Rig Veda on The Divine

2 Let the impatient Portals be thrown open bring thou the Gods impatient to come hither. 3 Taste, Agni: serve the Gods with our oblation. Offer good sacrifices, Jatavedas! 4 Let Jatavedas pay fair sacrifices, worship andgratify the Gods Immortal. 5 Wise God, win for us things that are all−goodly, and let the prayers, we pray today be fruitful. 6 Thee, even thee, the Son of Strength, O Agni, those Gods have made the bearer of oblations. 7 To thee the God may we perform our worship: do thou, besought, grant us abundant riches.

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.

2 Manyu was Indra, yea, the God, was Manyu, Manyu was Hotar, Varuna, Jatavedas. 3 Come hither, Manyu, mightier tham the mighty; chase, with thy fervour for ally, our foemen. 4 For thou art, Manyu, of surpassing vigour, fierce, queller of the foe, and self−existent, 5 I have departed, still without a portion, wise God! according to thy will, the Mighty. 6 Come hither. I am all thine own; advancing turn thou to me, Victorious, All−supporter! 7 Approach, and on my right hand hold thy station: so shall we slay a multitude of foemen.

2 As such we honour you, Mitra and Varuna, with hasty zeal, most blest, you who sustain the folk. 3 And when we seek to win your love and friendship, we.who have precious wealth in our possession, 4 That other, Asura! too was born of Heaven. thou art, O Varuna, the King of all men. 6 Your Mother Aditi, ye wise, was purified with water even as earth is purified from heaven. 7 Ye Twain have seated you as Lords of Wealth, as one who mounts a car to him who sits upon the pole,

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 Thou, being born, art Child of Earth and Heaven, parted among the plants in beauty, Agni! 3 Here, being manifested, lofty Visnu, full wise, protects his own supremest station. 4 Thence bearing food the Mothers come to meet thee, with food for thee who givest food its increase. 5 Priest of the holy rite, with car that glitters, refulgent Banner of each act of worship, 6 So Agni stands on earth's most central station, invested in well−decorated garments. 7 Over the earth and over heaven, O Agni, thou, Son, hast ever spread above thy Parents.

2 Even here is Indra famed, and among us this day the glorious Thunderer is praised, 3 He who is Sovran Lord of great and perfect strength, exerter of heroic might, 4 Harnessing to thy car, as God, two blustering Steeds Of the Wind−God, O Thunderer, 5 Even to these dark Steeds of Wind thou of thyself hast come to ride, 6 When ye approach, men ask you, thee and Usana: Why come ye to our dwelling−place? 7 O Indra, thou shalt speak us fair: our holy prayer is offered up. 8 Around us is the Dasyu, riteless, void of sense, inhuman, keeping alien laws. 9 Hero with Heroes, thou art ours: yea, strong are they whom thou dost help. 10 Urge thou these heroes on to slay the enemy, brave Thunderer! in the fight with swords. 11 Swift come those gifts of thine whose hand is prompt to rend and burn, O Hero Thunder−armed: 12 Let not thine excellent assistance come to us, O Hero Indra, profitless. 13 May those soft impulses of thine, O Indra, be fruitful and innocent to us. 14 That Earth, through power of knowing things that may be known, handless and footless yet might thriv 15 Drink, drink the Soma, Hero Indra; be not withheld as thou art good, O Treasure−giver.

2 To him the guidance−following songs of praise flow full, as those who seek gain go in company to the 3 Victorious, great is he; in manly battle shines, unstained with dust, his might, as shines a mountain peak 4 When Strength the Goddess, made more strong for help by thee, waits upon Indra as the Sun attends the 5 When thou with might, upon the framework of the heaven, didst fix, across, air's region firmly, unremo 6 Thou with thy might didst grasp,the holder−up of heaven, thou who art mighty also in the seats of earth.

