Rig Veda on Nature

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

2 Like violent gusts of wind the draughts that I have drunk have lifted me 3 The draughts I drank have borne me up, as fleet−foot horses draw a car: 4 The hymn hath reached me, like a cow who lows to meet her darling calf: 5 As a wright bends a chariot−seat so round my heart I bend the hymn: 6 Not as a mote within the eye count the Five Tribes of men with me: 7 The heavens and earth themselves have not grown equal to one half of me 8 I in my grandeur have surpassed the heavens and all this spacious earth 9 Aha! this spacious earth will I deposit either here or there 10 In one short moment will I smite the earth in fury here or there: 11 One of my flanks is in the sky; I let the other trail below: 12 1, greatest of the Mighty Ones, am lifted to the firmament: 13 I seek the worshipper's abode; oblation−bearer to the Gods:

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

2 The Everlasting Pair, with full streams, rich in milk, in their pure rule pour fatness for the pious man. 3 Whoso, for righteous life, pours offerings to you, O Heaven and Earth, ye Hemispheres, that man succe 4 Enclosed in fatness, Heaven and Earth are bright therewith: they mingle with the fatness which they still 5 May Heaven and Earth pour down the balmy rain for us, balm−dropping, yielding balm, with balm upo 6 May Heaven and Earth make food swell plenteously for us, all−knowing Father, jother, wondrous in the

2 She in whose bosom all the Gods, and Sun and Moon for men to see, 3 This all the pious sing to us, and sacred poets evermore: 4 Here is the Soma ready pressed of this the Maruts drink, of this 5 Of this, moreover, purified, set in three places, procreant, 6 And Indra, like the Herald Priest, desirous of the milky juice, 7 When have the Princes gleamed and shone through waters as through troops of foes'? 8 What favour do I claim this day of you 9 1 call, to drink the Soma, those Maruts who spread all realms of earth 10 You, even such, pure in your might, you, O ye Maruts, I invoke 11 The Maruts, those who have sustained and propped the heavens and earth apart, 12 That vigorous band of Maruts that abidetb in the mountains, I

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

2 On him wait songs according to the season even as a stream of pious men set moving. 3 The praise, the verse that offers adoration, may he bring forth, as the Sun sends his arms out, 4 His song of praise pervades the earth and heaven − let the wise worshipper draw it, like a courser. 5 Those, God, who count thee as a worthless bullock, and, wealthy sinners, live on thee the Bounteous,− 6 Like a fair path is he, where grass is pleasant, though hard to win, a Friend beloved most early. 7 He to whom songs of praise go forth like torrents, as rivers eddying under banks flow sea−ward− 8 So hath Brhaspati, great, strong and mighty, the God exceeding powerful, been brought hither. 2 Coming, it kills the unobserved; it kills them as it goes away, 3 Sara grass, Darbha, Kusara, and Sairya, Munja, Virana, 4 The cows had settled in their stalls, the beasts of prey had sought their lairs, 5 Or these, thesereptiles, are observed, like lurking thieves at evening time. 6 Heaven is your Sire, your Mother Earth, Soma your Brother, Aditi 7 Biters of shoulder or of limb, with needle−stings, most venomous, 8 Slayer of things unseen, the Sun, beheld of all, mounts, eastward, up, 9 There hath the Sun−God mounted up, who scorches much and everything. 10 I hang the poison in the Sun, a wine−skin in a vintner's house, 11 This little bird, so very small, hath swallowed all thy poison up. 12 The three−times−seven bright sparks of fire have swallowed up the poison's strength. 13 Of ninety rivers and of nine with power to stay the venom's course,− 14 So have the peahens three−times−seven, so have the maiden Sisters Seven 15 The poison−insect is so small; I crush the creature with a stone. 16 Forth issuing from the mountain's side the poison−insect spake and said:

2 Like as a young man followeth a maiden, so doth the Sun the Dawn, refulgent Goddess: 3 Auspicious are the Sun's Bay−coloured Horses, bright, changing hues, meet for our shouts of triumph. 4 This is the Godhead, this might of Surya: he hath withdrawn what spread o'er work unfinished. 5 In the sky's lap the Sun this form assumeth that Varuna and Mitra may behold it. 6 This day, O Gods, while Surya is ascending, deliver us from trouble and dishonour.

