Rig Veda on Leadership

2 For worthy of obeisance, Gods, are all your names, worthy of adoration and of sacrifice. 3 I will rejoice in these Adityas for my weal, for whom the Mother pours forth water rich in balm, 4 Looking on men, ne'er slumbering, they by their deserts attained as Gods to lofty immortality. 5 Great Kings who bless us, who have come to sacrifice, who, ne'er assailed, have set their mansion in the 6 Who offereth to you the laud that ye accept, O ye All−Gods of Manu, many as ye are? 7 Ye to whom Manu, by seven priests, with kindled fire, offered the first oblation with his heart and soul, 8 Wise Deities, who have dominion o'er the world, ye thinkers over all that moves not and that moves, 9 In battles we invoke Indra still swift to hear, and all the holy Host of Heaven who banish grief, 10 Mightily−saving Earth, incomparable Heaven the good guide Aditi who gives secure defence 11 Bless us, all Holy Ones, that we may have your help, guard and protect us from malignant injury. 12 Keep all disease afar and sordid sacrifice, keep off the wicked man's malicious enmity. 13 Untouched by any evil, every mortal thrives, and, following the Law, spreads in his progeny. 14 That which ye guard and grace in battle, O ye Gods, ye Maruts, where the prize is wealth, where heroe 15 Vouchsafe us blessing in our paths and desert tracts, blessing in waters and in battle, for the light; 16 The noblest Svasti with abundant riches, who comes to what is good by distant pathway,− 17 Thus hatb the thoughtful sage, the son of Plati, praised you, O Aditi and all Adityas,

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 He who with dainty food hath won you, Indra and Varuna, Gods, as his allies to friendship, 3 Indra and Varuna are most liberal givers of treasure to the men who toil to serve them, 4 Indra and Varuna, ye hurl, O Mighty, on him your strongest flashing bolt of thunder 5 O Indra−Varuna, be ye the lovers of this my song, as steers who love the milch−Cow. 6 For fertile fields, for worthy sons and grandsons, for the Sun's beauty and for steer−like vigour, 7 For you, as Princes, for your ancient kindness, good comrades of the man who seeks for booty, 8 Showing their strength, these hymns for grace, Free−givers I have gone to you, devoted, as to battle. 9 To Indra and to Varuna, desirous of gaining wealth have these my thoughts proceeded. 10 May we ourselves be lords of during riches, of ample sustenance for car and hones. 11 Come with your mighty succours, O ye Mighty; come, Indra−Varuna, to us in battle. 2 I am King Varuna. To me were given these first existinghigh celestial powers. 3 I Varuna am Indra: in their greatness, these the two wide deep fairly−fashioned regions, 4 I made to flow the moisture−shedding waters, and set the heaven firm in the scat of Order. 5 Heroes with noble horses, fain for battle, selected warriors, call on me in combat. 6 All this I did. The Gods' own conquering power never impedeth me whom none opposeth. 7 All beings know these deeds of thine thou tellest this unto Varuna, thou great Disposer! 8 Our fathers then were these, the Seven his, what time the son of Durgaha was captive. 9 The spouse of Purukutsa gave oblations to you, O Indra−Varuna, with homage. 10 May we, possessing much, delight in riches, Gods in oblations and the kine in pasture;

2 Whom, well−dis sed, the Blirgus stablished as a rriend, whom men must glorify, high−flaming in the w 3 Be thou the foeless helper of the skilful man, subduer of the enemy near or far away. 4 Him, your refulgent guest, Agni who comes from heaven, the Herald of mankind, well−skilled in sacred 5 Who with his purifying, eye−attracting form hath shone upon the earth as with the light of Dawn; 6 Worship ye Agni, Agni, with your log of wood; praise your beloved, your beloved guest with songs. 7 Agni inflamed with fuel in my song I sing, pure, Cleanser, steadlast, set in tront at sacrifice. 8 Men, Agni, in each age have made thee, Deathiess One, their envoy, offering−bearer, guard adorable. 9 Thou, Agni, ordering the works and ways of both, as envoy of the Gods traversest both the worlds. 10 Him fair of face, rapid, and fair to look on, him very wise may we who know not follow. 11 Him, Agni, thou deliverest and savest who brings him prayer to thee the Wise, O Hero, 12 Guard us from him who would assail us, Agni; preserve us, O thou Victor, from dishonour. 13 Agni, the Priest, is King, Lord of the homestead, he, Jatayedas, knows all generations. 14 Whate'er to−day thou, bright−flamed Priest, enjoyest from the man's rite−for thou art sacrificer− 15 Look thou upon the viands duly laid for thee. Fain would he set thee here to worship Heaven and,Earth 16 Together with all Gods, O fair−faced Agni, be seated first upon the woollined altar, 17 Here the arranging priests, as did Atharvan, rub this Agni forth, 18 For the Gods' banquet be thou born, for full perfection and for weal. 19 O Agni, Lord and Master of men's homesteads, with kindled fuel we have made thee mighty.

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.

