Rig Veda on War

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

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

2 Arrows with hundred points, unconquerable, are this Indra's n−dghty arms in war. 3 What time the flowing Soma−drops have gladdened with their taste the Friend, 4 To him the peerless, who is calling you to give you aid, forth flow the drops of pleasant meath. 5 He rushes hurrying like a steed to Soma that adorns our rite, 6 Praise the strong, grasping Hero, winner of the spoil, ruling supreme oer mighty wealth. 7 Now whether thou be far away, or in the heavens, or on the earth, 8 The Bays who draw thy chariot, Steeds who injure none, surpass the wind's impetuous strength− 9 O gracious Hero, may we learn anew to know thee as thou art: 10 As, Maghavan, to Kanva at the sacred feast, to Dirghanitha thine home−friend,

ye triumphed in your heart, and onward went to liberate the flood of milk; 19 Wherewith ye brought awife for Vimada to wed, wherewith ye freely gave the ruddy cows away; 20 Wherewith ye bring great bliss to him who offers gifts, wherewith ye have protected Bhujyu, Adhrigu, 21 Wherewith ye served Krsanu where the shafts were shot, and helped the young man's horse to swiftnes 22 Wherewith ye speed the hero as he fights for kine in hero battle, in the strife for land and sons, 23 Wherewith ye, Lords of Hundred Powers, helped Kutsa, son of Aduni, gave Turviti and Dabhiti streng 24 Make ye our speech effectual, O ye Asvins, and this our hymn, ye mighty Wonder−Workers. 25 With, undiminished blessings, O ye Asvins, for evermore both night and day protect us.

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

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

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

2 Lauded by many, much−invoked, leader of song, renowned of old: 3 Indra the Dancer be to us the giver of abundant strength: 4 Indra whose jaws are strong hath drunk of worshipping Sudaksa's draught, 5 Call Indra loudly with your songs of praise to drink the Soma juice. 6 When he hath drqnk its gladdening drops, the God with vigour of a God 7 Thou speedest down to succour us this ever−conquering God of yours, 8 The Warrior not to he restrained, the Soma−drinker ne'er o'erthrown, 9 O Indra, send us riches, thou Omniscient, worthy of our praise: 10 Even thence, O 1ndra, come to us with food that gives a hundred powers, 11 We sought the wisdom of the wise. Sakra, Kine−giver, Thunder−armed! 12 We make thee, Satakratu, find enjoyment in the songs we sing.

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

2 Ask of the sages' mighty generations firm−minded and devout they framed the heaven. 3 Assuming in this world mysterious natures, they decked the heaven and earth for high dominion, 4 Even as he mounted up they all adorned him: self−luminous he travels clothed in splendour. 5 First the more ancient Bull engendered offspring; these are his many draughts that lent him vigour. 6 Three seats ye Sovrans, in the Holy synod, many, yea, all, ye honour with your presence. 7 That same companionship of her, the Milch−cow, here with the strong Bull's divers forms they stablishe 8 Let no one here debar me from enjoying the golden light which Savitar diffuses. 9 Fulfil, ye twain, his work, the Great, the Ancient: as heavenly blessing keep your guard around us. 10 Call we on Indra, Maghavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,

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 Ye Sapient Ones who made the lightly−rolling car out of your mind, by thought, the car that never errs, 3 O Vajas, Rbhus, reaching far, among the Gods this was your exaltation gloriously declared, 4 The chalice that wag single ye have made fourfold, and by your wisdom brought the Cow forth from the 5 Wealth from the Rbhus is most glorious in renown, that which the Heroes, famed for vigour, have 6 Strong is the steed, the man a sage in eloquence, the bowman is a hero hard to beat in fight, 7 To you hath been assigned the fairest ornament, the hymn of praise: Vajas and Rbhus, joy therein; 8 According to the wishes of our hearts may ye, who have full knowledge of all the delights of men, 9 Bestowing on us here riches and offspring, here fashion fame for us befitting heroes.

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

23 We to the Mighty with our might, with lauds to him who hears our call, 24 Not earth, nor heaven, nor firmaments contain the Thunder−wielding God: 25 What time the Gods, O Indra, get thee foremost in the furious fight, 26 When Vrtra, stayer of the floods, thou si"est, Thundeicr with might, 27 When Visnu, through thine energy, strode wide those three great steps of his, 28 When thy two beautiful Bay Steeds grew great and greater day by day, 29 When, Indra, all the Marut folk humbly submitted them to thee, 30 When yonder Sun, that brilliant light, thou settest in the heaven above, 31 To thee, O Indra, with this thought the sage lifts up this eulogy, 32 When in thine own dear dwelling all gathered have lifted up the voice 33 As Priest, O Indra, give us wealth in brave men and good steeds ana kine

2 Him, Maker of the sky, let stones wet with the Soma ne'er forsake, 3 Indra who knew full well disclosed the kine to the Angirases. 4 Indra, promoter of the song, the sage's Strengthener as of old, 5 Now after their desire's intent the pious singers with the cry 6 With Indra rest all deeds of might, deeds done and yet to be performed, 7 When the Five Tribes with all their men to Indra have sent out their voice, 8 This praise is verily thine own: thou hast performed these manly deeds, 9 At the o'erflowing of this Steer, boldly he strode for life, and took 10 Receiving this and craving help, we, who with you are Daksa's sons, 11 Yea, Hero, with the singers we sing.to the duly−coming Band. 12 With us are raining Rudras, clouds accordant in call to battle, at the death of Vrtra,

2 Like two plough−bulls ye move along in traces, and seek like eager guests your bidder's banquet. 3 Like the two pinions of a bird, connected, like two choice animals, ye have sought our worship. 4 Ye are our kinsmen, like two sons, two fathers, strong in your splendour and like kings for conquest; 5 You are like two pleasantly moving well−fed (hills) like Mitra and Varuna, the two bestowers of felicity 6 You are like two mad elephants bending their forequarters and smiting the foe, like the two sons of Nito 7 Fierce (Asvins), like two powerful (heroes), you enable this moving, perishable mortal (frame) to cross 8 With your bellies full of the Soma, like two saucepans, preservers of wealth, destroyers of enemies. (yo 9 Like giants, ye will find firm ground to stand on in depths, like feet for one who fords a shallow. Like c

