Rig Veda on Wisdom

2 Wise must this Agni be, though young and tender, since he was born, Most Youthful, of his Mother; 3 Before his presence must we all assemble, this God's whom men have seized in his white splendour. 4 Far−seeing hath this Agni been established, deathless mid mortals, wise among the foolish. 5 He who hath occupied his God−made dwelling, Agni, in wisdom hath surpassed Immortals. 6 Agni is Lord of Amrta. in abundance, Lord of the gift of wealth and hero valour, 7 The foeman's treasure may be won with labour: may we be masters of our own possessions. 8 Unwelcome for adoption is the stranger, one to be thought of as another's offipring, 9 Guard us from him who would assail us, Agni; preserve us O thou Victor, from dishonour. 10 Shine this felicity on us, O Agni: may we attain to perfect understanding.

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

2 Him altogether praise I with the song and hymns our fathers sang, and with Nabhaka's eulogies,− 3 The nights he hath encompassed, and stablished the morns with magic art visible over all is he. 4 He, visible o'er all the earth, stablished the quarters of the sky: 5 He who supports the worlds of life, he who well knows the hidden names mysterious of the morning 6 In whom all wisdom centres, as the nave is set within the wheel. 7 He wraps these regions as a robe; he contemplates the tribes of Gods and all the works of mortal men. 8 He is an Ocean far−removed, yet through the heaven to him ascends the worship which these realms 9 Ruler, whose bright far−seeing rays, pervading all three earths, have filled the three superior realms of 10 Who, after his decree, o'erspread the Dark Ones with a robe of light; 2 So humbly worship Varuna the Mighty revere the wise Guard of World Immortal. 3 Sharpen this song of him who strives his utmost, sharpen, God Varuna, his strength and insight; 4 Asvins, with songs the singer stones have made you hasten hitherward, 5 As the sage Atri with his hymns, O Asvins, called you eagerly, 6 So have I called you to our aid, even as the wise have called of old,

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

2 Agni, in truth, is passing wise, most skilled in ordering, a Seer. 3 The foeman's wealth in many a place, Agni, is emulous to help. 4 Agni bestows the hero chief, winner of waters, firm in fray. 5 For with his wisdom Agni, God, protects the mortal from reproach, 6 O Agni, God with Mitra's might call hither the favour of the Gods from earth and heaven.

2 His two red horses, all−supporting, let him yoke: let him, well−worshipped, urge them fast. 3 The flame of him the Bountiful, the Much−invoked, hath mounted up, 4 Thee, thee Most Glorious One we make our messenger. Bring the Gods hither to the feast. 5 Thou, Agni, art the homestead's Lord, our Herald at the sacrifice. 6 Give riches to the sacrificer, O Most Wise, for thou art he who granteth wealth. 7 O Agni who art worshipped well, dear let our princes he to thee, 8 They in whose home, her hand bearing the sacred oil, Ila sits down well−satisfied− 9 Do thou, a Priest with pleasant tongue, most wise, and very near to us, 10 They who bestow as bounty plenteous wealth of steeds, moved by desire of great renown− 11 The God who gives your wealth demands a full libation poured to him. 12 Him have the Gods appointed Priest of sacrifice, oblation−bearer, passing wise.

3 Pusan the Strong hath knowledge of sweet praises even as Indu hath. He dews our corn with moisture, h

2 Most wise is he who, forcing doors of Panis, brought the bright Sun to us who feedeth many. 3 Wise, ne.'er deceived, uncircumscribed, refulgent, our gracious guest, a Friend with good attendants, 4 Seeking our gatherings, he, your Jatavedas, hath shone adorable through human ages, 5 Go on thy message to the Gods, and fail not, O Agni, with their band who pray and worship. 6 Vasistha, when enkindling thee, O Agni, hath slain jarutha. Give us wealth in plenty.

2 Thine is the Herald's, thine the Cleanser's office, thinker art thou, wealth−giver, true to Order. 3 To the Gods' pathway have we travelled, ready to execute what work we may accomplish. 4 When we most ignorant neglect the statutes of you, O Deities with whom is knowledge, 5 When, weak in mind, of feeble understanding, mortals bethink them not of sacrificing, 6 Because the Father hath produced thee, Leader of all our solemn rites, their brilliant Banner: 7 Thou whom the Heaven and Earth, thou whom the Waters, and Tvastar, maker of fair things, created,

2 As mother kine low to their calves, to Indra have the sages called, 3 In the stream's wave wise Soma dwells, distilling rapture, in his seat, 4 Far−sighted Soma, Sage and Seer, is worshipped in the central point 5 In close embraces Indu holds Soma when 6 Indu sends forth a voice on high to regions of the sea of air, 7 The Tree whose praises never fail yields heavenly milk among our hymns, 8 The Wise One, with the Sage's stream, the Soma urged to speed, flows on 9 O Pavamana, bring us wealth bright with a thousand splendours. Yea.