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

2 Him have they praised, mid−point of sacrifices, great cistern of libations, seat of riches. 3 From thee, O Agni, springs the mighty singer, from thee come heroes who subdue the foeman. 4 To thee, Immortal! when to life thou springest, all the Gods sing for joy as to their infant. 5 Agni Vaisvanara, no one hath ever resisted these thy mighty ordinances, 6 The summits of the heaven are traversed through and through by the Immortal's light, Vaisvanara's 7 Vaisvanara, who measured out the realms of air, Sage very wise who made the lucid spheres of heaven,

2 Shine forth, O Morning, thou auspicious Goddess, on thy bright car awaking pleasant voices. 3 Thou, Morning, turning thee to every creature, standest on high as ensign of the Immortal, 4 Letting her reins drop downward, Morning cometh, the wealthy Dame, the Lady of the dwelling; 5 Hither invoke the radiant Goddess Morning, and bring with reverence your hymn to praise her. 6 From heaven, with hymns, the Holy One was wakened: brightly to both worlds came the wealthy Lady. 7 On Law's firm base the speeder of the Mornings, the Bull, hath entered mighty earth and heaven.

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

2 Sakra protects from woe the man who gives him sacrificial cake. 3 His chariot shall be glorious, sped by Gods, and mighty shall he be, 4 Each day that passes, in his house flows his libation, rich in milk, 5 O Gods, with constant draught of milk, husband and wife with one accord 6 They gain sufficient food: they come united to the sacred grass, 7 Never do they deny or seek to hide the favour of the Gods: 8 With sons and daughters by their side they reach their full extent of life, 9 Serving the Immortal One with gifts of sacrificial meal and wealth, 10 We claim protection from the Hills, we claim protection of the Floods, 11 May Pusan come, and Bhaga, Lord of wealth, All−bounteous, for our weal 12 Aramati, and, free from foes, Visva with spirit of a God, 13 Seeing that Mitra, Aryaman, and Varuna are guarding us, 14 I glorify with song, for wealth, Agni the God, the first of you. 15 As in all frays the hero, so swift moves his car whom Gods attend. 16 Ne'er are ye injured, worshipper, presser of juice, or pious man. 17 None in his action equals him, none holds him far or keeps him off. 18 Such strength of heroes shall be his, such mastery of fleet−foot steeds.

2 Thou wishest for thy kine a bull, for those who long for his approach, 3 The dappled kine who stream with milk prepare his draught of Soma juice: 4 Praise, even as he is known, with song Indra the guardian of the kine, 5 Hither his Bay Steeds have been sent, red Steeds are on the sacred grass,, 6 For Indra Thunder−armed the kine have yielded mingled milk and meath, 7 When I and Indra mount on high up to the Bright One's place and home, 8 Sing, sing ye forth your songs of praise, ye Briyamedhas, sing your songs: 9 Now loudly let the viol sound, the lute send out its voice with might, 10 When bither speed the dappled cows, unflinching, easy to be milked, 11 Indra hath drunk, Agni hath drunk. all Deities have drunk their fill. 12 Thou, Varuna, to whom belong Seven Rivers, art a glorious God. 13 He who hath made the fleet steeds spring, well−harnessed, to the worshipper, 14 Indra, the very Mighty, holds his enemies in utter scorn. 15 He, yet a boy exceeding small, mounted his newly−fashioned car. 16 Lord of the home, fair−helmeted, ascend thy chariot wrought of gold. 17 With reverence they come hitherward to him as to. a Sovran lord, 18 The Priyamedhas have observed the offering of the men of old,

2 By paths that are thine own come hither, Agni, joyous, delighting in the Gods' alliance, 3 The grass is strewn; the sacrifice advances adored as Priest, Agni is made propitious, 4 Forthwith the men, the best of these for wisdom, have made him leader in the solemn worship. 5 He hath come, chosen bearer, and is seated in man's home, Brahman, Agni, the Supporter, 6 These have passed all in glory, who, the manly, have wrought with skill the hymn of adoration; 7 We, the Vasisthas, now implore thee, Agni, O Son of Strength, the Lord of wealth and treasure.

2 This, dealt from heaven ' may both the Worlds vouchsafe us, and Varuna, Indra, Aryaman, and Mitra. 3 Strong be the man and full of power, O Maruts, whom ye, borne on by spotted coursers, favour. 4 This Varuna is guide of Law, he, Mitra, and Aryaman, the Kings, our work have finished. 5 With offerings I propitiate the branches of this swift−moving God, the bounteous Visnu. 6 Be not thou angry here, O glowing Pusan, for what Varutri and the Bounteous gave us. 7 Now have both worlds been praised by the Vasisthas, and holy Mitra, Varuna, and Agni.