7 Sing forth your songs, as Vyasva sang, to Soma Pavamana, to, 8 Whose coloured sap they drive with stones, the yellow meath−distilling juice, 9 We seek to gain the friendly love of thee that Strong and Mighty One, 10 Flow onward with thy stream, a Steer, inspiriting the Maruts' Lord, 11 I send thee forth to battle from the press, O Pavamana, Strong, 12 Acknowledged by this song of mine, flow, tawny−coloured, with thy stream 13 O Indu, visible to all pour out for us abundant food: 14 The pitchers, Indu, with thy streams have sung aloud in vigorous might 15 O thou whose potent gladdening juice they milk out with the stones, flow on, 16 King Pavamana is implored with holy songs, on man's behalf, 17 Bring us, O Indu, hundredfold increase of kine, and noble steeds, 18 Pressed for the banquet of the Gods, O Soma, bring us might, and speed, 19 Soma, flow on exceeding bright with loud roar to the wooden vats, 20 Soma, the Water−winner flows to Indra, Vayu, Varuna, 21 Soma, bestowing food upon our progeny, from every sides, 22 The Soma juices which have been expressed afar or near at hand, 23 Those pressed among Arjikas, pressed among the active, in men's homes, 24 May these celestial drops, expressed, pour forth upon us, as they flow, 25 Urged forward o'er the ox−hide flows the Lovely One of tawny hue, 26 Like horses urged to speed, the drops, bright, stirring vital power, when blent 27 So they who toil with juices send thee forward for the Gods' repast: 28 We choose to−day that chariot−steed of thine, the Strong, that brings us bliss, 29 The Excellent, the Gladdener, the Sage with heart that understands, 30 Who for ourselves, O thou Most Wise, is wealth and fair intelligence,

1 STRONG are the Somas; come thou nigh; these juices have been mixt with milk: 2 Both Deities who touch the heaven, Indra and Vayu we invoke 3 The singers' for their aid, invoke Indra and Vayu, swift as mind, 4 Mitra and Varupa, renowned as Gods of consecrated might, 5 Those who by Law uphold the Law, Lords of the shining light of Law, 6 Let Varuna be our chief defence, let Mitra guard us with all aids 7 Indra, by Maruts girt, we call to drink the Soma juice: may he 8 Gods, Marut hosts whom Indra leads, distributers of Pusan's gifts, 9 With conquering Indra for ally, strike Vrtra down, ye bounteous Gods 10 We call the Universal Gods, and Maruts to the Soma draught, 11 Fierce comes the Maruts' thundering voice, like that of conquerors, when ye go 12 Born of the laughing lightning. may the Maruts guard us everywhere 13 Like some lost animal, drive to us, bright Pusan, him who bears up heaven, 14 Pusan the Bright has found the King, concealed and bidden in a cave, 15 And may he. duly bring to me the six bound closely, through these drops, 16 Along their paths the Mothers go, Sisters of priestly ministrants, 17 May Waters gathered near the Sun, and those wherewith the Sun is joined, 18 I call the Waters, Goddesses, wherein our cattle quench their thirst; 19 Amrit is in the Waters in the Waters there is healing balm 20 Within the Waters−Soma thus hath told me−dwell all balms that heal, 21 O Waters, teem with medicine to keep my body safe from harm, 22 Whatever sin is found in me, whatever evil I have wrought. 23 The Waters I this day have sought, and to their moisture have we come: 24 Fill me with splendour, Agni; give offspring and length of days; the Gods

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

2 In heaven's first region, in the seat of Gods, is he who brings success, 3 Him, to win strength, have I invoked, even Indra mighty for the fray. 4 Indra, Song −lover, here for thee the worshipper's libation flows. 5 Even now, O Indra, give us that which, pressing juice, we crave of thee. 6 What time the zealous worshipper hath boldly sung his songs to thee, 7 Generate songs even as of old, give car unto the singer's call. 8 Sweet strains that glorify him play like waters speeding down a slope, 9 Yea, who alone is called the Lord, the single Ruler of the folk, 10 Praise him, the Glorious, skilled in song, Lord of the two victorious Bays: 11 Put forth thy strength: with dappled Steeds come, thou of mighty intellect, 12 Grant wealth to those who praise thee, Lord of Heroes, Mightiest Indra: give 13 I call thee when the Sun is risen, I call thee at the noon of day: 14 Speed forward hither, come to us, rejoice thee in the milky draught: 15 If, Sakra, Vrtra−slayer, thou be far away or near to us. 16 Let songs we sing and Soma−drops expressed by us make Indra strong: 17 Him sages longing for his aid, with offerings brought in eager haste, 18 At the Trkadrukas the Gods span sacrifice that stirred the mind: 19 When, true to duty, at due times the worshipper offers lauds to thee, 20 That mind of Rudra, fresh and strong, moves conscious in the ancient ways, 21 If thou elect to be my Friend drink of this sacrificial juice, 22 O Indra, Lover of the song, when shall thy praiser be most blest? 23 And thy two highIy−lauded Bays, strong stallions, draw thy car who art 24 With ancient offerings we implore the Young and Strong whom many praise. 25 Wax miglity, thou whom many laud for aids which Rsis have extolled.

