Godliest of the Gods: strong things were loosened and the firmly fixed gav 4 The well with mouth of stone that poured a flood of meath, which Brahmapaspati hath opened with his 5 Ancient will be those creatures, whatsoe'er they be; with moons, with autumns, doors unclose themselve 6 They who with much endeavour searching round obtained the Panis' noblest treasure hidden in the cave, 7 The pious ones when they had seen the falsehoods turned them back, the sages stood again upon the loft 8 With his swift bow, strung truly, Brahmanaspati reaches the mark whate'er it be that he desires. 9 He brings together and he parts, the great High Priest; extolled is he, in battle Brahmapaspati. 10 First and preeminent, excelling all besides are the kind gifts of liberal Brhaspati. 11 Thou who in every way supreme in earthly power, rejoicing, by thy mighty strength hast waxen great, 12 From you, twain Maghavans, all truth proceedeth: even the waters break not your commandment. 13 The sacrificial flames most swiftly hear the call: the priest of the assembly gaineth wealth for hymns. 14 The wrath of Brahmanaspati according to his will had full effect when he would do a mighty deed. 15 O Brahmanaspati, may we be evermore masters of wealth well−guided, full of vital strength. 16 O Brahmanaspati, be thou controller of this our hymn, and prosper thou our children.

2 He made the heaven and earth resplendent by his birth: Child of two Mothers he was meet to be implore 3 Within the range of their surpassinq power, by might, the Gods created Agni with inventive thought. 4 Eager to gain, we crave from him the friendly God strength confident, choiceworthy meet to be extolled 5 For happiness, men, having trimmed the sacred grass, set Agni glorious for his strength before them her 6 Around thy dwelling−place, O brightly−shining Priest, are men at sacrifice, whose sacred grass is trimm 7 He hath filled heaven and earth and the great realm of light, when at his birth the skilful held him in thei 8 Honour the oblation−bearer, him who knows fair rites, serve ye the Household Friend who knows all thi 9 They who are free from death, fain for him, purified three splendours of the mighty Agni, circling all. 10 Man's sacrificial food hath sharpened like an axe, for brightness, him the Sage of men, the people's Lor 11 He stirs with life in wombs dissimilar in kind, born as a Lion or a loudly−bellowing Bull: 12 Vaisvanara, as of old, mounted the cope of heaven, heaven's ridge, well greeted, by those skilled in no 13 For new prosperity we seek to Agni, him whose course is splendid, gold−haired, excellently bright, 14 As pure and swift of course, beholder of the light, who stands in heaven's bright sphere a sign, who wa 15 The cheerful Priest, the pure, in whom no guile is found, Friend of the House, praise−worthy, dear to a

2 This shrine have we made ready for thy coming, as the fond dame attires her for her husband. 3 A hymn, O Priest, to him who hears, the gentle, to him who looks on men, exceeding gracious, 4 Even as true knower of the Law, O Agni, to this our solemn rite he thou attentive. 5 Why this complaint to Varuna, O Agni? And why to Heaven? for what is our transgression? 6 What, when thou blazest on the lesser altars, what to the mighty Wind who comes tobless us, 7 How to great Pusan who promotes our welfare,− to honoured Rudra what, who gives oblations? 8 What wilt thou tell the truthful band of Maruts, how answer the great Sun when thou art questioned? 9 I crave the cow's true gift arranged by Order: though raw, she hath the sweet ripe juice, O Agni. 10 Agni the Bull, the manly, hath been sprinkled with oil upon his back, by Law eternal. 11 By Law the Angirases cleft the rock asunder, and sang their hymns together with the cattle. 12 By Law the Immortal Goddesses the Waters, with meath−rich waves, O Agni, and uninjured, 13 Go never to the feast of one who harms us, the treacherous neighbour or. unworthy kinsman. 14 O Agni, keep us safe with thy protection, loving us, honoured God! and ever guarding. 15 Through these our songs of praise be gracious, Agni; moved by ourprayers, O Hero, touch our viands. 16 To thee who knowest, Agni, thou Disposer, all these wise secret speeches have I uttered,

