Rig Veda on The Divine

1 WHAT shall we sing to Rudra, strong, most bounteous, excellently wise, 2 That Aditi may grant the grace of Rudra to our folk, our kine, 3 That Mitra and that Varuna, that Rudra may remember us, 4 To Rudra Lord of sacrifice, of hymns and balmy medicines, 5 He shines in splendour like the Sun, refulgent as bright gold is he, 6 May he grant health into our steeds, wellbeing to our rams and ewes, 7 O Soma, set thou upon us the glory of a hundred men, 8 Let not malignities, nor those who trouble Soma, hinder us. 9 Soma! head, central point, love these; Soma! know these as serving thee,

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

2 For the broad Sun was seen a path more widely laid, the path of holy law hath been maintained with ray 3 With Aditi the luminous, the celestial, upholder of the people, come ye day by day, ye who watch sleepl 4 This Soma be most sweet to Mitra, Varuna: he in the drinking−feasts, shall have a share thereof, sharing 5 Whoso, with worship serves Mitra and VaruiIa, him guard ye carefully, uninjured, from distress, guard 6 Worship will I proress to lofty Dyaus, to Heaven and Earth, to Mitra and to bounteous Varuna, the 7 With the Gods' help, with Indra still beside us, may we be held self−splendid with the Maruts.

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

2 Thee, Agni, men have stablished as their guest of old, as Master of the household, thee, with hair of fla 3 The tribes of men praise thee, Agni, who knowest well burnt offerings, the Discerner, lavishest of wealt 4 Ever to thee, O Agni, as exceeding strong have we drawn nigh with songs and reverence singing hymns. 5 Thou, Agni! multiform, God who art lauded much! givest in every house subsistence as of old. 6 The Gods, Most Youthful Agni, have made thee, inflamed, the bearer of oblations and the messenger. 7 Men seeking joy have lit thee worshipped from of old, O Agni, with good fuel and with sacred oil.

1 WHAT deed hath Indra done in the wild transport, in quaffing or in friendship with, the Soma? 2 In its wild joy Indra hath proved him faithful, faithful in quaffing, faithful in its friendship. 3 All thy vast power, O Maghavan, we know not, know not the riches of thy full abundance. 4 This one great power of thine our eyes have witnessed, wherewith thou slewest Varasikha's children, 5 In aid of Abhyavartin Cayamana, Indra destroyed the seed of Varasikha. 6 Three thousand, mailed, in quest of fame, together, on the Yavyavati, O much−sought Indra, 7 He, whose two red Steers, seeking goodly pasture, plying their tongues move on 'twixt earth and heaven

2 Three times unto our solemn rite comes Agni like a charioteer, 3 Round the oblations hath he paced, Agni the Wise, the Lord of Strength, 4 He who is kindled eastward for Srnjaya, Devavata's son, 5 So mighty be the Agni whom the mortal hero shall command, 6 Day after day they dress him, as they clean a horse who wins the prize. 7 When Sahadeva's princely son with two bay horses thought of me, 8 And truly those two noble bays I straightway took when offered me, 9 Long, O ye Asvins, may he live, your care, ye Gods, the princely son. 10 Cause him the youthful prince, the son of Sahadeva, to enjoy

2 Fiend−queller, Friend of all men, he hath with the wood attained unto 3 Be thou best Vrtra−slayer, best granter of bliss, most liberal: 4 Flow onward with thy juice unto the banquet of the Mighty Gods: 5 O Indu, we draw nigh to thee, with this one object day by day: 6 By means of this eternal fleece may Surya's Daughter purify 7 Ten sister maids of slender form seize him within the press and hold 8 The virgins send him forth: they blow the the skin musician−like and fuse 9 Inviolable milch−kine round about him blend for Indra's drink, 10 In the wild raptures of this draught, Indra slays all the Vrtras: he,

2 Let no malignity prevail against us, either God's or man's. 3 So through thy favour may we force through all our enemies a way, 4 Thou, Purifier Agni, high shinest forth, bright, adorable, 5 Ours art thou, Agni, Bharata, honoured by us with barren cows, 6 Wood−fed, bedewed with sacred oil, ancient, Invoker, excellent, 2 Who, guiding worshippers aright, withers, untouched by age, the foe: 3 Who for his glory is extolled at eve and morning in our homes, 4 Who shines refulgent like the Sun, with brilliance and with fiery flame, 5 Him Atri, Agni, have our songs Strengthened according to his sway: 6 May we with Agni's, Indra's help, with Soma's, yea, of all the Gods,