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

1 THE pleasant Priest is come into the synod, true, skilled in sacrifice, most wise, Ordainer. 2 To thee I offer reverent speech: accept it: to thee who markest it, victorious, faithful! 3 The Two who show their vigour, Night and Morning, by the wind's paths shall haste to thee O Agni. 4 To thee, strong Agni! Varuna and Mitra and all the Maruts sang a song of triumph, 5 Approaching with raised hands and adoration, we have this day fulfilled for thee thy longing. 6 For, Son of Strength, from thee come many succours, and powers abundant that a God possesses. 7 Whatever, God, in sacrifice we mortals have wrought is all for thee, strong, wise of purpose!

20 The singers, seeking help, adorn the Sage who must be decked with songs: 21 The singers with their thoughts and hymns have, in the stream of sacrifice, 22 God, working with mankind, flow on; to Indra go thy gladdening juice: 23 O Soma, Pavamana, thou pourest out wealth that brings renown: 24 Soma thou flowest chasing foes and bringing wisdom and delight: 25 The Pavamanas have been poured, the brilliant drops of Soma juice, 26 The Pavamanas have been shed, the beautiful swift Soma−drops, 27 From, heaven, from out the firmament, hath Pavamana been effused 28 O Soma, Indu, very wise, drive, being purified, with thy stream 29 Driving the Raksasas afar, O Soma, bellowing, pour for us 30 Soma, do thou secure for us the treasures of the earih and heaven,

1 AGNI, well−kindled, bring the Gods for him who offers holy gifts. 2 Son of Thyself, present, O Sage, our sacrifice to the Gods today. 3 Dear Narasamsa, sweet of tongue, the giver of oblations, I 4 Agni, on thy most easy car, glorified, hither bring the Gods: 5 Strew, O ye wise, the sacred grass that drips with oil, in order due, 6 Thrown open be the Doors Divine, unfailing, that assist the rite, 7 I call the lovely Night and Dawn to seat them on the holy grass 8 The two Invokers I invite, the wise, divine and sweet of tongue, 9 Ila, Sarasvati, Mahi, three Goddesses who bring delight, 10 Tvastar I call, the earliest born, the wearer of all forms at will: 11 God, Sovran of the Wood, present this our oblation to the Gods, 12 With Svaha. pay the sacrifice to Indra in the offerer's house: 1 To drink the Soma, Agni, come, to our service and our songs. 2 The Kanvas have invoked thee; they, O Singer, sing thee songs of praise 3 Indra, Vayu, Brhaspati, Mitra, Agni, Pusan, Bhaga, 4 For you these juices are poured forth that gladden and exhilarate, 5 The sons of Kanva fain for help adore thee, having strewn the grass, 6 Let the swift steeds who carry thee, thought−yoked and dropping holy oil, 7 Adored, the strengtheners of Law, unite them, Agni, with their Dames: 8 Let them, O Agni, who deserve worship and praise drink with thy tongue 9 Away, from the Sun's realm of light, the wise invoking Priest shall bring 10 With all the Gods, with Indra, with Vayu, and Mitra's splendours, drink, 11 Ordained by Manu as our Priest, thou sittest, Agni, at each rite: 12 Harness the Red Mares to thy car, the Bays, O God, the flaming ones:

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 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 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 Here where the arrows fall amid the banners both hosts invoke the Gods in emulation. 3 Self−lucid in their seats, e'en heavenly Waters endowed with Godhead Varuna and Indra. 4 Wise be the priest and skilled in Law Eternal, who with his sacred gifts and oration. Brings

20 To him who worships Soma gives the milchcow, a fleet steed and a man of active knowledge, 21 Invincible in fight, saver in battles, guard of our camp, winner of light and water, 22 These herbs, these milch−kine, and these running waters, all these, O Soma, thou hast generated.

2 Near him thou seemest mightier still in native glory, set to hold 3 Yea, this is by the light of him whom powerful siong hath bound to act, 4 Wealth loads the Wonder−Worker's car through his, the very wise One's power. 5 Now, too, the princes shall obtain excellent riches by our lips.

2 O Pavamana, sent by song, roaring about thy dwelling−place, 3 The Steer shines with the Deities, dear Sage in his appointed home, 4 Taking each beauteous form, he goes, desirable, while purified, 5 To Indra Soma flows, the Red, engendering song, exceeding wise, 6 Flow, best exhilarator, Sage, flow to the filter in a stream

2 So he resplendent in the battle overcame Krivi by might. He with his majesty hath filled the earth and 3 Brought forth together with wisdom and mighty power thou grewest great; with hero deeds subduing th 4 This, Indra, was thy hero deed, Dancer, thy first and ancient work, worthy to be told forth in heaven,

2 Discerning, have they offered gifts: they guard the strength that never wastes. 3 Svaitreya's people, all his men, have gloriously increased in might. 4 I bring, as 'twere, the longed−for milk, the dear milk of the Sister−Pair. 5 Beam of light, come to us in sportive fashion, finding thyself close to the wind that fans thee.

