Rig Veda on Worship

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 Rich shall he be in gold and kine and horses. Indra bestows on him great vital power, 3 Longing, I came this morning to the pious, the son of sacrifice, with car wealth. laden. 4 Health−bringing streams, as milch−cows, flow to profit him who hath worshipped, him who now will 5 On the high ridge of heaven he stands exalted, yea, to the Gods he goes, the liberal giver. 6 For those who give rich meeds are all these splendours, for those who give rich meeds suns shine in hea 7 Let not the liberal sink to sin and sorrow, never decay the pious −chiefs who worship!

2 This Purusa is all that yet hath been and all that is to be; 3 So mighty is his greatness; yea, greater than this is Purusa. 4 With three−fourths Purusa went up: onefourth of him again was here. 5 From him Viraj was born; again Purusa from Viraj was born. 6 When Gods prepared the sacrifice with Purusa as their offering, 7 They balmed as victim on the grass Purusa born in earliest time. 8 From that great general sacrifice the dripping fat was gathered up. 9 From that great general sacrifice Rcas and Sama−hymns were born: 10 From it were horses born, from it all cattle with two rows of teeth: 11 When they divided Purusa how many portions did they make? 12 The Brahman was his mouth, of both his arms was the Rajanya made. 13 The Moon was gendered from his mind, and from his eye the Sun had birth; 14 Forth from his navel came mid−air the sky was fashioned from his head 15 Seven fencing−sticks had he, thrice seven layers of fuel were prepared, 16 Gods, sacrificing, sacrificed the victim these were the carliest holy ordinances.

2 Unto the great bring ye great adoration, a chant with praise to him exceeding mighty, 3 When Indra and the Angirases desired it, Sarama found provision for her offipring. 4 Mid shout, loud shout, and roar, with the Navagvas, seven singers, hast thou, heavenly, rent the mountai 5 Praised by Angirases, thou, foe−destroyer, hast, with the Dawn, Sun, rays, dispellcd the darkness. 6 This is the deed most worthy of all honour, the fairest marvel of the Wonder−Worker, 7 Unwearied, won with lauding hymns, he parted of old the ancient Pair, united ever. 8 Still born afresh, young Dames, each in her manner, unlike in hue, the Pair in alternation 9 Rich in good actions, skilled in operation, the Son with might maintains his perfect friendship. 10 Their paths, of old connected, rest uninjured; they with great might preserve the immortal statutes. 11 Thoughts ancient, seeking wealth, with adoration, with newest lauds have sped to thee, O Mighty. 12 Strong God, the riches which thy hands have holden from days of old have perished not nor wasted. 13 O mighty Indra, Gotama's son Nodhas hath fashioned this new prayer to thee Eternal,

2 Whom as a far−foreseeing Sage the Gods have, from the olden time, 3 Do thou, Most Youthful God, protect the men who offer, hear their songs, 4 What is the praise wherewith, O God, Afigiras, Agni, Son of Strength, 5 May serve thee, O thou Child of Power, and with what sacrifice's plan? 6 Our God, make all of us to dwell in happy habitations, and 7 Lord of the house, what plenty fills the songs which thou inspirest now, 8 Hirn Wise and Strong they glorify, the foremost Champion in the fray, 9 Agni, he dwells in rest and peace who smites and no one smites again:

1 O BRAMANASPATI, stand up: God−serving men we pray to thee. 2 O Son of Strength, each mortal calls to thee for aid when spoil of battle waits for him. 3 May Brahmanaspati draw nigh, may Sunrta the Goddess come, 4 He who bestows a noble guerdon on the priest wins fame that never shall decay. 5 Now Brahmanaspati speaks forth aloud the solemn hymn of praise, 6 May we in holy synods, Gods! recite that hymn, peerless, that brings felicity. 7 Who shall approach the pious? who the man whose sacred grass is trimmed? 8 He amplifies his lordly might, with kings he slays: e'en mid alarms he dwells secure

2 Thee, Agni, men have stablished as their guest of old, as Master of the household, thee, with hair of fla 3 The tribes of men praise thee, Agni, who knowest well burnt offerings, the Discerner, lavishest of wealt 4 Ever to thee, O Agni, as exceeding strong have we drawn nigh with songs and reverence singing hymns. 5 Thou, Agni! multiform, God who art lauded much! givest in every house subsistence as of old. 6 The Gods, Most Youthful Agni, have made thee, inflamed, the bearer of oblations and the messenger. 7 Men seeking joy have lit thee worshipped from of old, O Agni, with good fuel and with sacred oil.