2 In whom the hymns of praise delight, and all the glory−giving songs. 3 Him I invite with eulogy, best King, effective in the fight, 4 Whose perfect ecstasies are wide, profound, victorious, and give 5 Him, when the spoils of war are staked, men call to be their advocate: 6 Men honour him with stirring songs and magnify with solemn rites: 7 1ndra is priest and Rsi, he is much invoked by many men, 8 Meet to be lauded and invoked, true Hero with his deeds of might, 9 The men, the people magnify that Indra with their Slina. songs, 10 Him who advances them to wealth, sends light to lead them in the war, 11 May he, the saviour much−invoked, may Indra bear us in a ship 12 As such, O Indra, honour us with gifts of booty, further us, 2 O Indra, let thy long−maned Bays, yoked by prayer, bring thee hitherward 3 We Soma−bearing Brahmans call thee Soma−drinker with thy friend, 4 Come unto us who bring the juice, come unto this our eulogy, 5 I pour it down within thee, so through all thy members let it spread: 6 Sweet to thy body let it be, delicious be the savoury juice: 7 Like women, let this Soma−draught, invested with its robe, approach, 8 Indra, transported with the juice, vast in his bulk, strong in his neck 9 O Indra, go thou forward, thou who rulest over all by might: 10 Long be thy grasping−hook wherewith thou givest ample wealth to him 11 Here, Indra, is thy Soma−draught, made pure upon the sacred grass: 12 Famed for thy radiance, worshipped well this juice is shed for thy delight 13 To Kundapayya, grandson's son, grandson of Srngavrs! to thee, 14 Strong pillar thou, Lord of the home armour of Soma−offerers: 15 Holy Prdikusanu, winner of the spoil, one eminent o'er many men,

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

2 Robed in fair raiment meet to wear in battle, a mighty Sage pronouncing invocations. 3 Dear, he is brightened on the fleecy summit, a Prince among us, nobler than the noble. 4 Let us sing praises to the Gods: sing loudly, send ye the Soma forth for mighty riches. 5 Winning the friendship of the Deities, Indu flows in a thousand streams to make them joyful. 6 Flow, Gold−hued, cleansing thee, to enrich the singer: let thy juice go to Indra to support him. 7 The God declares the Deities' generations, like Usana, proclaiming lofty wisdom. 8 The Swans, the Vrsaganas from anear us have brought their restless spirit to our dwelling. 9 He follows the Wide−strider's rapid movement: cows low, as 'twere, to him who sports at pleasure. 10 Strong Indu, bathed in milk, flows on for Indra, Soma exciting strength, to make him joyful. 11 Then in a stream he flows, milked out with press−stones, mingled with sweetness, through the fleecy 12 As he is purified he pours out treasures, a God bedewing Gods with his own juices. 13 The Red Bull bellowing to the kine advances, causing the heavens and earth to roar and tbunder. 14 Swelling with milk, abounding in sweet flavours, urging the meath−rich plant thou goest onward. 15 So flow thou on inspiriting, for rapture, aiming deatb−shafts at him who stays the waters, 16 Pleased with us, Indu, send us as thou flowest good easy paths in ample space and comforts. 17 Pour on us rain celestial, quickly streaming, refreshing, fraught with health and ready bounty. 18 Part, like a knotted tangle, while they cleanse thee, O Soma, righteous and unrighteous conduct. 19 For the God's service, for delight, O Indu, run o'er the height, run o'ver the fleecy summit. 20 Without a car, without a rein to guide them, unyoked, like coursers started in the contest, 21 So for our banquet of the Gods, O Indu, pour down the rain of heaven into the vessels.

2 O Jatavedas with the teeth of iron, enkindled with thy flame attack the demons. 3 Apply thy teeth, the upper and the lower, thou who hast both, enkindled and destroying. 4 Bending thy shafts through sacrifices, Agni, whetting their points with song as if with whetstones, 5 Pierce through the Yatudhana's skin, O Agni; let the destroying dart with fire consume him. 6 Where now thou seest Agni Jatavedas, one of these demons standing still or roaming, 7 Tear from the evil spirit, Jatavedas, what he hath seized and with his spears hath captured. 8 Here tell this forth, O Agni: whosoever is, he himself, or acteth as, a demon, 9 With keen glance guard the sacrifice, O Agni: thou Sage, conduct it onward to the Vasus. 10 Look on the fiend mid men, as Man−beholder: rend thou his three extremities in pieces. 11 Thrice, Agni, let thy noose surround the demon who with his falsehood injures Holy Order. 12 Lead thou the worshipper that eye, O Agni, wherewith thou lookest on the hoof−armed demon. 13 Agni, what curse the pair this day have uttered, what heated word the worshippers have spoken, 14 With fervent heat exterminate the demons; destroy the fiends with burning flame, O Agni. 15 May Gods destroy this day the evil−doer may each hot curse of his return and blast him. 16 The fiend who smears himself with flesh of cattle, with flesh of horses and of human bodies, 17 The cow gives milk each year, O Man−regarder: let not the Yatudhana ever taste it. 18 Let the fiends drink the poison of the cattle; may Aditi cast off the evildoers. 19 Agni, from days of old thou slayest demons: never shall Raksasas in fight o'ercome thee. 20 Guard us, O Agni, from above and under, protect us fl−om behind us and before us; 21 From rear, from front, from under, from above us, O King, protect us as a Sage with wisdom.