2 Quaff it pure, meal−blent, mixt with milk, O Indra; we have poured forth the Soma for thy rapture. 3 Those who gave increase to thy strength and vigour; the Maruts singing forth thy might, O Indra. 4 They, even the Maruts who were there, excited with song the meath−created strength of Indra. 5 Pleased, like a man, with our libation, Indra, drink, for enduring hero might, the Soma. 6 When thou didst loose the streams to run like racers in the swift contest, having smitten Vrtra 7 With reverence let us worship mighty Indra, great and sublime, eternal, everyouthful, 8 Many are Indra's nobly wrought achievements, and none of all the Gods transgress his statutes. 9 Herein, O Guileless One, is thy true greatness, that soon as born thou drankest up the Soma. 10 As soon as thou wast born in highest heaven thou drankest Soma to delight thee, Indra; 11 Thou, puissant God, more mighty, slewest. Ahi showing his strength when couched around the waters. 12 Sacrifice, Indra, made thee wax so mighty, the dear oblation with the flowing Soma. 13 With sacrifice and wish have I brought Indra; still for new blessings may I turn him hither, 14 I have brought forth a song when longing seized me: ere the decisive day will I laud Indra; 15 Full is his chalice: Glory! Like a pourer I have filled up the vessel for his drinking. 16 Not the deep−flowing flood, O Much−invoked One! not hills that compass thee about restrain thee, 17 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,

2 On thee for aid in sacrifice. This youth of ours, the bold, the mighty, hath gonse forth. 3 Come hither, for the drops are here, O Lord of corn−lands. Lord of horses, Lord of kine: 4 For we the kinless singers have drawn hither thee, O Indra, who hast numerous kin. 5 Sitting like birds beside thy meath., mingled with milk, that gladdeneth and exalteth thee, 6 We speak to thee with this our reverential prayer. Why art thou pondering yet awhile? 7 For not in recent times alone, O Indra, Thunder−armed, have we obtained thine aid. 8 Hero, we knew thy friendship and thy rich rewards: these, Thunderer, now we crave of thee. 9 Him who of old hath brought to us this and that blessing, him I magnify for you, 10 Borne by Bay Steeds, the Lord of heroes, ruling men, for it is he who takes; delight. 11 Hero, may we, with thee for Friend, withstand the man who pants against us in his wrath, 12 May we be victors in the singer's battlesong, and meet the wicked, Much invoked! 13 O Indra, from all ancient time rivalless ever and companionless art thou: 14 Thou findest not the wealthy man to be thy friend: those scorn thee who are flown with wine. 15 O Indra, let us not, like fools who waste their lives at home, with friendship such as thine 16 Giver of kine, may we not miss thy gracious gifts: let us not rob thee of thine own. 17 Indra or blest Sarasvati alone bestows such wealth, treasure so great, or thou, 18 Citra is King, and only kinglings are the rest who dwell beside Sarasvati.

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

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

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

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

2 For like a King among his wives thou dwellest: with glories, as a Sage, surround and help us. 3 Here these our holy hymns with joy and gladness in pious emulation have approached thee. 4 Vasistha hath poured forth his prayers, desiring to milk thee like a cow in goodly pasture. 5 What though the floods spread widely, Indra made them shallow and easy for Sudas to traverse. 6 Eager for spoil was Turvasa Purodas, fain to win wealth, like fishes urged by hunger. 7 Together came the Pakthas, the Bhalanas, the Alinas, the Sivas, the Visanins. 8 Fools, in their folly fain to waste her waters, they parted inexhaustible Parusni. 9 As to their goal they sped to their destruetion: they sought Parusni; e'en the swift returned not. 10 They went like kine unherded from the pasture, each clinging to a friend as chance directed. 11 The King who scattered one−and−twenty people of both Vaikarna tribes through lust of glory− 12 Thou, thunder−armed, o'erwhelmedst in the waters famed ancient Kavasa and then the Druhyu. 13 Indra at once with conquering might demolished all their strong places and their seven castles. 14 The Anavas and Druhyus, seeking booty, have slept, the sixty hundred, yea, six thousand, 15 These Trtsus under Indra's careful guidance came speeding like loosed waters rushing downward. 16 The hero's side who drank the dressed oblation, Indra's denier, far o'er earth he scattered. 17 E'en with the weak he wrought this matchless exploit: e'en with a goat he did to death a lion. 18 To thee have all thine enemies submitted: e'en the fierce Bheda hast thou made thy subject. 19 Yamuna and the Trtsus aided Indra. There he stripped Bheda bare of all his treasures. 20 Not to be scorned, but like Dawns past and recent, O Indra, are thy favours and thy riches.