2 Accept, O Indra, and enjoy the well−dressed sacrificial cake: Oblations are poured forth to thee. 3 Consume our sacrificial cake, accept the songs of praise we sing, 4 Famed from of old, accept the cake at our libation poured at dawn, 5 Let roasted corn of our midday libation, and sacrificial cake here please thee, Indra, 6 At the third sacrifice, O thou whom many praise, give glory to the roasted corn and holy cake. 7 The groats have we prepared for thee with Pusan, corn for thee, Lord of Bay Steeds, with thy horses. 8 Bring forth the roasted corn to meet him quickly, cake for the bravest Hero mid the heroes.

3 Whom with their mouth they magnify, bannered with flame and homed in light. 4 Kind, Furtherer of men, he comes, when he hath reached the ends of heaven, 5 To taste man's offerings, he, the Strong, hath risen erect at sacrifice: 6 Here are oblation, worship, rest: rapidly comes his furtherance. 7 With service for chief bliss I seek the Lord of Sacrifice, Agni, whom 8 Blest evermore be all the men who come from us, who magnify 9 The path he treads is black and white and red, and striped, and brown, crimson, and glorious. 10 Thus with his thoughts, O Son of Strength, O Agni, hath Vimada, accordant with the Immortals,

2 Golden, sublime, and easy in their motion, his arms extend unto the bounds of heaven. 3 May this God Savitar, the Strong and Mighty, the Lord of precious wealth, vouchsafe us treasures. 4 These songs praise Savitar whose tongue is pleasant, praise him whose arms are full, whose hands are

2 The Fair, the Bright is come with her white offspring; to her the Dark One hath resigned her dwelling. 3 Common, unending is the Sisters' pathway; taught by the Gods, alternately they travel. 4 Bright leader of glad sounds, our eyes behold her; splendid in hue she hath unclosed the portals. 5 Rich Dawn, she sets afoot the coiled−up sleeper, one for enjoyment, one for wealth or worship, 6 One to high sway, one to exalted glory, one to pursue his gain, and one his labour: 7 We see her there, the Child of Heaven apparent, the young Maid, flushing in her shining raiment. 8 She first of endless morns to come hereafter, follows the path of morns that have departed. 9 As thou, Dawn, hast caused Agni to be kindled, and with the Sun's eye hast revealed creation. 10 How long a time, and they shall be together,−Dawns that have shone and Dawns to shine hereafter? 11 Gone are the men who in the days before us looked on the rising of the earlier Morning. 12 Foe−chaser, born of Law, the Law's protectress, joy−giver waker of all pleasant voices, 13 From days eternal hath Dawn shone, the Goddess, and shows this light to−day, endowed with riches. 14 In the sky's borders hath she shone in splendour: the Goddess hath thrown off the veil of darkness. 15 Bringing all life−sustaining blessings with her, showing herself she sends forth brilliant lustre. 16 Arise! the breath, the life, again hath reached us: darkness hath passed away and light approacheth. 17 Singing the praises of refulgent Mornings with his hymn's web the priest, the poet rises. 18 Dawns giving sons all heroes, kine and horses, shining upon the man who brings oblations,− 19 Mother of Gods, Aditi's forui of glory, ensign of sacrifice, shine forth exalted. 20 Whatever splendid wealth the Dawns bring with them to bless the man who offers praise and worship,

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

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

2 This man, most diligent, seeking after riches, incessantly invokes you for your favour. 3 O Indra−Varuna, ours be this treasure ours be wealth, Maruts, with full store of heroes. 4 Be pleased! with our oblations, thou loved of all Gods, Brhaspati: 5 At sacrifices, with your hymns worship the pure Brhaspati− 6 The Bull of men, whom none deceive, the wearer of each shape at will, 7 Divine, resplendent Pusan, this our newest hymn of eulogy, 8 Accept with favour this my song, be gracious to the earnest thought, 9 May he who sees all living things, see, them together at a glancc,− 10 May we attain that excellent glory of Savitar the God: 11 With understanding, earnestly, of Savitar the God we crave 12 Men, singers worship Savitar the God with hymn and holy rites, 13 Soma who gives success goes forth, goes to the gathering place of Gods, 14 To us and to our cattle may Soma give salutary food, 15 May Soma, strengthening our power of life, and conquering our foes, 16 May Mitra−Varuna, sapient Pair, bedew our pasturage with oil, 17 Far−ruling, joyful when adored, ye reign through majesty of might, 18 Lauded by Jamadagni's song, sit in the place of holy Law:

2 Your praise is like a mighty power, an impulse: to you, Twain Gods, a well−formed hymn is offered, 3 O Mitra−Varuna, Aditi the Milch−cow streams for the rite, for folk who bring oblation, W 4 So may the kine and heavenly Waters pour you sweet drink in families that make you joyf

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!