2 Indra, accordant, with the banded Maruts, drink Soma, Hero, as wise Vrtra−slayer. 3 And, drinker at due seasons, drink in season, Indra, with friendly Gods, our pressed−out Soma. 4 Drink Soma, Indra, banded with the Maruts who, Maghavan, strengthened thee at Ahi's slaughter, 5 The Bull whose strength hath waxed, whom Maruts follow, free−giving Indra, the celestial Ruler,

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

2 Where are ye, Asvins, in the evening, where at morn? Where is your haltingplace, where rest ye for the 3 Early ye sing forth praise as with a herald's voice, and, meet for worship, go each morning to the house. 4 Even as hunters follow two wild elephants, we with oblations call you down at morn and eve. 5 To you, O Asvins, came the daughter of a King, Ghosa, and said, O Heroes, this I beg of you: 6 O Asvins, ye are wise: as Kutsa comes to men, bring your car nigh the folk of him who sings your prais 7 To Bhujyu and to Vasa ye come near with help, O Asvins, to Sinjara and to Usana. 8 Krsa and Sayu ye protect, ye Asvins Twain: ye Two assist the widow and the worshipper; 9 The Woman hath brought forth, the Infant hath appeared, the plants of wondrous beauty straightway ha 10 They mourn the living, cry aloud, at sacrifice: the men have set their thoughts upon a distant cast. 11 Of this we have no knowledge. Tall it forth to us, now the youth rests within the chambers of the bride. 12 Your favouring grace hath come, ye Lords of ample wealth: Asvins, our longings are stored up within 13 Even so, rejoicing in the dwelling−place of man, give hero sons and riches to the eloquent. 14 O Asvins, Wonder−Workers, Lords of lustre, where and with what folk do ye delight yourselves to−da

2 Here let the ignorant ask the means of you who know−for none beside you knoweth aught − 3 Such as ye: are, all−wise, we call you. Ye wise, declare to us this day accepted prayer. 4 Simply, ye Mighty Ones, I ask the Gods of that wondrous oblation hallowed by the mystic word. 5 Forth go the hymn that shone in Ghosa Bhrgu's like, the song wherewith the son of Pajra worships you, 6 Hear ye the song of him who hastens speedily. O Asvins, I am he who sang your praise. 7 For ye were ever nigh to deal forth ample wealth, to give the wealth that ye had gathered up. 8 Give us not up to any man who hateth us, nor let our milch−cows stray, whose udders give us food, 9 May they who love you gain you for their Friends. Prepare ye us for opulence with strengthening food, 10 1 have obtained the horseless car of Asvins rich in sacrifice, 11 May it convey me evermore: may the light chariot pass from men 12 It holdeth slumber in contempt. and the rich who enjoyeth not: 2 He stablished heaven; he poured forth, skilful worker, the wealth of kine, for strength, that nurtures hero 3 Lord of red dawns, he came victorious, daily to the Angirases' former invocation. 4 In joy of this thou didst restore, for worship, the lowing company of hidden cattle. 5 Thine is that milk which thy swift−moving Parents brought down, a strengthening genial gift for conque 6 There is he born.

2 For sacrifice make for us active vital power for skill and wisdom food with noble progeny. 3 Do ye, O Rbhus, make prosperity for us, prosperity for car, ye Heroes, and for steed. 4 Indra, the Rbhus' Lord, I invocate for aid, the Rbhus, Vajas, Maruts to the Soma draught. 5 May Rbhu send prosperity for battle, may Vaja conquering in the fight protect us.

3 Shared by all Gods, mobt wise, propitious, Soma goes, while they cleanse him, to his constant station. 4 In thy mysterious place, O Pavamana Soma, are all the Gods, the Thrice−Eleven. 5 Now let this be the truth of Pavamana, there where all singers gather them together, 6 As the priest seeks the station rich in cattle, like a true King who goes to great assemblies,

2 give us not as a prey to death, to be destroyed by thee in wrath, 3 To gain thy mercy, Varuna, with hymns we bind thy heart, as binds 4 They flee from me dispirited, bent only on obtaining wealths 5 When shall we bring, to be appeased, the Hero, Lord of warrior might, 6 This, this with joy they both accept in common: never do they fail 7 He knows the path of birds that fly through heaven, and, Sovran of the sea, 8 True to his holy law, he knows the twelve moons with their progeny: 9 He knows the pathway of the wind, the spreading, high, and mighty wind 10 Varuna, true to holy law, sits down among his people; he, 11 From thence percerving he beholds all wondrous things, both what hath been, 12 May that Aditya, very −wise, make fair paths for us all our days: 13 Varuna, wearing golden mail, hath clad him in a shining robe. 14 The God whom enemies threaten not, nor those who tyrannize o'er men, 15 He who gives glory to mankind, not glory that is incomplete, 16 Yearning for the wide−seeing One, my thoughts move onward unto him, 17 Once more together let us speak, because my meath is brought: priest−like 18 Now saw I him whom all may see, I saw his car above the earth: 19 Varuna, hear this call of mine: be gracious unto us this day 20 Thou, O wise God, art Lord of all, thou art the King of earth and heaven 21 Release us from the upper bond, untie the bond between, and loose