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

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

1 Thou, Agni, wast the earliest Angiras, a Seer; thou wast, a God thyself, the Gods' auspicious Friend. 2 O Agni, thou, the best and earliest Angiras, fulfillest as a Sage the holy law of Gods. 3 To Matarisvan first thou, Agni, wast disclosed, and to Vivasvan through thy noble inward power. 4 Agni thou madest heaven to thunder for mankind; thou, yet more pious, for pious Pururavas. 5 Thou, Agni, art a Bull who makes our store increase, to be invoked by him who lifts the ladle up. 6 Agni, thou savest in the synod when pursued e'en him, farseeing One! who walks in evil ways. 7 For glory, Agni, day by day, thou liftest up the mortal man to highest immortality, 8 O Agni, highly lauded, make our singer famous that he may win us store of riches: 9 O blameless Agni lying in thy Parents' lap, a God among the Gods, be watchful for our good. 10 Agni, thou art our Providence, our Father thou − we are thy brethren and thou art our spring of life. in 11 Thee, Agni, have the Gods made the first living One for living man, Lord of the house of Nahusa. 12 Worthy to be revered, O Agni, God, preserve our wealthy patrons with thy succours, and ourselves. 13 Agni, thou art a guard close to the pious man; kindled art thou, four−eyed! for him who is unarmcd. 14 Thou, Agni gainest for the loudly−praising priest the highest wealth, the object of a man's desire. 15 Agni, the man who giveth guerdon to the priests, like well−sewn armour thou guardest on every side. 16 Pardon, we pray, this sin of ours, O Agni, −− the path which we have trodden, widely straying, 17 As erst to Manus, to Yayiti, Angiras, so Angiras! pure Agni! come thou to our hall 18 By this our prayer be thou, O Agni, strengthened, prayer made by us after our power and knowledge.

2 Now whither? To what goal of yours go ye in heaven, and not on earth? 3 Where are your newest favours shown? Where, Maruts, your prosperity? 4 If, O ye Maruts, ye the Sons whom Prsni bore, were mortal, and 5 Then never were your praiser loathed like a wild beast in pasture−land, 6 Let not destructive plague on plague hard to be conquered, strike its down: 7 Truly, they the fierce and mighty Sons of Rudra send their windless 8 Like a cow the lightning lows and follows, motherlike, her youngling, 9 When they inundate the earth they spread forth darkness e'en in day time, 10 O Maruts, at your voice's sound this earthly habitation shakes, 11 O Maruts, with your strong−hoofed steeds, unhindered in their courses, haste 12 Firm be the fellies of your wheels, steady your horses and your cars, 13 Invite thou hither with this song, for praise, Agni the Lord of Prayer, 14 Form in thy mouth the hymn of praise expand thee like, a rainy cloud 15 Sing glory to the Marut host, praiseworthy, tuneful, vigorous: 1 WHEN thus, like flame, from far away, Maruts, ye cast your measure forth, 2 Strong let your weapons be to drive away your foes, firm for resistance let them be. 3 When what is strong ye overthrow, and whirl about each ponderous thing, 4 Consumers of your foes, no enemy of yours is found in heaven or on the earth: 5 They make the mountains rock and reel, they rend the forest−kings apart. 6 Ye to your chariot have yoked the spotted deer: a red deer, as a leader, draws. 7 O Rudras, quickly we desire your succour for this work of ours. 8 Should any monstrous foe, O Maruts, sent by you or sent by mortals threaten us, 9 For ye, the worshipful and wise, have guarded Kanva perfectly. 10 Whole strength have ye, O Bounteous Ones; perfect, earth−shakers, is your might.