2 For ye Twain, Indra, Soma, are Lords of the light, Lords of the kine: 3 The tawny Steer, while cleansed among the living, bellowing on the grass, 4 Over the Steer's productive flow the sacred songs were resonant, 5 Hath he not, purified, impregned the kine whb long to meet their Lord, 6 Bring near us those who stand aloof strike fear into our enemies: 7 Soma, bring down the foeman's might, his vigorous strength and vital powe'r, 2 For he, as Pavamana, sends thousandfold treasure in the shape 3 Thou graspest all things with thy mind, and purifiest thee with thoughts 4 Pour lofty glory on us, send sure riches to our liberal lords, 5 As thou art cleansed, O Wondrous Steed, O Soma, thou hast entered, like 6 He, Soma, like a courser in the floods invincible, made clean 7 Disporting, like a liberal chief, thou goest, Soma, to the sieve,

2 Strong, bellowing, he goes, like one who slays the folk; he lets this hue of Asuras flow off from him, 3 Onward he flows, from both the hands, pressed out with stones: excited by the prayer, the water makes 4 They pour out meath around the Master of the house, Celestial Strengthener of the mountain that gives 5 They, the ten sisters, on the lap of Aditi, have sent him forward like a car from both the arms. 6 Like as a falcon to his home, so speeds the God to his own golden wisely−tashioned place to rest. 7 From far away, from heaven, the redhued noted Sage, Steer of the triple height, hath sung unto the kine. 8 His covering assumes a radiant hue; where'er he comes into the fight he drives the foe afar. 9 Like a bull roaming round the herds he bellows: he hath assumed the brilliancy of Surya.

2 Through your kind favour, Gods, on some auspicious day, the worshipper subdues his foes. 3 Vasistha will not overlook the lowliest one among you all. 4 Your succour in the battle injures not the man to whom ye, Heroes, grant your gifts. 5 Come hitherward to drink the juice, O ye whose bounties give you joy. 6 Sit on our sacred grass, be graciously inclined to give the wealth for which we long, 7 Decking the beauty of their forms in secret the Swans with purple backs have flown down hither. 8 Maruts, the man whose wrath is hard to master, he who would slay us ere we think, O Vasus, 9 O Maruts, ye consuming Gods, enjoy this offering brought for you, 10 Sharers of household sacrifice, come, Maruts, stay not far away, 11 Here, Self−strong Maruts, yea, even here. ye Sages with your sunbright skins 12 Tryambaka we worship, sweet augmenter of prosperity.

1 THE chanters hymn thee, they who say the word of praise magnify thee. 2 As up he clomb from ridge to ridge and looked upon the toilsome task, 3 Harness thy pair of strong bay steeds, long−maned, whose bodies fill the girths, 4 Come hither, answer thou the song, sing in approval, cry aloud. 5 To Indra must a laud be said, to strengthen him who freely gives, 6 Him, him we seek for friendship, him for riches and heroic might. 7 Easy to turn and drive away, Indra, is spoil bestowed by thee. 8 The heaven and earth contain thee not, together, in thy wrathful mood. 9 Hear, thou whose ear is quick, my call; take to thee readily my songs 10 We know thee mightiest of all, in battles hearer of our cry. 11 O Indra, Son of Kusika, drink our libation with delight. 12 Lover of song, may these our songs on every side encompass thee:

2 May the most sapient Maruts, with protection, with best boons brought from lofty heaven, approach us, 3 Close to them clings one moving in seclusion, like a man's wife, like a spear carried rearward, 4 Far off the brilliant, never−weary Maruts cling to the young Maid as a joint possession. 5 When chose immortal Rodasi to follow− she with loose tresses and heroic spirit− 6 Upon their car the young men set the Maiden wedded to glory, mighty in assemblies, 7 I will declare the greatness of these Maruts, their real greatness, worthy to be lauded, 8 Mitra and Varuna they guard from censure: Aryaman too, discovers worthless sinners Firm things are 9 None of us, Maruts, near or at a distance, hath ever reached the limit of your vigour. 10 May we this day be dearest friends of Indra, and let us call on him in fight to−morrow. 11 May this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's

2 Without whom naught exists, Indra the Lofty One; in whom alone all powers heroic are combined. 3 Not by both worlds is thine own power to be surpassed, nor may thy car be stayed by mountains or by s 4 For all men bring their will to him the Resolute, to him the Holy One, to him the Strong they cleave. 5 The vessel of the strong flows forth, the flood of meath, unto the Strong who feeds upon the strong, for 6 Strong is thy thunderbolt, yea, and thy car is strong; strong are thy Bay Steeds and thy weapons powerfu 7 I, bold by prayer, come near thee in thy sacred rites, thee like a saving ship, thee shouting in the war. 8 Turn thee unto us ere calamity come nigh, as a cow full of pasture turns her to her calf. 9 Now let that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, yield in return a boon to him who lauds thee.

2 Thou, verily, Indra, gavest help to Kutsa, willingly giving car to him in battle, 3 O Bold One, thou with all thine aids hast boldly holpen Sudas whose offerings were accepted, 4 At the Gods' banquet, hero−souled! with Heroes, Lord of Bay Steeds, thou slewest many foemen. 5 These were thy mighty powers that, Thunder−wielder, thou swiftly crushedst nine−and−ninety castles: 6 Old are the blessings, Indra, which thou gavest Sudas the worshipper who brought oblations. 7 Give us not up, Lord of Bay Horses, Victor, in this thine own assembly, to the wicked. 8 May we men, Maghavan, the friends thou lovest, near thee be joyful under thy protection. 9 Swiftly, in truth, O Maghavan, about thee men skilled in hymning sing their songs and praises. ' 10 Thine are these lauds, O manliest of heroes, lauds which revert to us and give us riches. 11 Now, lauded for thine aid, Heroic Indra, sped by our prayer, wax mighty in thy body.

