Rig Veda on Family

2 Now let us pay this homage to the Fathers, to those who passed of old and those who followed, 3 1 have attained the gracious−minded Fathers, I have gained son and progeny from Visnu. 4 Fathers who sit on sacred grass, come, help us: these offerings have we made for you; accept them. 5 May they, the Fathers, worthy of the Soma, invited to their favourite oblations. 6 Bowing your bended knees and seated southward, accept this sacrifice of ours with favour. 7 Lapped in the bosom of the purple Mornings, give riches to the man who brings oblations. 8 Our ancient Fathers who deserve the Soma, who came, most noble, to our Soma banquet,− 9 Come to us, Agni, with the gracioug Fathers who dwell in glowing light, the very Kavyas, 10 Come, Agni, come with countless ancient Fathers, dwellers in light, primeval, God−adorers, 11 Fathers whom Agni's flames have tasted, come ye nigh: ye kindly leaders, take ye each your proper pla 12 Thou, Agni Jatavedas, when entreated, didst bear the offerings which thou madest fragrant, 13 Thou, Jatavedas, knowest well the number of Fathers who are here and who are absent, 14 They who, consumed by fire or not cremated, joy in their offering in the midst of heaven,−

2 The Twain uphold, though motionless and footless, a widespread offspring having feet and moving. 3 I call for Aditi's unrivalled bounty, perfect, celestial, deathless, meet for worship. 4 May we be close to both the Worlds who suffer no pain, Parents of Gods, who aid with favour, 5 Faring together, young, with meeting limits, Twin Sisters lying in their Parents' bosom, 6 Duly I call the two wide seats, the mighty, the general Parents, with the God's protection. 7 Wide, vast, and manifold, whose bounds are distant,−these, reverent, I address at this our worship, 8 What sin we have at any time committed against the Gods, our friend, our house's chieftain, 9 May both these Friends of man, who bless, preserve me, may they attend me with their help and favour. 10 Endowed with understanding, I have uttered this truth, for all to hear, to Earth and Heaven. 11 Be this my prayer fulfilled, O Earth and Heaven, wherewith, Father and Mother, I address you.

2 Thou art our Father, Vata, yea, thou art a Brother and a friend, 3 The store of Amrta laid away yonder, O Vata, in thine home,−

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

2 Widely−capacious Pair, mighty, that never fail, the Father and the Mother keep all creatures safe: 3 Son of these Parents, he the Priest with power to cleanse, Sage, sanctifies the worlds with his surpassing 4 Among the skilful Gods most skilled is he, who made the two world−halves which bring prosperity to al 5 Extolled in song, O Heaven and Earth, bestow on us, ye mighty Pair, great glory and high lordly sway,

2 With invocations, on the gracious Father's mind, and on the Mother's great inherent power I muse. 3 These Sons of yours well skilled in work, of wondrous power, brought forth to life the two great Mother 4 They with surpassing skill, most wise, have measured out the Twins united in their birth and in their ho 5 This is to−day the goodliest gift of Savitar: this thought we have when now the God is furthering us.

1 SOMA and Pusan, Parents of all riches, Parents of earth and Parents of high heaven, 2 At birth of these two Gods all Gods are joyful: they have caused darkness, which we hate, to vanish. 3 Soma and Pusan, urge your chariot hither, the seven−wheeIed car that measures out the region, 4 One in the heaven on high hath made his dwelling, on earth and in the firmament the other. 5 One of you Twain is Parent of all creatures, the otherjourneys onward all−beholding. 6 May Pusan stir our thought, the all−impelling, may Soma Lord of riches grant us riches.

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

2 Not interrupting heavenly ordinances, although she minisheth human generations. 3 There in the eastern region she, Heaven's Daughter, arrayed in garments all of light, appeareth. 4 Near is she seen, as 'twere the Bright One's bosom: she showeth sweet things like a new song−singer. 5 There in the east half of the watery region the Mother of the Cows hath shown her ensign. 6 She, verily, exceeding vast to look on debarreth from her light nor kin nor stranger. 7 She seeketh men, as she who hath no brother, mounting her car, as 'twere to gather riches. 8 The Sister quitteth, for the elder Sister, her place, and having looked on her departeth. 9 To all these Sisters who ere now have vanished a later one each day in course succeedeth. 10 Rouse up, O Wealthy One, the liberal givers; let niggard traffickers sleep on unwakened: 11 This young Maid from the east hath shone upon us; she harnesseth her team of bright red oxen. 12 As the birds fly forth from their resting places, so men with store of food rise at thy dawning. 13 Praised through my prayer be ye who should be lauded. Ye have increased our wealth, ye Dawns who

2 When thou hast made him ready, Jatavedas, then do thou give him over to the Fathers. 3 The Sun receive thine eye, tne Wind thy spirit; go, as thy merit is, to earth or heaven. 4 Thy portion is the goat: with heat consume him: let thy fierce flame, thy glowing splendour, burn him 5 Again, O Agni, to the Fathers send him who, offered in thee, goes with our oblations. 6 What wound soe'er the dark bird hath inflicted, the emmet, or the serpent, or the jackal, 7 Shield thee with flesh against the flames of Agni, encompass thee about with fat and marrow, 8 Forbear, O Agni, to upset this ladle: the Gods and they who merit Soma love it. 9 1 send afar flesh eating Agni, bearing off stains may he depart to Yama's subjects. 10 I choose as God for Father−worship Agni, flesh−eater, who hath past within your dwelling, 11 With offerings meet let Agni bring the Fathers who support the Law. 12 Right gladly would we set thee down, right gladly make thee burn and glow. 13 Cool, Agni, and again refresh the spot which thou hast scorched and burnt. 14 O full of coolness, thou cool Plant, full of fresh moisture, freshening Herb,

