Rig Veda on Worship

2 Where heroes come together with their banners raised, in the encounter where is naught for us to love, 3 The boundaries of earth were seen all dark with dust: O Indra−Varuna, the shout went up to heaven. 4 With your resistless weapons, Indra−Varuna, ye conquered Bheda and ye gave Sudas your aid. 5 O Indra−Varuna, the wickedness of foes and mine assailants' hatred sorely trouble me. 6 The men of both the hosts invoked you in the fight, Indra and Varuna, that they might win the wealth, 7 Ten Kings who worshipped not, O Indra−Varuna, confederate, in war prevailed not o'er Sudas. 8 O Indra−Varuna, ye gave Sudas your aid when the Ten Kings in battle compassed him about, 9 One of you Twain destroys the Vrtras in the fight, the Other evermore maintains his holy Laws. 10 May Indra, Varuna, Mitra, and Aryaman vouchsafe us glory and great shelter spreading far.

2 Purified by the stones the Soma flows for thee, clothed with its lovely splendours, to the reservoir, flows 3 Come thou with hundreds, come with thousands in thy team to this our solemn rite, to taste the sacred f 4 The chariot with its team of horses bring you both, to guard us and to taste the well−appointed food, Va 5 May our songs bring you hither to our solemn rites: these drops of mighty vigour have they beauti fied, 6 These Soma juices pressed for you in waters here, borne by attendant priests, are oficredup to you: brigh 7 O Vayu, pass thou over all the,slumberers, and where the press−stone rings enter ye both that house, ye 8 Ride hither to the offering of the pleasant juice, the holy Fig−tree which victorious priests surround: 9 These Bulls of thine, O Vayu with the arm of strength, who swiftly fly within the current of thy stream,

2 High heaven unsupported in space he stablished: he filled the two worlds and the air's mid−region. 3 From front, as 'twere a house, he ruled and measured; pierced with his bolt the fountains of the rivers, 4 Compassing those who bore away Dabhiti, in kindled fire he burnt up all their weapons. 5 The mighty roaring flood he stayed from flowing, and carried those who swam not safely over. 6 With mighty power he made the stream flow upward, crushed with his thunderbolt the car of Usas, 7 Knowing the place wherein the maids were hiding, the outcast showed himself and stood before them. 8 Praised by the Angirases he slaughtered Vala, and burst apart the bulwarks of the mountain. 9 Thou, with sleep whelming Cumuri and Dhuni, slewest the Dasyu, keptest safe Dabhiti. 10 Now let that wealthy Cow of thine, O Indra, yield in return a boon to him who lauds thee.

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

2 Wild in their course, in well−marked wise rejoicing were they, Brhaspati, who pressed around us. 3 Brhaspati, from thy remotest distance have they sat down who love the law eternal. 4 Brhaspati, when first he had his being from mighty splendour in supremest heaven, 5 With the loud−shouting band who sang his praises, with thunder, he destroyed obstructive Vala. 6 Serve we with sacrifices, gifts, and homage even thus the Steer of all the Gods, the Father. 7 Surely that King by power and might heroic hath made him lord of all his foes' posses−ions, 8 In his own house he dwells in peace and comfort: to him for ever holy food flows richly. 9 He, unopposed, is master of the riches.of his own subjects and of hostile people. 10 Indra, Brhaspati, rainers of treasure, rejoicing at this sacrifice drink the Soma. 11 Brhaspati and Indra, make us prosper may this be your benevolence to usward.

2 He bellows with a roar arourd the highest twigs: the Tawny One is sweetened as he breaks them up. 3 The gladdening drink that measured out the meeting Twins fills full with milk the Eternal Ever−waxing 4 Wandering through, the Parents, strengthening the floods, the Sage makes his place swell with his own 5 With energetic intellect the Sage is born, deposited as germ of Law, far from the Twins. 6 The sages knew the form of him the Gladdener, what time the Falcon brought the plant from far away. 7 Together with the Rsis, with their prayers and hymns ten women deck thee, Soma, friendly when effuse 8 Songs resonant with praise have celebrated him. Soma, Friend, springing forth with his fair company. 9 He sends it into all the region forth from heaven. Soma, while he is filtcred, settles in the jars. 10 Even thus poured forth How on thy way, O Soma, vouchsafing us most manifold lively vigour.