1 Now Morning with her earliest light shines forth, dear Daughter of the Sky: 2 Sons of the Sea, mighty to save discoverers of riches, ye 3 Your giant coursers hasten on over the region all in flames, − 4 He, liberal, lover of the flood, Lord of the House, the vigilant, 5 Ye have regard unto our hymns, Nasatyas, thinking of our words: 6 Vouchsafe to us, O Asvin Pair, such strength as, with attendant light, 7 Come in the ship of these our hymns to bear you to the hither shore 8 The heaven's wide vessel is your own on the flood's shore your chariot waits 9 Kanvas, the drops are in the heaven; the wealth is at the waters' place: 10 Light came to lighten up the branch, the Sun appeared as it were gold: 11 The path of sacrifice was made to travel to the farther goal: 12 The singer of their praise awaits whatever grace the Asvins give, 13 Ye dwellers with Vivasvan come, auspicious, as to Manu erst; 14 O circumambient Asvins, Dawn follows the brightness of your way: 15 Drink ye of our libations, grant protection, O ye Asvins Twain, 1 ASVINS, for you who strengthen Law this sweetest Soma hath been shed. 2 Come, O ye Asvins, mounted on your triple car three−seated, beautiful of form 3 O Asvins, ye who strengthen Law, drink ye this sweetest Soma juice. 4 Omniscient Asvins, on the thrice−heaped grass bedew with the sweet juice the sacrifice. 5 O Asvins, with those aids wherewith ye guarded Kanva carefully, 6 O Mighty Ones, ye gave Sudas abundant food, brought on your treasure−laden car; 7 Nasatyas, whether ye be far away or close to Turvasa, 8 So let your coursers, ornaments of sacrifice, bring you to our libations here. 9 Come, O Nasatyas, on your car decked with a sunbright canopy, 10 With lauds and songs of praise we call them down to us, that they, most rich, may succour us;

2 O Mighty Agni, thou must be glorified at our festivals, 3 O Jatavedas Agni, fight and drive our foes afar from us, 4 Thou, Jatavedas, seekest not the worship of a hostile man, 5 We sages, mortals as we are, adore the mighty name oof thee, 6 Sages, we call the Sage to help, mortals, we call the God to aid: 7 May Vatsa draw− thy mind away even from thy loftiest dwelling−place, 8 Thou art the same in many a place: mid all the people thou art Lord. 9 When we are seeking strength we call Agni to help us in the strife, 10 Ancient, adorablie at sacrifices, Priest from of old, meet for our praise, thou sittest.

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

2 Child of Thyself the sacrifice is for the righteous blent with meath, 3 Invoked and worthy of our praise bring Gods whose due is sacrifice: 4 To seat a thousand Heroes they eastward have strewn the grass with might, 5 The sovran all−imperial Doors, wide, good, many and manifold, 6 With gay adornment, fair to see, in glorious beauty shine they forth: 7 Let these two Sages first of all, heralds divine and eloquent, 8 You I address, Sarasvati, and Bharati, and Ila, all: 9 Tvastar the Lord hath made all forms and all the cattle of the field 10 Send to the Gods, Vanaspati, thyself, the sacrificial draught: 11 Agni, preceder of the Gods, is honoured with the sacred song:

2 This God, made ready with the hymn, runs swiftly through the winding ways, 3 This God while flowing is adorned, like a bay steed for war, by men 4 He, like a warrior going forth with heroes, as he flows along 5 This God, as he is flowing on, speeds like a car and gives his gifts: 6 Praised by the sacred bards, this God dives into waters, and bestows 7 Away he rushes with his stream, across the regions, into heaven, 8 While flowing, meet for sacrifice, he hath gone up to heaven across 9 After the 'way of ancient time, this God, pressed out for Deities, 10 This Lord of many Holy Laws, even at his birth engendering strength,

2 Bring what thou deemest worth the wish, O Indra, that which is in heaven. 3 Thy lofty spirit, far−renowned as fain to give and prompt to win,− 4 Singers with many songs have made Indra propitious to their fame, 5 To him, to Indra must be sung the poet's word, the hymn of praise.

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

2 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 At Ayu's ancient call he by his wisdom gave all this progeny of men their being, 3 Praise him, ye Aryan folk, as chief performer of sacrifice adored and ever toiling, 4 That Matarisvan rich in wealth and treasure, light−winner, finds a pathway for his offispring. 5 Night and Dawn, changing each the other's colour, meeting together suckle one same Infant: 6 Root of wealth, gathering−place of treasures, banner of sacrifice, who grants the suppliant's wishes: 7 Now and of old the home of wealth, the mansion of what is born and what was born aforetime, 8 May the Wealth−Giver grant us conquering riches; may the Wealth−Giver grant us wealth with heroes. 9 Fed with our fuel, purifying Agni, so blaze to us auspiciously for glory.