2 As a great Steer he grew to these his Parents; sublime lie stands, untouched by eld, far−reaching. 3 Coming together to their common youngling both Cows, fairshaped, spread forth in all directions, 4 The prudent sages lead him to his dwelling, guarding with varied skill the Ever−Youthful. 5 Born noble in the regions, aim of all mens' eyes to be implored for life by great and small alike,

2 Agni, the sacrificial cake hath been prepared and dressed for thee: 3 Agni, enjoy the cake of meal and our oblation three days old: 4 Here at the midday sacrifice enjoy thou the sacrificial cake, wise, Jatavedas! 5 O Agni, at the third libation takewith joy the offered cake of sacrifice, thou, Son of Strength. 6 O waxing Agni, knower, thou, of all, accept our gifts, the cake,

2 Celestial, bounteous Giver, girt about with might, rich, mountain−like, in precious things, 3 Indra, the strong and lofty hills are powerless to bar thy way. 4 A Warrior thou by strength, wisdom, and wondrous deed, in might excellest all that is. 5 For in thy might thou stretchest out beyond the boundaries of heaven. 6 When, Maghavan, thou honourest the worshipper, no one is there to stay thy wealth.

2 Here, by us, for the worshipper, is the wise bolt that works with skill. 3 Impetuous Ahisuva, a bull among cows of his, 4 That the strong−pinioned Bird hath brought, Child of the Falcon, from afar, 5 Which, fair, unrobbed, the Falcon brought thee in his foot, the red−hued dwelling of the juice; 6 So Indra is by lndu's power; e'en among Gods will it repel great treachery.

42 Make Vayu glad,, for furtherance and bounty: cheer Varuna and Mitra, as they cleanse thee. 43 Flow onward righteous slayer of the wicked, driving away our enemies and sickness, 44 Pour us a fount of meath, a spring of treasure; send us a hero son and happy fortune. 45 Strong Soma, pressed, like an impetuous courser, hath flowed in stream as a flood speeding downward 46 Strong, wise, for thee who longest for his coming this Soma here flows to the bowls, O Indra. 47 He, purified with ancient vital vigour, pervading all his Daughter's forms and figures, 48 Now, chariot−borne, flow unto us, God Soma, as thou art purified flow to the saucers, 49 To feast him, flow mid song and hymn, to Vayu, flow purified to Varuna and Mitra. 50 Pour on us garments that shall clothe us meetly, send, purified, miIch−kine, abundant yielders. 51 Send to us in a stream celestial riches, send us, when thou art cleansed, what earth containeth, 52 Pour forth this wealth with this purification: flow onward to the yellow lake, O Indu. 53 Flow on for us with this purification to the famed ford of thee whose due is glory. 54 Eagerly do we pray for those two exploits, at the blue lake and Prsana, wrought in battle. 55 Thou comest unto three extended filters, and hasteriest through each one as they cleanse thee. 56 This Soma here, the Wise, the All−obtainer, flows on his way as King of all existence. 57 The Great Inviolate are kissing Indu, and singing in his place like eager sages. 58 Soma, may we, with thee as Pavamana, pile up together all our spoil in battle.

2 For they are Asuras of Gods, the friendly make, both of you, our lands exceeding fruitful. 3 Bonds of the sinner, they bear many nooses: the wicked mortal hardly may escape them. 4 Come, taste our offering, Varuna and Mitra: bedew our pasture wil sweet food and fatness. 5 To you this laud, O Varuna and Mitra, is offered, like bright Soma juice to Vayu. 2 The Two exceeding wise, the Sons of Daksa, whom the gods ordained 3 Such, Guardians of our homes and us, O Mitra−Varuna, fulfil 4 So when the Sun hath risen to−day, may sinless Mitra, Aryaman, 5 May this our home be guarded well forward, ye Bounteous, on the way, 7 Soon as the Sun hath risen, to you, to Mitra−Varuna, I sing, 8 With wealth of gold may this my song bring unmolested power and might, 9 May we be thine, God Varuna, and with our princes, Mitra, thine. 10 Many are they who strengthen Law, Sun−eyed, with Agni for their tongue, 11 They who have stablished year and month and then the day, night, sacrifice and holy verse, 12 So at the rising of the Sun we think of you with hymns to−day, 13 True to Law, born in Law the strengtheners of Law, terrible, haters of the false, 14 Uprises, on the slope of heaven, that marvel that attracts die sight 15 Lord of each single head, of fixt and moving things, equally through the whole expanse, 16 A hundred autumns may we see that bright Eye, God−ordained, arise 17 Infallible through your wisdom, come hither, resplendent Varuna, 18 Come as the laws of Heaven ordain, Varuna, Mitra, void of guile: 19 Come, Mitra, Varuna, accept, Heroes, our sacrificial gift:

2 As Steer of men so Steer of earth and heaven by glory, he whose streams all life hath drunken, 3 He who hath lighted up the joyous castle, wise Courser like the Steed of cloudy heaven, 4 He, doubly born, hath spread in his effulgence through the three luminous realms, through all the region 5 Priest doubly born, he through his love of glory hath in his keeping all things worth the choosing,

2 Thou, Soma, art effused for Indra by the men, balmed in the wood as wave, Sage, Viewer of mankind. 3 Apsarases who dwell in waters of the sea, sitting within, have flowed to Soma wise of heart. 4 Soma flows on for u's as winner of the kine, winner of thousands, cars, water, and light, and gold; 5 Soma, as Pavamana thou, our faithful Friend, making for us these real treasures, flowest on.

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

2 Thou art the best of all in sending bounteous gifts, true art thou, lordly in thine act. 3 Prayers unsurpassed are offered up to thee the Lover of the Song. 4 For thou, O Maghavan, art truthful, ne'er subdued and bringest many a Vrtra low. 5 O Indra, thou art far−renowned, impetuous, O Lord of Strength. 6 As such we seek thee now, O Asura, thee most wise, craving thy bounty as our share.

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

2 With heroes he shall overcome his hero foes, and spread his wealth by kine wise by himself is be. 3 He, mighty like a raving river's billowy flood, as a bull conquers oxen, overcomes with strength. 4 For him the floods of heaven flow never failing down: first with the heroes he goes forth to war for kine 5 All roaring rivers pour their waters down for him, and many a flawless shelter hath been granted him.

2 The Son of Strength; for is he not our gracious Lord? Let us serve him who bears our gifts. 3 Agni, thou beamest forth with light, great Hero, never changed by time. 4 Thou worshippest great Gods: bring them without delay by wisdom and thy wondrous power. 5 He whom floods, stones, and trees support, the offspring of eternal Law; 6 He who hath filled both worlds fult with his brilliant shine, who hastens with his smoke to heaven; 7 O Agni, with thy lofty beams, with thy pure brilliancy, O God, 8 Thou art the Lord of house and home of all the tribes, O Agni, of all tribes of men. 9 Wonderful, with thy favouring help, send us thy bounties, gracious Lord. 10 With guards unfailing never negligent speed thou our children and our progeny. 11 Hither, O friends, with newest song drive her who freely pours her milk; 12 Who, for the host of Maruts bright with native sheen, hath shed immortal fame like milk; 13 For Bharadvaja she poured down in days of old 14 Your friend like Indra passing wise, with magic power like Varuna. 15 Bright as the host of Maruts mighty in their roar. May they bring Pusan free from foes; 16 Haste to me, Pusan, in thine car, bright Deity: I fain would speak: 17 Tear not up by the roots the Kakambira tree: destroy thou all malignity. 18 Uninjured let thy friendship be, like the smooth surface of a skin, 19 For thou art high above mankind, in glory equal to the Gods. 20 May the kind excellence of him the Kind, loud Roarers! be our guide, 21 They whose high glory in a moment like the God, the Sun, goes round the space of heaven, 22 Once, only once, the heaven was made, once only once, the earth was formed−

2 How shall he praise you now who is distraught in mind? Ye Twain give wisdom for the gainof what is 3 Already have ye Twain, possessors of great wealth, prospered Visnapu thus for gain of what is good. 4 And that Impetuous Hero, winner of the spoil, though he is far away, we call to succour us, 5 About the holy Law toils Savitar the God the horn of holy Law hath he spread far and wide.

2 To him the tones of sacred song have sounded, Steer of the triple height, the Life−bestower. 3 Great Conqueror, warnor−girt, Lord of all heroes, flow on thy way as he who winneth riches; 4 Giving security, Lord of wide dominion, send us both earth and heaven with all their fulness. 5 O Soma, gladden Varuna and Mitra; cheer, Indu Pavamana! Indra, Visnu. 6 Thus like a wise and potent King flow onward, destroying with thy vigour all misfortunes.

2 With brilliant, purifying sheen, with perfect sheen thou liftest up thyself in light. 3 O Jatavedas, Son of Strength, rejoice ihyself, gracious, in our fair hymns and songs. 4 Agni, spread forth, as Ruler, over living things: give wealth to us, Immortal God. 5 To him, the wise, who orders sacrifice, who hath great riches un der his control, 6 The men have set before them them for their welfare Agni, strong, visible to all, the Holy.