2 Yama first found for us a place to dwell in: this pasture never can be taken from 3 Mitali prospers there with Kavyas, Yama with Angiras' sons, Brhaspati with Rkvans: 4 Come, seat thee on this bed of grass, O Yama, in company with Angirases and Fathers. 5 Come, Yama, with the Angirases the Holy, rejoice thee here with children of Virupa. 6 Our Fathers are Angirases, Navagvas, Atharvans, Bhrgus who deserve the Soma. 7 Go forth, go forth upon the ancient pathways whereon our sires of old have gone before us. 8 Meet Yama, meet the Fathers, meet the merit of free or ordered acts, in highest heaven. 9 Go hence, depart ye, fly in all directions: this place for him the Fathers have provided. 10 Run and outspeed the two dogs, Sarama's offspring, brindled, four−eyed, upon thy happy pathway. 11 And those two dogs of thine, Yama, the watchers, four−eyed, who look on men and guard the pathway 12 Dark−hued, insatiate, with distended nostrils, Yama's two envoys roam among the People; 13 To Yama pour the Soma, bring to Yama consecrated gifts: 14 Offer to Yama holy gifts enriched with butter, and draw near: 15 Offer to Yama, to the King, oblation very rich in meath: 16 Into the six Expanses flies the Great One in Trkadru

2 Unite him bringing household wealth, even as a calf, with mother kine, 3 Purify him who gives us power, that he, most Blessed One, may be 4 Voices have sung aloud to thee as finderout of wealth for us: 5 Thou, Indu, art the food of Gods, O Sovran of all gladdening drinks: 6 Drive utterly away from us each demon, each voracious fiend,

2 With Bow let us win kine, with Bow the battle, with Bow be victors in our hot encounters. 3 Close to his car, as fain to speak, She presses, holding her well−loved Friend in her embraces. 4 These, meeting like a woman and her lover, bear, mother−like, their child upon their bosom. 5 With many a son, father of many daughters, He clangs and clashes as he goes to battle. 6 Upstanding in the Car the skilful Charioteer guides his strong Horses on whithersoe'er he will. 7 Horses whose hoofs rain dust are neighing loudly, yoked to the Chariots, showing forth their vigour, 8 Car−bearer is the name of his oblation, whercon are laid his Weapons and his Armour. 9 In sweet association lived the fathers who gave us life, profound and strong in trouble, 10 The Brahmans, and the Fathers meet for Soma−draughts, and, graciously inclined, unequalled Heaven 11 Her tooth a deer, dressed in an eagle's feathers, bound with cow−hide, launched forth, She flieth onwar 12 Avoid us thou whose flight is straight, and let our bodies be as stone. 13 He lays his blows upon their backs, he deals his blows upon their thighs. 14 It compasses the arm with serpent windings, fending away the friction of the bowstring: 15 Now to the Shaft with venom smeared, tipped with deer−horn, with iron mouth, 16 Loosed from the Bowstring fly away, thou Arrow, sharpened by our prayer. 17 There where the flights of Arrows fall like boys whose locks are yet unshorn. 18 Thy vital parts I cover with thine Armour: with immortality King Soma clothe thee. 19 Whoso would kill us, whether he be a strange foe or one of us,

2 May the auspicious favour of the Gods be ours, on us descend the bounty of the righteous Gods. 3 We call them hither with a hymn of olden time, Bhaga, the friendly Daksa, Mitra, Aditi, 4 May the Wind waft to us that pleasant medicine, may Earth our Mother give it, and our Father Heaven, 5 Him we invoke for aid who reigns supreme, the Lord of all that stands or moves, inspirer of the soul, 6 Illustrious far and wide, may Indra prosper us: may Pusan prosper us, the Master of all wealth. 7 The Maruts, Sons of Prani, borne by spotted steeds, moving in glory, oft visiting holy rites, 8 Gods, may we with our ears listen to what is good, and with our eyes see what is good, ye Holy Ones. 9 A hundred autumns stand before us, O ye Gods, within whose space ye bring our bodies to decay; 10 Aditi is the heaven, Aditi is mid−air, Aditi is the Mother and the Sire and Son.