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

1 SPEAK forth three words, the words which light precedeth, which milk this udder that produceth nectar 2 Giver of growth to plants, the God who ruleth over the waters and all moving creatures, 3 Now he is sterile, now begetteth offspring, even as he willeth doth he change his figure. 4 In him all living creatures have their being, and the three heavens with triplyflowing waters. 5 May this my song to Sovran Lord Parjanya come near unto his heart and give him pleasure. May we obt 1 SING forth and laud Parjanya, son of Heaven, who sends the gift of rain 2 Parjanya is the God who forms in kine, in mares, in plants of earth, 3 Offer and pour into his mouth oblation rich in savoury juice:

2 O Maruts, rich in water, strengtheners of life are your strong bands with harnessed steeds, that wander f 3 They gleam with lightning, Heroes, Casters of the Stone, wind−rapid Maruts, overthrowers of the bills, 4 When, mighty Rudras, through the nights and through the days, when through the sky and realms of air, 5 Maruts, this hero strength and majesty of yours hath, like the Sun, extended o'er a lengthened way, 6 Bright shone your host, ye Sages, Maruts, when ye smote the waving tree as when the worm consumeth 7 Never is he, O Maruts, slain or overcome, never doth he decay ne'er is distressed or harmed; 8 With harnessed team like heroes overcoming troops, the friendly Maruts, laden with their water−casks, 9 Free for the Maruts is the earth with sloping ways, free for the rushing Ones is heaven with steep descen 10 When, as the Sun hath risen up, ye take delight, O bounteous radiant Maruts, Heroes of the sky, 11 Lances are on your shoulders, anklets on your feet, gold chains are on your breasts, gems, Maruts, on y 12 Maruts, in eager stir ye shake the vault of heaven, splendid beyond conception, for its shining fruit. 13 Sage Maruts, may we be the drivers of the car of riches ful I of life that have been given by you. 14 Maruts, ye further wealth with longedfor heroes, further the Rsi skilled in chanted verses. 15 Of you, most swift to succour! I solicit wealth wherewith we may spread forth mid men like as the Sun

2 The Goddesses with Gods, holy with holy, the Two stand pouring out their rain, exhaustless: 3 Sure in the worlds he was a skilful Craftsman, he who produced these Twain the Earth and Heaven. 4 O Heaven and Earth, with one accord promoting, with high protection as of Queens, our welfare, 5 To both of you, O Heaven and Earth, we bring our lofty song of praise, 6 Ye sanctify each other's form, by your own proper might ye rule, 7 Furthering and fulfilling, ye, O Mighty, perfect Mitra's Law.

2 Ye, as ye wist, have gained of your own selves your power: high, O ye Mighty Ones, and wide ye shine 3 Strong, born together, they together have waxed great: the Heroes more and more have grown to majest 4 Maruts, your mightiness deserves to be adored, sight to be longed for like the shining of the Sun. 5 O Maruts, from the Ocean ye uplift the rain, and fraught with vaporous moisture pour the torrents down. 6 When to your car−poles ye have yoked your spotted deer to be your steeds, and put your golden mantles 7 Neither the mountains nor the rivers keep you back: whither ye have resolved thither ye, Maruts, go. 9 Be gracious unto us, ye Maruts, slay us not extend ye unto us shelter of many a sort. 10 O Maruts, lead us on to higher fortune deliver us, when lauded, from afflictions.

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

1 THOUGH e'en this heaven's wide space and earth have spread them out, nor heaven nor earth may be in 2 Like as the watery ocean, so doth he receive the rivers spread on all sides in their ample width. 3 Thou swayest, Indra, all kinds of great manly power, so as to bend, as't were, even that famed mountain 4 He only in the wood is praised by worshippers, when he shows forth to men his own fair Indra−power. 5 Yet verily the Warrior in his vigorous strength stirreth up with his might great battles for mankind; 6 Though, fain for glory, and with strength increased on earth, he with great might destroys the dwellings 7 Drinker of Soma, let thy heart incline to give; bring thy Bays hitherward, O thou who hearest praise. 8 Thou bearest in both hands treasure that never fails; the famed One in his body holds unvanquished mig

2 As ye have come effacing Mrtyu's footstep, to further times prolonging your existence, 3 Divided from the dead are these, the living: now be our calling on the Gods successful. 4 Here I erect this rampart for the living; let none of these, none other, reach this limit. 5 As the days follow days in close succession, as with the seasons duly come the seasons, 6 Live your full lives ap! find old age delightful, all of you striving one behind the other. 7 Let these unwidowed dames with noble husbands adorn themselves with fragrant balm and unguent. 8 Rise, come unto the world of life, O woman: come, he is lifeless by whose side thou liest. 9 From his dead hand I take the bow be carried, that it may be our power and might and glory. 10 Betake thee to the Iap of Earth the Mother, of Earth far−spreading, very kind and gracious. 11 Heave thyself, Earth, nor press thee downward heavily: afford him easy access, gently tending him. 12 Now let the heaving earth be free from motion: yea,− let a thousand clods remain above him. 13 I stay the earth from thee, while over thee I place this piece of earth. May I be free from injury. 14 Even as an arrow's feathers, they have set me on a fitting day.