5 Mighty and strong he waxed for hero exploit: the Bull was furnished a Sage's wisdom. 6 As floods according to their stream flow onward, so to the sea, as borne on cars, the waters. 7 Eager to mingle with the sea, the rivers carry the well−pressed Soma juice to Indra. 8 Like lakes appear his flanks filled full with Soma: yea, he contains libations in abundance. 9 Then bring thou hither, and let none prevent it: we know thee well, the Lord of wealth and treasure. 10 O Indra, Maghavan, impetuous mover, grant us abundant wealth that brings all blessings. 11 Call we on Indra, Maghavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

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

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

3 The Vrtra−slayer smote them all as spokes are hammered into naves: 4 Then Indra at a single draught drank the contents of thirty pails, 5 Indra in groundless realms of space pierced the Gandharva through, that he 6 Down from the mountains Indra shot hither his well−directed shaft: 7 One only is that shaft of thine, with thousand feathers, hundred barbs, 8 Strong as the gbhus at thy birth, therewith to those who praise thee, men, 9 By thee these exploits were achieved, the mightiest deeds, abundantly: 10 All these things Visnu brought, the Lord of ample stride whom thou hadst sent− 11 Most deadly is thy bow, successful, fashioned well: good is thine arrow, decked with gold.

2 As mighty food speed hitherward, Indu, as a most splendid Steer: 3 The well−loved meath was made to flow, the stream of the creative juice 4 The mighty waters, yea, the floods accompany thee Mighty One, 5 The lake is brightened in the floods. Soma, our Friend, heaven's prop and stay, 6 The tawny Bull hath bellowed, fair as mighty Mitra to behold: 7 Songs, Indu, active in their might are beautified for thee, wherewith 8 To thee who givest ample room we pray, to win the joyous draught: 9 Indu as, Indra's Friend, on us pour with a stream of sweetness, like 10 Winner of kine, Indu, art thou, winner of heroes, steeds, and strength

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

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

2 Come our true Friend, passing by many people; come with thy two Bay Steeds to our devotions; 3 Pleased, with thy Bay Steeds, Indra, God, come quickly to this our sacrifice that heightens worship; 4 Yea, let thy two Bay Stallions bear thee hither, well limbed and good to draw, thy dear companions. 5 Wilt thou not make me guardian of the people, make me, impetuous Maghavan, their ruler? 6 Yoked to thy chariot, led thy tall Bays, Indra, companions of thy banquet, bear thee hither, 7 Drink of the strong pressed out by strong ones, Indra, that which the Falcon brought thee when thou 8 Call we on Indra, Makhavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered;

2 Strong is the stone, the draught is strong, strong is this Soma that is pressed, 3 As strong I call on thee the Strong, O Thunder−armed, with various aids, 4 Impetuous, Thunderer, Strong, quelling the mighty, King, potent, Vrtra−slayer, Soma−drinker, 5 O Surya, when the Asura's descendant Svarbhanu, pierced thee through and through with darkness, 6 What time thou smotest down Svarbhanu's magic that spread itself beneath the sky, O Indra, 7 Let not the oppressor with this dread, through anger swallow me up, for I am thine, O Atri. 8 The Brahman Atri, as he set the press−stones, serving the Gods with praise and adoration, 9 The Atris found the Sun again, him whom Svarbhanu of the brood

1 NE'ER doth the man repent, who, seeking profit, bringeth his gift to the far−striding Visnu. 2 Thou, Visnu, constant in thy courses, gavest good−will to all men, and a hymn that lasteth, 3 Three times strode forth this God in all his grandeur over this earth bright with a hundred splendours. 4 Over this earth with mighty step strode Visnu, ready to give it for a home to Manu. 5 To−day I laud this name, O gipivista, I, skilled in rules, the name of thee the Noble. 6 What was there to be blamed in thee, O Visnu, when thou declaredst, I am Sipivista? 7 O Visnu, unto thee my lips cry Vasat! Let this mine offering, Sipivista, please thee.

2 O Agni, Indra, Varuna, and Mitra, give, O ye Gods, and Marut host, and Visnu. 3 Indra and Agni, Mitra, Varuna, Aditi, the Waters, Mountains, Maruts, Sky, and Earth and Heaven, 4 May Visnu also and Vata who injures none, and Soma granter of possessions give us joy; 5 So may the band of Maruts dwelling in the sky, the holy, come to us to sit on sacred grass; 6 And may the Mountains famed in noble eulogies, and the fair−gleaming Rivers keep us safe from harm. 7 May the Gods' Spouses aid us of their own freewill, aid us to offspring and the winning of the spoil. 8 May the Dames, wives of Gods, enjoy our presents, Rat, Asvini, Agnayi, and Indrani.