2 Draw thy Friend to thee like a cow at milking: O Singer, wake up Indra as a lover. 3 Why, Maghavan, do they call thee Bounteous; Giver? Quicken me: thou, I hear, art he who quickens. 4 Standing, in battle for their rights, together, the people, Indra, in the fray invoke thee. 5 Whoso with plenteous food for him expresses strong Somas as much quickly−coming treasure, 6 He unto whom we offer praises, Indra, Maghavan, who hath joined to ours his wishes,− 7 With thy fierce bolt, O God invoked of many, drive to a distance from afar the foeman. 8 Indra, the swallower of strong libations rich in the boons they bring, the potent Somas, 9 Yea, by superior play he wins advantage, when he, a gambler, piles his gains in season. 10 O Much−invoked, may we subdue all famine and evil want with store of grain and cattle. 11 Brhaspati protect us from the rearward, and from above, and from below, from sinners!

2 Effused, this juice victorious flows for Indra, for his maintenance. 3 May Indra in his raptures gain from him the grasp that gathers spoil, 4 Flow vigilant for Indra, thou Soma, yea, Indu, run thou on: 5 Do thou, all−beautiful, purify for Indra's sake the mighty juice, 6 Best finder of prosperity for us, most rich in sweets for Gods, 7 O Indu, with thy streams, in might, flow for the banquet of the Gods: 8 Thy drops that swim in water have exalted Indra to delight: 9 Stream opulence to us, ye drops of Soma, pressed and purified, 10 Soma, while filtered, with his wave flows through the long wool of the sheep, 11 With songs they send the Mighty forth, sporting in wood, above the fleece: 12 Into the jars hath he been loosed, like an impetuous steed for war, 13 Gold−hued and lovely in his course, througb tangles of the wool he flows, 14 Flow thus, a faithful votary: the streams of meath have been effused.

2 There with fiend's ways e'en Prsni was seated: with much laudation they exalted Indra. 3 High are thy feet when on thy way thou goest: the strength thou foundest here hath lent thee vigour. 4 Speeding at once to sacrifice thou comest for friendship thou art bringing both Nasatyas. 5 Glad, for the race that rests on holy Order, with friends who hasten to their goal, hath Indra 6 Two of like name for him didst thou demolish, as Indra striking down the car of Usas. 7 War−loving Namuci thou smotest, robbing the Dasa of his magic for the Rsi. 8 These names of thine thou hast fulfilled completely: as Lord, thou boldest in thine arm, O Indra. 9 May the sweet Soma juices make him happy to cast his quoit that lies in depth of waters. 10 When others call him offspring of the Courser, my meaning is that Mighty Power produced him. 11 Like birds of beauteous wing the Priyamedhas, Rsis, imploring, have come nigh to Indra:

2 Even as it moveth near my hymn is lifted up, and all the regions come together to sing praise. 3 When striving man with man for glory they have met, brisk, measurcIess, eager for victory in fight, 4 Ye came to Bhujyu while he struggled in the flood, with flying birds, self−yoked, ye bore him to his sire 5 Asvins, the car which you had yoked for glorious show your own two voices urged directed to its goal. 6 Rebha ye saved from tyranny; for Atri's sake ye quenched with cold the fiery pit that compassed him. 7 Doers of marvels, skilful workers, ye restored Vandana, like a car, worn out with length of days. 8 Ye went to him who mourned in a far distant place, him who was left forlorn by treachery of his sire. 9 To you in praise of sweetness sang the honey−bee: Ausija calleth you in Soma's rapturous joy. 10 A horse did ye provide for Pedu, excellent, white, O ye Asvins, conqueror of combatants,

2 O Indra, drink the Soma juice pressed out with stones. poured from the reservoir, as an ox drinks the spr 3 He found the treasure brought from heaven that lay concealed, close−hidden, like the nestling of a bird, 4 Grasping his thunderbolt with both hands, Indra made its edge most keen, for hurling, like a carving−kn 5 Thou, Indra, without effort hast let loose the floods to run their free course down, 6 Eager for riches, men have formed for thee this song, like as a skilful craftsman fashioneth a car, so hav 7 For Puru thou hast shattered, Indra ninety forts, for Divodasa thy boon servant with thy bolt, O Dancer, 8 Indra in battles help his Aryan worshipper, he who hath hundred helps at hand in every fray, in frays tha 9 Waxed strong in might at dawn he tore the Sun's wheel off. Bright red, he steals away their speech, the 10 Lauded with our new hymns, O vigorous in deed, save us with strengthening help, thou Shatterer of th

2 Whom, served with sacrificial oil like Mitra, men presenting gifts 3 Much−lauded Jatavedas, him who bears oblations up to heaven 4 To noblest Agni, Friend of man, best Vrtra−slayer, are we come, 5 To deathless Jatavedas, meet for praise, adored, with sacred oil, 6 Even Agni whom these priestly men worship with sacrificial gifts, 7 O Agni, this our newest hymn hath been addressed from us to thee, 8 Agni, may it be dear to thee, most grateful, and exceeding sweet: 9 Splendid with splendours may it be, and in the battle with the foe 10 Steed, cow, a lord of heroes, bright like Indra, who shall fill the car. 11 Thou whom Gopavana made glad with song, O Agni Angiras, 12 Thou whom the priestly folk implore to aid the gathering of the spoil, 13 I, called to him who reels with joy, Srutarvan, Rksa's son, shall stroke 14 Four coursers with a splendid car, Savistha's horses, fleet of foot, 15 The very truth do I declare to thee, Parusni, mighty flood.