1 I Laud Agni, the chosen Priest, God, minister of sacrifice, 2 Worthy is Agni to be praised by living as by ancient seers. 3 Through Agni man obtaineth wealth, yea, plenty waxing day by day, 4 Agni, the perfect sacrifice which thou encompassest about 5 May Agni, sapient−minded Priest, truthful, most gloriously great, 6 Whatever blessing, Agni, thou wilt grant unto thy worshipper, 7 To thee, dispeller of the night, O Agni, day by day with prayer 8 Ruler of sacrifices, guard of Law eternal, radiant One, 9 Be to us easy of approach, even as a father to his son:

2 That Agni, when in loftiest heaven he sprang to life, Guardian of Holy Laws, kept and observed them w 3 Wonderful Mitra propped the heaven and earth apart, and covered and concealed 4 The Migbty seized him in the bosom of the floods: the people waited on the King who should be praise 5 In every age bestow upon the singers wealth, worthy of holy synods, glorious, ever new. 6 Do thou bestow, O Agni, on our wealthy chiefs, rule, with good heroes, undecaying, bending not. 7 O thou who dwellest in three places, Helper, keep with effective guards our princely patrons.

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

2 Thou who ne'er movest thee to aid the indolent, the godless man, 3 Splendid, O Singer, is that man, mightiest of the great in heaven.

2 Indra, whom many laud, accept the strength−conferring Soma juice: 3 Indra, with all the Gods promote our wealth−bestowing sacrifice, 4 Lord of the brave, to thee proceed these drops of Soma juice expressed, 5 Within thy belly, Indra, take juice, Soma the most excellent: Thine are the drops celestial. 6 Drink our libation, Lord of hymns: with streams of meath thou art bedewed 7 To Indra go the treasures of the worshipper, which never fail: 8 From far away, from near at hand, O Vrtra−slayer, come to us: 9 When from the space between the near and far thou art invoked by us,

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

2 From that same billowy flood of sea the Year was afterwards produced, 3 Dhatar, the great Creator, then formed in due order Sun and Moon.

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

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 Thou who subduedst Ayu, Kutsa, Atithigva, waxing daily in thy might, 3 The pressing−stones shall pour for us the essence of the meath of all, 4 Repel all enmities and keep thern far away: let all win treasure for their own. 5 Come, Indra, very near to us with aids of firmly−based resolve; 6 Bless thou with progeny the chief of men, the lord of heroes, victor in the fray. 7 May we be such in battle as are surest to obtain thy grace: 8 Thine, Lord of Bays, am I. Prayer longeth for the spoil. Still with thy help I seek the fight.

2 As the cow yieldeth milk, pour for us freely, Lord of the Field, the wave that beareth sweetness, 3 Sweet be the plants for us. the heavens, the waters, and full of sweets for us be air's mid−region. 4 Happily work our steers and men, may the plough furrow happily. 5 Suna and Sira, welcome ye this laud, and with the milk which ye have made in heaven 6 Auspicious Sita, come thou near: we venerate and worship thee 7 May Indra press the furrow down, may Pusan guide its course aright. 8 Happily let the shares turn up the ploughland, happily go the ploughers with the oxen.

2 Like a capacious car hath it been harnessed, the Mighty; to acquire abundant treasures. 3 Like Vayu with his team, moving at pleasure, most gracious when invoked like both Nasatyas, 4 Like Indra who hath done great deeds, thou, Soma, art slayer of the Vrtras, Fort−destroyer. 5 Like Agni loosed amid the forest, fiercely he winneth splendour in the running waters. 6 These Somas passing through the fleecy filter, like rain descending from the clouds of heaven, 7 Flow onward like the potent band of Maruts, like that Celestial Host whom none revileth. 8 Thine are King Varuna's eternal statutes, lofty and deep, O Soma, is thy glory.