May the Swift give us rapture, and like the Sun shine forth from yonder dawning, 7 When the wood−pile, made of good logs, is ready, at the Sun's worship to bind fast the Bullock, 8 Eight steeds thou broughtest down from mighty heaven, when fighting for the well that giveth splendou 9 Thou hurledst forth from heaven the iron missile, brought by the Skilful, from the sling of leather, 10 Bolt−armed, ere darkness overtook the sunlight, thou castest at the veiling cloud thy weapon, 11 The mighty Heaven and Earth, those bright expanses that have no wheels, joyed, Indra, at thine exploit 12 Mount Indra, lover of the men thou guardest, the well−yoked horses of the wind, best bearers. 13 The strong Bay Horses of the Sun thou stayedst: this Etasa drew not the wheel, O Indra. 14 Indra, preserve thou us from this affliction Thunder−armed, save us from the misery near us. 15 Never may this thy loving−kindness fail us; mighty in strength, may plenteous food surround us. 2 Strong to exalt the early invocation are Night and Dawn who show with varied aspect. 3 Cheer us the Roamer round, who strikes at morning, the Wind delight us, pourer forth of waters! 4 And Ausija shall call for me that famous Pair who enjoy and drink, who come to brighten. 5 For you shall Ausija call him who thunders, as, to win Arjuna's assent, cried Ghosa. 6 Hear, Mitra−Varuna, these mine invocations, hear them from all men in the hall of worship. 7 Praised, Mitra, Varuna! is your gift, a hundred cows to the Prksayamas and the Pajra. 8 Praised is the gift of him the very wealthy: may we enjoy it, men with hero children: 9 The folk, O Mitra−Varuna, who hate you, who sinfully hating pour you no libations, 10 That man, most puissant, wondrously urged onward, famed among heroes, liberal in giving, 11 Come to the man's, the sacrificer's calling: hear, Kings of Immortality, joy−givers! 12 Vigour will we bestow on that adorer whose tenfold draught we come to taste, so spake they.

2 East have we turned the rite; may the hymn aid it. With wood and worship shall they honour Agni. 3 The Prudent, he whose will is pure, brought welfare, allied by birth to Heaven and Earth in kinship. 4 Him, Blessed One, the Seven strong Floods augmented, him white at birth and red when waxen mighty. 5 Spreading with radiant limbs throughout the region, purging his power with wise purifications, 6 He sought heaven's Mighty Ones, the unconsuming, the unimpaired, not clothed and yet not naked. 7 His piles, assuming every form, are scattered where flow sweet waters, at the spring of fatness; 8 Carefully cherished, Son of Strength, thou shoncst assuming lasting and refulgent beauties. 9 From birth he knew even his Father's bosom, he set his voices and his streams in motion; 10 He nursed the Infant of the Sire and Maker: alone the Babe sucked many a teeming bosom. 11 The Mighty One increased in space unbounded; full many a glorious flood gave strength to Agni. 12 As keen supporter where great waters gather, light−shedder whom the brood rejoice to look on; 13 Him, varied in his form, the lovely Infant of floods and plants the blessed wood hath gendered. 14 Like brilliant lightnings, mighty luminaries accompany the light−diffusing Agni, 15 I sacrificing serve thee with oblations and crave with longing thy good−will and friendship. 16 May we, O Agni, thou who leadest wisely, thy followers and masters of all treasures, 17 Ensign of Gods hast thou become, O Agni, joy−giver, knower of all secret wisdom. 18 Within the house hath sate the King immortal of mortals, filling full their sacred synods. 19 Come unto us with thine auspicious friendship, come speeding, Mighty, with thy mighty succours. 20 To thee who art of old these songs, O Agni, have I declared, the ancient and the later. 21 Stablished in every birth is Jatavedas, kindled perpetual by the Visvamitras. 22 This sacrifice of ours do thou, O Mighty, O truly Wise, bear to the Gods rejoicing.

2 For, Hurler of the Bolt, we know thee true, the giver of our food, 3 O thou whose majesty the bards celebrate with their songs, thou Lord, 4 Fair guidance hath the mortal man whom Aryaman, the Marut host, 5 Kine, steeds, and hero strength he gains, and prospers, by the Adityas sped, 6 We pray to Indra for his gift, to him the Fearless and the Strong, 7 For verily combined in him are all the fearless powers of aid. 8 Yea, that most excellent carouse, Indra, which slays most enemies, 9 Which merits fame, all−bountiful! and, unsubdued, hath victory in deeds of might. 10 Responding to our wish for cows, for steeds, and chariots, as of old, 11 For, Hero, nowhere can I find the bounds of thy munificence. 12 High, glorifier of his friend, he knows all generations, he whom many praise. 13 Be he our Champion and Protector in great deeds, rich in all wealth, the Vrtra−slayer, Maghavan. 14 In the wild raptures of the juice sing to your Hero with high laud, to him the Wise, 15 Thou givest wealth to me myself, thou givest treasure, Excellent! and the strong steed, 16 Him, Sovran Ruler of all precious things, who even hath power o'er this fair form of his, 17 We praise, so that the Mighty One may speed to you, Pourer of boun ies, Traveller, prepared to go. 18 We in the sacrifice perform their will whose voice is lifted high, 19 O Indra, Mightiest, bring us that which crushes men of evil minds, 20 O Winner, noble winner, strong, wondrous, most splendid, excellent, 21 Now let the godless man approach who hath received reward so great 22 Steeds sixty thousand and ten thousand kine, and twenty hundred camels I obtained; 23 Ten browns that make my wealth increase, fleet steeds whose tails are long and fair, 24 The gifts which Prthusravas gave, Kanita's son munificent. 25 Come thou to this great rite of ours, Vayu! to give us vigorous light.