2 Give us a portion of the sap, the most auspicious that ye have, 3 To you we gladly come for him to whose abode ye send us on; 4 The Waters. be to us for drink, Goddesses for our aid and bliss: 5 1 beg the Floods to give us balm, these Queens who rule o'er precious things, 6 Within the Waters−Soma thus hath told me−dwell all balms that heal, 7 O Waters, teem with medicine to keep my body safe from harm, 8 Whatever sin is found in me, whatever evil I have wrought, 9 The Waters I this day have sought, and to their moisture have we come: 2 Thy friend loves not the friendship which considers her who is near in kindred as stranger. 3 Yea, this the Immortals seek of thee with longing, progeny of the sole existing mortal. 4 Shall we do now what we ne'er did aforetime? we who spake righteously now talk impurely? 5 Even in the womb God Tvastar, Vivifier, shaping all forms, Creator, made us consorts. 6 Who knows that earliest day whereof thou speakest? Who hatb beheld it? Who can here declare it? 7 I, Yami, am possessed by love of Yama, that I may rest on the same couch beside him. 8 They stand not still, they never close their eyelids, those sentinels of Gods who wander round us. 9 May Surya's eye with days and nights endow him, and ever may his light spread out before him. 10 Sure there will come succeeding times when brothers and sisters will do acts unmeet for kinsfolk. 11 Is he a brother when no lord is left her? Is she a sister when Destruction cometh? 12 I will not fold mine arms about thy body: they call it sin when one comes near his sister.

2 Aryaman art thou as regardeth maidens mysterious, is thy name, O Self−sustainer. 3 The Maruts deck their beauty for thy glory, yea, Rudra! for thy birth fair, brightly−coloured. 4 Gods through thy glory, God who art so lovely! granting abundant gifts gained life immortal. 5 There is no priest more skilled than thou in worship; none Self−sustainer pass thee in wisdom. 6 Aided by thee, O Agni may we conquer through our oblation, fain for wealth, awakened: 7 He shall bring evil on the evil−plottcr whoever turns against us sin and outrage. 8 At this dawn's flushing, God! our ancient fathers served thee with offerings, making thee their envoy, 9 Save, thou who knowest, draw thy father near thee, who counts as thine own son, O Child of Power. 10 Adoring thee he gives thee many a title, when thou, Good Lord! acceptest this as Father. 11 Most Youthful Agni, verily thou bearest thy praiser safely over all his troubles. 12 To thee these eulogies have been directed: or to the Vasu hath this sin been spoken.

2 Men decked with gold adorn his golden tendril, incessantly with steed−impelling homage. 3 O God, for service of the Gods flow onward, for food sublime, as Indra's drink, O Soma. 4 Flow for prosperity and constant Vigour, flow on for happiness and high perfection. 5 Father of holy hymns, Soma flows onward the Father of the earth, Father of heaven: 6 Brahman of Gods, the Leader of the poets, Rsi of sages, Bull of savage creatures, 7 He, Soma Pavamana, like a river, hath stirred the wave of voice, our songs and praises. 8 As Gladdener, Warrior never harmed in battle, with thousand genial streams, pour strength and vigour. 9 Dear, grateful to the Gods, on to the beaker moves Soma, sweet to Indra, to delight him. 10 Born in old time as finder−out of treasures, drained with the stone, decking himself in waters, 11 For our sage fathers, Soma Pavamana, of old performed, by thee, their sacred duties. 12 As thou didst flow for Manu Life−bestowing, Foe−queller, Comforter, rich in oblations, 13 Flow onward, Soma, rich in sweets and holy,. enrobed in waters on the fleecy summit. 14 Pour, hundred−streamed, winner of thousands, mighty at the Gods' banquet, Pour the rain of heaven, 15 Purified with our holy hymns, this Soma o'ertakes malignities like some strong charger, 16 Cleansed by the pressers, armed with noble weapons, stream to us the fair secret name thou bearest. 17 They deck him at his birth, the lovely Infant, the Maruts with their troop adorn the Car−horse. 18 Light−winner, Rsi−mindcd, Rsi−maker, hymned in a thousand hymns, Leader of sages, 19 Hawk seated in the bowls, Bird wide−extended, the Banner seeking kine and wielding weapons, 20 Like a fair youth who decorates his body, a courser rushing to the gain of riches, 21 Flow on with might as Pavamana, Indu flow loudly roaring through the fleecy filter. 22 His streams have been effused in all their fulness, and he hath entered, balmed with milk, the goblets.

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

1 ONE−MINDED, wise, they tracked thee like a thief lurking in dark cave with a stolen cow: 2 The Gods approached the ways of holy Law; there was a gathering vast as heaven itself. 3 Like grateful food, like some wide dwelling place, like a fruit−bearing hill, a wholesome stream. 4 Kin as a brother to his sister floods, he cats the woods as a King eats the rich. 5 Like a swan sitting in the floods he pants wisest in mind mid men he wakes at morn.

2 Ensign of sacrifice, the earliest Household−Priest, the. men have kindled Agni in his threefold seat, 3 Pure, unadorned, from thy two Mothers art thou born: thou camest fromVivasvan as a charming Sage. 4 May Agni graciously come to our sacrifice. The men bear Agni here and there in every house. 5 For thee, O Agni, is this sweetest prayer of mine: dear to thy spirit be this product of my thought. 6 O Agni, the Angirases discovered thee what time thou layest hidden, fleeing back from wood to wood.