2 Drink of the juice which men have washed in waters, and fill thee full, O Lord of Tawny Horses. 3 To make thee start, a strong true draught I offer to thee, the Bull, O thou whom Bay Steeds carry. 4 O Mighty Indra, through thine aid, thy prowess, obtaining life, zealous, and skilled in Order, 5 Through thy directions, Lord of Tawny Coursers, thine who art firm, splendid, and blest, the people 6 Lord of the Bays, come with thy two Bay Horses, come to our prayers, to drink the juice of Soma. 7 Him of a thousand powers, subduing foemen, Maghavan praised with hymns and pleased with Soma,− 8 The way to bliss for Gods and man thou foundest, Indra, seven lovely floods, divine, untroubled, 9 Thou from the curse didst free the mighty Waters, and as their only God didst watch and guard them. 10 Heroic power and noble praise is Indra yea, the song worships him invoked of many. 11 Call we on Maghayan, auspicious Indra. best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,

2 Who for the Fivefold People's take hath seated him in every home 3 On all sides may that Agni guard our household folk and property; 4 I have begotten this new hymn for Agni, Falcon of the sky: 5 Whose lories when he glows in front of sacrite are fair to see, 6 May he enjoy this hallowed gift, Agni accept our songs, who bears 7 Lord of the house, whom men must seek, we set thee down, O Worshipped Onel 8 Shine forth at night and morn: through thee with fires are we provided well. 9 The men come near thee for their gain, the singers with their songs of praise: 10 Bright, Purifier, meet for praise, Immortal with refulgent glow, 11 As such, bring us abundant wealth, young Child of Strength, for this thou canst 12 Thou, Agni, givest hero fame: Bhaga and Savitar the God, 13 Agni, preserve us from distress: consume our enemies, O God, 14 And, irresistible, be thou a mighty iron fort to us, 15 Do thou preserve us, eve and morn, from sorrow, from the wicked men,

1 URGE us not, Maghavan, to this distressful fight, for none may comprehend the limit of thy strength. 2 Sing hymns of praise to Sakra, Lord of power and might; laud thou and magnify Indra who hearcth thee 3 Sing forth to lofty Dyaus a strength−bestowing song, the Bold, whose resolute mind hath independent 4 The ridges of the lofty heaven thou madest shake; thou, daring, of thyself smotest through Sambara, 5 When with a roar that fills the woods, thou forcest down on wind's head the stores which 8usga kept 6 Thou helpest Narya, Turvasa, and Yadu, and Vayya's son Turviti, Satakratu! 7 A hero−lord is he, King of a mighty folk, who offers free oblations and promotes the Law, 8 His power is matchless, matchless is his wisdom; chief, through their work, be some who drink the Som 9 Therefore for thee are these abundant beakers Indra's drink, stone−pressed juices held in ladles. 10 There darkness stood, the vault that stayed the waters' flow: in Vrtra's hollow side the rain−cloud lay 11 So give us, Indra, bliss−increasing glory give us great sway and strength that conquers people.

2 Indra, who with triumphant wrath smote Vyamsa down, and Sambara, and Pipru the unrighteous one; 3 He whose great work of manly might is heaven and earth, and Varuna and Surya keep his holy law; 4 He who is Lord and Master of the steeds and kine, honoured −the firm and sure− at every holy act; 5 He who is Lord of all the world that moves and breathes, who for the Brahman first before all found the 6 Whom cowards must invoke and valiant men of war, invoked by those who conquer and by those who f 7 Refulgent in the Rudras' region he proceeds, and with the Rudras through the wide space speeds the Da 8 O girt by Maruts, whether thou delight thee in loftiest gathering−place or lowly dwelling, 9 We, fain for thee, strong Indra, have pressed Soma, and, O thou sought with prayer, have made oblation 10 Rejoice thee with thine own Bay Steeds, O Indra, unclose thy jaws and let thy lips be open. 11 Guards of the camp whose praisers are the Maruts, may we through Indra, get ourselves the booty.

2 To Indra from all sides go forth my songs of praise, the Lord of Hundred Powers, strong, Hero, like the 3 Where battle's spoil is piled the singer winneth praise, for Indra taketh care of matchless worshippers. 4 Thee, valorous, most heroic of the heroes, shall the priests glorify with songg and praises. 5 Abundant are the gifts he gives to mortals: for him the earth bears a rich store of treasures. 6 To thee, O Indra, Lord of Bays, for ever are offered prayers and songs: accept them gladly. 7 Here, Indra, drink thou Soma with the Maruts, as thou didst drink the juice beside Saryata. 8 So eagerly desirous drink the Soma, our juice, O Indra, with thy friends the Maruts, 9 He was your comrade in your zeal, O Maruts: they, rich in noble gifts, rejoiced in Indra. 10 So, Lord of affluent gifts, this juice hath been pressed for thee with strength 11 Incline thy body to this juice which suits thy Godlike nature well: 12 Brave Indra, let it work through both thy flanks, and through thy head by prayer,

2 So battle now, O Indra and thou, Agni, for cows and waters, sunlight, stolen Mornings. 3 With Vrtra−slaying might, Indra and Agni, come, drawn by homage, O ye Vrtra−slayers. 4 I call the Twain whose deeds of old have all been famed in ancient days 5 The Strong, the scatterers of the foe, Indra and Agni, we invoke; 6 They slay our Arya foes, these Lords of heroes, slay our Dasyu foes 7 Indra and Agni, these our songs of praise have sounded forth to you: 8 Come, Indra−Agni, with those teams, desired of many, which ye have, 9 With those to this libation poured, ye Heroes, Indra−Agni, come: 10 Glorify him who compasses all forests with his glowing flame, 11 He who gains Indra's bliss with fire enkindled finds an easy way 12 Give us fleet coursers to convey Indra and Agni, and bestow 13 Indra and Agni, I will call you hither and make you joyful with the gifts I offer. 14 Come unto us with riches, come with wealth in horses and in kine. 15 Indra and Agni, hear his call who worships. with libations poured.

2 Honour that Indra, Puruhanman! for his aid, in whose sustaining hand of old, 3 No one by deed attains to him who works and strengthens evermore: 4 The potent Conqueror, invincible in war, him at whose birth the Mighty Ones, 5 O Indra, if a hundred heavens and if a hundred earths were thine− 6 Thou, Hero, hast performed thy hero deeds with might, yea, all with strength, O Strongest One. 7 Let not a godless mortal gain this food, O thou whose life is long! 8 Urge ye the Conqueror to give, your Indra greatly to be praised, 9 O Vasu, O thou Hero, raise us up to ample opulence. 10 Indra, thou justifiest us, and tramplest down thy slanderers. 11 The man who brings no sacrifice, inhuman, godless, infidel, 12 O Mightiest Indra, loving us, gather thou up, as grains of corn, 13 O my companions, wish for power. How may we perfect Sara's praise, 14 By many a sage whose grass is trimmed thou art continually praised, 15 The noble, Suradeva's son, hath brought a calf, led by the car to three of us.