2 Yea, for ourselves we claim the grace of Heaven and Earth, of Saryanavan, of the Hills and Mother 3 May the great Twain, the Mothers, Heaven and Earth, this day preserve us free from sin for peace and 4 May this first Dawn bring us the host of gracious Gods: rich, may it richly shine for us who strive for 5 Dawns, who come forward with the bright beams of the Sun, and at your earliest flushing bring to us th 6 Free from all sickness may the Mornings come to us, and let our fires mount upward with a lofty blaze. 7 Send us to−day a portion choice and excellent, O Savitar, for thou art he who dealeth wealth. 8 Further me this declaring of Eternal Law, the Law of Gods, as we mortals acknowledge it! 9 This day we pray with innocence in strewing grass, adjusting pressing−stones, and perfecting the hymn. 10 To our great holy grass I bid the Gods at morn to banquet, and will seat them as the seven priests,− 11 Come hither, O Adityas, for our perfect weal: accordant help our sacrifice that we may thrive. 12 Adityas, Gods, vouchsafe that this our home may be praise−worthy, prosperous, our heroes' sure defen 13 This day may all the Maruts, all he near us with aid: may all our fires be well enkindled. 14 He whom ye aid, O Deities, in battle, whom ye protect and rescue from affliction,

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.

8 When bidden thoughts, spontaneously advancing, glow, and with the stream 9 Indra, may we obtain that wealth in horses and in herds of cows, 10 I from my Father have received deep knowledge of the Holy Law 11 After the lore of ancient time I make, like Kanva, beauteous songs, 12 Whatever Rsis have not praised thee, Indra, or have lauded thee, 13 When his wrath thundered, when he rent Vrtra to pieces, limb by limb, 14 Against the Dasyu gusna thou, Indra, didst hurl thy during bolt: 15 Neither the heavens nor firmaments nor regions of the earth contain 16 O Indra him who lay at length staying thy copious waters thou, 17 Thou hiddest deep in darkness itim, O Indra, who had set his grasp 18 Indra, whatever Yatis and Bhrgus have offered praise to thee, 19 Indra, these spotted cows yield thee their butter and the milky draught; 20 Which, teeming, have received thee as a life−germ, Indra, with their mouth, 21 O Lord of Might, with hymns of praise the Kanvas have increased thy power, 22 Under thy guidance, Indra, mid thy praises, Lord of Thunder, shall 23 Indra, disclose much food for us, like a stronghold with store of kine: 24 And, Indra, grant us all that wealth of fleet steeds which shone bright of old 25 Hither thou seemest to attract heaven's fold which shines before our eyes, 26 Yea, when thou puttest forth thy power, Indra, thou governest the folk.

2 Come ye Adityas for our full prosperity, in conquests of the foe, ye Gods, bring joy to us. 3 May the most glorious Fathers aid us, and the two Goddesses, Mothers of the Gods, who strengthen La 4 To mighty Narasamsa, strengthening his might, to Pusan, ruler over men, we pray with hymns. 5 Brhaspati, make us evermore an easy path: we crave what boon thou hast for men in rest and stir. 6 Sunk in the pit the Rsi Kutsa called, to aid, Indra the Vrtra−slayer, Lord of power and might. 7 May Aditi the Goddess guard us with the Gods: may the protecting God keep us with ceaseless care.

1 THE other fires are, verily, thy branches; the Immortals all rejoice in thee, O Agni. 2 The forehead of the sky, earth's centre, Agni became the messenger of earth and heaven. 3 As in the Sun firm rays are set for ever, treasures are in Vaisvanara, in Agni. 4 As the great World−halves, so are their Son's praises; skilled, as a man, to act, is he the Herald. 5 Even the lofty heaven, O Jatavedas Vaisvanara, hath not attained thy greatness. 6 Now will I tell the greatness of the Hero whom Prarti's sons follow as Vrtra's slayer: 7 Vaisvanara, dwelling by his might with all men, far−shining, holy mid the Bharadvajas,