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

2 He who fixed fast and firm the earth that staggered, and set at rest the agitated mountains, 3 Who slew the Dragon, freed the Seven Rivers, and drove the kine forth from the cave of Vala, 4 By whom this universe was made to tremble, who chased away the humbled brood of demons, 5 Of whom, the Terrible, they ask, Where is He? or verily they say of him, He is not. 6 Stirrer to action of the poor and lowly, of priest, of suppliant who sings his praises; 7 He under whose supreme control are horses, all chariots, and the villages, and cattle; 8 To whom two armies cry in close encounter, both enemies, the stronger and the weaker; 9 Without whose help our people never conquer; whom, battling, they invoke to give them succour; 10 He who hath smitten, ere they knew their danger, with his hurled weapon many grievous sinners; 11 He who discovered in the fortieth autumn Sambara as he dwelt among the mountains; 12 Who with seven guiding reins, the Bull, the Mighty, set free the Seven great Floods to flow at pleasure 13 Even the Heaven and Earth bow down before him, before his very breath the mountains tremble. 14 Who aids with favour him who pours the Soma and him who brews it, sacrificer, singer. 15 Thou verily art fierce and true who sendest strength to the man who brews and pours libation.

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

2 Quelling the riteless Dasyu, may we think upon the bridge of bliss, 3 The mighty Pavamana's roar is heard as 'twere the rush of rain 4 Pour out on us abundant food, when thou art pressed, O Indu wealth 5 Flow on thy way, Most Active, thou. fill full the mighty heavens and earth, 6 On every side, O Soma, flow round us with thy protecting stream,

2 Great art thou, Mighty Lord, through manly vigour, O fierce One, gathering spoil, subduing others, 3 He hath surpassed all measure in his brightness, yea, and the Gods, for none may be his equal. 4 To Indra, even as rivers to the ocean, flow forth from days of old the Soma juices; 5 The Soma, Indra, which the earth and heaven bear for thee as a mother bears her infant,

2 As vast as all this world is in its compass, deep as it is, with its far−stretching surface, 3 For ye have won a blessed name together: yea, with one aim ye strove, O Vrtra−slayers. 4 Both stand adorned, when fires are duly kindled, spreading the sacred grass, with lifted ladles. 5 The brave deeds ye have done, Indra and Agni, the forms ye have displayed and mighty exploits, 6 As first I said when choosing you, in battle we must contend with Asuras for this Soma. 7 If in your dwelling, or with prince or Brahman, ye, Indra−Agni, Holy Ones, rejoice you, 8 If with, the Yadus, Turvasas, ye sojourn, with Druhyus, Anus, Purus, Indra−Agni! 9 Whether, O Indra−Agni, ye be dwelling in lowest earth, in central, or in highest. 10 Whether, O Indra−Agni, ye be dwelling in highest earth, in central, or in lowest, 11 Whether ye be in heaven, O Indra−Agni, on earth, on mountains, in the herbs, or waters, 12 If, when the Sun to the mid−heaven hath mounted, ye take delight in food, O Indra−Agni, 13 Thus having drunk your fill of our libation, win us all kinds of wealth, Indra and Agni.

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 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 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.

1 I GLORIFY that Ram who finds the light of heaven, whose hundred nobly−natured ones go forth with h 2 Like as a mountain on firm basis, unremoved, he, thousandfold protector, waxed in mighty strength, Wh 5 To him, as in wild joy he fought with him who stayed the rain, his helpers sped like swift streams down 6 Splendour encompassed thee, forth shone thy warrior might: the rain−obstructer lay in mid−air's lowest 7 The hymns which magnify thee, Indra, reach to thee even as water−brooks flow down and fill the lake. 8 When, Indra, thou whose power is linked with thy Bay Steeds hadst smitten Vrtra, causing floods to flo 9 In fear they raised the lofty self−resplendent hymn, praise giving and effectual, leading up to heaven, 10 Then Heaven himself, the mighty, at that Dragon's roar reeled back in terror when, Indra, thy thunderb 11 O Indra, were this earth extended forth tenfold, and men who dwell therein multiplied day by day, 12 Thou, bold of heart, in thine own native might, for help, upon the limit of this mid−air and of heaven, 13 Thou art the counterpart of earth, the Master of lofty heaven with all its mighty Heroes: 14 Whose amplitude the heaven and earth have not attained, whose bounds the waters of mid−air have ne 15 The Maruts sang thy praise in this encounter, and in thee all the Deities delighted,