2 Unyoke, as at thy journey's end, O Hero, to gladden thee today at this libation. 3 When the Bull, quaffing, praises our Iibation, as a sage paying holy rites in secret, 4 When heaven's fair light by hymns was made apparent (they made great splendour shine at break of 5 Indra, Impetuous One, hath waxed immensely: he with his vastness hath filled earth and heaven. 6 Sakra who knoweth well all human actions hath with his eager Friends let loose the waters. 7 He smote away the floods' obstructer, Vrtra; Earth, conscious, lent her aid to speed thy thunder. 8 When, Much−invoked! the water's rock thou cleftest, Sarama showed herself and went before thee. 9 Come, Maghavan, Friend of Man, to aid the singer imploring thee in battle for the sunlight. 10 Come to our home resolved to slay the Dasyu: Kutsa longed eagerly to win thy friendship. 11 Thou comest, fain to succour him, with Kutsa,−a goad that masters both the Wind−God's horses, 12 For Kutsa, with thy thousand, thou at day−break didst hurl down greedy Susna, foe of harvest. 13 Thou to the son of Vidathin, Rjisvan, gavest up mighty Mrgaya and Pipru. 14 What time thou settest near the Sun thy body, thy form, Immortal One, is seen expanding: 15 Wishes for wealth have gone to Indra, longing for him in war for light and at libation, 16 Call we for you that Indra, prompt to listen, him who hath done so much for men's advantage; 17 When the sharp−pointed arrow, O thou Hero, flieth mid any conflict of the people, 18 Further the holy thoughts of Vamadeva be thou a guileless Friend in fight for booty. 19 O Indra, with these men who love thee truly, free givers, Maghavan, in every battle, 20 Now, as the Bhrgus wrought a car, for Indra the Strong, the Mighty, we our prayer have fashioned, 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell. high like rivers for the singer.

2 Steer−strong thy might is as a steer's, steerstrong thywood, steer−like thy drink 3 Thou, Indu, as a vigorous horse, hast neighed together steeds and kine: 4 Out of desire of cows and steeds and horses. potent Soma−drops, 5 They purified in both the hands, made beautiful by holy men, 6 These Soma juices shall pour forth all treasures for the worshipper 7 The streams of Pavamana, thine, Finder of all, have been effused, 8 Making the light that shines from heaven thou flowest on to every form 9 Urged on thou sendest out thy voice, O Pavamana; thou hast moved, 10 Indu, Enlightener, Friend, hath been purified by the sages' hymns: 11 Thy God−delighting wave which hath flowed to purifying seive, 12 Flow to our sieve, a gladdening draught that hath most intercourse with Gods, 13 Flow onward with a stream for food, made beautiful by sapient men: 14 While thou art cleansed, Song−Lover, bring comfort and vigour to the folk, 15 Purified for the feast of Gods, go thou to Indra's special place, 16 Accelerated by the hymn, the rapid drops of Soma juice 17 Easily have the living drops, made beautiful, approached the lake, 18 Compass about, our faithful Friend, all our possessions with thy might: 19 Loud neighs the Courser Etasa, with singers, harnessed for the place, 20 What time the Swift One resteth in the golden place of sacrifice, 21 The friends have sung in unison, the prudent wish to sacrifice: 22 For Indra girt by Maruts, flow, thou Indu, very rich in sweets, 23 Controlling priests and sages skilled in holy song adorn thee well: 24 Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna drink Pavamana's juice, yea, thine: 25 O Soma, Indu, thou while thou art purified urgest onward speech. 26 Yea, Soma, Indu, while thou art purified do thou bring to us 27 O Indu, Much−invoked, while thou art purifying, as the Friend. 28 Bright are these Somas blent with milk, with light that flashes brilliantly.

2 Thou at thy birth didst fill both earth and heaven, yea, Most Adorable, thou didst exceed them. 3 Both Heaven and Earth and Gods who should be worshipped establish thee as Priest for every dwelling, 4 Firm in the Gods' home is the Mighty seated, between vast Heaven and Earth the well−beloved− 5 Great are the deeds of thee, the Great, O Agni: thou by thy power hast spread out earth and heaven. 6 Bind to the pole with cords of holy Order the long−maned ruddy steeds who sprinkle fatness. 7 Even from the sky thy brilliant lights shone hither: still hast thou beamed through many a radiant morni 8 The Gods who take delight in air's wide region, or those the dwellers in heaven's realm of brightness, 9 With these, borne on one ear, Agni, approach us, or borne on many, for thy steeds are able. 10 He is the Priest at whose repeated worship even wide Heaven and Earth sing out for increase. 11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels. 2 The Male who dwells in heaven hath Mares and Milchkine: he came to Goddesses who bring sweet 3 Wise Master, wealthy finder−out of riches, he mounted those who may with case be guided. 4 Strength−giving streams bear hither him eternal, fain to support the mighty work. of Tvastar. 5 They know the red Bull's blessing, and are joyful under the flaming−coloured Lord's dominion: 6 Yea, by tradition from the ancient sages they brought great strength from the two mighty Parents, 7 Seven holy singers guard with five Adhvaryus the Bird's beloved firmly−settled station. 8 I crave the grace of heaven's two chief Invokers: the seven swift steeds joy in their wonted manner. 9 The many seek the great Steed as a stallion: the reins obey the Lord of varied colour. 10 Rich Lord, the Mornings have gleamed forth in splendour, fair−rayed, fair−speaking, worshipped with 11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker, give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