2 His Mother−for she knew−spake and proclaimed him who was about to cast his bolt at Vrtra. 3 Aloft he stood above the airy region, and against Vrtra shot his deadly missile. 4 As with a bolt, Brhaspati, fiercely flaming, pierce thou Vrkadvaras', the Asura's, heroes. 5 Cast down from heaven on high thy bolt of thunder wherewith in joy thou smitest dead the foeman. 6 Whomso ye love, his power ye aid and strengthen; ye Twain are the rich worshipper's advancers. 7 Let it not vex me, tire me, make me slothful, and never let us say, Press not the Soma; 8 Sarasvati, protect us: with the Maruts allied thou boldly conquerest our foemen, 9 Him who waylays, yea, him who would destroy us,−aim at him, pierce him with thy sharpened weapon. 10 Perform, O Hero, with our valiant heroes the deeds heroic which thou hast to finish. 11 I craving joy address with hymn and homage your heavenly host, the company of Maruts,

2 Our sires of old,. Navagvas, sages seven, while urging him to show his might, extolled him, 3 We seek that Indra to obtain his riches that bring much food, and men, and store of heroes. 4 Tell thou us this, if at thy hand aforetime the earlier singers have obtained good fortune, 5 He who for car−borne Indra, armed with thunder, hath a hymn, craving, deeply−piercing, fluent, 6 Strong of thyself, thou by this art hast shattered, with thought−swift Parvata, him who waxed against th 7 Him will we fit for you with new devotion, the strongest Ancient One, in ancient manner. 8 Thou for the people who oppress hast kindled the earthly firmament and that of heaven. 9 Of all the Heavenly Folk, of earthly creatures thou art the King, O God of splendid aspect. 10 Give us confirmed prosperity, O Indra, vast and exhaustless for the foe's subduing. 11 Come with thy team which brings all blessings hither, Disposer, much−invoked, exceeding holy.

2 To be invoked and hymned in fight with Vrtra, that well−praised Indra gives us real bounties. 3 Him, verily, the men invoke in combat; risking their lives they make him their protector, 4 Strong God! the folk at need put forth their vigour, striving together in the whirl of battle. 5 Hence many a one worships the might of Indra: hence let the brew succeed the meal−oblation. 6 Indra gives comfort to the man who truly presses, for him who longs fot it, the Soma, 7 He who this day for Indra presses Soma, prepares the brew and fries the grains of barley− 8 When the impetuous chief hath sought the confliet, and the lord looked upon the long−drawn battle, 9 He bid a small price for a thing of value: I was content, returning, still unpurchased. 10 Who for ten milch−kine purchaseth from rne this Indra who is mine? 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let wealth swell high like rivers for the singer.

2 Surya hath spread his light as splendour: hither came the Cows' Mother, conscious, from the stable, 3 This laud hath won the burden of the mountain. To aid the ancient birth of mighty waters 4 With hymns and God−loved words will I invoke you, Indra and Agni, to obtain your favour, 5 This day approach us: may our thoughts be holy, far from us let us cast away misfortune. 6 Come, let us carry out, O friends, the purpose wherewith the Mother threw the Cow's stall open, 7 Here, urged by hands, loudly hath rung the press−stone wherewith Navagvas through ten months sang 8 When at the dawning of this mighty Goddess, Angirases all sang forth with the cattle,− 9 Borne by his Coursers Seven may Surya visit the field that spreadeth wide for his long journey. 10 Surya hath mounted to the shining ocean when he hath yoked his fair−backed Tawny Horses. 11 I lay upon the Floods your hymn, lightwinning, wherewith Navagvas their ten months completed.

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

2 May the auspicious favour of the Gods be ours, on us descend the bounty of the righteous Gods. 3 We call them hither with a hymn of olden time, Bhaga, the friendly Daksa, Mitra, Aditi, 4 May the Wind waft to us that pleasant medicine, may Earth our Mother give it, and our Father Heaven, 5 Him we invoke for aid who reigns supreme, the Lord of all that stands or moves, inspirer of the soul, 6 Illustrious far and wide, may Indra prosper us: may Pusan prosper us, the Master of all wealth. 7 The Maruts, Sons of Prani, borne by spotted steeds, moving in glory, oft visiting holy rites, 8 Gods, may we with our ears listen to what is good, and with our eyes see what is good, ye Holy Ones. 9 A hundred autumns stand before us, O ye Gods, within whose space ye bring our bodies to decay; 10 Aditi is the heaven, Aditi is mid−air, Aditi is the Mother and the Sire and Son.