2 Where are they now? Where are the Twain, the famed Nasatyas, Gods in heaven? 3 Whom do ye visit, whom approach? to whom direct your harnessed car? 4 Ye, Strengtheners, for Paura stir the filler swimming in the flood, 5 Ye from cyavana worn with age removed his skin as 'twere a robe. 6 Here is the man who lauds you both: to see your glory are we here. 7 Who among many mortal men this day hath won you to himself? 8 O Asvins, may your car approach, most excellent of cars for speed. 9 May our laudation of you Twain, lovers of meath! be sweet to you. 10 O Asvins, when at any time ye listen to this call of mine,

2 The Dames of Trita with the stones onward impel this Tawny One 3 Ten active fingers carefully adorn him here; they make him bright 4 He like a falcon settles down amid the families of men. 5 This young exhilarating juice looks downward from its place in heaven, 6 Poured for the draught, this tawny juice 2 Preparing what is unprepared, and bringing store of food to man, 3 With might, bestowing power, thejuice enters the purifying sieve, 4 This is it which in rapid course hath with the river's wave flowed down 5 Inviting him frorh far away, and even from near at hand, the juice 6 In union they have sung the hymn: with stones they urge the Tawny One.

2 Lord of the Quarters, flow thou on, boon Soma, from Arjika land, 3 Hither hath Surya's Daughter brought the wild Steer whom Parjanya nursed. 4 Splendid by Law! declaring Law, truthspeaking, truthful in thy works, 5 Together flow the meeting streams of him the Great and truly Strong. 6 O Pavamana, where the priest, as he recites the rhythmic prayer, 7 O Pavarnana, place me in that deathless, undecaying world 8 Make me immortal in that realm where dwells the King, Vivasvan's Son, 9 Make me immortal in that realm where they move even as they list, 10 Make me immortal in that realm of eager wish and strong desire, 11 Make me immortal in that realm where happiness and transports, where

2 The youths have wrought their ornaments for glory through many nights,−this noble band of Maruts. 3 They who extend beyond the earth and heaven, by their own mass, as from the cloud spreads Surya; 4 When ye come nigh, as in the depth of waters, the earth is loosened, as it were, and shaken. 5 Ye are like horses fastened to the chariot poles, luminous with your beams, with splendour as at dawn; 6 When ye come forth, O Maruts, from the distance, from the great treasury of rich possessions, 7 He who, engaged in the rite's final duty brings, as a man, oblation to the Maruts, 8 For these are helps adored at sacrifices, bringing good fortune by their name Adityas.

3 That which destroys the sinking germ, the settled, moving embryo, 4 That which divides thy legs that it may lie between the married pair, 5 What rests by thee in borrowed form of brother, lover, or of lord, 6 That which through sleep or darkness hath deceived thee and lies down by thee, 2 From the neck−tendons and the neck, from the breast−bones and from the spine, 3 From viscera and all within, forth from the rectum, from the heart, 4 From thighs, from knee−caps, and from heels, and from the forepart of the feet, 5 From what is voided from within, and from thy hair, and from they nails, 6 From every member, every hair, disease that comes in every joint,

1 As a good cow to him who milks, we call the doer of fair deeds, 2 Come thou to our libations, drink of Soma; Soma−drinker thou! 3 So may we be acquainted with thine innermost benevolence: 4 Go to the wise unconquered One, ask thou of Indra, skilled in song, 5 Whether the men who mock us say, Depart unto another place, 6 Or whether, God of wondrous deeds, all our true people call us blest, 7 Unto the swift One bring the swift, man−cheering, grace of sacrifice, 8 Thou, Satakratu, drankest this and wast the Vrtras' slayer; thou 9 We strengthen, Satakratu, thee, yea, thee the powerful in fight, 10 To him the mighty stream of wealth, prompt friend ot'him who pours the juice,

2 For goodly fields, for pleasant homes, for wealth we sacrifice to thee. 3 Best praiser of all these be he; foremost, our chiefs who sacrifice. 4 So that thy worshippers and we, thine, Agni, in our sons may live. 5 As ever− conquering Agni's beams of splendour go to every side, 6 To every side thy face is turned, thou art triumphant everywhere. 7 O thou whose face looks every way, bear us past foes as in a ship. 8 As in a ship, convey thou us for our advantage o'er the flood. 2 Present in heaven, in earth, all−present Agni,−all plants that grow on ground hath he pervaded. 3 Be this thy truth, Vaisvanara, to us−ward: let wealth in rich abundance gather round us.