1 FOR Jatavedas worthy of our praise will we frame with our mind this eulogy as 'twere a car. 2 The man for whom thou sacrificest prospereth, dwelleth without a foe, gaineth heroic might. 3 May we have power to kindle thee. Fulfil our thoughts. In thee the Gods eat the presented offering, 4 We will bring fuel and prepare burnt offerings, reminding thee at each successive festival. 5 His ministers move forth, the guardians of the folk, protecting quadruped and biped with their rays. 6 Thou art Presenter and the chief Invoker, thou Director, Purifier, great High Priest by birth. 7 Lovely of form art thou, alike on every side; though far, thou shinest brightly 8 Gods, foremost he his car who pours libations out, and let our hymn prevail o'er evil−hearted men. 9 Smite with thy weapons those of evil speech and thought, devouring demons, whether near or tar away. 10 When to thy chariot thou hadst yoked two red steeds and two ruddy steeds, wind−sped, thy roar was li 11 Then at thy roar the very birds are terrified, when, eating−up the grass, thy sparks fly forth abroad. 12 He hath the Power to soothe Mitra and Varuna: wonderful is the Maruts' wrath when they descend. 13 Thou art a God, thou art the wondrous Friend of Gods, the Vasu of the Vasus, fair in sacrifice. Under, t

2 Pleased with the hymn, impelled by prayer, Soma is hurried far away, 3 Watchful among the. gods, this juice advances to the cleansing sieve 4 Flow onward, seeking strength for us, embellishing the sacrifice: 5 May Soma, ever bringing power to Bhaga and to Vayu, Sage 6 So, to increase our wealth to−day, Inspirer, best of Furtherers,

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 At night and morning, Agni, have they called to thee, like milch−kine in their stalls lowing to meet their 3 Him have the Gods established at the region's base, doer of wondrous deeds, Herald of heaven and earth 4 Him have they set in his own dwelling, in the vault, like the Moon waxing, fulgent, in the realm of air. 5 May he as Priest encompass all the sacrifice. men throng to him with offerings and with hymns of prais 6 Such as thou art, brilliantly kindled for our weal, a liberal giver, send us riches in thy shine, 7 Agni, give us great wealth, give riches thousandfold. unclose to us, like doors, strength that shall bring 8 Enkindled night by night at every morning's dawn, may he shine forth with red flame like the realm of 9 Song chanted by us men, O Agni, Ancient One, has swelled unto the deathless Gods in lofty heaven− 10 Agni, may we show forth our valour with the steed or with the power of prayer beyond all other men; 11 Such, Conqueror! be to us, be worthy of our praise, thou for whom princes nobly born exert themselve 12 Knower of all that lives, O Agni may we both, singers of praise and chiefs, be in thy keeping still. 13 The princely worshippers who send to those who sing thy praise, O Agni, guerdon, graced with kine a

2 Him, to be praised at each tribe's sacrifices, the Two young Matrons' sober−minded Herald, 3 Unlike in form are the Red God's two Daughters: one is the Sun's, and stars bedeck the other. 4 I with a lofty song call hither Vayu, all−bounteous, filler of his car, most wealthy. 5 That chariot of the Asvins, fair to look on, pleaseth me well, yoked with a thought, refulgent, 6 Bulls of the Earth, O Vata and Parjanya, stir up for us the regions of the water. 7 So may Sarasvati, the Hero's Consort, brisk with rare life, the lightning's Child, inspire us, 8 I praise with eloquence him who guards all pathways. He, when his love impelled him, went to Arka. 9 May Herald Agni, fulgent, bring for worship Tvastar adored, in homes and swift to listen, 10 Rudra by day, Rudra at night we honour with these our songs, the Universe's Father. 11 Ye who are youthful, wise, and meet for worship, come, Martits, to the longing of the singer. 12 Even as the herdsman driveth home his cattle, I urge my songs to him the strong swift Hero 13 He who for man's behoof in his afiliction thrice measured out the earthly regions, Visnu− 14 Sweet be this song of mine to Ahibudhnya, Parvata, Savitar, with Floods and Lightnings; 15 Give riches borne on cars, with many heroes, contenting men, the guard of mighty Order.

2 Come hither and accept with joy this sacrifice and hymn of ours. 3 I laud thee Jatavedas, thee Lord of all blessings, with my song. 4 Agni the God was made the great High−Priest of Gods, Rsis have kindled Agni, men of mortal mould. 5 Atri and Bharadvaja and Gavisthira, Kanva and Trasadasyu, in our fight he helped.