2 She before all the living world hath wakened, the Lofty One who wins and gathers treasure. 3 If, Dawn, thou Goddess nobly born, thou dealest fortune this day to all the race of mortals, 4 Showing her wonted form each day that passeth, spreading the light she visiteth each dwelling. 5 Sister of Varuna, sister of Bhaga, first among all sing forth, O joyous Morning. 6 Let our glad hymns and holy thoughts rise upward, for the flames brightly burning have ascended. 7 The one departeth and the other cometh: unlike in hue day's, halves march on successive. 8 The same in form to−day, the same tomorrow, they still keep Varuna's eternal statute. 9 She who hath knowledge Of the first day's nature is born refulgent white from out the darkness. 10 In pride of beauty like a maid thou goest, O Goddess, to the God who longs to win thee, 11 Fair as a bride embellished by her mother thou showest forth thy form that all may see it. 12 Rich in kine, horses, and all goodly treasures, in constant operation with the sunbeams, 13 Obedient to the rein of Law Eternal give us each thought that more and more shall bless us.

2 When, O bright Son of Sarama, thou showest, tawny−hued! thy teeth, 3 Sarama's Son, retrace thy way: bark at the robber and the thief. 4 Be on thy guard against the boar, and let the boar beware of thee. 5 Sleep mother, let the father sleep, sleep dog and master of the house. 6 The man who sits, the man who walks, and whosoever looks on us, 7 The Bull who hath a thousand horns, who rises up from out the sea,− 8 The women sleeping in the court, lying without, or stretched on beds,

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 From mortal men they hid the Immortal Lady, made one like her and gave her to Vivasvan. 3 Guard of the world, whose cattle ne'er are injured, may Pusan bear thee hence, for he hath knowledge. 4 May Ayu, giver of all life, protect thee, and bear thee forward on the distant pathway. 5 Pusan knows all these realms: may he conduct us by ways that are most free from fear and danger. 6 Pusan was born to move on distant pathways, on the road far from earth and far from heaven. 7 The pious call Sarasvati, they worship Sarasvati while sacrifice proceedeth. 8 Sarasvati, who camest with the Fathers, with them rejoicing thee in our oblations, 9 Thou, called on as Sarasvati by Fathers who come right forward to our solemn service, 10 The Mother Floods shall make us bright and shining, cleansers of holy oil, with oil shall cleanse us: 11 Through days of earliest date the Drop descended on this place and on that which was before it. 12 The Drop that falls, thy stalk which arms have shaken, which from the bosom of the press hath fallen, 13 That fallen Drop of thine, the stalk which from the ladle fell away, 14 The plants of earth are rich in milk, and rich in milk is this my speech;

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

19 Agni, the Bharata, hath been sought, the Vrtra−slayer, marked of all, 20 For he gave riches that surpass in greatness all the things of earth, 21 Thou, Agni, as in days of old, with recent glory, gathered light, 22 Bring to your Agni, O my friends, boldly your laud and sacrifice: 23 For as sagacious Herald he hath sat through every age of man, 24 Bring those Two Kings whose ways are pure, Adityas, and the Marut host, 25 For strong and active mortal man, excellent, Agni, is the look Of thee Immortal, Son of Strength 26 Rich through his wisdom, noblest be the giver serving thee to−day: 27 These, Agni, these are helped by thee, who strong and active all their lives, 28 May Agni with his pointed blaze cast down each fierce devouring fiend 29 O active Jatavedas, bring riches with store of hero sons: 30 Keep us, O Jatavedas, from the troubling of the man of sin: 31 Whatever sinner, Agni, brings oblations to procure our death, 32 Drive from us with thy tongue, O God, the man who doeth evil deeds, 33 Give shelter reaching far and wide to Bharadvaja, conquering Lord! 34 May Agni slay the Vrtras,−fain for riches, through the lord of song, 35 His Father's Father, shining in his Mother's everlasting side, 36 O active Jatavedas, bring devotion that wins progeny, Agni, that it may shine to heaven.

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

2 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.

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

2 Ye, Mothers, have a hundred homes, yea, and a thousand are your growths. 3 Be glad and joyful in the Plants, both blossoming and bearing fruit, 4 Plants, by this name I speak to you, Mothers, to you the Goddesses: 5 The Holy Fig tree is your home, your mansion is the Parna tree: 6 He who hath store of Herbs at hand like Kings amid a crowd of men,− 7 Herbs rich in Soma, rich in steeds, in nourishments, in strengthening power,− 8 The healing virtues of the Plants stream forth like cattle from the stall,− 9 Reliever is your mother's name, and hence Restorers are ye called. 10 Over all fences have they passed, as steals a thief into the fold. 11 When, bringing back the vanished strength, I hold these herbs within my hand, 12 He through whose frame, O Plants, ye creep member by member, joint by joint,− 13 Fly, Spirit of Disease, begone, with the blue jay and kingfisher. 14 Help every one the other, lend assistance each of you to each, 15 Let fruitful Plants, and fruitless, those that blossom, and the blossomless, 16 Release me from the curse's plague and woe that comes from Varuna; 17 What time, descending from the sky, the Plants flew earthward, thus they spake: 18 Of all the many Plants whose King is, Soma, Plants of hundred forms, 19 O all ye various Herbs whose King is Soma, that o'erspread the earth, 20 Unharmed be he who digs you up, unharmed the man for whom I dig: 21 All Plants that hear this speech, and those that have departed far away,