2 This Indra with his Marut Friends clave into pieces Vrtra's bead 3 Indra, with Marut Friends grown strong, hath rent asunder Vrtra, and 4 This is that Indra who, begirt by Maruts, won the light of heaven 5 Mighty, impetuous, begirt by Maruts, him who loudly roars, 6 Indra begirt by Maruts we invoke after the ancient plan, 7 O liberal Indra, Marut−girt, much−lauded Satakratu, drink 8 To thee, O Indra, Marut−girt, these Soma juices, Thunderer! 9 Drink, Indra, with thy Marut Friends, pressed Soma at the morning rites, 10 Arising in thy might, thy jaws thou shookest, Indra, having quaffed 11 Indra, both worlds complained to thee when uttering thy fearful roar, 12 From Indra have I measured out a song eight−footed with nine parts,

2 Great is that secret name and far−extending, whereby thou madest all that is and shall be. 3 He filled the heaven and earth and all between them, Gods five times sevenfold in their proper seasons. 4 As first among the lights, O Dawn, thou shonest, whereby thou broughtest forth the Stay of Increase, 5 The old hath waked the young Moon from his slumber who runs his circling course with many round hi 6 Strong is the Red Bird in his strength, great Hero, who from of old hath had no nest to dwell in. 7 Through these the Thunderer gained strong manly vigour, through whom he waxed in power to smite d 8 All−strong, performing works with his companion, All−marking, rapid Victor, Curse−averter,

2 Armed with your daggers, full of wisdom, armed with spears, armed with your quivers, armed with arro 3 From hills and heaven ye shake wealth for the worshipper: in terror at your coming low the woods bow 4 Bright with the blasts of wind, wrapped in their robes of rain, like twins of noble aspect and of lovely fo 5 Rich in adornment, rich in drops, munificent, bright in their aspect, yielding bounties that endure, 6 Borne on both shoulders, O ye Maruts, are your spears: within your arms is laid your energy and 3trengt 7 Vouchsafe to us, O Maruts, splendid bounty in cattle and in steeds, in cars and heroes. 8 Ho! Maruts, Heroes, skilled in Law, immortal, be gracious unto us, ye rich in treasures,

2 May we, when this Dawn and the next dance hither, be thy best servants, most heroic Hero! 3 What was the gladdening draught that pleased thee, Indra? Speed through our doors to songs, for thou ar 4 Indra, what fame hath one like thee mid heroes? With what plan wilt thou act? Why hast thou sought us 5 Speed happily those, as Surya ends his journey, who meet his wish as bridegrooms meet their spouses; 6 Thine are two measures, Indra, wide−wellmeted, heaven for thy majesty, earth for thy wisdom. 7 They have poured out a bowl to him, to Indra, full of sweet juice, for faithful is his bounty. 8 Indra hath conquered in his wars, the Mighty: men strive in multitudes to win his friendship.

2 What time the grasshopper replies and swells the shrill cicala's voice, 3 And, yonder, cattle seem to graze, what seems a dwelling−place appears: 4 Here one is calling to his cow, another there hath felled a tree: 5 The Goddess never slays, unless some murderous enemy approach. 6 Now have I praised the Forest Queen, sweet−scented, redolent of balm, 2 Thou with thy magic powers didst rend the conjurer Vrtra, O Blameless One, with heart that longed for 3 God Much−invoked, take pleasure in these princes here, who, thine exalters, Maghavan, have come to 4 That man shall find delight in well−protected wealth whose care provides for him the quick−sought joy 5 Now for our band, O Maghavan, when lauded, make ample room with might, and grant us riches.

1 O COME ye hither, sit ye down: to Indra sing ye forth, your song, 2 To him the richest of the rich, the Lord of treasures excellent, 3 May he stand by us in our need and in abundance for our wealth: 4 Whose pair of tawny horses yoked in battles foemen challenge not: 5 Nigh to the Soma−drinker come, for his enjoyment, these pure drops, 6 Thou, grown at once to perfect strength, wast born to drink the Soma juice, 7 O Indra, lover of the song, may these quick Somas enter thee: 8 Our chants of praise have strengthened thee, O Satakratu, and our lauds 9 Indra, whose succour never fails, accept these viands thousandfold, 10 O Indra, thou who lovest song, let no man hurt our bodies, keep

1 INDRA the singers with high praise, Indra reciters with their lauds, 2 Indra hath ever close to him his two bay steeds and word−yoked car, 3 Indra hath raised the Sun on high in heaven, that he may see afar: 4 Help us, O Indra, in the frays, yea, frays, where thousand spoils are gained, 5 In mighty battle we invoke Indra, Indra in lesser fight, 6 Unclose, our manly Hero, thou for ever bounteous, yonder cloud, 7 Still higher, at each strain of mine, thunder−armed Indra's praises rise: 8 Even as the bull drives on the herds, he drives the people with his might, 9 Indra who rules with single sway men, riches, and the fivefold race 10 For your sake from each side we call Indra away from other men:

2 As thou with Matarisvan, Medhya, Prsadhra, hast cheered thee Indra, with pressed juice, 3 'Tis he who made the lauds his own and boldly drank the Soma juice, 4 In whose laud thou didst joy, Indra, at the great deed, O Satakratu, Mighty One! 5 He is our Sire who gives to us, Great, Mighty, ruling as he wills. 6 He to whom thou, Good Lord, givest that he may give increases wealth that nourishes. 7 Never art thou neglectful: thou guardest both races with thy care. 8 The offercr whom thou, Indra, Lover of the Song, liberal Maghavan, favourest,− 9 Sung is the song of ancient time: to Indra have ye said the prayer. 10 Indra hath tossed together mighty stores of wealth, and both the worlds, yea, and the Sun.