2 Indra and Agni, Hero−lords when Vrtra fell, dwelling together, speeding emulously on, 3 Skilled in the Law I lift the hymn of praise to these, Law−strengtheners, unassailed, and great in majest 4 They with their might have stayed Heaven, Earth, and Prthivi, the Lord of Light, the firmament, −the 5 Bring gifts to Mitra and to Varuna who, Lords of all, in spirit never fail the worshipper, 6 The cow who yielding milk goes her appointed way hither to us as leader of holy rites, 7 The Gods whose tongue is Agni dwell in heaven, and sit, aiders of Law, reflecting, in the seat of Law. 8 Born in the oldest time, the Parents dwelling round are sharers of one mansion in the home of Law. 9 Parjanya, Vata, mighty, senders of the rain, Indra and Vayu, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 10 Tvastar and Vayu, those who count as Rbhus, both celestial Hotar−priests, and Dawn for happiness, 11 They generated prayer, the cow, the horse, the plants, the forest trees, the earth, the waters, and the hill 12 O Asvins, ye delivered Bhujyu from distress, ye animated Syava, Vadhrmati's son. 13 Thunder, the lightning's daughter, Aja−Ekapad, heaven's bearer, Sindhu, and the waters of the sea: 14 With Holy Thoughts and with Purandhi may all Gods, knowing the Law immortal, Manu's Holy Ones, 15 Immortal Gods have I, Vasistha, lauded, Gods set on high above all other beings.

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 Thou, Indra, art the Conqueror: thou gavest splendour to the Sun. 3 Radiant with light thou wentest to the sky, the luminous realm of heaven. 4 Come unto us, O Indra, dear, still conquering, unconcealable, 5 O truthful Soma−drinker, thou art mightier than both the worlds. 6 For thou art he, O Indra, wiio stormeth all castles of the foe, 7 Now have we, Indra, Friend of Song, sent our great wishes forth to thee, 8 As rivers swell the ocean, so, Hero, our prayers increase thy might, 9 With holy song mey bind to the broad wide−yoked car the Bay Steeds of the rapid God, 10 O Indra, bring great strength to us, bring valour, Satakratu, thou most active, bring 11 For, gracious Satakratu, thou hast ever been a Mother and a Sire to us, 12 To thee, Strong, Much−invoked, who showest forth thy strength, O Satakratu, do I speak:

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 Here magnify his great heroic exploits, most glorious One, enriching men with bounties, 3 Hither let Indra come from earth or heaven, hither with speech from firmament or ocean; 4 That Indra will we laud in our assemblies, him who is Lord of great and lasting riches, 5 May the Priest, Lord of many blessings, striving,−who fixing reverence on reverence, giving 6 When sitting pondering in deep devotion in Ausija's abode they ply the press−stone, 7 Surely the power of Bharvara the mighty for ever helpeth to support the singer; 8 When he unbars the spaces of the mountains, and quickens with his floods the water−torrents, 9 Auspicious are thy hands, thine arms wellfashioned which proffer bounty, Indra, to thy praiser. 10 So Indra is the truthful Lord of treasure. Freedom he gave to man by slaying Vrtra. 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for,the singer.

2 For the strong band of Maruts will we frame a hymn: the chiefs shall bring forth sacrifice for Indra's tro 3 May Indra with the Vasus keep our dwelling safe, and Aditi with Adityas lend us sure defence. 4 Aditi, Heaven and Earth, the great eternal Law, Indra, Visnu, the Maruts, and the lofty Sky. 5 With Holy Thoughts Sarasvan, firm−lawed Varuna, great Vayu, Pusan, Visnu, and the Asvins Twain, 6 Strong be the sacrifice, strong be the Holy Ones, strong the preparers of oblation, strong the Gods. 7 To win us strength I glorify the Mighty Twain, Agni and Soma, Mighty Ones whom many laud. 8 Potent, with firm−fixt laws, arranging sacrifice, visiting solemn rites in splendour of the day, 9 The Holy Ones engendered, for their several laws, the heavens and earth, the waters, and the plants and 10 May they who bear up heaven, the Rbhus deft of hand, and Vata and Parjanya of the thundering Bull, 11 Sindhu, the sea, the region, and the firmament, the thunder, and the ocean, Aja−Ekapad, 12 May we, be yours, we men, to entertain the Gods: further our sacrifice and give it full success. 13 I follow with success upon the path of Law the two celestial Hotars, Priests of oldest time. 14 Vasistha's sons have raised their voices, like their sire. Rsi−like praying to the Gods for happiness. 15 Immortal Gods have I, Vasistha, lauded, Gods set on high above all other beings.