2 Whose prayers have they, the Youthful Ones, accepted? Who to his sacrifice hath turned the Maruts? 3 Whence comest thou alone, thou who art mighty, Indra, Lord of the Brave? What is thy purpose? 4 Mine are devotions, hymns; sweet are libations. Strength stirs, and hurled forth is my bolt of thunder. 5 Therefore together with our strong companions, having adorned our bodies, now we harness, 6 Where was that nature then of yours, O Maruts, that ye charged me alone to slay the Dragon? 7 Yea, much hast thou achieved with us for comrades, with manly valour like thine own, thou Hero. 8 Vrtra I slew by mine own strength, O Maruts, having waxed mighty in mine indignation. 9 Nothing, O Maghavan, stands firm before thee; among the Gods not one is found 10 Mine only be transcendent power, whatever I, daring in my spirit, may accomplish. 11 Now, O ye Maruts, hath your praise rejoiced me, the glorious hymn which ye have made me, Heroes! 12 Here, truly, they send forth their sheen to meet me, wearing their blameless glory and their vigour. 13 Who here hath magnified you, O ye Maruts? speed forward, O ye lovers, to your lovers. 14 To this hath Minya's wisdom brought us, so as to aid, as aids the poet him who worships. 15 May this your praise, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's son, Mandarya,

2 Envoy art thou, protector from the foeman, strong God, thou leadest us to higher blessings. 3 May we adore thee in thy loftiest birthplace, and, with our praises, in thy lower station. 4 Agni, best Priest, pay worship with oblation; quickly commend the gift to be presented; 5 The twofold opulence, O Wonder−Worker, of thee new−born each day never decreases.

2 The speaker filleth with a cry to Indra his ears who cometh nigh e'en from a distance. 3 Him have I sung with my best song and praises, Indra of ancient birth and Everlasting. 4 Indra, whom sacrifice shall strengthen, Soma, and song and hymn, and praises and devotion, 5 Him, born for conquering might in full perfection, and waxen strongfor bounty and for glory, 2 Craving the kine, rushing against the mountain led on by Law, with holyminded comrades, 3 This Indu lighted darksome nights, O Indra, throughout the years, at morning and at evening. 4 He shone and caused to shme the worlds that shone not. By Law he lighted up the host of Mornings. 5 Now, praised, O Ancient King! fill thou the singer with plenteous food that he may deal forth treasures.

2 1n the two fire−sticks Jatavedas lieth, even as the well−set germ in pregnant women, 3 Lay this with care on that which lies extended: straight hath she borne the Steerwhen made prolific. 4 In Ila's place we set thee down, upon the central point of earth, 5 Rub into life, ye men, the Sage, the guileless, Immortal, very wise and fair to look on. 6 When with their arms they rub him straight he shineth forth like a strong courser, red in colour, in the 7 Agni shines forth when born, observant, mighty, the bountiful, the Singar praised by sages; 8 Set thee, O Priest, in, thine own place, observant: lay down the sacrifice in the home of worship. 9 Raise ye a mighty smoke, my fellow−workers! Ye shall attain to wealth without obstruction. 10 This is thine ordered place of birth whence sprung to life thou shonest forth. 11 As Germ Celestial he is called Tanunapat, and Narasamsa born diffused in varied shape. 12 With strong attrition rubbed to life, laid down with careful hand, a Sage, 13 Mortals have brought to life the God Immortal, the Conqueror with mighty jaws, unfailing. 14 Served by the seven priests, he shone forth from ancient time, when in his Mother's bosom, in her lap, 15 Even as the Maruts, onslaughts who attack the foe, those born the first of all knew the full power of 16 As we, O Priest observant, have elected thee this day, what time the solemn sacrifice began,

11 They have been poured upon the fleece towards the meath−distilling vat: 12 Like milch−kine coming home, the drops of Soma juice have reached the lake, 13 O Indu, to our great delight the running waters flow to us, 14 In this thy friendship, and with thee to help us, fain to sacrifice, 15 Flow on, O Soma, for the great Viewer of men, for gain of Idne 16 Best art thou, Soma, of the great, Strongest of strong ones, Indu: thou 17 Mightier even than the strong, more valiant even than the brave, 18 Soma, as Sura, bring us food, win offspring of our bodies: we 19 Agni, thou pourest life; send down upon us food and vigorous strength; 20 Agni is Pavamana, Sage, Chief Priest of all the Races Five: 21 Skilled in thy task, O Agni, pour splendour with hero strength on us, 22 Beyond his enemies away to sweet praise Pavamana flows, 23 Adorned by living men, set forth for entertainment, rich in food, 24 He, Pavamana, hath produced the lofty Law, the brilliant light, 25 From tawny Pavamana, the Destroyer, radiant streams have sprung, 26 Best rider of the chariot, praised with fairest praise mid beauteous ones, 27 May Pavamana, best to win the booty, penetrate with rays, 28 Over the fleecy sieve hath flowed the drop effused: to Indra comes 29 This Soma, through the pressing−stones, is sporting on the oxhide, and 30 O Pavamana, bless us, so that we may live, with that bright milk