2 Brhaspati, God immortal! verily the Gods have gained from thee, the wise, a share in holy rites. 3 When thou hast chased away revilers and the gloom, thou mountest the refulgent car of sacrifice; 4 Thou leadest with good guidance and preservest men; distress o'ertakes not him who offers gifts to thee. 5 No sorrow, no distress from any side, no foes, no creatures double−tongued have overcome the man,− 6 Thou art our keeper, wise, preparer of our paths: we, for thy service, sing to thee with hymns of praise. 7 Him, too, who threatens us without offence of ours, the evilminded, arrogant, rapacious man,− 8 Thee as protector of our bodies we invoke, thee, saviour, as the comforter who loveth us. 9 Through thee, kind −prosperer, O Brahmanaspati, may we obtain the wealth of Men which all desire: 10 With thee as our own rich and liberal ally may we, Brhaspati, gain highest power of life. 11 Strong, never yielding, hastening to the battle−cry, consumer of the foe, victorious in the strife, 12 Whoso with mind ungodly seeks to do us harm, who, deeming him a man of might mid lords, would 13 The mover mid the spoil, the winner of all wealth, to be invoked in fight and reverently adored, 14 Burn up the demons with thy fiercest flaming brand, those who have scorned thee in thy manifested mi 15 Brhaspati, that which the foe deserves not which shines among the folk effectual, splendid, 16 Give us not up to those who, foes in ambuscade, are greedy for the wealth of him who sits at ease, 17 For Tvastar, he who knows each sacred song, brought thee to life, preeminent o'er all the things that be 18 The mountain, for thy glory, cleft itself apart when, Angiras! thou openedst the stall of kine. 19 O Brahmanaspati, be thou controller of this our hymn and prosper thou our children.

2 May Agni the resplendent hear my calling through all my songs, Immortal, keen of insight. 3 On wood supine they got the well−formed Infant: a germ in various−fashioned plants was Agni; 4 With oil and sacred gifts I sprinkle Agni who makes his home in front of all things living, 5 I pour to him who looks in all directions: may he accept it with a friendly spirit. 6 By choice victorious, recognize thy portion: with thee for envoy may we speak like Manu.

2 Thou art our guileless, most delightful Herald, the God, among mankind, of holy synods. 3 For even the blessed longing that is in thee would bring the Gods down to the singer's worship, 4 Bright hath he beamed, the wise, the far−refulgent. Worship the two widespreading Worlds, O Agni, 5 When I with reverence clip the grass for Agni, when the trimmed ladle, fullof oil, is lifted, 6 Enrich us, O thou Priest of many aspects, with the Gods, Agni, with thy fires, enkindled.

2 Let Indra drink, O Soma, of thy juice for wisdom, and all Deities for strength. 3 So flow thou on as bright celestial juice, flow to the vast, immortal dwelling−place. 4 Flow onward, Soma, as a mighty sea, as Father of the Gods to every form. 5 Flow on, O Soma, radiant for the Gods and Heaven and Earth and bless our progeny. 6 Thou, bright Juice, art Sustainer of the sky: flow, mighty, in accordance with true Law. 7 Soma, flow splendid with thy copious stream through the great fleece as in the olden time. 8 Bom, led by men, joyous, and purified, let the Light−finder make all blessings flow: 9 Indu, while cleansed, keeping the people safe, shall give us all possessions for our own. 10 Flow on for wisdom, Soma, and for power, as a strong courser bathed, to win the prize. 11 The pressers purify this juice of thine, the Soma, for delight, and lofty fame 12 They deck the Gold−hued Infant, newlyborn, even Soma, Indu, in the sieve for Gods. 13 Fair Indu hath flowed on for rapturous joy, Sage for good fortune in the waters' lap. 14 He bears the beauteous name of Indra, that wherewith he overcame all demon foes. 15 All Deities are wont to drink of him, pressed by the men and blent with milk and curds. 16 He hath flowed forth with thousand streams effused, flowed ihsough the filter and the sheep's long wo 17 With endless genial flow the Strong hath run, purified by the waters, blent with milk. 18 Pressed out with stones, directed by the men, go fortli, O Soma, into Indra's throat. 19 The mighty Soma with a thousand streams is poured to Indra through the cleansing sieve. 20 Indu they balm with pleasant milky juice for Indra, for the Steer, for his delight. 21 Lightly, for sheen, they cleanse thee for the Gods, gold−coloured, wearing water as thy robe. 22 Indu to Indra streams, yea, downward streams, Strong, flowing to the floods, and mingling −there.

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

2 Agni, disclose his thought for him who singeth, the well, Strong God! while thou art praised with fervou 3 From thee, O Agni, springs poetic wisdom, from thee come thoughts and hymns of praise that prosper; 4 From thee the hero springs who wins the booty, bringer of help, mighty, of real courage. 5 Immortal Agni, thee whose voice is pleasant, as first in rank, as God, religious mortals 6 Far from us thou removest want and sorrow, far from us all ill−will when thou protectest.