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 In thy kind grace and favour may we still be strong: expose us not to foe's attack. 3 May these my songs of praise exalt thee, Lord, who hast abundant wealth. 4 He, with his might enhanced by Rsis thousandfold, hath like an ocean spread himself. 5 Indra for worship of the Gods, Indra while sacrifice proceeds, 6 With might hath Indra spread out heaven and earth, with power hath Indra lighted up the Sun. 7 Men with their lauds are urging thee, Indra, to drink the Soma first. 8 Indra increased his manly strength at sacrifice, in the wild rapture of this juice. 9 I crave of thee that hero strength, that thou mayst first regard this prayer, 10 Wherewith thou sentest mighty waters to the sea, that, Indra, is thy manly strength. 11 Help us, O Indra, when we pray to thee for wealth and hero might. 12 Help for us, Indra, as thou holpest Paura once, this man's devotions bent on gain. 13 What newest of imploring prayers shall, then, the zealous mortal sing? 14 When shall they keep the Law and praise thee mid the Gods? Who counts as Rsi and as sage? 15 These songs of ours exceeding sweet, these hymns of praise ascend to thee, 16 The Bhrgus are like Suns, like Kanvas, and have gained all that their thoughts were bent upon. 17 Best slayer of the Vrtras, yoke thy Bay Steeds, Indra, from afar. 18 For these, the bards and singers, have cried out to thee with prayer, to gain the sacrifice. 19 Thou from the lofty plains above, O Indra, hurledst Vrtra down. 20 Bright were the flaming fires, the Sun gave forth his shine, and Soma, Indra's juice, shone clear. 21 The fairest courser of them all, who runneth on as 'twere to heaven. 22 To me hath Pakasthaman given, a ruddy horse,good at the pole, 23 Compared with whom no other ten strong coursers, harnessed to the pole, 24 Raiment is body, food is life, and healing ointment giveth strength.

22 What time the loving spirit's word had formed him Chief of all food, by statute of the Highest, 23 The Sage, Celestial, liberal, raining bounties, pours as he flows the Genuine for the Truthful. 24 He who beholds mankind, made pure with filters, the King supreme of Deities and mortals, 25 Haste, like a steed, to vittory for glory, to Indra's and to Vayu's entertainment. 26 Effused by us let God−delighting Somas bring as they flow a home with noble heroes. 27 So, God, for service of the Gods flow onward, flow, drink of Gods, for ample food, O Soma. 28 Thou, yoked by strong men, neighest like a courser, swifter than thought is, like an awful lion. 29 Sprung from the Gods, a hundred streams, a thousand, have been effused: sages prepare and purge the 30 The streams of days, were poured as 'twere from heaven: the wise King doth not treat his friend unkind 31 Now are thy streams poured forth with all their sweetness, when, purified. thou goest through the filter 32 Bright, bellowing aiong the path of Order, thou shinest as the form of life eternal. 33 Pouring out streams at the Gods' feast with service, thou, Soma, lookest down, a heavenly Eagle. 34 Three are the voices that the Courser utters: he speaks the thought of prayer, the law of Order. 35 To Soma come the Cows, the Milch−kine longing, to Soma sages with their hvmns inquiring. 36 Thus, Soma, as we pour thee into vessels, while thou art purified flow for our welfare. 37 Singer of true songs, ever−watchful, Soma hath settled in the ladles when they cleanse him. 38 Cleansed near the Sun as 'twere he as Creator hath filled full heaven and earth, and hath disclosed the 39 He, being cleansed, the Strengthener and Increaser, Soma the Bounteous, helped us with his lustre, 40 In the first vault of heaven loud roared the Ocean, King of all being, generating creatures. 41 Soma the Steer, in that as Child of Waters he chose the Gods, performed that great achievement.