2 He, Narasamsa, ne'er beguiled, inspiriteth this sacrifice: 3 Adored, O Agni, hither bring Indra the Wonderful, the Friend, 4 Spread thyself out, thou soft as wool The holy hymns have sung to thee. 5 Open yourselves, ye Doors Divine, easy of access for our aid: 6 Fair strengtheners of vital power, young Mothers of eternal Law, 7 On the wind's flight come, glorified, ye two celestial Priests of man 8 l! Sarasvati, Mahl, three Goddesses who tring us weal, 9 Rich in all plenty, Tvastar, come auspicious of thine own accord 10 Vanaspati, wherever thou knowest the Gods' mysterious names, 11 To Agni and to Varuna, Indra, the Maruts, and the Gods,

2 Yea, now ye Gods of one accord speed on our car what time among the folk it seeks an act of might; 3 Or may our Indra here, the Friend of all mankind, coming from heaven, most.wise, girt by the Marut ho 4 Or may this Tvastar, God who rules the world with power, one−minded with the Goddesses speed forth 5 Or, seen alternate, those two blessed Goddesses, Morning and Night who stir all living things to act: 6 Your blessing as a boon for suppliants we desire: the Dragon of the Deep, and Aja−Ekapad, 7 These earnest prayers I pray to you, ye Holy: to pay you honour, living men have formed them,

3 Whom with their mouth they magnify, bannered with flame and homed in light. 4 Kind, Furtherer of men, he comes, when he hath reached the ends of heaven, 5 To taste man's offerings, he, the Strong, hath risen erect at sacrifice: 6 Here are oblation, worship, rest: rapidly comes his furtherance. 7 With service for chief bliss I seek the Lord of Sacrifice, Agni, whom 8 Blest evermore be all the men who come from us, who magnify 9 The path he treads is black and white and red, and striped, and brown, crimson, and glorious. 10 Thus with his thoughts, O Son of Strength, O Agni, hath Vimada, accordant with the Immortals,

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

2 Set up to eastward of the fire enkindled, accepting prayer that wastes not, rich in hero. 3 Lord of the Forest, raise. thyself up on the loftiest spot of earth. 4 Well−robed, enveloped he is come, the youthful: springing to life his glory waxeth greater. 5 Sprung up he rises in the days' fair weather, increasing in the men−frequented synod. 7 O men who lift the ladles up, these hewn and planted in the ground, 8 Adityas, Rudras, Vasus, careful leaders, Earth, Heaven, and Prthivi and Air's mid−region, 9 Like swan's that flee in lengthened line, the Pillars have come to us arrayed in brilliant coIour. 10 Those Stakes upon the earth with rings that deck them seem to the eye like horns of horned creatures; 11 Lord of the Wood, rise with a hundred branches. with thousand branches may we rise to greatness, 2 Since thou delighting in the woods hast gone unto thy mother streams, 3 O'er pungent smoke host thou prevailed, and thus art thou benevolent. 4 Him who had passed beyond his foes, beyond continual pursuits, Him the unerring Ones, observant, fou 5 Him wandering at his own free will, Agni here hidden from our view, 6 O Bearer of Oblations, thus mortals received thee from the Gods, 7 Amid thy wonders this is good, yea, to the simple is it clear, 8 Offer to him who knows fair rites, who burns with purifying glow, 9 Three times a hundred Gods and thrice a thousand, and three times ten and nine have worshipped Agni,

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 Surya is he: throughout the wide expanses shall Indra turn him, swift as car−wheels, hithe 4 I will send forth my songs in flow unceasing, like water from the ocean's depth, to Indra. 5 Rousing with draughts, the Shaker, rushing onward, impetuous, very strong, armed as with arrows 6 Soma hath flowed to him whom naught can equal, the earth, the heavens, the firmament, the mountains, 7 As an axe fells the tree so be slew Vrtra, brake down the strongholds and dug out the rivers. 8 Wise art thou, Punisher of guilt, O Indra. The sword lops limbs, thou smitest down the sinner, 9 Men who lead evil lives, who break agreements, and injure Varuna, Aryaman and Mitra,− 10 Indra is Sovran Lord of Earth and Heaven, Indra is Lord of waters and of mountains. 11 Vaster than days and nights, Giver of increase, vaster than firmament and flood of ocean, 12 Forward, as herald of refulgent Morning, let thine insatiate arrow fly, O Indra. 13 Him, verily, the moons, the mountains followed, the tall trees followed and the plants and herbage. 14 Where was the vengeful dart when thou, O Indra, clavest the demon ever beat on outrage? 15 Those who are set in enmity against us, the Oganas, O Indra, waxen mighty,− 16 May plentiful libations of the people, and singing Rsis' holy prayers rejoice thee. 17 O Indra, thus may we be made partakers of thy new favours that shall bring us profit. 18 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