2 Down in the mighty waters sinks the stream of meath, most excellent, 3 About the holy place, the Steer true, guileless, noblest, hath sent forth 4 When, clothed in manly strength, the Sage flows in celestial wisdom round, 5 When purified, he sits as King above the hosts, among his folk, 6 Dear, golden−coloured, in the fleece he sinks and settles in the wood: 7 He goes to Indra, Vayu, to the Asvins, as his custom is, 8 Tle streams of pleasant Soma flow to Bhaga, Mitra−Varuna,−

2 For they are dealers forth of wealth, and, not deluded, with their might 3 Shelter may they vouchsafe to us, Immortal Gods to mortal men, 4 May they mark out our paths to bliss, Indra, the Maruts, Pusan, 5 Yea, Pusan, Visnu, ye who run your course, enrich our hymns with kine; 6 The winds waft sweets, the rivers pour sweets for the man who keeps the Law 7 Sweet be the night and sweet the dawns, sweet the terrestrial atmosphere; 8 May the tall tree be full of sweets for us, and full of sweets the Sun: 9 Be Mitra gracious unto us, and Varuna and Aryaman: 2 Thou by thine insight art most wise, O Soma, strong by thine energies and all possessing, 3 Thine are King Varuna's eternal statutes, lofty and deep, O Soma, is thy glory. 4 With all thy glories on the earth, in heaven, on mountains, in the plants, and in the waters,− 5 Thou, Soma, art the Lord of heroes, King, yea, Vrtra−slayer thou: 6 And, Soma, let it be thy wish that we may 7 To him who keeps the law, both old and young, thou givest happiness, 8 Guard us, King Soma, on all sides from him who threatens us: never let 9 With those delightful aids which thou hast, Soma, for the worshipper,− 10 Accepting this our sacrifice and this our praise, O Soma, come, 11 Well−skilled in speech we magnify thee, Soma, with our sacred songs: 12 Enricher, healer of disease, wealth−finder, prospering our store, 13 Soma, be happy in our heart, as milch−kine in the grassy meads, 14 O Soma, God, the mortal man who in thy friendship hath delight, 15 Save us from slanderous reproach, keep us., O Soma, from distress: 16 Soma, wax great. From every side may vigorous powers unite in thee: 17 Wax, O most gladdening Soma, great through all thy rays of light, and be 16 In thee be juicy nutriments united, and powers and mighty foe−subduing vigour, 19 Such of thy glories as with poured oblations men honour, may they all invest our worship.

2 Borne on by rapid steeds of mighty pinion, or proudly trusting in the Gods' incitements. 3 Yea, Asvins, as a dead man leaves his riches, Tugra left Bhujyu in the cloud of waters. 4 Bhujyu ye bore with winged things, Nasatyas, which for three nights, three days full swiftly travelled, 5 Ye wrought that hero exploit in the ocean which giveth no support, or hold or station, 6 The white horse which of old ye gave Aghasva, Asvins, a gift to be his wealth for ever,− 7 O Heroes, ye gave wisdom to Kaksivan who sprang from Pajra's line, who sang your praises. 8 Ye warded off with cold the fire's fierce burning; food very rich in nouripliment ye furnished. 9 Ye lifted up the well, O ye Nasatyas, and set the base on high to open downward. 10 Ye from the old Cyavana, O Nasatyas, stripped, as 'twere mail, the skin upon 11 Worthy of praise and worth the winning, Heroes, is that your favouring succour O Nasatyas, 12 That mighty deed of yours, for gain, O Heroes, as thunder heraldeth the rain, I publish, 13 In the great rite the wise dame called, Nasatyas, you, Lords of many treasures, to assist her. 14 Ye from the wolf's jaws, as ye stood together, set free the quail, O Heroes, O Nasatyas. 15 When in the time of night, in Khela's battle, a leg was severed like a wild bird's pinion, 16 His father robbed Rjrasva of his eyesight who for the she−wolf slew a hundred wethers. 17 The Daughter of the Sun your car ascended, first reaching as it were the goal with coursers. 18 When to his house ye came, to Divodasa, hasting to Bharadvaja, O ye Asvins, 19 Ye, bringing wealth with rule, and life with offspring, life rich in noble heroes; O Nasatyas, 20 Ye bore away at night by easy pathways Jahusa compassed round on every quarter, 21 One morn ye strengthened Vaga for the battle, to gather spoils that might be told in thousands. 22 From the deep well ye raised on high the water, so that Rcatka's son, Sara, should drink it; 23 To Visvaka, Nasatyas!