21 He, being purified, hath made the Mornings shine: this, even this is he who gave the rivers room. 22 Flow, onward, Soma, in thine own celestial forms, flow, Indu, poured within the beaker and the sieve. 23 Pressed out with stones thou flowest onward to the sieve, O Indu, entering the depths of Indra's throat. 24 In thee, O Soma, while thou purifitedst thee, high−thoughted sages, seeking favour, have rejoiced. 25 Seven Milch−kine glorify the Tawny−coloured One while with his wave in wool he purifies himself. 26 Indu, attaining purity, plunges through the foe, making Ilis ways all easy for the pious man. 27 The ceaseless watery fountains with their hundred streams sing, as they hasten near, to him the 28 These are thy generations of celestial seed thou art the Sovran Lord of all the world of life. 29 Thou art the sea, O Sage who bringest alf to light: under thy Law are these five regions of the world. 30 Thou in the filter, Soma Pavamana, art purified to support the region for the Gods. 31 Onward the Singer travels o'er the fleecy sieve. the Tawny Steer hath bellowed in the wooden vats. 32 He hath assumed the rays of Surya for his robe, spinning, as he knows bow, the triply−twisted thread. 33 On flows the King of rivers and the Lord of heaven: he follows with a shout the paths of Holy Law. 34 Fain to be cleansed, thou, Pavamana, pourest out, like wondrous Surya, through the fleece, an ample se 35 Thou, Pavamana, sendest food and power in streams. thou sittest in the beakers as a hawk on trees, 36 The Sisters Seven, the Mothers, stand around the Babe, the noble, new−born Infant, skilled in holy son 37 As Sovran Lord thereof thou Passest through these worlds, O Indu, harnessing thy tawny well−winged 38 O Soma, thou beholdest men from every side: O Pavamana, Steer, thou wanderest through these. 39 Winner of gold and goods and cattle flow thou on, set as impregner, Indu, mid the worlds of life.

2 Both Gods and men obey this Ruler's order, Gods who are worshipped, men who yearn and worship. 3 May our fair praise, heart−born, most recent, reach him whose tongue, e'en at his birth, is sweet as hone 4 Good to mankind, the yearning Purifier hath among men been placed as Priest choice−worthy. 5 As such we Gotamas with hymns extol thee, O Agni, as the guardian Lord of riches, 1 EVEN to him, swift, strong and high. exalted, I bring my song of praise as dainty viands, 2 Praise, like oblation, I present, and utter aloud my song, my fair hymn to the Victor. 3 To him then with my lips mine adoration, winning heaven's light, most excellent, I offer, 4 Even for him I frame a laud, as fashions the wright a chariot for the man who needs it,− 5 So with my tongue I deck, to please that Indra, my hymn, as 'twere a horse, through love of glory, 6 Even for him hath Tvastar forged the thunder, most deftly wrought, celestial, for the battle, 7 As soon as, at libations of his mother, great Visnu had drunk up the draught, he plundered. 8 To him, to Indra, when he slew the Dragon, the Dames, too, Consorts of the Goda, wove praises. 9 Yea, of a truth, his magnitude surpasseth the magnitude of earth, mid−air, and heaven. 10 Through his own strength Indra with bolt of thunder cut piece−meal Vrtra, drier up of waters. 11 The rivers played, through his impetuous splendour, since with his bolt he compassed them on all sides 12 Vast, with thine ample power, with eager movement, against this Vrtra cast thy bolt of thunder. 13 Sing with new lauds his exploits wrought aforetime, the deeds of him, yea, him who moveth swiftly, 14 When he, yea, he, comes forth the firm. Set mountains and the whole heaven and earth, tremble for terr 15 Now unto him of these things hath been given what he who rules alone o'er much, electeth. 16 Thus to thee, Indra, yoker of Bay Coursers, the Gotamas have brought their prayers to please thee.