2 Thou, all men's friend, Visvamanas, exaltest Agni with thy song, 3 Whose resolute assault, to win vigour and food, deserves our praise,− 4 Up springs the imperishable flame, the flame of the Refulgent One 5 Skilled in fair sacrifice, extolled, arise in Godlike loveliness, 6 Called straight to our oblations, come, O Agni, through our eulogies, 7 I call your Agni, from of old Invoking Priest of living men: 8 Whom, wondrous wise, they animate with solemn rites and his fair form, 9 Him, true to Law, who perfecteth the sacrifice,. Law−loving ones! 10 May all our sacrifices go to him the truest Angiras, 11 Imperishable Agni, thine are all these high enkindled lights, 12 So give us, Lord of Power and Might, riches combined with hero strength, 13 Soon as the eager Lord of men is friendly unto Manti's race, 14 O Hero Agni, Lord of men, on hearing this new laud of mine, 15 No mortal foe can e'er prevail by arts of magic over him 16 Vyasva the sage, who sought the Bull, hath won thee, finder of good things: 17 Usana Kavya stablished thee, O Agni, as Invoking Priest: 18 All Deities of one accord appointed thee their messenger: 19 Him may the mortal hero make his own immortal messenger. 20 With lifted ladles let us call him splendid with his brilliant flame, 21 The man who pays the worship due to him with sacrificial gifts 22 To Jatavedas Agni, chief in sacrifices, first of all 23 Even as Vyatya did, may we with these most high and liberal hymns 24 Now sing, as Sthurayupa sang, with lands to him who spreadeth far, 25 As welcome guest of human kind, as offspring of the forest kings, 26 For men's oblations brought to him who is the mighty Lord of all, 27 Grant us abundant. treasures, grant the opulence which many crave, 28 Agni, Most Youthful of the Gods, send evermore the gift of wealth 29 A mighty Conqueror art thou, O Agni, so disclose to us 30 Thou, Agni, art a glorious God: bring hither Mitra, Varuna,

2 Washed by the men, pressed out with stones, strained through the filter made of wool, 3 This juice have we made sweet for thee like barley, blending it with milk. 4 Beloved of all, Indra alone drinks up the flowing Soma juice 5 The Friend, whom not the brilliant−hued, the badly−mixt or bitter draught, 6 While other men than we with milk chase him as hunters chase a deer, 7 For him, for Indra, for the God, be pressed three draughts of Soma juice 8 Three reservoirs exude their drops, filled are three beakers to the brim, 9 Pure art thou, set in many a place, and blended in the midst with milk 10 Here, Indra, are thy Soma−draughts pressed out by us, the strong, the pure: 11 O Indra, pour in milk, prepare the cake, and mix the Soma−draught. 12 Quaffed juices fight within the breast. The drunken praise not by their wine, 13 Rich be the praiser of one rich, munificent and famed like thee: 14 Foe of the man who adds no milk, he heeds not any chanted hymn 15 Give us not, Indra, as a prey unto the scornful or the proud: 16 This, even this, O Indra, we implore. as thy devoted friends, 17 Naught else, O Thunderer, have I praised in the skilled singer's eulogy: 18 The Gods seek him who presses out the Soma; they desire not sleep 19 Come hither swift with gifts of wealth − be not thou angry with us−like 20 Let him not, wrathful with us, spend the evening far from us to−day, 21 For well we know this Hero's love, most liberal of the boons he gives, 22 Pour forth the gift which Kanvas bring, for none more glorious do we know 23 O presser, offer Soma first to Indra, Hero, Sakra, him 24 Who, in untroubled ways, is best provider, for his worshippers. 25 Pressers, for him blend Soma juice, each draught most excellent, for him 26 The Vrtra−slayer drinks the juice. May he who gives a hundred aids 27 May the strong Bay Steeds, yoked by prayer, bring hither unto us our Friend, 28 Sweet are the Soma juices, come! Blent are the Soma juices, come!