2 To mighty Heaven and Earth I sing forth loudly: my wish goes out desirous and well knowing 3 O Heaven and Earth, may your great law he faithful: he ye our leaders for our high advantage. 4 Yea, holy Heaven and Earth, the ancient sages whose word was ever true had power to find you; 5 What pathway leadeth to the Gods? Who knoweth this of a truth, and who will now declare it? 6 The Sage who looketh on mankind hath viewed them bedewed, rejoicing in the seat of Order. 7 Partners though parted, with far−distant limits, on one firm place both stand for ever watchful, 8 All living things they part and keep asunder; though bearing up the mighty Gods they reel not. 9 Afar the Ancient from of old I ponder, our kinship with our mighty Sire and Father,− 10 This laud, O Heaven and Earth, to you I utter: let the kind−hearted hear, whose tongue is Agni, 11 The fair−tongued Savitar, the golden−handed, comes thrice from heaven as Lord in our assembly. 12 Deft worker, skiful−handed, helpful, holy, may Tvastar, God, give us these things to aid us, 13 Borne on their flashing car, the spear−armed Maruts, the nimble Youths of Heaven, the Sons of Order, 14 To Visnu rich in marvels, songs And praises shall go as singers on the road of Bhaga,− 15 Indra, who rules through all his powers heroic, hath with his majesty filled earth and heaven. 16 My Sires are the Nasatyas, kind tokinsmen: the Asvins' kinship is a glorious title. 17 This is, ye Wise, your great and glorious title, that all ye Deities abide in Indra. 18 Aryaman, Aditi deserve our worship: the laws of Varuna remain unbroken. 19 May the Gods' envoy, sent to many a quarter, proclaim us sinless for our perfect safety. 20 Hear us the mouatains which distil the rain−drops, and, resting firm, rejoice in freshening moisture. 21 Soft be our path for ever, well−provisioned: with pleasant meath, O Gods, the herbs besprinkle. 22 Enjoy the offering: beam thou strength upon us; combine thou for our good all kinds of glory.

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

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

2 The Gods, as worn witheld, relaxed their efforts: thou, Indra, born of truth, wast Sovran Ruler. 3 The insatiate one, extended, hard to waken, who slumbered in perpetual sleep, O Indra,− 4 Indra with might shook earth and her foundation as the wind stirs the water with its fury. 5 They ran to thee as mothers to their offspring: the clouds, like chariots, hastened forth together. 6 Thou for the sake of Vayya and Turviti didst stay the great stream, flowing, allsustaining: 7 He let the young Maids skilled in Law, unwedded, like fountains, bubbling, flow forth streaming onwar 8 Through many a morn and many a lovely autumn, having slain Vrtra, lie set free the rivers. 9 Lord of Bay Steeds, thou broughtest from the ant−hill the unwedded damsel's son whom ants were eatin 10 To the wise man, O Sage and Sovran Ruler, the man who knoweth all thine ancient exploits. 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let powers swell high, like rivers, for the singer.

10 Varuna, Mighty, with a thousand eyes, beholds the paths wherein these rivers run. 11 He, King of kings, the glory of the floods, o'er all that liveth hath resistless sway. 12 May he assist us among all the tribes, and make the envier's praise devoid of light. 13 May the foes' threatening arrow pass us by: may he put far from us our bodies' sin. 14 Agni, oblation−cater, through our prayers aid us: to him our dearest laud is brought. 15 Accordant with the Gods choose for our Friend the Waters' Child: may he be good to us. 16 With lauds I sing the Dragon born of floods: he sits beneath the streams in middle air. 17 Ne'er may the Dragon of the Deep harm us: ne'er fail this faithful servant's sacrifice. 18 To these our heroes may they grant renown: may pious men march boldly on to wealth. 19 Leading great hosts, with fierce attacks of these, they burn their foes as the Sun burns the earth. 20 What time our wives draw near to us, may he, left−handed Tvastar, give us hero sons. 21 May Tvastar find our hymn acceptable, and may Aramati, seeking wealth, be ours. 22 May they who lavish gifts bestow those treasures: may Rodasi and Varunani listen. 23 So may rich Mountains and the liberal Waters, so may all Herbs that grow on ground, and Heaven, 24 To this may both the wide Worlds lend approval, and Varuna in heaven, whose Friend is Indra. 25 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Agni, Waters, Herbs, Trees accept the praise we offer.