2 The mighty flowing Soma−draught, brought by the Hawk, hath gladdened thee, 3 Go forward, meet the foe, be bold; thy bolt of thunder is not checked. 4 Thou smotest Vrtra from the earth, smotest him, Indra, from the sky. 5 The wrathful Indra with his bolt of thunder rushing on the foe, 6 With hundred−jointed thunderbolt Indra hath struck him on the back, 7 Indra, unconquered might is thine, Thunderer, Caster of the Stone; 8 Far over ninety spacious floods thy thunderbolts were cast abroad: 9 Laud him a thousand all at once, shout twenty forth the hymn of praise. 10 Indra hath smitten down the power of Vrtra,−might with stronger might. 11 Yea, even this great Pair of Worlds trembled in terror at thy wrath, 12 But Vrtra scared not Indra with his shaking or his thunder roar. 13 Whenwith the thunder thou didst make thy dart and Vrtra meet in war, 14 When at thy shout, O Thunder−armed, each thing both fixed and moving shook, 15 There is not, in our knowledge, one who passeth Indra in his strength: 16 Still as of old, whatever rite Atharvan, Manus sire of all,

2 As Priest thou sattest at the seat of worship, furthering us, best Offerer, meet for honour. 3 In thee, still watching, they have followed riches, who goest with much wealth as with an army, 4 They who approached the God's abode with homage, eager for glory, won them perfect glory: 5 On earth the people magnify thee greatly, thee their celestial and terrestrial riches. 6 Dear priest among mankind, adorable Agni hath seated him, joy−giver, skilled in worship. 7 Longing for bliss, pure−minded, God−devoted, Agni, we seek thee, such, meet to be lauded. 8 Sage of mankind, all peoples' Lord and Master, the Bull of men, the sender down of blessings, 9 Agni, the mortal who hath toiled and worshipped, brought thee oblations with his kindled fuel, 10 Mightily let us worship thee the Mighty, with reverence, Agni! fuel and oblations, 11 Thou who hast covered heaven and earth with splendour and with thy glories, glorious and triumphant. 12 Vouchsafe us ever, as man needs, O Vasu, abundant wealth of kine for son and offspring. 13 May I obtain much wealth in many places by love of thee and through thy grace, King Agni;

2 And, God, as skilfullest of all, call for us bitherward the Gods: 3 For thou, Most Youthful, Son of Strength, thou to whom sacrifice is paid, 4 This Agni, Lord of wealth and spoil hundredfold, thousandfold, is head 5 As craftsmen bend the felly, so bend at our general call: come nigh, 6 Now, O Virupa, rouse for him, Strong God who shines at early morn, 7 With missile of this Agni, his who looks afar, will we lay low 8 Let not the Companies of Gods fail us, like Dawns that float away, 9 Let not the sinful tyranny of any fiercely hating foe 10 O Agni, God, the people sing reverent praise to thee for strength: 11 Wilt thou not, Agni, lend us aid in winning cattle, winning wealth? 12 In this great battle cast us not aside as one who bears a load: 13 O Agni, let this plague pursue and fright another and not us: 14 The reverent or unwearied man whose holy labour he accepts, 15 Abandoning the foeman's host pass hither to this company: 16 As we have known thy gracious help, as of a Father, long ago,

2 O Pavamana, urge us forward in the fight thou art the vigour of the Gods, the well−loved drink. 3 Unharmed, best Cheerer, thou, O Indu, flowest on: thou, even thou thyself, art Indra's noblest food. 4 Wondrous, with hundred streams, hymned in a thousand songs, Indu pours out for Indra his delightrul 5 Roaring within the beaker thou art balmed with milk: thou passest through the fleecy filter all at once. 6 Flow onward sweet of flavour for the Heavenly Race, for Indra sweet, whose name is easily invoked: 7 Ten rapid fingers deck the Courser in the jar: with hymns the holy singers send their voices forth. 8 While thou art purified pour on us hero strength, great, far−extended shelter, spacious pasturage. 9 The Steer who sees afar hath risen above the sky: the Sage hath caused the lights of heaven to give their 10 High in the vault of heaven, unceasing, honey−tongued, the Loving Ones drain out the mountain−haun 11 The Loving Ones besought with many voices the Eagle who had flown away to heaven. 12 High to heaven's vault hath the Gandharva risen, beholding all his varied forms and figures.

2 In thee, effused, O Soma, we rejoice ourselves for great supremacy in fight. 3 O Pavamana, thou didst generate the Sun, and spread the moisture out with power, 4 Thou didst produce him, Deathless God mid mortal men for maintenance of Law and lovely Amrta: 5 All round about hast thou with glory pierced for us as 'twere a never−failing well for men to drink, 6 Then, beautifully radiant, certain Heavenly Ones, have sung to him their kinship as they looked thereon, 7 Soma, the men of old whose grass was trimmed addressed the hymn to thee for mighty strength and for 8 They have drained forth from out the great depth of the sky the old primeval milk of heaven that claims 9 As long as thou, O Pavamana, art above this earth and heaven and all existence in thy might, 10 In the sheep's wool hath Soma Pavamana flowed, while they cleanse him, like a playful infant, 11 Holy and sweet, while purified, this Indu flows on, a wave of pleasant taste, to Indra,− 12 So flow thou on, subduing our assailants, chasing the demons hard to beencountered,