1 O WORTHY of oblation, Lord of prospering powers, assume thy robes, 2 Sit ever to be chosen, as our Priest., most youthful, through our hymns, 3 For here a Father for his son, Kinsman for kinsman worshippeth, 4 Fiere let the foe−destroyers sit, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 5 O ancient Herald, be thou glad in this our rite and fellowship: 6 Whate'er in this perpetual course we sacrifice to God and God, 7 May he be our dear household Lord, Priest, pleasant and, choice−worthy may 8 The Gods, adored with brilliant fires. have granted precious wealth to us 9 And, O Immortal One, so may the eulogies of mortal men 10 With all thy fires, O Agni, find pleasure in this our sacrifice,

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

2 He who with purifying stream, effused, comes flowing hitherward, 3 The men with all−pervading song send unassailable Soma forth, 4 The Somas, very rich in sweets, for which the sieve is destined, flow, 5 Indu flows on for Indra's sake: thus have the Deities declared. 6 Inciter of the voice of song, with thousand streams the ocean flows, 7 As Pusan, Fortune, Bhaga, comes this Soma while they make him pure. 8 The dear cows lowed in joyful mood together to the gladdening drink. 9 O Pavamana, bring the juice, the mightiest, worthy to be famed, 10 For us the Soma juices flow, the drops best furtherers of our weal, 11 Effused by means of pressing−stones, upon the ox−hide visible, 12 Tlese Soma juices, skilled in song, purified, blent with milk and curd, 13 Let not the power of men restrain the voice of the outpouring juice: 14 The Friend hath wrapped him in his robe, as in his parents arms, a son. 15 That Hero who produces strength, he who hath propped both worlds apart, 16 Soma upon the ox's skin through the sheep's wool flows purified. 2 The place, near the two pressing−stones of Trita, hath he occupied, 3 Urge to three courses, on the heights of Trita, riches in a stream. 4 Even at his birth the Mothers Seven taught him, for glory, like a sage, 5 Under his sway, of one accord, are all the guileless Deities: 6 The Babe whom they who strengthen Law have generated fair to see, 7 To him, united, of themselves, come the young Parents of the rite, 8 With wisdom and with radiant eyes unbar to us the stall of heaven,

2 We pray for wealth to thee most skilled of charioteers, with braided hair, 3 Bright God whose steeds are goats, thou art a stream of wealth, a treasure−heap, 4 Pusan, who driveth goats for steeds, the strong and Mighty, who is called 5 His Mother's suitor I address. May he who loves his Sister hear, 6 May the sure−footed goats come nigh, conveying Pusan on his car, 2 And he is best of charioteers. Indra, the hero's Lord, allied 3 And there the best of charioteers hath guided through the speckled cloud 4 Whate'er we speak this day to thee, Wise, Wondrous God whom many praise, 5 Lead on this company of ours, that longs for kine, to win the spoil: 6 Prosperity we crave from thee, afar from sin and near to wealth,

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.

27 Happy be thou and prosper witlh thy children here: be vigilant to rule thy household in this home. 28 Her hue is blue and red: the fienod who clingeth close is driven off. 29 Give thou the woollen robe away: deal treasure to the Brahman priests. 30 Unlovely is his body when it glistens with this wicked fiend, 31 Consumptions, from her people, which follow the bride's resplendent train,− 32 Let not the highway thieves who lie in ambush find the wedded pair. 33 Signs of good fortune mark the bride come all of you and look at her. 34 Pungent is this, and bitter this, filled, as it were, with arrow−barbs, Empoisoned and.not fit for use. 35 The fringe, the cloth that decks her head, and then the triply parted robe,− 36 I take thy hand in mine for happy fortune that thou mayst reach old age with me thy husband. 37 O Pusan, send her on as most auspicious, her who shall be the sharer of my pleasures; 38 For thee, with bridal train, they, first, escorted Surya to her home. 39 Agni hath given the bride again with splendour and with ample life. 40 Soma obtained her first of all; next the Gandharva was her lord. 41 Soma to the Gandharva, and to Agni the Gandharva gave: 42 Be ye not parted; dwell ye here reach the full time of human life. 43 So may Prajapati bring children forth to us; may Aryaman adorn us till old age come nigh. 44 Not evil−eyed, no slayer of thy husband, bring weal to cattle, radiant, gentlehearted; 45 O Bounteous Indra, make this bride blest in her sons and fortunate. 46 Over thy husband's father and thy husband's mother bear full sway. 47 So may the Universal Gods, so may the Waters join our hearts.

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

2 The Sage who knows these Gods' three ranks and orders, and all their generations near and distant, 3 I praise you Guards of mighty Law eternal, Aditi, Mitra, Varuna, the noble, 4 Lords of the brave, infallible, foe−destroyers, great Kings, bestowers of fair homes to dwell in, 5 O Heaven our Father, Earth our guileless Mother, O Brother Agni, and ye Vasus, bless us. 6 Give us not up to any evil creature, as spoil to wolf or she−wolf, O ye Holy. 7 Let us not suffer for the sin of others, nor do the deed which ye, O Vasus, punish. 8 Mighty is homage: I adopt and use it. Homage hath held in place the earth and heaven. 9 You Furtherers of Law, pure in your spirit, infallible, dwellers in the home of Order, 10 For these are they who shine with noblest splendour; through all our troubles these conduct us safely− 11 May they, Earth, Aditi, Indra, Bhaga, Pusan increase our laud, increase the Fivefold people. 12 Come now, O Gods, to your celestial station: the Bharadvajas' priest entreats your favour. 13 Agni, drive thou the wicked foe, the evil−hearted thief away, 14 Soma, these pressing−stones have called aloud to win thee for our Friend. 15 Ye, O most bountiful, are they who, led by Indra, seek the sky. 16 Now have we entered on the road that leads to bliss, without a foe, 2 Or he who holds us in contempt, O Maruts, or seeks to blame the prayer that we are making, 3 Why then, O Soma, do they call thee keeper of prayer? Why then our guardian from reproaches? 4 May Mornings as they spring to life, protect me, and may the Rivers as they swell preserve me. 5 Through all our days may we be healthy. minded, and look upon the Sun when he arises.