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.

1 AGNI I first invoke for our prosperity; I call on Mitra, Varuna, to aid us here. 2 Throughout the dusky firmament advancing, laying to rest the immortal and the mortal, 3 The God moves by the upward path, the downward; with two bright Bays, adorable, he journeys. 4 His chariot decked with pearl, of various colours, lofty, with golden pole, the God hath mounted, 5 Drawing the gold−yoked car his Bays, white−footed, have manifested light to all the peoples. 6 Three heavens there are; two Savitar's, adjacent: in Yama's world is one, the home of heroes, 7 He, strong of wing, hath lightened up the regions, deep−quivering Asura, the gentle Leader. 8 The earth's eight points his brightness hath illumined, three desert regions and the Seven Rivers. 9 The golden−handed Savitar, far−seeing, goes on his way between the earth and heaven, 10 May he, gold−handed Asura, kind Leader, come hither to us with his help and favour. 11 O Savitar, thine ancient dustless pathways are well established in the air's midregion:

2 A man should think on wealth and strive to win it by adoration on the path of Order, 3 The hymn is formed, poured are the allotted portions: as to a ford friends come unto the Wondrous. 4 Pleased be the Eternal Lord who loves the household with this man whom God Savitar created. 5 Like the Dawns' dwelling−place be this assembly, where in their might men rich in food have gathered. 6 This Bull's most gracious far−extended favour existed first of all in full abundance. 7 What was the tree, what wood, in sooth, produced it, from which they fashioned forth the Earth and 8 Not only here is this: more is beyond us. He is the Bull, the Heaven's and Earth's supporter. 9 He passes o'er the broad earth like a Stega: he penetrates the world as Wind the mist−cloud. 10 When suddenly called the cow that erst was barren, she, self−protected, ended all her troubles. 11 To Nrsad's son they gave the name of Kainva, and he the brown−hued courser won the treasure.

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 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.

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

2 O Indu, while they cleanse thee bring, O Soma, doubly−waxing wealth 3 Set free the. song which mind hath yoked, even as thunder frees the rain: 4 Thy stream when thou art pressed runs on like some victorious warrior's steed 5 Flow on, Sage Soma, with thy stream to give us mental power and strength, 6 Flow to the filter with thy stream, effused, best winner, thou, of spoil, 7 The mothers, void of guiles, caress thee Golden−coloured, in the sieve, 8 Thou, Pavamana, movest on with wondrous rays to great renown. 9 Lord of great sway, thou liftest thee above the heavens, above the earth.

2 Be even here; fall not away be like a mountain unremoved. 3 This man hath Indra stablished, made secure by strong oblation's power. 4 Firm is the sky and firm the earth, and stedfast also are these hills. 5 Stedfast, may Varuna the King, stedfast, the God Brhaspati,

2 Ye, Varuna, have kine who yield refreshment; Mitra, your floods pour water full of sweetness. 3 I call at dawn on Aditi the Goddess, I call at noon and when the Sun is setting. 4 Ye who uphold the region, sphere of brightness, ye who support earth's realm Divine Adityas,

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.

4 Self−yoked they have descended lightly from the sky. With your own lash, Immortals, urge yourselve's 5 Who among you, O Maruts armed with lightning−spears, moveth you by himself, as with the tongue his 6 Say where, then, is this mighty region's farthest bound, where, Maruts, is the lowest depth that ye have 7 Your winning is with strength, dazzling, with heavenly light, with fruit mature, O Maruts, fall of 8 The rivers roar before your chariot fellies when they are uttering the voice of rain−clouds. 9 Prani brought forth, to fight the mighty battle, the glittering army of the restless Maruts. 10 May this your laud, may this your song O Maruts, sung by the poet Mana's son,

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

2 Goat−borne, the guard of cattle, he whose home is strength, inspirer of the hymn, set over all the world; 3 O Pusan, with thy golden ships that travel across the ocean, in the air's mid−region, 4 Near kinsman of the heaven and earth is Pusan, liberal, Lord of food, of wondrous iustre,