1 THE pleasant Priest is come into the synod, true, skilled in sacrifice, most wise, Ordainer. 2 To thee I offer reverent speech: accept it: to thee who markest it, victorious, faithful! 3 The Two who show their vigour, Night and Morning, by the wind's paths shall haste to thee O Agni. 4 To thee, strong Agni! Varuna and Mitra and all the Maruts sang a song of triumph, 5 Approaching with raised hands and adoration, we have this day fulfilled for thee thy longing. 6 For, Son of Strength, from thee come many succours, and powers abundant that a God possesses. 7 Whatever, God, in sacrifice we mortals have wrought is all for thee, strong, wise of purpose!

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 Foremost be he who brings thee food, O Mitra, who strives to keep thy sacred Law, Aditya. 3 joying in sacred food and free from sickness, with knees bent lowly on the earth's broad surface, 4 Auspicious and adorable, this Mitra was born with fair dominion, King, Disposer. 5 The great Aditya, to be served with wor. ship, who stirreth men, is gracious to the singer. 6 The gainful grace of Mitra,. God, supporter of the race of man, 7 Mitra whose glory spreads afar, he who in might surpasses heaven, 8 All the Five Races have repaired to Mitra, ever strong to aid, 9 Mitra to Gods, to living men, to him who strews the holy grass,

2 With mine own heart I commune on the question how Varuna and I may be united. 3 Fain to know this in in I question others: I seek the wise, O Varuna, and ask them. 4 What, Varuna, hath been my chief transgression, ihat thou wouldst slay the friend who sings thy praises 5 Free us from sins committed by our fathers, from those wherein we have ourselves offended. 6 Not our own will betrayed us, but seduction, thoughtlessness, Varuna wine, dice, or anger. 7 Slavelike may I do service to the Bounteous, serve, free from sin, the God inclined to anger. 8 O Lord, O Varuna, may this laudation come close to thed and lie within thy spirit.

2 O Mighty Agni, thou must be glorified at our festivals, 3 O Jatavedas Agni, fight and drive our foes afar from us, 4 Thou, Jatavedas, seekest not the worship of a hostile man, 5 We sages, mortals as we are, adore the mighty name oof thee, 6 Sages, we call the Sage to help, mortals, we call the God to aid: 7 May Vatsa draw− thy mind away even from thy loftiest dwelling−place, 8 Thou art the same in many a place: mid all the people thou art Lord. 9 When we are seeking strength we call Agni to help us in the strife, 10 Ancient, adorablie at sacrifices, Priest from of old, meet for our praise, thou sittest.

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

2 Child of Thyself the sacrifice is for the righteous blent with meath, 3 Invoked and worthy of our praise bring Gods whose due is sacrifice: 4 To seat a thousand Heroes they eastward have strewn the grass with might, 5 The sovran all−imperial Doors, wide, good, many and manifold, 6 With gay adornment, fair to see, in glorious beauty shine they forth: 7 Let these two Sages first of all, heralds divine and eloquent, 8 You I address, Sarasvati, and Bharati, and Ila, all: 9 Tvastar the Lord hath made all forms and all the cattle of the field 10 Send to the Gods, Vanaspati, thyself, the sacrificial draught: 11 Agni, preceder of the Gods, is honoured with the sacred song:

2 May Aditi welcome, even as a mother her dear heart−gladdening son, my song that lauds her. 3 In spirit him, the Sagest of the Sages; with sacrificial oil and meath bedew him 4 With willing mind, Indra, vouchsafe us cattle, prosperity, Lord of Bays! and pious patrons; 5 God Bhaga, Savitar who deals forth riches, Indra, and they who conquer Vrtra's treasures, 6 Let us declare his deeds, the undecaying unrivalled Victor whom the Maruts follow. 7 Praise him the Chief who gives the boon of riches, Brhaspati distributor of treasures, 8 Tended, Brhaspati, with thy protections, the princes are unharmed and girt by heroes. 9 Make their wealth flee who, through our hymns enjoying their riches, yield us not an ample guerdon. 10 With wheelless chariots drive down him, O Maruts, who at the feasts of Gods regards the demons. 11 Praise him whose bow is strong and sure his arrow, him who is Lord of every balm that bealeth. 12 May the House−friends, the cunning−handed Artists, may the Steer's Wives, the streams carved out by 13 My newest song, thought that now springs within me, I offer to the Great, the Sure Protector, 14 Now, even now, may thy fair praise, O Singer, attain Idaspati who roars and thunders, 15 May this my laud attain the troop of Maruts, those who are youths in act, the Sons of Rudra. 16 May this my laud reach earth and air's mid−region, and forest trees and plants to win me riches. 17 Gods, may we dwell in free untroubled bliss. 18 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health−bestowing happy guidance.

2 Cyavana, purposing deceptive presents, with all ingredients, made the altar ready. 3 To his oblations, swift as thought, ye hurried, and welcomed eagerly the prayers he offered. 4 I call on you the Sons of Dyaus, the Asvins, that a dark cow to my red kine be added. 10 Uttering praise to suit the rite Navagvas came speedily to win the damsel's friendship. 11 Swift was new friendship with the maid they quickly accepted it as genuine seed and bounty. 12 When afterwards they woke− and missed the cattle, the speaker thus in joyful mood addressed them: 13 His followers then who dwelt in sundry places came and desired too slay the son of Nrsad. 14 Thou, called Effulgence, in whose threefold dwelling, as in the light of heaven, the Gods are sitting, 15 And, Indra, bring, that I may laud and serve them, those Two resplendent glorious Nasatyas, 16 This King is praised and honoured as Ordainer: himself the bridge, the Sage speeds o'er the waters. 17 Vaitarana, doubly kinsman, sacrificer, shall milk the cow who ne'er hath calved, Sabardhu, 18 Their kin, the Prince in heaven, thy nearest kinsman, turning his thought to thee thus speaks in kindnes 19 Here is my kinship, here the place I dwell in: these are my Gods; I in full strength am present. 20 So mid these tribes he rests, the friendly envoy, borne on two paths, refulgent Lord of fuel. 21 Then went the milch−kine forth to please the damsel, and for the good of every man that liveth. 22 And take thou notice of us also, Indra, for ample riches, King whose arm wields thunder!

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

2 T'he son of Prsadvana was Praskaniva's host, who lay decrepit and forlorn. 3 Call hither with thy newest song Indra who lacks not hymns of praise, 4 He unto whom they sang the seven−headed hymn, three−parted, in the loftiest place, 5 We invocate that Indra who bestoweth precious things on us. 6 He whom thou aidest, gracious Lord, to give again, obtains great wealth to nourish him. 7 Ne'er art thou fruitless, Indra ne'er dost thou desert the worshipper 8 He who hath. overtaken Krvi with his might, and silenced Susna with deathbolts,− 9 Good Lord of wealth is he to whom all Aryas, Dasas here belong. 10 In zealous haste the singers have sung forth a song distilling oil and rich in sweets.

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

2 This, Mitra−Varuna, is your special greatness: floods that stood there they with the days attracted. 3 O Mitra−Varuna, ye by your greatness, both Kings, have firmly stablished earth and heaven, 4 Let your well−harnessed horses bear you hither: hitherward let them come with reins drawn tightly. 5 To make the lustre wider and more famous, guarding the sacred grass with veneration, 6 With hands that shed no blood, guarding the pious, whom, Varuni3, ye save amid oblations. 7 Adorned with gold, its columns are of iron. in heaven it glitters like a whip for horses; 8 Ye mount your car gold−hued at break of morning, and iron−pillared when the Sun is setting, 9 Bountiful guardians of the world! the shelter that is impenetrable, strongest, flawless,