27 Grant that no mighty foes, unknown, malevolent, unhallowed, tread us to the ground. 2 With soma they brought Indra from a distance, Over Vaisanta, from the strong libation. 3 So, verily, with these he crossed the river, in company with these he slaughtered Bheda. 4 I gladly, men I with prayer prayed by our fathers have fixed your axle: ye shall not be injured: 5 Like thirsty men they looked to heaven, in battle with the Ten Kings, surrounded and imploring. 6 Like sticks and staves wherewith they drive the cattle, Stripped bare, the Bharatas were found defencele 7 Three fertilize the worlds with genial moisture: three noble Creatures cast a light before them. 8 Like the Sun's growing glory is their splendour, and like the sea's is their unflathomed greatness. 9 They with perceptions of the heart in secret resort to that which spreads a thousand branches. 10 A form of lustre springing from the lightning wast thou, when Varuna and Mitra saw thee. 11 Born of their love for Urvasi, Vasistha thou, priest, art son of Varuna and Mitra; 12 He thinker, knower both of earth and heaven, endowed with many a gift, bestowing thousands, 13 Born at the sacrifice, urged by adorations, both with a common flow bedewed the pitcher. 14 He brings the bearer of the laud and Saman: first shall he speak bringing the stone for pressing. 3 Yea, the broad waters swell their flood ior him: of him strong heroes think amid their foes. 4 Set ye for him the coursers to the pole: like Indra Thunderer is the Golden−armed. 5 Arouse you, like the days, to sacrifice speed gladly like a traveller on the way. 6 Go swift to battles, to the sacrifice: set up a flag, a hero for the folk. 7 Up from his strength hath risen as 'twere a light: it bears the load as earth bears living things. 8 Agni, no demon I invoke the Gods: by law completing it, I form a hymn. 9 Closely albout you lay your heavenly song, and send your voice to where the Gods abide.

21 I praise with song the Friend of man, whom Gods sent down to be herald and messenger, 22 Thou unto sharp−toothed Agni, Young and Radiant God, proclaimest with thy song the feast− 23 While, served with sacrificial oil, now upward and now downward Agni moves his sword, 24 The God, the Friend of man, who bears our gifts to heaven, the God with his sweet−smelling mouth, 25 Son of Strength, Agni, if thou wert the mortal, bright as Mitra, I worshipped with our gifts! 26 I would not give thee up, Vasu, to calumny, or misery, O Bounteous One. 27 Like a son cherished in his father's houi§e, let our oblation rise unto the Gods. 28 With thine immediate aid may I, excellent Agni, ever gain my wish 29 O Agni, by thy wisdom, by thy bounties, by thy leading may I gather wealth. 30 Agni, he conquers by thine aid that brings him store of noble heroes and great strength, 31 Thy spark is black and crackling, kindled in due time, O Bounteous, it is taken up. 32 We Sobharis have come to him, for succour, who is good to help with thousand powers, 33 O Agni, thou on whom all other fires depend, as branches on the parent stem, 34 The mortal whom, Adityas, ye, Guilelew, lead to the farther bank 35 Whoe'er he be, Man−ruling Kings! the Regent of the race of men− 36 A gift of fifty female slaves hath Trasadasyu given me, Purukutsa's son, 37 And Syava too for me led forth a strong steed at Suvastu's ford: 2 Maruts, Rbhuksans, Rudras come ye with your cars strong−fellied and exceeding bright. 3 For well we know the vigorous might of Rudra's Sons, the Martits, who are passing strong, 4 Islands are bursting forth and misery is stayed: the heaven and earth are joined in one. 5 Even things immovable shake and reel, the mountains and the forest trees at your approach, 6 To lend free course, O Maruts, to your furious rush, heaven high and higher still gives way, 7 After their Godlike nature they, the bull.

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

2 Smote swiftly forts, and gambara, then Yadu and that Turvaga, 3 Finder of horses, pour on us horses and 4 We seek to win thy friendly love, even Pavamana's flowing o'er 5 With those same waves which in their stream oyerflow the purifying sieve, 6 O Soma, being purified, bring us from all sides,−for thou canst,− 7 Him here, the Child whom streams have borne, the ten swift fingers beautify 8 With Indra and with Vayu he, effused, flows onward with,the beams 9 Flow rich in sweets and lovely for our Bhaga, Vayu, Pusan flow 10 High is thy juice's birth: though set in heaven, on earth it hath obtained 11 Striving to win, with him we gain all wealth from the ungodly man, 12 Finder of room and freedom, flow for Indra whom we must adore, 13 The Gods have come to Indu well−descended, beautified with milk, 14 Even as mother cows their calf, so let our praise−songs strengthen him, 15 Soma, pour blessings on our kine, pour forth the food that streams with milk 16 From heaven hath Pavamana made, as 'twere, the marvellous thunder, and 17 The gladdening and auspicious juice of thee, of Pavamana, King! 18 Thy juice, O Pavamana, sends its rays abroad like splendid skill, 19 Flow onward with that juice of thine most excellent, that brings delight, 20 Killing the foeman and his hate, and winning booty every day, 21 Red−hued, be blended with the milk that seems to yield its lovely breast, 22 Flow onward thou who strengthenedst Indra to slaughter Vrtra who 23 Soma who rainest gifts, may we win riches with our hero sons: 24 Aided by thee, and through thy grace, may we be slayers when we war: 25 Chasing our foemen, driving off the godless, Soma flowcth on, 26 O Pavamana, hither bring great riches, and destroy our foes: 27 A hundred obstacles have ne'er checked 28 Indu, flow on, a mighty juice; glorify us among the folk: 29 Indu, in this thy friendship most lofty and glorious may we 30 Those awful weapons that thou hast, sharpened at point to strike men down−