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

2 In the tree−tops the air he hath extended, put milk in kine and vigorous speed in horses, 3 Varuna lets the big cask, opening downward, flow through the heaven and earth and air's mid−region. 4 When Varuna is fain for milk he moistens the sky, the land, and earth to her foundation. 5 I will declare this mighty deed of magic, of glorious Varuna the Lord Immortal, 6 None, verily, hath ever let or hindered this the most wise God's mighty deed of magic, 7 If we have sinned against the man who loves us, have ever wronged a brother, friend, or comrade, 8 If we, as gamesters cheat at play, have cheated, done wrong unwittingly or sinned of purpose,

3 Parjanya is the Father of the Mighty Bird: on mountains, in earth's centre hath he made his home. 4 Thou givest pleasure as a wife delights her lord. Listen, O Child of Pajri, for to thee I speak. 5 As to the men of old thou camest, Indu unharmed, to strengthen, winning hundreds, thousands,

2 As rapid chariot−steeds, so turned in several ways have thine exhilarating juices darted forth, 3 Like a steed urged to battle, finder of the light; speed onward to the cloud−born reservoir of heaven, 4 Fleet as swift steeds, thy drops, divine, thought−swift, have been, O Pavamana, poured with milk into th 5 O thou who seest all things, Sovran as thou art and passing strong, thy rays encompass all abodes. 6 The beams of Pavamana, sent from earth and heaven, his ensigns who is ever steadfast, travel round. 7 Served with fair rites he flows, ensign of sacrifice: Soma advances to the special place of Gods. 8 The Sovran dips him in the seain and the streams, and set in rivers with the waters' wave moves on. 9 He on whose high decree the heavens and earth depend nath roared and thundered like the summit of th 10 He, light of sacrifice distils delicious meath, most wealthy, Father and begetter of the Gods. 11 The vigorous and far−seeing one, the Lord of heaven, flows, shouting to the beaker, with his thousand 12 In forefront of the rivers Pavamana speeds, in forefront of the hymn, foremost among the kine. 13 This heedful Pavamana, like a bird sent forth, hath with his wave flowed onward to the fleecy sieve. 14 He, clad in mail that reaches heaven, the Holy One, filling the firmament stationed amid the worlds, 15 He who was first of all to penetrate his form bestowed upon his race wide shelter and defence. 16 Indu hath started for Indra's special place and slights not as a Friend the promise of his Friend. 17 Your songs, exhilarating, tuneful, uttering praise, are come into the placns where the people meet. 18 O Soma, Indu, while they cleanse thee, pour on us accumulateds Plentiful, nutritious food, 19 Far−seeing Soma flows, the Steer, the Lord of hymns, the Furtherer of day, of morning, and of heaven. 20 On, with the prudent singers, flows the ancient Sage and guided by the men hath roared about the vats.

2 In each succeeding sacrifice that mortal honoureth the Gods, 3 Ye who are Rulers over all, great is your sovran power as Gods. 4 These are the joyous Kings of Immortality, Parijman, Mitra, Aryaman, and Varuna. 5 Come also to our dwelling, Lords of ample wealth, common partakers of our waters, Sun and Moon, 6 And let the Asvins, Lords of splendour, set us free,− both Gods, and, with their Laws, Mitra and Varuna 7 Yea, let the Asvins Twain he gracious unto us, even Rudras, and all Gods, Bhaga, Rathaspati; 8 Prompt is Rbhuksan, prompt the worshipper's strong drink: may thy fleet Bay Steeds, thine who sperdes 9 O God Savitar, harmed by none, lauded, give us a place among wealthy princes. 10 To these men present here, O Heaven and Earth, to us grant lofty fame extending over all mankind. 11 This speaker, Indra−for thou art our Friend−wherever he may be, guard thou, Victor! for help, ever for 12 So have they strengthened this mine hymn which seems to take its bright path to the Sun, and reconcil 13 Whose chariot−seat hath come again laden with wealth and bright with gold, 14 This to Duhsima Prthavana have I sung, to Vena, Rama, to the nobles, and the King. 15 Besides, they showed us seven −and−seventy horses here.