2 What God hath seen me? Who of all their number clearly beheld my forms in many places? 3 In many places, Agni Jatavedas, we sought thee hidden in the plants and waters. 4 I fled in fear from sacrificial worship, Varuna, lest the Gods should thus engage me. 5 Come; man is pious and would fain do worship, he waits prepared: in gloom thou, Agni, dwellest. 6 This goal mine elder brothers erst selected, as he who drives a car the way to travel. 7 We give thee life unwasting, Jatavedas, so that, employed, thou never shalt be injured. 8 Grant me the first oblations and the latter, entire, my forceful shares of holy presents, 9 Thine be the first oblations and the latter, entire, thy forceful shares of holy presents.

2 I come appointed messenger of Indra, seeking your ample stores of wealth, O Panis. 3 What is that Indra like, what is his aspect whose envoy, Sarama, from afar thou comest? 4 I know him safe from harm: but he can punish who sent me hither from afar as envoy. 5 These are the kine which, Sarama, thou seekest, flying, O Blest One, to the ends of heaven. 6 Even if your wicked bodies, O ye Panis, were arrow−proof, your words are weak for wounding; 7 Paved with the rock is this our treasure−chamber; filled full of precious things, of kine, and horses. 8 Rsis will come inspirited with Soma, Angirases unwearied, and Navagvas. 9 Even thus, O Sarama, hast thou come hither, forced by celestial might to make the journey.

2 Earth shakes and reels in terror at their onward rush, like a full ship which, quivering, lets the water in. 3 As the exalted horn of bulls for splendid might, as the Sun's eye set in the firmament's expanse, 4 Who, O ye Maruts, may attain the mighty lore of you the mighty, who may reach your manly deeds? 5 Like steeds of ruddy colour, scions of one race, as foremost champions they have battled in the van. 6 Having no eldest and no youngest in their band, no middlomost, preeminent they have waxed in might, 7 Like birds of air they flew with might in lengthened lines from heaven's high ridges to the borders of the 8 May Dyaus, the Infinite, roar for our banquet: may Dawns toil for us, glittering with moisture.

2 The Bull, the youngling with the hump, hath frolicked, the strong and never−ceasing Calf hath bellowed 3 Him who hath grasped his Parents' head, they stablished at sacrifice a wave of heavenly lustre. 4 For, Vasu thou precedest every Morning, and still hast been the Twins' illuminator. 5 Thou art the Eye and Guard of mighty Order, and Varuna when to sacrifice thou comest. 6 Thou art the Leader of the rite and region, to which with thine auspicious teams thou teadest, 7 Through his wise insight Trita in the cavern, seeking as ever the Chief Sire's intention, 8 Well−skilled to use the weapons of his Father, Aptya, urged on by Indra, fought the battle. 9 Lord of the brave, Indra cleft him in pieces who sought to gain much strength and deemed him mighty.

2 Soon as he sprang to birth that Agni was shown forth to Matarisvan in the highest firmament. 3 His flames that wax not old, beams fair to look upon of him whose face is lovely, shine with beauteous 4 Send thou with hymns that Agni to his own abode, who rules, one Sovran Lord of wealth, like Varuna, 5 He whom no force can stay, even as the Maruts' roar, like to a dart sent forth, even as the bolt from heav 6 And will not Agni find enjoyment in our praise, will not the Vasu grant our wish with gifts of wealth? 7 The kindler of the flame wins Agni as a Friend, promoter of the Law, whose face is bright with oil. 8 Keep us incessantly with guards that cease not, Agni, with guards auspicious, very mig

2 Cheered by this meath Indra, whose hand wields thunder, rent piecemeal Ahi who barred up the waters, 3 Indra, this Mighty One, the Dragon's slayer, sent forth the flood of waters to the ocean. 4 To him who worshippeth hath Indra given many and matchless gifts. He slayeth Vrtra. 5 To him who poured him gifts he gave up Surya,−Indra, the God, the Mighty, to the mortal; 6 Once to the driver of his chariot, Kutsa, he gave up greedy Surya, plague of harvest; 7 So have we brought our hymn to thee, O Indra, strengthening thee and fain ourselves for glory. 8 Thus the Grtsamadas for thee, O Hero, have wrought their hymn and task as seeking favour. 9 Now may that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, give in return a boon to him who lauds thee,