2 As such, O Agni, bring with favour to the Gods thy Brother Varuna who loveth sacrifice, 3 Do thou, O Friend, turn hither him who is our Friend, swift as a wheel, like two car−steeds in rapid cour 4 Do thou who knowest Varuna, O Agni, put far away from us the God's displeasure. 5 Be thou, O Agni, nearest us with succour, our closest Friend while now this Morn is breaking. 6 Excellent is the glance, of brightest splendour, which the auspicious God bestows on mortals− 7 Three are those births, the true, the most exalted, eagerly longed−for, of the God, of Agni. 8 This envoy joyeth in all seats of worship, borne on his golden car, sweet−tongued Invoker: 9 Allied by worship, let him give man knowledge: by an extended cord they lead him onward. 10 Let Agni −for he knows the way− conduct us to all that he enjoys of God−sent riches, 11 In houses first he sprang into existence, at great heaven's base, and in this region's bosom; 12 Wondrously first he rose aloft, defiant, in the Bull's lair, the homeof holy Order, 13 Here did our human fathers take their places, fain to fulfil the sacred Law of worship. 14 Splendid were they when they had rent the mountain: others, around, shall tell forth this their exploit. 15 Eager, with thought intent upon the booty, the men with their celestial speech threw open, 16 The Milch−cow's earliest name they comprehended: they found the Mother's thrice−seven noblest title 17 The turbid darkness fled, the heaven was sp, endid! up rose the bright beam of celestial Morning. 18 Then, afterwards they looked around, awakened, when first they held that Heaven allotted treasure. 19 I will call hither brightly−beaming Agni, the Herald, all−supporting, best at worship. 20 The freest God of all who should be worshipped, the guest who is received in all men's houses,

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 To Asamati, spring of gifts, lord of the brave, a radiant car, 3 Who, when the spear hath armed his hand, or even weaponless o'erthrows 4 Him in whose service flourishes Iksvaku, rich and dazzling−bright. 5 Indra, support the princely power of Rathaprosthas matched by none, 6 Thou for Agastya's sister's sons yokest thy pair of ruddy steeds. 7 This is the mother, this the sire, this one hath come to be thy life. 8 As with the leather thong they bind the chariot yoke to hold it fast, 9 Even as this earth, the mighty earth, holds fast the monarchs of the wood. 10 Subandlin's spirit I have brought from Yarna, from Vivasvan's Son, 11 The wind blows downward from on high, downward the Sun−God sends his heat, 12 Felicitous is this mine hand, yet more felicitous is this.

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 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 Wonderful, rich in nourishment, he dwells in food; next, in the seven auspicious Mothers is his home. 3 What time from out the deep, from the Steer's wondrous form, the Chiefs who had the power produced 4 When from the Highest Father he is brought to us, amid the plants he rises hungry, wondrously. 5 Then also entered he the Mothers, and in them pure and uninjured he increased in magnitude. 6 Therefore they choose him Herald at the morning rites, pressing to him as unto Bhaga, pouring gifts, 7 What time the Holy One, wind−urged, hath risen up, serpent−like winding through the dry grass 8 Like a swift chariot made by men who know their art, he with his red limbs lifts himself aloft to heaven. 9 By thee, O Agni, Varuna who guards the Law, Mitra and Aryaman, the Bounteous, are made strong; 10 Agni, to him who toils and pours libations, thou, Most Youthful! sendest wealth and all the host of Go 11 Vouchsafe us riches turned to worthy ends, good luck abiding in the house, and strong capacity, 12 May he, the Priest resplendent, joyful, hear us, he with the radiant car and rapid horses. 13 With hymns of might hath Agni now been lauded, advanced to height of universal kingship. 2 Thou dealest forth, Tanunapat, sweet sacrifice enriched with oil, 3 He wondrous, sanctifying, bright, sprinkles the sacrifice with mead, 4 Agni, besought, bring hitherward Indra the Friend, the Wonderful, 5 The ladle−holders strew trimmed grass at this well−ordered sacrifice; 6 Thrown open be the Doors Divine, unfailing, that assist the rite, 7 May Night and Morning, hymned with lauds, united, fair to look upon, 8 May the two Priests Divine, the sage, the sweet−voiced lovers of the hymn, 9 Let Hotri pure, set amang Gods, amid the Maruts Bhirati, Ila, Sarasvati, Mahi, rest on the grass, adorabl 10 May Tvastar send us genial dew abundant, wondrous, rich in gifts, 11 Vanaspati, give forth, thyself, and call the Gods to sacrifice.