2 Knowing full well the Asura's time of coming, worship God Savitar with hymns and praises. 3 Not for reward doth Pusan send his blessings, Bhaga, or Aditi: his garb is splendour. 4 Sending the shelter which we ask, the foeless Savitar and the Rivers shall approach us. 5 They who devote such worship to the Vasus, singing their hymns to Varuna and Mitra,

2 Do ye, O Indra−Agni, hear the singer's call: accept his songs. 3 Give us not up to poverty, ye Heroes, Indra−Agni, nor 4 To Indra and to Agni we bring reverence, high and holy hymn, 5 For all these holy singers here implore these Twain to succour them, 6 Eager to laudyou, we with songs invoke you, bearing sacred food, 7 Indra and Agni, come to us with favour, ye who conquer men: 8 At no time let the injurious blow of hostile mortal fall on us: 9 Whatever wealth we crave of you, in gold, in cattle, or in steeds, 10 When heroes prompt in worship call Indra and Agni, Lords of steeds, 11 Call hither with the song and lauds those who best slay the foemen, those 12 Slay ye the wicked man whose thought is evil of the demon kind.

2 He whose two Bay Steeds harnessed well, swerving, pursue the Bird's tail−plumes, 3 Bereft of skill is Indra, if, like some outwearied man he fears 4 Indra with these drives round, until he meets with one to worship him: 5 Borne onward by the long−maned Steeds who stretch themselves as 'twere for food, 6 The Mighty sang with Lofty Ones: the Hero fashioned with his strength, 7 The bolt, which pierced at once the vitals of the Dasyu easy to be slain, 8 Grind off our sins: with song will we conquer the men who sing no hymns: 9 When threefold flame burns high for thee, to rest on poles of sacrifice, 10 Thy glory was the speckled cup, thy glory was the flawless scoop. 11 As hundreds, O Immortal God, have sung to thee, so hath Sumitra, yea, Durmitra praised thee here,

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 Eager for wealth, we meditate Agni's effectual praise to−day, 3 May Agni, Priest among mankind, take pleasure in our songs of praise, 4 Thou, Agni, art spread widely forth, Priest dear and excellent; through thee 5 Singers exalt thee, Agni, well lauded, best giver of our strength: 6 Thou Agni, as the felly rings the spokes, encompassest the Gods. 1 yearn for bounty manifold.

2 At high solemnities mortal men glorify him the Immortal, best 3 That he may bear their gifts to heaven, all glorify him Agni, God, 4 Agni shone bright when born, with light killing the Dasyus and the dark: 5 Serve Agni, God adorable, the Sage whose back is balmed with oil: 6 They have exalted Agni, God of all mankind, with oil and hymns

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

1 O INDRA drink the Soma juice with Rtu; let the cheering drops 2 Drink from the Purifier's cup, Maruts, with Rtu; sanctify 3 O Nestar, with thy Dame accept our sacrifice; with Rtu drink, 4 Bring the Gods, Agni; in the three appointed places set them down: 5 Drink Soma after the Rtus, from the Brahmana's bounty: undissolved, 6 Mitra, Varuna, ye whose ways are firm − a Power that none deceives−, 7 The Soma−pressers, fain for wealth, praise the Wealth−giver in the rite, 8 May the Wealth−giver grant to us riches that shall be far renowned. 9 He with the Rtu fain would drink, Wealth−giver, from the Nestar's bowl. 10 As we this fourth time, Wealth−giver, honour thee with the Rtus, be 11 Drink ye the meath, O Asvins bright with flames, whose acts are pure. who with 12 With Rtu, through the house−fire, thou, kind Giver, guidest sacrifice:

2 Quaff it pure, meal−blent, mixt with milk, O Indra; we have poured forth the Soma for thy rapture. 3 Those who gave increase to thy strength and vigour; the Maruts singing forth thy might, O Indra. 4 They, even the Maruts who were there, excited with song the meath−created strength of Indra. 5 Pleased, like a man, with our libation, Indra, drink, for enduring hero might, the Soma. 6 When thou didst loose the streams to run like racers in the swift contest, having smitten Vrtra 7 With reverence let us worship mighty Indra, great and sublime, eternal, everyouthful, 8 Many are Indra's nobly wrought achievements, and none of all the Gods transgress his statutes. 9 Herein, O Guileless One, is thy true greatness, that soon as born thou drankest up the Soma. 10 As soon as thou wast born in highest heaven thou drankest Soma to delight thee, Indra; 11 Thou, puissant God, more mighty, slewest. Ahi showing his strength when couched around the waters. 12 Sacrifice, Indra, made thee wax so mighty, the dear oblation with the flowing Soma. 13 With sacrifice and wish have I brought Indra; still for new blessings may I turn him hither, 14 I have brought forth a song when longing seized me: ere the decisive day will I laud Indra; 15 Full is his chalice: Glory! Like a pourer I have filled up the vessel for his drinking. 16 Not the deep−flowing flood, O Much−invoked One! not hills that compass thee about restrain thee, 17 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in this fight where spoil is gathered,

2 With stream of sacrifice the brown bright drops have flowed with strength in store 3 To Indra, Vayu, Varuna, to Visnu, and the Maruts, flow 4 Three several words are uttered: kine are ]owing, cows who give their milk: 5 The young and sacred mothers of the holy rite have uttered praise: 6 From every side, O Soma, for our profit, pour thou forth four seas

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 For unto thee, O Angiras, O Son of Strength, move ladles in the sacrifice. 3 Agni, thou art Disposer, Sage, Herald, bright God! and worshipful, 4 Most Youthful and Eternal, bring the longing Gods to me, the guileless, for the feast. 5 Famed art thou, Agni, far and wide, Preserver, righteous, and a Sage. 6 Shine, Most Resplendent! blaze, send bliss unto the folk, and to thy worshipper 7 O Agni, as thou burnest down to earth even high−grown underwood, 8 Give us not as a prey to mortal enemy, nor to the wicked friend of fiends. 9 Protect us, Agni, through the first, protect us through the second hymn, 10 Preserve us from each fiend who brings the Gods no gift, preserve thou us in deeds of strength: 11 O Holy Agni, give us wealth renowned with men and strengthening life. 12 Wherewith we may o'ercome our rivals in the war, o'erpowering the foe's designs. 13 Agni is even as a bull who whets and brandishes his horns. 14 Not to be stayed, O Bull, O Agni, are thy teeth when thou art spreading far and wide. 15 Thou liest in the wood: from both thy Mothers mortals kindle thee. 16 And so the seven priests, O Agni, worship thee, Free−giver, Everlasting One. 17 For you let us whose grass is trimmed call Agni, Agni, restless God. 18 Agni, with noble psalm that tells his wish he dwells, thinking on thee who guardest him. 19 Agni, Praise−singer! Lord of men, God burner−up of Raksasas, 20 Let no fiend come among us, O thou rich in light, no spell of those who deal in spells.

2 The Speaker, unassailable Master of this hymn, the Tongue of sacrifice pours forth the pleasant meath. 3 Sending forth flashes he hath bellowed to the jars, led by the men into the golden reservoir. 4 Pressed by the stones, with hymns, and graciously inclined, illuminating both the Parents, Heaven and 5 Flow onward, Soma, flow to bring prosperity: cleansed by the men, invest thee with the milky draught.

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.

2 Agni, burn up the unfriendly who are near us, burn thou the foeman's curse who pays no worship. 3 With fuel, Agni, and with oil, desirous, mine offering I present for strength and conquest, 4 Give with thy glow, thou Son of Strength, when lauded, great vital power to those who toil to serve thee 5 Give us, O liberal Lord, great gtore of riches, for, Agni, such art thou when duly kindled.

2 For worship of the Gods the Priest was wakened: at morning gracious Agni hath arisen. 3 When he hath stirred the line of his attendants, with the pure milk pure Agni is anointed. 4 The spirits of the pious turn together to Agni, as the eyes of all to Surya. 5 The noble One was born at days' beginning, laid red in colour mid the well−laid fuel. 6 Agni hath sat him down, a Priest most skilful, on a sweet−smelling place, his Mother's bosom. 7 This Singer excellent at sacrifices, Agni the Priest, they glorify with homage. 9 Thou quickly passest by all others, Agni, for him to whom thou hast appeared most lovely, 10 To thee, Most Youthful God! to thee, O Agni from near and far the people bring their tribute. 11 Ascend to−day thy splendid car, O Agni, in splendour, with the Holy Ones around it. 12 To him adorable, sage, strong and mighty we have sung forth our song of praise and homage.