2 They who with might were manifest, and who willingly by their own knowledge told it forth, Evayamar 3 Who by the psalm they sing are heard, from lofty heaven, the strong, the brightly shining Ones, 4 He of the Mighty Stride forth strode, Evayamarut, out of the spacious dwelling−place, their home in 5 Like your tremendous roar, the rainer with light flashing, strong, speeding, hath made all tremble, 6 Unbounded is your greatness, ye of mighty power: may your bright vigour be our aid, Evayamarut; 7 So may the Rudras, mighty warriors, Evayamarut, with splendid brilliancy, like fires, be our protectors; 8 Come in a friendly spirit, come to us, O Maruts, and hear his call who praises you, Evayamarut. 9 Come to our sacrifice, ye Hnly Ones, to bless it, and, free from demons, hear our call, Evayamarut.

2 With these discomfit hosts that fight against us, and check the opponent's wrath, thyself uninjured. 3 Those who array themselves as foes to smite us, O Indra, be they kin or be they strangers,− 4 With strength of limb the hero slays the hero, when bright in arms they range them for the combat. 5 Yet no strong man hath conquered thee, no hero, no brave, no warrior trusting in his valour. 6 He is the Lord of both these armies' valour when the commanders call them to the conflict: 7 And when the people stir themselves for battle, be thou their saviour, Indra, and protector, 8 To thee for high dominion hath been for evermore, for slaughtering the Vrtras, 9 So urge our hosts together in the combats: yield up the godless bands that fight against us.

2 Waxing greatness Indra slayeth Vrtra: the Hero with his aid hath helped the singer. He gave S 4 Thou with thy greatness hast filled full, O Indra, even both the worlds with might, O thou Most Mighty. 5 A Bull begat the Bull for joy of battle, and a strong Mother brought forth him the manly. 6 The people falter not, nor suffer sorrow, who win themselves this God's terrific spirit. 7 Whene'er the elder fain would help the younger the greater cometh to the lesser's present. 8 Thy dear folk, Indra, who present oblations, are, in chief place, thy friends, O Thunder−wielder. 9 To thee the mighty hymn hath clamoured loudly, and, Maghavan, the eloquent hath besought thee. 10 Place us by food which thou hast given, O Indra, us and the wealthy patrons who command us.

1 YE Asvins, rich in treasure, Lords of splendour, having nimble hands, 2 Ye Asvins, rich in wondrous deeds, ye heroes worthy of our praise, 3 Nisatyas, wonder−workers, yours arc these libations with clipt grass: 4 O Indra marvellously bright, come, these libations long for thee, 5 Urged by the holy singer, sped by song, come, Indra, to the prayers, 6 Approach, O Indra, hasting thee, Lord of Bay Horses, to the prayers. 7 Ye Visvedevas, who protect, reward, and cherish men, approach 8 Ye Visvedevas, swift at work, come hither quickly to the draught, 9 The Visvedevas, changing shape like serpents, fearless, void of guile, 10 Wealthy in spoil, enriched with hymns, may bright Sarsavad desire, 11 Inciter of all pleasant songs, inspirer o all gracious thought, 12 Sarasvati, the mighty flood,− she with be light illuminates, She brightens every pi

2 Born from the heaven e'en in the days aforetime, wakening, sting aloud in holy synod, 3 The Mother of the Twins hath borne Twin Children: my tongue's tip raised itself and rested silent. 4 Not one is found among them, none of mortals, to blame our sires who fought to win the cattle. 5 Where as a Friend with friendly men, Navagvas, with heroes, on his knees he sought the cattle. 6 Indra found meath collected in the milch−cow, by foot and hoof, in the cow's place of pasture. 7 He took the light, discerning it from darkness: may we be far removed from all misfortune. 8 Let there be light through both the worlds for worship: may we be far from most overwhelming evil. 9 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

2 Sole among chiefs, companionless, impetuous, and peerless, he 3 Lord of swift bounty, he will win e'en with a steed of worthless sort. 4 Come to us.hither: let us pay devotions that enhance thy might, 5 For thou, O Indra, makest yet more bold the spirit of the bold 6 Worthy of song, he looketh down as a man looketh into wells. 7 In strength and wisdom all the Gods, Indra, have yielded unto thee. 8 Praised, Indra, is this might of thine, best for the service of the Gods, 9 He makes the races of mankind like synods of the Beauteous One. 10 Thy might, O Indra, at its birth, thee also, and thy mental power, 11 O Vrtra−slayer, thou and I will both combine for winning spoil. 12 Let us extol this Indra as truthful and never as untrue.