2 Ye, O Nasatyas, mount that early−harnessed Car, that travels early, laden with its freight of balm, 3 If to the deft Adhvaryu with the meath in hand, or to the Kindler firm in strength, the household friend,

20 Two Birds with fair wings, knit with bonds of friendship, in the same sheltering tree have found a refu 21 Where those fine Birds hymn ceaselessly their portion of life eternal, and the sacred synods, 22 The, tree whereon the fine Birds eat the sweetness, where they all rest and procreate their offspring,− 23 How on the Gayatri. the Gayatri was based, how from the Tristup they fashioned the Tristup forth, 24 With Gayatri he measures out the praise−song, Sama with praise−song, triplet with the Tristup. 25 With Jagati the flood in heaven he stablished, and saw the Sun in the Rathantara Saman. 26 I invocate the milch−cow good for milking so that the milker, deft of hand, may drain her. 27 She, lady of all treasure, is come hither yearning in spirit for her calf and lowing. 28 The cow hath lowed after her blinking youngling; she licks his forehead, as she lows, to form it. 29 He also snorts, by whom encompassed round the Cow laws as she clings unto the shedder of the rain. 30 That which hath breath and speed and life and motion lies firmly stablished in the midst of houses. 31 I saw the Herdsman, him who never stumbles, approaching by his pathways and departing. 32 He who hath made him cloth not comprehend him: from him who saw him surely is he hidden. 33 Dyaus is my Father, my begetter: kinship is here. This great earth is my kin and Mother. 35 This altar is the earth's extremest limit; this sacrifice of ours is the world's centre. 36 Seven germs unripened yet are heaven's prolific, seed: their functions they maintain by Visnu's ordinan 37 What thing I truly am I know not clearly: mysterious, fettered in my mind I wander. 38 Back, forward goes he, grasped by strength inherent, the Immortal born the brother of the mortal 39 Upon what syllable of holy praise−song, as twere their highest heaven, the Gods repose them,− 40 Forunate mayst thou be with goodly pasture, and may we also be exceeding wealthy.

2 The Fathers, who drave forth the wealth in cattle, have in the year's courses cleft Vala by Eternal Law: 3 Ye raised the Sun to heaven by everlasting Law, and spread broad earth, the Mother, out on every side. 4 This kinsman in your dwellingplace speaks pleasant words: give car to this, ye Rsis, children of the God 5 Distinguished by their varied form, these Rsis have been deeply moved. 6 Distinguished by their varied form, they sprang from Agni, from the sky. 7 With Indra for associate the priests have cleared the stable full of steeds and kine, 8 May this man's sons be multiplied; like springing corn may Manu grow, 9 No one attains to him, as though a man would grasp the heights of heaven. 10 Yadu and Turva, too, have given two Dasas, well−disposed, to serve, 11 Blest be the hamlet's chief, most liberal Manu, and may his bounty rival that of Surya.

2 Longing for lovely Amrta, by his wisdom he divided, each apart from other, earth and heaven. 3 May those his brilliant rays he ever free from death, inviolate, for both classes of created things,− 4 He, while he is adorned by the ten skilful ones, that he too in the Midmost Mothers may create, 5 He, while he is adorned to stream forth mighty strength, rejoices in his place between the earth and heav 6 Beholding, as it were, Two Mother Cows, the Steer goes roaring on his way even as the Maruts roar. 7 The fearful Bull is bellowing with violent might, far−sighted, sharpening his yellowcoloured horns. 8 Bright, making pure his body free from spot and stain, on the sheep's back the Golden−coloured hath 9 Flow on for the God's banquet, Soma, as a Steer, and enter Indra's heart, the Soma's reservoir. 10 Urged like a car−steed flow to strength, O Soma: Indu, flow onward to the throat of Indra.

2 Surya hath spread his light as splendour: hither came the Cows' Mother, conscious, from the stable, 3 This laud hath won the burden of the mountain. To aid the ancient birth of mighty waters 4 With hymns and God−loved words will I invoke you, Indra and Agni, to obtain your favour, 5 This day approach us: may our thoughts be holy, far from us let us cast away misfortune. 6 Come, let us carry out, O friends, the purpose wherewith the Mother threw the Cow's stall open, 7 Here, urged by hands, loudly hath rung the press−stone wherewith Navagvas through ten months sang 8 When at the dawning of this mighty Goddess, Angirases all sang forth with the cattle,− 9 Borne by his Coursers Seven may Surya visit the field that spreadeth wide for his long journey. 10 Surya hath mounted to the shining ocean when he hath yoked his fair−backed Tawny Horses. 11 I lay upon the Floods your hymn, lightwinning, wherewith Navagvas their ten months completed.

15 Thinking of these now let him come, as with the escort of the Gods, 16 Princes, who, when I asked their kin, named Prsni as their Mother−cow, 17 The mighty ones, the seven times seven, have singly given me hundred gifts.