2 When, Bright Ones, fain to show your might ye have determined on your course, 3 Loud roaring with the winds the Sons of Prsni have upraised themselves: 4 The Maruts spread the mist abroad and make mountains rock and reel, 5 What time the rivers and the hills before your coming bowed them down, 6 We call on you for aid by night, on you for succour in the day, 7 These, verily, wondrous, red of hue, speed on their courses with a roar 8 With might they drop the loosened rein so that the Sun may run his course, 9 Accept, ye Maruts, this my song, accept ye this mine hymn of praise, 10 The dappled Cows have poured three lakes, meath for the Thunder−wielding God, 11 O Maruts, quickly come to us when, longing for felicity, 12 For, Rudras and Rbhuksans, ye, Most Bountiful, are in the house, 13 O Maruts, send us down from heaven riches distilling rapturous joy, 14 When, Bright Ones, hither from the hills ye have resolved to take your way, 15 Man should solicit with his lauds happiness which belongs to them, 16 They who like fiery sparks with showers of rain blow through the heaven and earth, 17 With chariots and tumultuous roar, with tempests and with hymns of praise 18 For wealth, we think of that whereby ye aided Yadu, Turvasa, 19 May these our viands Bounteous Ones I that flow in streams like holy oil, 20 Where, Bounteous Lords for whom the grass is trimmed, are ye rejoicing now? 21 Is it not there where ye of old, supplied with sacred grass, for lauds 22 They brought together both the worlds, the mighty waters, and the Sun, 23 They sundered Vrtra limb from limb and split the gloomy mountain−clouds, 24 They reinforced the power and strength of Trita as he fought, and helped 25 They deck themselves for glory, bright, celestial, lightning in their hands, 26 When eagerly ye from far away came to the cavern of the Bull, 27 Borne by your golden−footed steeds, O Gods, come hither to receive 28 When the red leader draws along their spotted deer yoked to the car.

2 For here, like flies on honey, these who pray to thee sit by the juice that they have poured. 3 Longing for wealth I call on him, the Thunderer with the strong right hand, 4 These Soma juices, mixed with curd, have been expressed for Indra here. 5 May he whose ear is open hear us. He is asked for wealth: will he despise our prayer? 6 The hero never checked by men hath gained his strength through Indra, he 7 When thou dost drive the fighting men together be, thou Mighty One, the mighty's shield. 8 For Indra, Soma−drinker, armed with thunder, press the Soma juice. 9 Grudge not, ye Soma pourers; stir you, pay the rites, for wealth, to the great Conqueror. 10 No one hath overturned or stayed the car of him who freely gives. 11 Indra, that man when fighting shall obtain the spoil, whose strong defender thou wilt be. 12 His portion is exceeding great like a victorious soldier's spoil. 13 Make for the Holy Gods a hymn that is not mean, but well−arranged and fair of form. 14 Indra, what mortal will attack the man who hath his wealth in thee? 15 In battles with the foe urge on our mighty ones who give the treasures dear to thee, 16 Thine, Indra, is the lowest wealth, thou cherishest the mid−most wealth, 17 Thou art renowned as giving wealth to every one in all the battles that are fought. 18 If I, O Indra, were the Lord of riches ample as thine own, 19 Each day would I enrich the man who sang my praise, in whatsoever place he were. 20 With Plenty for his true ally the active man will gain the spoil. 21 A moral wins no riches by unworthy praise: wealth comes not to the niggard churl. 22 Like kine unmilked we call aloud, Hero, to thee, and sing thy praise, 23 None other like to thee, of earth or of the heavens, hath been or ever will be born. 24 Bring, Indra, the Victorious Ones; bring, elder thou, the younger host. 25 Drive thou away our enemies, O Maghavan: make riches easy to be won. 26 O Indra, give us wisdom as a sire gives wisdom to his sons.

2 Your praise is like a mighty power, an impulse: to you, Twain Gods, a well−formed hymn is offered, 3 O Mitra−Varuna, Aditi the Milch−cow streams for the rite, for folk who bring oblation, W 4 So may the kine and heavenly Waters pour you sweet drink in families that make you joyf

2 For this his mighty deed is Visnu lauded, like some wild beast, dread, prowling, mountain−roaming; 3 Let the hymn lift itself as strength to Visnu, the Bull far−striding, dwelling on the mountains, 4 Him whose three places that are filled with sweetness, imperishable, joy as it may list them, 5 May I attain to that his well−loved mansion where men devoted to the Gods are happy. 6 Fain would we go unto your dwelling−places where there are many−horned and nimble oxen,