2 Now, being purified, flow hither through the fleece inviolate and most odorous. 3 Pressed out for all to see, delighting Gods, Indu, Far−sighted One, is mental power. 4 Cleansing thee, Soma, in thy stream, thou flowest in a watery robe: 5 Milking the heavenly udder for dear meath, he hath sat in the ancient gatheringplace. 6 O Soma, while they cleanse thee, dear and watchful in the sheep's long wool, 7 Bountiful, best of furtherers, Soma floweth on, Rsi and Singer, keen of sight. 8 Pressed out by pressers, Soma goes over the fleecy backs of sheep, 9 Down to the water−Soma, rich in kine hath flowed with cows, with cows that have been milked. 10 Effused by stones, O Soma, and urged through the long wool of the sheep, 11 He beautifies himself through the sheep's long fine wool, like an impetuous steed in war, 12 O Soma,−for the feast of Gods, river−like he hath swelled with surge, 13 Like a dear son who must be decked, the Lovely One hath clad him in a shining robe. 14 The living drops of Soma juice pour, as they flow, the gladdening drink, 15 May Pavamana, King and God, speed with his wave over the sea the lofty rite: 16 Far−seeing, lovely, guided by the men, the God whose home is in the sea− 17 Soma, the gladdening juice, flows pressed for Indra with his Marut host: 18 Purified in the bowl and gendering the hymn, wise Soma joys among the Gods. 19 O Soma, Indu, every day thy friendship hath been my delight. 20 Close to thy bosom am I, Soma, day and night. O Tawny−hued, for friendship sake. 21 Deft−handcd! thou when purified liftest thy voice amid the sea. 22 Making thee pure and bright in the sheep's long wool, tbou hast bellowed, steerlike, in the wood. 23 Flow on to win us strength, flow on to lofty lore of every kind. 24 Flow to the realm of earth, flow to the realm of heaven, O Soma, in thy righteous ways. 25 Over the cleansing sieve have flowed the Pavamanas in a stream, 26 Urged onward by the pressers, clad in watery robes, Indu is speeding to the vat.

2 All men are joyful in thy power, O God, that living from the dry wood thou art born. 3 Strong is the thought of Law, the Law's behest; all works have they performed; he quickens all. 4 Seated as Priest with Manu's progeny, of all these treasures he alone is Lord. 5 Eagerly they who hear his word fulfil his wish as sons obey their sire's behest.

2 Agni, the Sage, the humble, who discerns like the cow's udder, the sweet taste of food, 3 Born in the dwelling like a lovely son, pleased, like a strong steed, he bears on the folk. 4 None breaks these holy laws of thine when thou hast granted audience to these chieftains here. 5 Like the Dawn's lover, spreading light, well−known as hued like morn, may he remember me.

2 Thee, then, O Pusan, like a swift one on his way, I urge with lauds that thou mayst make the foemen fle 3 Thou, Pusan, in whose friendship they who sing forth praise enjoy advantage, even in wisdom, through 4 Not stirred to anger, come, Free−giver, nigh to us, to take this gift of ours, thou who hast goats for steed

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

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

2 Born for us here this day, O Son of Vigour, between both races of born beings, Agni, 3 I laud the ruddy steeds who pour down blessing, dropping oil, flectest through the thoualit of Order. 4 Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna, and Indra with Visnu, of the Gods, Maruts and Asvins− 5 Agni, be this our sacrifice eternal, with brave friends, rich in kine and sheep and horses, 6 The man who, sweating, brings for thee the fuel, and makes his head to ache, thy faithful servant,− 7 Who brings thee food, though thou hast food in plenty, welcomes his cheerful guest and speeds him 8 Whoso sings praise to thee at eve or morning, and, with oblation, doth the thing thou lovest,− 9 Whoso brings gifts to thee Immortal, Agni, and doth thee service with uplifted ladle,− 10 Whose well−wrought worship thou acceptest, Agni, thou God a mortal's gift, thou liberal Giver,− 11 May he who knows distinguish sense and folly of men, like straight and crooked backs of horses. 12 This Sage the Sages, ne'er deceived, commanded, setting him down in dwellings of the living. 13 Good guidance hast thou for the priest, O Agni, who, Youngest God! with outpoured Soma serves thee 14 Now all that we, thy faithful servants, Agni, have done with feet, with hands, and with our bodies, 15 May we, seven sages first in rank, engender, from Dawn the Mother, men to be ordainers. 16 As in the days of old our ancient Fathers, speeding the work of holy worship, Agni, 17 Gods, doing holy acts, devout, resplendent, smelting like ore their human generations. 18 Strong One! he marked them−and the Gods before them−like herds of cattle in a foodful pasture. 19 We have worked for thee, we have laboured nobly−bright Dawns have shed their light upon our worsh 20 Agni, Disposer, we have sung these praises to thee the Wise: do thou accept them gladly.