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 Indra, thou art our own with thy protection, a guardian near to men who love thee truly, 3 May Indra, called with solemn invocations. the young, the Friend, be men's auspicious keeper, 4 With laud and song let me extol that Indra in whom of old men prospered and were mighty. 5 He, Indra whom the Angirases' praise delighted, strengthened their prayer and made their goings prospe 6 He verily, the God, the glorious Indra, hath raised him up for man, best Wonder−Worker. 7 Indra theVrtra−slayer, Fort−destroyer, scattered the Dasa hosts who dwelt in darkness. 8 To him in might the Gods have ever yielded, to Indra in the tumult of thebattle. 9 Now may that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, give in return a boon to him who lauds thee. 3 Still Victor, loved by mortals, ruler over men, o'erthrower, warrior, he hath waxen as he would; 4 The strong who never yields, who slew the furious fiend, the deep, the vast, of wisdom unattainable; 5 By sacrifice the yearning sages sending forth their songs found furtherance from him who speeds the flo 6 Indra, bestow on us the best of treasures, the spirit of ability and fortune;

2 They laud thee in their solemn rites, Agni, as Minister and Priest, 3 He, verily, who honours thee with fuel, Knower of all life, 4 Ensign of sacrifices, he, Agni, with Gods is come to us, 5 ToAgni, the Invoking Priest, offer your best, your lofty speech, 6 Let these our hymns make Agni grow, whence, meet for laud, he springs to life, 7 Best Sacrificer, bring the Gods, O Agni, to the pious man: 8 As such, O Purifier, shine on us heroic glorious might: 9 So, wakeful, versed in sacred hymns, the holy singers kindly thee. 2 Oblation−bearer, deathless, well inclined, an eager messenger, 3 Ensign of sacrifice from of old, Agni well knoweth with his thought 4 Agni, illustrious from old time, the Son of Strength who knows all life, 5 Infallible is Agni, he who goes before the tribes of men, 6 Strength of the Gods which none may harm, subduing all his enemies, 7 By offering sacred food to him the mortal worshipper obtains. 8 From Agni, by our hymns, may we gain all things that bring happiness, 9 O Agni, in our deeds of might may we obtain all precious things:

2 The bowl made Indra swift to gather booty, the High, the Lofty, Youthful, Undecaying, 3 Stretch out those hands of thine, extend to us−ward thy wide capacious arms, and grant us glory. 4 Now, fain for strength, let us invite your Indra hither, who lieth hidden with his Heroes,− 5 With steadfast laws, wealth−giver, strong through Soma, he hath much fair and precious food to feed us 6 Bring unto us the mightiest might, O Hero, strong and most potent force, thou great Subduer! 7 Bring us, grown mighty in its strength, O Indra, thy friendly rapturous joy that wins the battle, 8 Indra, bestow on us the power heroic skilled and exceeding strong, that wins the booty, 9 Let thine heroic strength come from behind us, before us, from above us or below us. 10 With most heroic aid from thee, like heroes Indra, may we win wealth by deeds glory. 11 The Bull, whose strength hath waxed, whom Maruts follow, free−giving Indra, the Celestial Ruler, 12 Give up the people who are high and haughty to these men and to me, O Thunder−wielder! 13 Through these thy friendships, God invoked of many! may we be victors over every foeman.

2 When in the fulness of their strength the Purus dwell, Beauteous One, on thy two grassy banks, 3 So may Sarasvati auspicious send good luck; she, rich in spoil, is never niggardly in thought, 4 We call upon Sarasvan, as unmarried men who long for wives, 5 Be thou our kind protector, O Sarasvan, with those waves of thine 6 May we enjoy Sarasvan's breast, all−beautiful, that swells with streams, 2 We crave the heavenly grace of Gods to guard us−so may Brhaspati, O friends, exalt us− 3 That Brahmanaspati, most High and Gracious, I glorify with offerings and with homage. 4 May that Brhaspati who brings all blessings, most dearly loved, be seated by our altar. 5 To us these Deathless Ones, erst born, have granted this laud of ours which gives the Immortal pleasure. 6 Him, this Brhaspati, his red−hued horses, drawing together, full of strength, bring hither. 7 For he is pure, with hundred wings, refulgent, with sword of gold, impetuous, winning sunlight. 8 Both Heaven and Earth, divine, the Deity's Parents, have made Brhaspati increase in grandeur. 9 This, Brahmanaspati, is your laudation prayer hath been made to thunderwielding Indra. 10 Ye Twain are Lords of wealth in earth and heaven, thou, O Brhaspati, and thou, O Indra.

2 Win thou the light, win heavenly light, and, Soma, all felicities; 3 Win skilful strength and mental power. O Soma, drive away our foes; 4 Ye purifiers, purify Soma for Indra, for his drink: 5 Give us our portion in the Sun through thine own mental power and aids; 6 Through thine own mental power and aid long may we look upon the Sun; 7 Well−weaponed Soma, pour to usa stream of riches doubly great; 8 As one victorious unsubdued in battle pour forth wealth to us; 9 By worship, Pavamana! men have strengthened thee to prop the Law: 10 O Indu, bring us wealth in steeds, manifold. quickening all life; 2 He, Pavamana, Self−produced, speeds onward sharpening his horns: 3 Brilliant like wealth, adorable, with splendour Pavamana shines, 4 The tawny Pavamana, who strews from of old the grass with might, 5 The golden, the Celestial Doors are lifted with their frames on high, 6 With passion Pavamana longs for the great lofty pair, well−formed 7 Both Gods who look on men I call, Celestial Heralds: Indra's Self 8 This, Pavamana's sacrifice, shall the three beauteous Goddesses, 9 1 summon Tvastar hither, our protector, champion, earliest−born, 10 O Pavamana, with the meath in streams anoint Vanaspati, 11 Come to the consecrating rite of Pavamana, all ye Gods,−

2 Who, when they stood upon their cars, hath heard them tell the way they went? 3 To me they told it, and they came with winged steeds radiant to the draught, 4 Who shine self−luminous with ornaments and swords, with breastplates, armlets, and with wreaths, 5 O swift to pour your bounties down, ye Maruts, with delight I look upon your cars, 6 Munificent Heroes, they have cast heaven's treasury down for the worshipper's behoof: 7 The bursting streams m billowy flood have spread abroad, like milch−kine, o'er the firmament. 8 Hither, O Maruts, come from heaven, from mid−air, or from near at hand 9 So let not Rasa, Krumu, or Anitabha, Kubha, or Sindhu hold you back. 10 That brilliant gathering of your cars, the company of Maruts, of the Youthful Ones, 11 With eulogies and hymns may we follow your army, troop by troop, and band by band, 12 To what oblation−giver, sprung of noble ancestry, have sped 13 Vouchsafe to us the bounty, that which we implore, through which, for child and progeny, 14 May we in safety pass by those who slander us, leaving behind disgrace and hate. 15 Favoured by Gods shall he the man, O Heroes, Marutr! and possessed of noble sons, 16 Praise the Free−givers. At this liberal patron's rite they joy like cattle in the mead.