2 Agni, do thou accept my laud, be magnified by this my song: 3 Agni, envoy, I place in front; the oblation−bearer I address: 4 Agni, the lofty flames of' thee enkindled have gone up on high, 5 Beloved! let my ladles full of sacred oil come near to thee: 6 I worship Agni−may he hear!−the cheerful, the Invoker, Priest, 7 Ancient Invoker, meet for praise, beloved Agni, wise and strong, 8 Agni, best Angiras, accept straightway these offerings, and guide 9 Excellent God, with brilliant flames, enkindled bring thou hitherward, 10 Him, Sage and Herald, void of guile, ensign of sacrifices, him 11 O Agni, be our Guardian thou, God, against those who injure us: 12 Making his body beautiful, Agni the Sage hath waxen by 13 I invocate the Child of Strength, Agni with purifying flame, 14 So Agni, rich in many friends, with fiery splendour, seat thyself 15 The mortal man who serves the God Agni within his own abode, 16 Agni is head and height of heaven, the Master of the earth is he: 17 Upward, O Agni, rise thy flames, pure and resplendent, blazing high, 18 For, Agni, thou as Lord of Light rulest o'er choicest gifts: may I, 19 O Agni, they who understand stir thee to action with their thoughts: 20 We ever claim the friendship of Agni, the singing messenger, 21 Agni who bears most holy sway, the holy Singer, holy Sage, 22 Yea, let my meditations, let my songs exalt thee evermore. 23 If I were thou and thou wert I, O Agni, every prayer of thine 24 For Excellent and Lord of wealth. art thou O Agni, rich in light: 25 Agni, to thee whose laws stand fast our resonant songs of praise speed forth, 26 Agni, the Youthful Lord of men, who stirreth much and eateth all, 27 To Agni let us haste with lauds, the Guide of sacrificial rites, 28 And let this man, good Agni, be with thee the singer of thy praise: 29 For thou art sharer of our feast, wise, ever watchful as a Sage: 30 O Agni, Sage, before our foes, before misfortunes fall on us,

2 Guardians infallible, eager as envoys' preserve us safe through many months and autumns. 3 Wise, bright, arranger of his teams, he. seeketh men with rich food whose treasures are abundant. 4 So far as native power and strength permit you, so far as men behold whose eyes have vision, 5 Driving down teams that bear the lovely Heroes, hitherward, Indra−Vayu, come together. 6 Your hundred and your thousand teams, O Indra and Vayu, all−munificent, which attend you, 7 Like coursers seeking fame will we Vasisthas, O Indra−Vayu, with our fair laudations,

2 O Indra−Agni, with the man who lauds you comes the wakening rite: 3 Through force of sacrifice I choose Indra−Agni who love the wise: 4 Indra and Agni I invoke, joint−victors, bounteous, unsubdued, 5 Indra and Agni, singers skilled in melody hymn you, bringing lauds: 6 Indra and Agni, ye cast down the ninety forts which DAsas held, 7 To Indra−Agni eeverent thoughts go forward from the holy task 8 O Indra−Agni, powers are yours, and dwellings and delightful food 9 Indra and Agni, in your deeds of might ye deck heaven's lucid realms:

2 Let the impatient Portals be thrown open bring thou the Gods impatient to come hither. 3 Taste, Agni: serve the Gods with our oblation. Offer good sacrifices, Jatavedas! 4 Let Jatavedas pay fair sacrifices, worship andgratify the Gods Immortal. 5 Wise God, win for us things that are all−goodly, and let the prayers, we pray today be fruitful. 6 Thee, even thee, the Son of Strength, O Agni, those Gods have made the bearer of oblations. 7 To thee the God may we perform our worship: do thou, besought, grant us abundant riches.

2 For here, like flies on honey, these who pray to thee sit by the juice that they have poured. 3 Longing for wealth I call on him, the Thunderer with the strong right hand, 4 These Soma juices, mixed with curd, have been expressed for Indra here. 5 May he whose ear is open hear us. He is asked for wealth: will he despise our prayer? 6 The hero never checked by men hath gained his strength through Indra, he 7 When thou dost drive the fighting men together be, thou Mighty One, the mighty's shield. 8 For Indra, Soma−drinker, armed with thunder, press the Soma juice. 9 Grudge not, ye Soma pourers; stir you, pay the rites, for wealth, to the great Conqueror. 10 No one hath overturned or stayed the car of him who freely gives. 11 Indra, that man when fighting shall obtain the spoil, whose strong defender thou wilt be. 12 His portion is exceeding great like a victorious soldier's spoil. 13 Make for the Holy Gods a hymn that is not mean, but well−arranged and fair of form. 14 Indra, what mortal will attack the man who hath his wealth in thee? 15 In battles with the foe urge on our mighty ones who give the treasures dear to thee, 16 Thine, Indra, is the lowest wealth, thou cherishest the mid−most wealth, 17 Thou art renowned as giving wealth to every one in all the battles that are fought. 18 If I, O Indra, were the Lord of riches ample as thine own, 19 Each day would I enrich the man who sang my praise, in whatsoever place he were. 20 With Plenty for his true ally the active man will gain the spoil. 21 A moral wins no riches by unworthy praise: wealth comes not to the niggard churl. 22 Like kine unmilked we call aloud, Hero, to thee, and sing thy praise, 23 None other like to thee, of earth or of the heavens, hath been or ever will be born. 24 Bring, Indra, the Victorious Ones; bring, elder thou, the younger host. 25 Drive thou away our enemies, O Maghavan: make riches easy to be won. 26 O Indra, give us wisdom as a sire gives wisdom to his sons.