2 Agni the dart whereby we gain kine for ourselves with help from thee,− 3 O Agni, bring us wealth secure, vast wealth in horses and in kine: 4 O Agni, thou hast made the Sun, Eternal Star, to mount the sky, 5 Thou, Agni, art the people's light, best, dearest, seated in thy shrine:

2 I, Indra, am Atharvan's stay and firm support: I brought forth kine to Trita from the Dragon's grasp. 3 For me hath Tvastar forged the iron thunderbolt: in me the Gods have centred intellectual power. 4 I won myself these herdi of cattle, steeds and kine, and gold in ample store, with my destructive bolt. 5 Indra am I none ever wins my wealth from me never at any time am I a thrall to death. 6 These, breathing loud in fury, two and two, who caused Indra to bring his bolt of thunder to the fray, 8 Against the Gungus I made Atithigva strong, and kept him mid the folk like Vrtra−conquering strength, 9 With food for mine enjoyment Sapya Nami came: he joined me as a friend of old in search of kine. 10 One of the two hath Soma, seen within it; the Herdsman with the bone shows forth the other. 11 I, as a God, ne'er violate the statutes of Gods, of Vasus, Rudriyas, Adityas. 2 The People of the heavens, the waters, and the earth have stablished me among the Gods with Indra's na 3 With deadly blows I smote Atka for Kavi's sake; I guarded Kutsa well with these saving helps. 4 Smadibha, Tugra, and the Vetasus I gave as prey to Kutsa, father−like, to succour him. 5 I gave up Mrgaya to Srutarvan as his prey because he ever followed me and kept my laws. 6 1, I crushed Navavastva of the lofty car, the Dasa, as the Vrtra−slayer kills the fiends; 7 I travel round about borne onward in my might by the fleet−footed dappled Horses of the Sun. 8 Stronger am I than Nabus, I who slew the seven: I glorified with might Yadu and Turvaga. 9 Bull over all the streams that flow along the earth, I took the Seven Rivers as mine own domain. 10 I set within these cows the white milk which no God, not even Tvastar's self, had there deposited,− 11 Even thus hath Indra Maghavan, truly bounteous, sped Gods and men with mighty operation.

2 Auspicious Friends to us be Bhaga, Sathsa, auspicious be Purandhi aid all Riches; 3 Kind unto us he Maker and Sustainer, and the far−reaching Pair with God−like natures. 4 Favour us Agni with his face of splendour, and Varuva and Mitra and the Asvins. 5 Early invoked, may Heaven and Earth be friendly, and Air's mid−region good for us to look on. 6 Be the God Indra with the Vasus friendly, and, with Adityas, Varuna who blesseth. 7 Blest unto us be Soma, and devotions, blest be the Sacrifice, the Stones for pressing. 8 May the far−seeing Sun rise up to bless us: be the four Quarters of the sky auspicious. 9 May Adid through holy works be gracioas, and may the Maruts, loud in song, be friendly. 10 Prosper us Savitar, the God who rescues, and let the radiant Mornings be propitious. 11 May all the fellowship of Gods befriend us, Sarasvati, with Holy Thoughts, be gracious. 12 May the great Lords of Truth protect and aid us: blest to us be our horses and our cattle. 13 May Aja−Ekapad, the God, be gracious, gracious the Dragon of the Deep, and Ocean. 14 So may the Rudras, Vasus, and Adityas accept the new hymn which we now are making. 15 They who of Holy Gods are very holy, Immortal, knowing Law, whom man must worship,−

2 The Sun ascending, the refulgent Star, pours down his beams together with the Dawn. 3 Promptly we woke to welcome thee, O Usas, Daughter of the Sky, 4 Thou, dawning, workest fain to light the great world, yea, heaven, Goddess! that it may be seen. 5 Bring us that wondrous bounty, Dawn, that shall be famed most far away. 6 Give to our princes opulence and immortal fame, and strength in herds of kine to us. 2 O Indra−Varuna, mighty and very rich One of you is called Monarch and One Autocrat. 3 Ye with your strength have pierced the fountains of the floods: the Sun have ye brought forward as the 4 In battels and in frays we ministering priests, kneeling upon our knees for furtherance of our weal, 5 O Indra−Varuna, as ye created all these creatures of the world by your surpassing might, 6 That Varuna's high worth may shine preeminent, these Twain have measured each his proper power and 7 No trouble, no misfortune, Indra−Varuna, no woe from any side assails the mortal man 8 With your divine protection, Heroes, come to us: mine invncation hear, if ye be pleased therewith. 9 In battle after battle, Indra−Varuna, be ye our Champions, ye who are the peoples' strength, 10 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman vouchsafe us glory and great shelter spreading far.

2 He through his lordship thinks on beings of the earth, on heavenly beings through his high imperial swa 3 May thy bright arrow which, shot down by thee from heaven, flieth upon the earth, pass us uninjured by 4 Slay us not, nor abandon us, O Rudra let not thy noose, when thou art angry, seize us.