27 The tribes who bring oblations call to thee, to thee to give them help, 28 There where the mountains downward slope, there by the meeting of the streams 29 Thence, marking, from his lofty place downward he looks upon the sea, 30 Then, verify, they see the light refulgent of primeval seed, 31 Indra, the Kanvas all exalt thy wisdom and thy manly power, 32 Accept this eulogy of mine, Indra, and guard me carefully: 33 For thee, O Mighty, Thunder−armed, we singers through devotionhave 34 To Indra have the Kanvas sung, like waters speeding down a slope: 35 As rivers swell the ocean, so our hymns of praise make Indra strong, 36 Come with thy lovely Bay Steeds, come to us from regions far away 37 Best slayer of Vrtras, men whose sacred grass is ready trimmed 38 The heavens and earth come after thee as the wheel follows Etasa: 39 Rejoice, O Indra, in the light, rejoice in Saryandyan, be Glad in the sacrificer's hymn. 40 Grown strong in heaven, the Thunder−armed hath bellowed, Vrtra−slayer, Bull, 41 Thou art a Rsi born of old, sole Ruler over all by might: 42 May thy Bay Steeds with beauteous backs, a hundred, bring thee to the feast, 43 The Kanvas with their hymns of praise have magnified this ancient thought 44 Mid mightiest Gods let mortal man choose Indra at the sacrifice, 45 Thy steeds, by Priyamedhas praised, shall bring thee, God whom all invoke, 46 A hundred thousand have I gained from Parsu, from Tirindira, 47 Ten thousand head of kine, and steeds three times a hundred they bestowed 48 Kakuha hath reached up to heaven, bestowing buffaloes yoked in fours,

2 Sought in the heavens, on earth is Agni stablished, leader of rivers, Bull of standing waters. 3 For fear of thee forth fled the dark−hued races, scattered abroad, deserting their possessions, 4 Agni Vaisvanara, both Earth and Heaven submit them to thy threefold jurisdiction. 5 Agni, the tawny horses, loudly neighing our resonant hymns that drop with oil, attend thee; 6 In thee, O bright as Mitra, Vasus seated the might of Aduras, for they loved thy spirit. 7 Born in the loftiest heaven thou in a moment reachest, like wind, the place where Gods inhabit. 8 Send us that strength, Vaisvanara, send it, Agni, that strength, O Jatavedas, full of splendour, 9 Agni, bestow upon our chiefs and nobles that famous power, that wealth which feedeth many.

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

2 When thy two wandering Bays thou drawest hither, thy praiser laid within thine arms the thunder, 3 Faithful art thou, these thou defiest, Indra; thou art the Rbhus' Lord, heroic, victor. 4 That, as a friend, thou furtheredst, O Indra, when, Thundcrer, −strong in act, thou crushedst Vrtra; 5 This doest thou, and art not harmed, O Indra, e'en in the anger of the strongest mortal. 6 Hence men invoke thee, Indra, in the tumult of battle, in the light−bestowing conflict. 7 Warring for Purukutsa thou, O Indra, Thunder−armed I breakest down the seven castles; 8 O Indra, God who movest round about us, feed us with varied food plenteous as water− 9 Prayers have been made by Gotamas, O Indra, addressed to thee, with laud for thy Bay Horses.

And form that utters loud 29 Led by his drivers, and sent forth, the Strong Steed hath come nigh for spoil, 30 Specially, Soma, coming as a Sage from heaven to prosper us,

2 O'er these, neither at home nor yet abroad or pathways that are Strange, 3 Nor over him,. the man on whom the Sons of Aditi bestow Eternal light that he may live.

2 Worshipping, seeking him with adoration like some lost creature followed by its footprints, 3 On the Cow's forehead, with laborious searching, Trita, the offspring of Vibhiavas, found him. 4 Yearning, with homage, they have set and made him blithe Priest among mankind, oblation−bearer, 5 The foolish brought the ne'er−bewildered forward, great, Victor, Song−inspirer, Fort−destroyer. 6 Holding his station firmly in the houses, Trita sat down within his home surrounded 7 His are the fires, eternal, purifying, that make the houses move, whose smoke is shining, 8 The tongue of Agni bears away the praisesong, and, through his care for Earth, her operations. 9 That Agni, him whom Heaven and Earth engendered, the Waters. Tvastar, and with might, the Bhrgus, 10 Agni, whom Gods have made oblationbearer, and much−desiring men regard as holy,