2 The strong Steers, gathering, have duly stirred themselves,and over the stream's wave the friends sent fo 3 With sanctifying gear they sit around the song: their ancient Father guards their holy work from harm. 4 Sweet−tongued, exhaustless, they have sent their voices down togetlier, in heaven's vault that pours a 5 O'er Sire and Mother they have roared in unison bright with the verse of praise, burning up riteless men, 6 Those which, as guides of song and counsellors of speed, were manifested from their ancient dwelling 7 What time the filter with a thousand streams is stretched, the thoughtful sages purify their song therein. 8 Guardian of Law, most wise, he may not be deceived: three Purifiers hath he set within his heart. 9 The thread of sacrifice spun in the cleansing sieve, on Varuna's tongue−tip, by supernatural might,−

2 Thy well−winged flashes strengthen in their manner, when the black Bull hath bellowed round about us. 3 When he comes streaming with the milk of worship, conducting by directest paths of Order 4 O Agni, thou who art the lord of wealth in kine, thou Son of Strength, 5 He, Agni, kindled, good and wise, must be exalted in our song: 6 O Agni, shining of thyself by night and when the morning breaks, 7 Adorable in all our rites, favour us, Agni, with thine.aid, 8 Bring to us ever−conquering wealth, wealth, Agni, worthy of our choice, 9 Give us, O Agni, through thy grace wealth that supporteth all our life, 10 O Gotama, desiring bliss present thy songs composed with care 11 May the man fall, O Agni, who near or afar assaileth us: 12 Keen and swift Agni, thousand−eyed, chaseth the Raksasas afar:

2 As these, like friends, have done this work for you, these prompt servants of Purumilha Soma−offerer, 3 The folk have glorified your birth from Earth and Heaven, to be extolled, ye Strong Ones, for your migh 4 The people prospers, Asuras! whom ye dearly love: ye, Righteous Ones, proclaim aloud the Holy Law. 5 On this great earth ye send your treasure down with might: unstained by dust, the crowding kine are in t 6 The flames with curling tresses serve your sacrifice, whereto ye sing the song, Mitra and Varuna. 7 Whoso with sacrifices toiling brings you gifts, and worships, sage and priest, fulfilling your desire,− 8 With sacrifices and with milk they deck you first, ye Righteous Ones, as if through stirrings of the mind 9 Rich strength of life is yours: ye, Heroes, have obtained through your surpassing powers rich far−extend

2 Gandharvi spake: may she, the Lady of the flood, amid the river's roaring leave my heart untouched. 3 Yea, even this blessed Morning, rich in store of food, splendid, with heavenly lustre, hath shone out for 4 And the fleet Falcon brought for sacrifice from afar this flowing Drop most excellent and keen of sight, 5 Still art thou kind to him who feeds thee as with grass, and, skilled in sacrifice, offers thee holy gifts. 6 Urge thou thy Parents, as a lover ' to delight: the Lovely One desires and craves it from his heart. 7 Far−famed is he, the mortal man, O Agni, thou Son of Strength, who hath obtained thy favour. 8 When, Holy Agni, the divine assembly, the sacred synod mid the Gods, is gathered, 9 Hear us, O Agni, in your common dwelling: harness thy rapid car of Amrta.

2 He whose two Bay Steeds harnessed well, swerving, pursue the Bird's tail−plumes, 3 Bereft of skill is Indra, if, like some outwearied man he fears 4 Indra with these drives round, until he meets with one to worship him: 5 Borne onward by the long−maned Steeds who stretch themselves as 'twere for food, 6 The Mighty sang with Lofty Ones: the Hero fashioned with his strength, 7 The bolt, which pierced at once the vitals of the Dasyu easy to be slain, 8 Grind off our sins: with song will we conquer the men who sing no hymns: 9 When threefold flame burns high for thee, to rest on poles of sacrifice, 10 Thy glory was the speckled cup, thy glory was the flawless scoop. 11 As hundreds, O Immortal God, have sung to thee, so hath Sumitra, yea, Durmitra praised thee here,

2 Giver of vital breath, of power and vigour, he whose commandments all the Gods acknowledge −. 3 Who by his grandeur hath become Sole Ruler of all the moving world that breathes and slumbers; 4 His, through his might, are these snow−covered mountains, and men call sea and Rasa his possession: 5 By him the heavens are strong and earth is stedfast, by him light's realm and sky−vault are supported: 6 To him, supported by his help, two armies embattled look while trembling in their spirit, 7 What time the mighty waters came, containing the universal germ, producing Agni, 8 He in his might surveyed the floods containing productive force and generating Worship. 9 Neer may he harm us who is earth's Begetter, nor he whose laws are sure, the heavens' Creator, 10 Prajapati! thou only comprehendest all these created things, and none beside thee.