2 Bearing thy body, Vajin, may thy body afford us blessing and thyself protection. 3 Strong Steed art thou: go to the yearning Maidens with vigour, happily go to heaven and praises: 4 Part of their grandeur have the Fathers also gained: the Gods have seated mental power in them as Gods 5 They strode through all the region with victorious might, establishing the old immeasurable laws. 6 In two ways have the sons established in his place the Asura who finds the light, by the third act, 7 As in a ship through billows, so through regions of air, with blessings, through toils and troubles 2 May we obtain, completely wrought, the thread spun out to reach the Gods, 3 We call the spirit hither with the Soma of our parted sires, 4 Thy spirit come to thee again for wisdom, energy, and lire, 5 O Fathers, may the Heavenly Folk give us our spirit once again, 6 O Soma with the spirit still within us, blest with progeny,

2 What time the Rbus had with care and marvels done proper service to assist their Parents, 3 May they who made their Parents, who were lying like posts that moulder, young again for ever,− 4 As for a year the Rbhus kept the Milch−cow, throughout a year fashioned and formed her body, 5 Two beakers let us make,− thus said the eldest. Lct us make three,− this was the younger's sentence. 6 The men spake truth and even so they acted: this Godlike way of theirs the Rbhus followed. 7 When for twelve days the Rbhus joyed reposing as guests of him who never may be hidden, 8 May they who formed the swift car, bearing Heroes, and the Cow omniform and all−impelling, 9 So in their work the Gods had satisfaction, pondering it with thought and mental insight. 10 They whol made glad with sacrifice and praises, wrought the two Bays, his docile Steeds, for Indra,− 11 This day have they set gladdening drink before you. Not without toil are Gods inclined to friendship.

2 Be gracious unto us, O Rudra, bring us joy: thee, Lord of Heroes, thee with reverence will we serve. 3 By worship of the Gods may we, O Bounteous One, O Rudra, gain thy grace, Ruler of valiant men. 4 Hither we call for aid the wise, the wanderer, impetuous Rudra, perfecter of sacri fice. 5 Him with the braided hair we call with reverence down, the wild−boar of the sky, the red, the dazzling 6 To him the Maruts' Father is this hymn addressed, to strengthen Rudra's might, a song more sweet than 7 O Rudra, harm not either great or small of us, harm not the growing boy, harm not the full−grown man. 8 Harm us not, Rudra, in our seed and progeny, harm us not in the living, nor in cows or steeds, 9 Even as a herdsman I have brought thee hymns of praise: O Father of the Maruts, give us happiness, 10 Far be thy dart that killeth men or cattle: thy bliss be with us, O thou Lord of Heroes. Be graci

2 Come with kind thoughts, most liberal, rousing the warrior's hymn of praise, with bounteous ones, 3 As nourishers we tie the thread, and, liberal with our bounty, offer sacrifice. 4 Dawn drives away her Sister's gloom, and, through her excellence, makes her retrace her path.

2 Having o'ercome the glimmering Black with beauty, and bringing forth the dame the Great Sire's Daugh 3 Attendant on the Blessed Dame the Blessed hath come: the Lover followeth his Sister. 4 His goings−forth kindle as 'twere high voices the goings of the auspicious Friend of Agni.

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

2 Worship, thou hero, chase the arrogant afar: put on auspicious courage for the fight with foes. 3 He with his folk, his house, his family, his sons, gains booty for himself, and, with the heroes, 4 Whoso hath honoured him with offerings rich in oil, him Brahmanaspati leads forward on his way,

4 Two arms−the Soma's dexterous immo. lators−and the ten fingers set and fix the press−stone. 5 The Soma hath been pressed for thee, its lover, to give thee power and might and high enjoyment. 6 Bring by God−traversed paths, accordant, Agni, the great Aramati, Celestial Lady, 7 As on his father's lap the son, the darling, so on the fire is set the sacred caldron, 8 Hither, as herald to invite the Asvins, come the great lofty song, most sweet and pleasant! 9 I have declared this speech of adoration to mightiest Pusan and victorious Vayu, 10 Invoked by us bring hither, jatavedas the Maruts all under their names and figures. 11 From high heaven may Sarasvati the Holy visit our sacrifice, and from the mountain. 12 Set in his seat the God whose back is dusky, Brhaspati the lofty, the Disposer. 13 May the Sustainer, high in heaven, come hither, the Bounteous One, invoked, with all his favours, 14 The tuneful eloquent priests of him who liveth have sought the Mother's bright and loftiest station. 15 Agni, great vital power is thine, the mighty: pairs waxing old in their devotion seek thee. 16 Gods, may we dwell in free untroubled bliss. 17 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health−bestowing happy guidance.

2 Maghavan, help thy worshipper: let him help thee. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 3 Thou aidest Gods with food, and that with might aidg thee, 4 Creator of the heaven, creator of the earth, O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 5 Father of cattle, father of all steeds art thou. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 6 Stone−hurler, glorify the Atris' hymn of praise. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 7 Hear thou Syavagva while he pours to thee, as erst thou heardest Atri when he wrought his holy rites. 2 Thou mighty Conqueror of hostile armaments, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 3 Sole Ruler, thou art Sovran of this world of life, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 4 Thou only sunderest these two consistent worlds, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 5 Thou art the Lord supreme o'er rest and energy, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 6 Thou helpest one to power, and one thou hast not helped, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving 7 Hear thou Syavasva while he sings to thee, as erst thou heardest Atri when he wrought his holy rites.