2 May the stone draw thee as it speaks, the Soma−stone with ringing voice. 3 The stones' rim shakes the Soma here like a wolf worrying a sheep. 4 The Kanvas call thee hitherward for succour and to win the spoil. 5 I set for thee, as for the Strong, the first draught of the juices shed. 6 Come with abundant blessings, come with perfect care to succour us. 7 Come, Lord of lofty thought, who hast infinite wealth and countless aids. 8 Adorable mid Gods, the Priest good to mankind shall bring thee near. 9 As wings the falcon, so thy Bays rushing in joy shall carry thee. 10 Come from the enemy to us, to svaha and the Soma−draught. 11 Come hither with thine car inclined to hear, take pleasure in our lauds. 12 Lord of well−nourished Horses, come with well−fed Steeds alike in hue. 13 Come hither from the mountains, come from regions of the sea of air. 14 Disclose to us O Hero, wealth in thousands both of kine and steeds. 15 Bring riches hitherward to us in hundreds, thousands, myriads. 16 The thousand steeds, the mightiest troop, which we and Indra have received 17 The brown that match the wind in speed, and bright bay coursers fleet of foot, 18 Mid the Pargvata's rich gifts, swift steeds whose wheels run rapidly,

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

2 She never vexed me nor was angry with me, but to my friends and me was ever gracious. 3 My wife holds me aloof, her mother hates me: the wretched man finds none to give him comfort. 4 Others caress the wife of him whose riches the die hath coveted, that rapid courser: 5 When I resolve to play with these no longer, my friends depart from me and leave me lonely. 6 The gamester seeks the gambling−house, and wonders, his body all afire, Shall I be lucky? 7 Dice, verily, are armed with goads and driving−hooks, deceiving and tormenting, causing grievous woe. 8 Merrily sports their troop, the three−and−fifty, like Savitar the God whose ways are faithful. 9 Downward they roll, and then spring quickly upward, and, handless, force the man with hands to serve 10 The gambler's wife is left forlorn and wretched: the mother mourns the son who wanders homeless. 11 Sad is the gambler when he sees a matron, another's wife, and his well−ordered dwelling. 12 To the great captain of your mighty army, who hath become the host's imperial leader, 13 Play not with dice: no, cultivate thy corn−land. Enjoy the gain, and deem that wealth sufficient. 14 Make me your friend: show us some little mercy. Assail us not with your terrific fierceness.

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 Shining to him who leaves heaven's regions undisturbed, which to his sheen who is beneath show fair in 3 Truth waits upon oblation present and to come: naught checks him in his way, this vic tory− bringing 4 These come, well−yoked, to you for furtherance in the rite: down come the twinborn strengtheners of L 5 Thou, moving beauteously in visibly pregnant ones, snatching with trees the branching plant that grasps 6 Like as he is beheld such is he said to be. 7 Surya the Sage, as if unwedded, with a Spouse, in battle−loving spirit moveth o'er the foes. 8 Thy name, sung forth by Rsis in these hymns of ours, goes to the loftier One with this swift mover's ligh 9 The chief and best of these abideth in the sea, nor doth libation fail wherein it is prolonged. 10 For it is he: with though to of Ksatra, Manasa, of Yajata, and Sadhri, and Evavada, 11 The Hawk is their full source, girth−stretching rapturous drink of Visvavara, of Mayin, and Yajata. 12 Sadaprna the holy, Tarya, Srutavit, and Bahuvrkta, joined with you, have slain the foes. 13 The worshipper's defender is Sutambhara, producer and uplifter of all holy thoughts. 11 The sacred hymns love him who wakes and watches: to him who watches come the Sama verses. 15 Agni is watchful, and the gcas love him; Agni is watchful, Sama verses seek him.

3 Thou, thou alone, hast tamed the Dasyus; singly thou hast subdued the people for the Arya. 4 For true, I deem, thy strength is, thine the Mighty, thine, O Most Potent, thine the Conquering Victor; 5 Be this our ancient bond of friendship with you and with Angirases here who speak of Vala. 6 With holy thoughts must he be called, the Mighty, showing his power in the great fight with Vrtra. 7 He in his might, with name that lives for ever, hath far surpassed all human generations. 8 Stranger to guile, who ne'er was false or faithless, bearing a name that may be well remembered, 9 With saving might that must be praised and lauded, Indra, ascend thy car to smite down Vrtra. 10 As Agni, as the dart burns the dry forest, like the dread shaft burn down the fiends, O Indra; 11 With wealth, by thousand paths come hither, Agni, paths that bring ample strength, O thou Most Splen 12 From heaven, from earth is bruited forth the greatness of him the firm, the fiery, the resplendent. 13 This day the deed that thou hast done is famous, when thou, for him, with many thousand others 14 In thee, O God, the wisest of the Sages, all Gods were joyful when thou slewest Ahi. 15 This power of thine both heaven and earth acknowledge, the deathless Gods acknowledge it, O Indra.