2 He who filled full his belly with the Soma's juice, Maghavan, was delighted with the meath's sweet drau 3 Illustrious is the man whoever presseth out Soma for him in sunshine or in cloud and rain. 4 The Strong God doth not flee away from him whose sire, whose mother or whose brother he hath done t 5 He seeks no enterprise with five or ten to aid, nor stays with him who pours no juice though prospering 6 Exceeding strong in war he stays the chariot wheel, and, hating him who pours not, prospers him who 7 He gathers up for plunder all the niggard’s gear: excellent wealth he gives to him who offers gifts. 8 When Indra Maghavan hath marked two wealthy men fighting for beauteous cows with all their followe 9 Agni! I laud the liberal Agnivesi, Satri the type and standard of the pious.

2 The many sages utter words in unison, while into Indra's throat they pour the Soma juice, 3 He goes upon his way, unresting, to the cows, over the roaring sound which Sarya's Daughter loves. 4 Washed by the men, stone−pressed, dear on the holy grass, faithful to seasons, Lord of cattle from of ol 5 O Indra, urged by arms of men and poured in streams, Soma flows on for thee after.his Godlike kind. 6 Sages well−skilled in work, intelligent, drain out the stalk that roars, the Sage, the Everlasting One. 7 Earth's central point, sustainer of the mighty heavens, distilled into the streams, into the waters' wave, 8 Over the earthly region flow thou on thy way, helping the praiser and the pourer, thou Most Wise. 9 Hither, O Indu, unto us a hundred gifts of steeds, a thousand gifts of cattle and of gold,

2 The worlds expand to hirn who from aforetime found light to spread the law of life eternal. 3 When the sage bears his holy wisdom round him, like a car visiting all worlds, the Hero, 4 For glory born be hath come forth to glory: he giveth life and glory to the singers. 5 Stream to us food and vigour, kine and horses: give us broad lights and fill thGods with rapture. 2 As one who rows drives on his boat, he, Gold−hued, sends forth his voice, loosed on the path of Order. 3 Hastening onward like the waves of waters, our holy hymns are pressing nigh to Soma. 4 They drain the stalk, the Steer who dwells on mountains, even as a Bull who decks him on the upland. 5 Sending thy voice out as Director, loosen the Invoker's thought, O Indu, as they cleanse thee.

2 Thou wanderest far, O Indra, through the spheres of light and realms of earth, the region, thou whom m 3 More beautiful than beauty must this seem to me, when the son duly careth for his parents' line. 4 This beauteous place of meeting have I looked upon, where, like milch−cows, the kine order the marria 5 The Pious One hath reached your place before the rest: One only moves victorious with the Rudras' ban 6 He who maintains the Laws of God informed me that thou wast lying hidden in the waters. 7 The stranger asks the way of him who knows it: taught by the skilful guide he travels onward. 8 Even now he breathed: these days hath he remembered. Concealed, he sucked the bosom of his Mother. 9 O Kalasa, all these blessings will we bring them, O Kurusravana, who give rich presents.

2 Varuna cut the channels for thy forward course, O Sindhu, when thou rannest on to win the race. 3 His roar is lifted up to heaven above the earth: he puts forth endless vigour with a flash of light. 4 Like mothers to their calves, like milch kine with their milk, so, Sindhu, unto thee the roaring rivers run. 5 Favour ye this my laud, O Ganga, Yamuna, O Sutudri, Parusni and Sarasvati: 6 First with Trstama thou art eager to flow forth, with Rasa, and Susartu, and with Svetya here, 7 Flashing and whitely−gleaming in her mightiness, she moves along her ample volumes through the real 8 Rich in good steeds is Sindhu, rich in cars and robes, rich in gold, nobly−fashioned, rich in ample wealt 9 Sindhu hath yoked her car, light−rolling, drawn by steeds, and with that car shall she win booty in this

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

2 He smites the trees apart, he slays the demons: all life fears him who wields the mighty weapon. 3 Like a car−driver whipping on his horses, he makes the messengers of rain spring forward. 4 Forth burst the winds, down come the lightning−flashes: the plants shoot up, the realm of light is stream 5 Thou at whose bidding earth bows low before thee, at whose command hoofed cattle fly in terror, 6 Send down for us the rain of heaven, ye Maruts, and let the Stallion's flood descend in torrents. 7 Thunder and roar: the germ of life deposit. Fly round us on thy chariot waterladen. 8 Lift up the mighty vessel, pour down water, and let the liberated streams rush forward. 9 When thou, with thunder and with roar, Parjanya, smitest sinners down, 10 Thou hast poured down the rain−flood now withhold it. Thou hast made desert places fit for travel.