7 Blest, Agni, be the man, the liberal giver, who with his lauds and regular oblation 8 I praise thy gracious favour: sing in answer. May this my song sing like a loved one with thee. 9 Here of free choice let each one serve thee richly, resplendent day by day at eve and morning. 10 Whoso with good steeds and fine gold, O Agni, comes nigh thee on a car laden with trcasure, 11 Through words and kinship I destroy the miglity: this power I have from Gotama my father. 12 Knowing no slumber, speedy and propitious, alert and ever friendly, most unwearied, 13 Thy guardian rays, O Agni, when they saw him, preserved blind Mamateya from affliction. 14 Aided by thee with thee may we be wealthy, may we gain strength with thee to guide us onward. 15 O Agni, with this fuel will we serve thee; accept the laud we sing to thee with favour

2 And ye gave mighty Dadhikras, the giver of many gifts, who visiteth all people, 3 Whom, as 'twere down a precipice, swift rushing, each Puru praises and his heart rejoices,− 4 Who gaineth precious booty in the combats and moveth, winning spoil, among the cattle; 5 Loudly the folk cry after him in battles, as 'twere a thief who steals away a garment; 6 And, fain to come forth first amid these armies, this way and that with rows of cars he rushes, 7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat, 8 And at his thunder, like the roar of heaven, those who attack tremble and are affrighted; 9 The people praise the overpowering swiftness of this fleet Steed who giveth men abundance. 10 Dadhikras hath o'erspread the Fivefold People with vigour, as the Sun lightens the waters. 2 I praise the mighty Steed who fills my spirit, the Stallion Dadhikravan rich in bounties, 3 Him who hath honoured, when the flame is kindled at break of dawn, the Courser Dadhikrivan, 4 When we remember mighty Dadhikravan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts, 5 Both sides invoke him as they call on Indra when they stir forth and turn to sacrificing. 6 So have I glorified with praise strong Dadhikravan, conquering Steed.

2 Excellent Agni, come thou nigh to us, and give us wealth most splendidly renowned. 3 So hear us, listen to this call of ours, and keep us far from every sinful man. 4 To thee then, O Most Bright, O Radiant God, we come with prayer for happiness for our friends.

2 Here is the psalm for wealth, and food, in plenty: let us do many deeds to bring us glory. 3 May we o'ercome our foes with acts of valour, as heaven is over earth, hills over lowlands. 4 Give us not up as prey to death, O Sorna still let us look upon the Sun arising. 5 O Asuniti, keep the soul within us, and make the days we have to live yet longer. 6 Give us our sight again, O Asuniti, give us again our breath and our enjoyment. 7 May Earth restore to us our vital spirit, may Heaven the Goddess and mid−air restore it. 8 May both Worlds bless Subandhu, young Mothers of everlasting Law. 9 Health−giving medicines descend sent down from heaven in twos and threes, 10 Drive forward thou the wagon−ox, O Indra, which brought Usinarani's wagon hither.

2 He, excellent in glory, guest in every house, finds like a swift−winged bird a home in every tree. 3 Most sage with insight, passing skilful with thy powers art thou, O Agni, wise with wisdom, knowing al 4 Foreknowing well, O Agni, thou in Ila's place hast occupied thy regular station balmed with oil. 5 Thy glories are, as lightnings from the rainy cloud, marked, many−hued, like heralds of the Dawns' 6 Him, duly coming as their germ, have plants received: this Agni have maternal Waters brought to life. 7 When, sped and urged by wind, thou spreadest thee abroad, swift piercing through thy food according to 8 Agni, the Hotar−priest who fills the assembly full, Waker of knowledge, chief Controller of the thought, 9 Here, Api, the arrangers, those attached to thee, elect thee as their Priest in sacred gatherings, 10 Thine is the Herald's task and Cleanser's duly timed; Leader art thou, and Kindler for the pious man. 11 When mortal man presents to thee Immortal God, Agni, his fuel or his sacrificial gift, 12 From us these hymns in concert have gone forth to him, these. holy words, these Rcas, songs and eulo 13 This newest eulogy will I speak forth to him, the Ancient One who loves it. May he hear our voice. 14 He in whom horses, bulls, oxen, and barren cows, and rams, when duly set apart, are offered up,− 15 Into thy mouth is poured the offering, Agni, as Soma into cup, oil into ladle.

2 High up in heaven abide the Guerdon−givers: they who give steeds dwell with the Sun for ever. 3 Not from the niggards−for they give not fireely−comes Meed at sacrifice, Gods' satisfaction: 4 These who observe mankind regard oblation as streamy Vayu and light−finding Arka. 5 He who brings Guerdon comes as first invited: chief of the hamlet comes the Guerdon−bearer. 6 They call him Rsi, Brahman, Sama−chanter, reciter of the laud, leader of worship. 7 Guerdon bestows the horse, bestows the bullock, Guerdon bestows, moreover, gold that Rsisters. 8 The liberal die not, never are they ruined: the liberal suffer neither harm nor trouble. 9 First have the liberal gained a fragrant dwelling, and got themselves a bride in fair apparel. 10 They deck the fleet steed for the bounteous giver: the maid adorns herself and waits to meet him. 11 Steeds good at draught convey the liberal giver, and lightly rolling moves the car of Guerdon.

2 O Agni, graciously accept this song of mine, thou passing−wise who knowest every ordinance. 3 Immortal, wandering round the seven stations, give, a liberal Giver, to the pious worshipper, 4 The seven who bring oblations worship thee, the Strong, the first, the Great Chief Priest, Ensign of 5 First messenger art thou, meet for election: drink thou thy fill invited to the Anirta, 6 Milking the teeming Cow for all−sustaining food. O Wise One, for the worship−loving worshipper, 7 They who at flushing of this dawn appointed thee their messenger, these men have paid thee reverence. 8 Arrangers in our synods, Agni, while they sang Vasisistha s sons have called thee down, the Potent One