2 Your Soma−drinker keeps afar your furious rush, Indra and Visnu, when ye come with all your might. T

2 Let our strong drink, most excellent, exhilarating, come to thee, 3 Thou, Hero, winner of the spoil, urgest to speed the car of man. 4 Empowered by thine own might, O Sage, thou stolest Sarya's chariot wheel. 5 Most mighty is thy rapturous joy, most splendid is thine active power, 6 As thou, O Indra, to the ancient singers wast ever joy, as water to the thirsty,

1 'Through many autumns have I toiled and laboured, at night and morn, through age−inducing dawnings. 2 For even the men aforetime, law−fulfillers, who with the Gods declared eternal statutes,−− 3 Non inutilis est labor cui Dii favent: nos omnes aemulos et aemulas vincamus. 4 Cupido me cepit illius tauri [viri] qui me despicit, utrum hinc utrum illinc ab aliqua parte nata sit. 5 This Soma I address that is most near us, that which hath been imbibed within the spirit, 6 Agastya thus, toiling with strong endeavour, wishing for children, progeny and. power, 5 Membrum suum virile, quod vrotentum fuerat, mas ille retraxit. Rursus illud quod in juvenem filiam 6 Quum jam in medio connessu, semiperfecto opere, amorem in puellam pater impleverat, ambo disceden 7 Quum pater suam nilam adiverat, cum ed congressus suum semen supra wrrarn effudit. Tum Dii benigni 8 Ille tauro similis spumam in certamine jactavit, tunc discedens pusillaximis huc profectus est. Quasi dex 9 'The fire, burning the people, does not approach quickly (by day): the naked (Rakasas approach) not Ag

2 O pleasant Food, O Food of meath, thee have we chosen for our own, 3 Come hitherward to us, O Food, auspicious with auspicious help, 4 These juices which, O Food, are thine throughout the regions are diffused. 5 These gifts of thine, O Food, O Food most sweet to taste, 6 In thee, O Food, is set the spirit of great Gods. 7 If thou be gone unto the splendour of the clouds, 8 Whatever morsel we consume from waters or from plants of earth, O Soma, wax thou fat thereby. 9 What Soma, we enjoy from thee in milky food or barley−brew, Vatapi, grow thou fat thereby. 10 O Vegetable, Cake of meal, he wholesome, firm, and strengthening: Vatapi, grow thou fat thereby. 11 O Food, from thee as such have we drawn forth with lauds, like cows, our sacrificial gifts,

22 Drive down your chariot hitherward drink ye the Soma's savoury juice. 23 When sacrifice which tells our reverence hath begun. Heroes! to drink the gushing juice, 24 Sate you with consecrated drink, with juice effused, ye Deities.

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

2 When thou wast roaming, waxen strong in body, telling thy might, Indra, among the people, 3 Who are the Rsis, then, who comprehended before our time the bounds of all thy greatness? 4 Thou, Mighty Steer, hast four supremest natures, Asura natures that may ne'er be injured. 5 Thou hast all treasures in thy sole possession, treasures made manifest and treasures hidden. 6 To him who set the light in things of splendour, and with all sweetness blent essential sweetness,

2 Press the libation out, most excellent of all: the Pressing−stone is grasped like a hand−guided steed. 3 Juice that this Stone pours out removes defect of ours, as in old time it brought prosperity to man. 4 Drive ye the treacherous demons far away from us: keep Nirrti afar and banish Penury. 5 To you who are more mighty than the heavens themselves, who, finishing your task with more than 6 Stirred be the glorious Stones: let it press out the juice, the Stone with heavenly song that reaches up to 7 The Stones press out the Soma, swift as car−borne men, and, eager for the spoil, drain forth the sap ther 8 Ye, present men, have been most skilful in your work, even ye, O Stones who pressed Soma for Indra's

2 Thine is the juice effused, thine are the juices yet to be pressed: our resonant songs invite thee. 3 Whoso, devoted to the God, effuses Soma for him with yearning heart and spirit,− 4 He looks with Ioving favour on the mortal who, like a rich man, pours for him the Soma. 5 We call on thee to come to us, desirous of goods and spoil, of cattle, and of horses.

2 Expiring when he draws his breath, she moves along the lucid spheres: 3 Song is bestowed upon the Bird: it rules supreme through thirty realms