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 Moving to sacrifice through realms of lustre they light the radiance of the car that bears them. 3 Ye to that bounteous path of yours, ye mighty, have ever borne away our thoughts with horses, 4 So ye, when ye have yoked your chariothorses, come to the hymn of the most recent singer. 5 With newest hymn I call those Wonder−Workers, ancient and brilliant, and exceeding mighty, 6 So ye, with birds, out of the sea and waters bore Bhujyu, son of Tugra, through the regions. 7 Victors, car−borne, ye rent the rock asunder: Bulls, heard the calling of the eunuch's consort. 8 Whate'er from olden time, Heaven, Earth! existeth great object of the wrath of Gods and mortals, 9 May he who knows, as Varuna and Mitra, air's realm, appointing both the Kings in season, 10 Come to our home with friendly wheels, for offipring; come on your radiant chariot rich in heroes. 11 Come hitherward to us with teams of horses, the highest and the midmost and the lowest.

2 Pure in her course from mountains to the ocean, alone of streams Sarasvati hath listened. 3 Friendly to man he grew among the women, a strong young Steer amid the Holy Ladies. 4 May this Sarasvati be pleased and listen at this our sacrifice, auspicious Lady, 5 These offerings have ye made with adoration: say this, Sarasvati, and accept our praises; 6 For thee, O Blest Sarasvati, Vasistha hath here unbarred the doors d sacred Order.

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

2 I sing to cattle and to Earth, to trees, to Dawns, to Night, to plants. 3 Forth go, with Agni, to the Gods our sacrifice of ancient use, 4 Lords of all wealth, may they be strengtheners of man, destroyers of his enemies. 5 Come to us with one mind to−day, come to us all with one accord, 6 Send us delightful things, ye Maruts, on your steeds: come ye, O Mitra, to our gifts. 7 We who have trimmed the grass for you, and set the banquet in array, 8 O Maruts, Visinu, Asvins, Pusan, haste away with minds turned hitherward to Me. 9 Ye Guileless Gods, bestow on us a refuge strong on every side, 10 Kinship have I with you, and close alliance O ye Gods, destroyers of our foes. 11 For now have I sent forth to you, that I may win a fair reward, 12 Excellent Savitar hath mounted up on high for you, ye sure and careful Guides. 13 Singing their praise with God−like thought let us invoke each God for grace, 14 For of one spirit are the Gods with mortal man, co−sharers all of gracious gifts. 15 I laud you, O ye Guileless Gods, here where we meet to render praise. 16 He makes his house endure, he gathers plenteous food who pays obedience to your will. 17 E'en without war he gathers wealth, and goes hisway on pleasant paths, 18 E'en on the plain for him ye make a sloping path, an easy way where road is none: 19 If ye appoint the rite to−day, kind Rulers, when the Sun ascends, 20 Or, Asuras, when ye have sheltered the worshipper who goes to sacrifice, at eve 21 If ye to−day at sunrise, or at noon, or in the gloom of eve, 22 Then we, imperial Rulers, claim of you this boon, your wide protection, as a son.

2 Like Heroes on your will−yoked car farshining, Wonder−Workers! ye 3 By you, O Lords of ample wealth our songs of praise have been observed: 4 Kanvas must praise the Asvins dear to many, making many glad, 5 Most liberal, best at winning strength, inciters, Lords of splendour who 6 So for devout Sudeva dew with fatness his unfailing mead, 7 Hitherward running speedily with horses, as with rapid hawks, 8 Wherewith the three wide distances, and all the lights that are in heaven. 9 O Finders of the Day, that we may win us food of kine and wealth, 10 O Asvins, bring us wealth in kine, in noble heroes, and in cars: 11 Ye Lords of splendour, glorified, ye Wonder−Workers borne on paths 12 To us, ye Lords of ample wealth, and to our wealth chiefs extend 13 Come quickly downward to the prayer of people whom ye favour most: 14 Ye Asvins whom our minds perceive, drink of this lovely gladdening draught, 15 Bring riches hither unto us in hundreds and in thousands, source 16 Verily sages call on you, ye Heroes, in full many a place. 17 Men who have trimmed the sacred grass, bringing oblations and prepared, 18 May this our hymn of praise to−day, most powerful to bring you, be, 19 The skin filled full of savoury meath, laid in the pathway of your car− 20 For this, ye Lords of ample wealth, bring blessing for our herd, our kine, 21 Ye too unclose to us like doors the strengthening waters of the sky, 22 When did the son of' Tugra serve you, Men? Abandoned in the sea, 23 Ye, O Nasatyas, ministered to Kanva with repeated aid, 24 Come near with those most recent aids of yours which merit eulogy, 25 As ye protected Kanva erst, Priyamedha and Upastuta, 26 And Amsu in decisive fight, Agastya in the fray for kine.

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