2 O Gods, Adityas, well ye know the way to keep all woes afar. 3 As the birds spread their sheltering wings let your protection cover us. 4 To whomsoever they, Most Wise, have given a home and means of life, 5 As drivers of the car avoid ill roads, let sorrows pass us by. 6 For verily men sink and faint through loss of wealth which ye have given. 7 On him shall no fierce anger fall, no sore distress shall visit him, 8 Resting in you, O Gods, we are like men who fight in coats of mail. 9 May Aditi defend us, may Aditi guard and shelter us, 10 The shelter, Gods, that is secure, auspicious, free from malady, 11 Look down on us, Adityas, as a guide exploring from the bank. 12 Ill be it for the demons' friend to find us or come near to us. 13 Each evil deed made manifest, and that which is concealed, O Gods, 14 Daughter of Heaven, the dream that bodes evil to us or to our kine, 15 Even if, O Child of Heaven, it make a garland or a chain of gold, 16 To him whose food and work is this, who comes to take his share therein, 17 As we collect the utmost debt, even the eighth and sixteenth part, 18 Now have we conquered and obtained, and from our trespasses are free.

2 They spring to birth, the lofty Ones, the Bulls of Heaven, divine, the youths of Rudra, free from spot an 3 Young Rudras, demon−slayers, never growing old, they have waxed, even as mountains, irresistible. 4 With glittering ornaments they deck them forth for show; for beauty on their breasts they bind their chai 5 Loud roarers, giving strength, devourers of the foe, they make the winds, they make the lightnings with 6 The bounteous Maruts with the fatness dropping milk fill full the waters which avail in solenm rites. 7 Mighty, with wondrous power and marvellously bright, selfstrong like mountains, ye glide swiftly on y 8 Exceeding wise they roar like lions mightily, they, all−possessing, are beauteous as antelopes; 9 Heroes who march in companies, befriending man, with serpents' ire through strength, ye greet the earth 10 Lords of all riches, dwelling in the home of wealth, endowed with mighty vigour, singers loud of voice 11 They who with golden fellies make the rain increase drive forward the big clouds like wanderers on th 12 The progeny of Rudra we invoke with prayer, the brisk, the bright, the worshipful, the active Ones 13 Maruts, the man whom ye have guarded with your help, he verily in strength surpasseth all mankind. 14 O Maruts, to the worshippers give glorious strength invincible in battle, brilliant, bringing wealth, 15 Will ye then, O ye Maruts, grant us riches, durable, rich in men, defying onslaught.

2 This world's imperial Kings, O Mitra−Varuna, ye rule in holy synod, looking on the light. 3 Imperial Kings, strong, Heroes, Lords of earth and heaven, Mitra and Varuna, ye ever active Ones, 4 Your magic, Mitra−Varuna, resteth in the heaven. The Sun, the wondrous weapon, cometh forth as light 5 The Maruts yoke their easy car for victory, O Mitra−Varuna, as a hero in the wars. 6 Refreshing is your voice, O Mitra−Varuna: Parjanya sendeth out a wondrous mighty voice. 7 Wise, with your Law and through the Asura's magic power ye guard the ordinances, Mitra−Varuna. 2 Stretch out your arms with favouring love unto this man who singeth hymns, 3 That I may gain a refuge now, may my steps be on Mitra's path. 4 Mitra and Varuna, from you may I, by song, win noblest meed. 5 With your fair splendours, Varuna and Mitra, to our gathering come, 6 With those, moreover, among whom ye hold your high supremacy, 7 When morning flushes, Holy Ones! in the Gods' realm where white Cows shine, 2 For they are Kings of noblest might, of glorious fame most widely spread; 3 Approaching you with prayer for aid, together I address you first 4 E'en out of misery Mitra gives a way to dwelling at our case, 5 In Mitra's shelter that extends to utmost distance may we dwell, 6 Ye, Mitra, urge this people on, and to one end direct their ways.

2 Drink it thou God who art impetuous victor, Lord of our hymns, with beauteousjaws, the Hero, 3 Drink as of old, and let the draught delight thee. hear thou our prayer and let our songs exalt thee. 4 These gladdening drops, O Indra, Self−sustainer, quaffed shall augment thee in thy mighty splendour. 5 Gladdened whereby, bursting the firm enclosures, thou gavest splendour to the Sun and Morning. 6 Thou with thy wisdom, power, and works of wonder, hast stored the ripe milk in the raw cows' udders 7 Thou hast spread out wide earth, a mighty marvel, and, high thyself, propped lofty heaven, O Indra. 8 Yea, Indra, all the Deities installed thee their one strong Champion in the van for battle. 9 Yea, e'en that heaven itself of old bent backward before thy bolt, in terror of its anger, 10 Yea, Strong One! Tvastar turned for thee, the Mighty, the bolt with thousand spikes and hundred edges 11 He dressed a hundred buffaloes, O Indra, for thee whom all accordant Maruts strengthen. 12 Thou settest free the rushing wave of waters, the floods' great swell encompassed and obstructed. 13 So may our new prayer bring thee to protect us, thee well−armed Hero with thy bolt of thunder, 14 So, Indra, form us brilliant holy singers for strength, for glory, and for food and riches. 15 With this may we obtain strength God−appointed, and brave sons gladden us through a hundred winter

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

1 In the great synod will I laud thy two Bay Steeds: I prize the sweet strong drink of thee the Warrior−Go 2 Ye who in concert sing unto the goldhued place, like Bay Steeds driving onward to the heavenly seat, 3 His is that thunderbolt, of iron, goldenhued, gold−coloured, very dear, and yellow in his arms; 4 As if a lovely ray were laid upon the sky, the golden thunderbolt spread out as in a race. 5 Thou, thou, when praised by men who sacrificed of old. hadst pleasure in their lauds, O Indra 6 These two dear Bays bring hither Indra on his car, Thunder−armed, joyous, meet for laud, to drink his fi 7 Tle gold−hued drops have flowed to gratify his wish: the yellow dro s have urged the swift Bays to the 8 At the swift draught the Soma−drinker waxed in might, the Iron One with yellow beard and yellow hair. 9 His yellow−coloured jaws, like ladles move apart, what time, for strength, he makes the yellow−tinted s 10 Yea, to the Dear One's seat in homes of heaven and earth the Bay Steeds' Lord hath whinnied like a ho 11 Thou, comprehending with thy might the earth and heaven, acceptest the dear hymn for ever new and 12 O Indra, let the eager wishes of the folk bring thee, delightful, golden−visored, on thy car, 13 Juices aforetime, Lord of Bays, thou drankest; and thine especially is this libation.