2 To us may all the Gods come trooped together, Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna concordant, 3 Agni I sing, the guest you love most dearly: the Conqueror through our lauds is friendly−minded. 4 To you I seek with reverence, Night and Morning, like a cow good to milk, with hope to conquer, 5 May the great Dragon of the Deep rejoice us: as one who nourishes her young comes Sindhu, 6 Moreover Tvastar also shall approach us, one−minded with the princes at his visit. 7 Him too our hymns delight, that yoke swift horses, like mother cows who lick their tender youngling. 8 So may the Maruts, armed with mighty weapons, rest here on heaven and earth with hearts in concord, 9 They hasten on to happy termination their orders when they are made known by 10 Incline the Asvins to show grace, and Pusan, for power and might have they, their own possession. 11 This is my reverent thought of you, ye Holy; may it inspire you, make you dwell among us,−

2 What genuine and most liberal draught will spirit thee with juice to burst 3 Do thou who art Protector of us thy friends who praise thee 4 Like as a courser's circling wheel, so turn thee hitherward to us, 5 Thou seekest as it were thine own stations with swift descent of powers: 6 What time thy courage and his wheels together, Indra, run their course 7 So even, Lord of Power and Might, the people call thee Maghavan, 8 And verily to him who toils and presses Soma juice for thee 9 No, not a hundred hinderers can check thy gracious bounty's flow, 10 May thine assistance keep us safe, thy hundred and thy thousand aids: 11 Do thou elect us this place for friendship and prosperity, 12 Favour us, Indra, evermore with overflowing store of wealth: 13 With new protections, Indra, like an archer, open thou forus 14 Our chariot, Indra, boldly moves endued with splendour, ne'er repulsed, 15 O Surya, make our fame to be most excellent among the Gods,

2 To him the Bounteous say the laud, and let us glorify, as men May do, the Giver of true gifts. 3 O Indra, Lord of boundless might, for us thou winnest strength and kine, 4 Faithful to thee we loudly sing, heroic Indra, songs to thee: Mark, O Good Lord, this act of ours. 5 Give us not up to man's reproach, to foeman's hateful calumny: In thee alone is all my strength. 6 Thou art mine ample coat of mail, my Champion, Vrtra−Slayer, thou: 7 Yea, great art thou whose conquering might two independent Powers confess. 8 So let the voice surround thee, which attends the Maruts on their way, 9 Let the ascending drops attain to thee, the Wondrous God, in heaven: 10 Bring to the Wise, the Great, who waxeth mighty, your offerings, and make ready your devotion; 11 For Indra, the sublime, the far−pervading, have singers generated prayer and praises: 12 The choirs have stablished Indra King for ever, for victory, him whose anger is resistless:

2 I should be fain, O Lord of Power, to strengthen and enrich the sage, 3 To worshippers who press the juice thy goodness, Indra, is a cow 4 None is there, Indra, God or man, to hinder thy munificence, 5 The sacrifice made Indra strong when he unrolled the earth, and made 6 Thine aid we claim, O Indra, thine who after thou hast waxen great 7 In Soma's ecstasy Indra spread the firmament and realms of light, 8 Showing the hidden he drave forth the cows for the Angirases, 9 By Indra were the lumirious realms of heaven established and secured, 10 Indra, thy laud moves quickly like a joyous wave of water−floods: 11 For thou, O Indra, art the God whom hymns and praises magnify: 12 Let the two long−maned Bay Steeds bring Indra to drink the Soma juice, 13 With waters' foam thou torest off, Indra, the head of Namuci, 14 The Dasyus, when they fain would climb 15 As Soma−drinker conquering all, thou scatteredst to every side

3 Sakra, who like a curry−comb for horses or a golden goad, 4 Who for the worshipper scatters forth ample wealth, even though buried, piled in heaps: 5 Hero whom many praise, what thou hast longed for, oven of old, from men. 6 To Soma, Much−invoked, Bolt−armed! for thy carouse, Celestial, Soma−drinker come. 7 Here, verily, yesterday we let the Thunder−wielder drink his fill. 8 Even the wolf, the savage beast that rends the sheep, follows the path of his decrees. 9 What manly deed of vigour now remains that Indra hath not done? 10 'How great his power resistless! how invincible the Vrtra−slayer's matchless might! 11 O Indra, Vrtra−slayer, we, thy very constant worshippers, 12 O thou of mighty acts, the aids that are in thee call forward many an eager hope. 13 Verily, Indra, we are thine, we worshippers depend on thee. 14 From this our misery and famine set us free, from this dire curse deliver us. 15 Now let your Soma juice be poured; be not afraid, O Kali's sons.

2 Butter is that which makes Vadhryaiva's fire growstrong: the butter is its food, the butter makes it fat. 3 Still newest is this face of thine, O Agni, which Manu and Sumitra have enkindled. 4 Accept this offering, Agni, whom aforetime Vadhryasva, hath entreated and enkindled. 5 Be splendid, guard us Kinsman of Vadhryasva: let not the enmity of men o'ercome thee, 6 All treasures hast thou won, of plains and mountains, and quelled the Dasas' and Aryas' hatred. 7 Deft Agni hath a lengthened thread, tall oxen, a thousand heifers, numberless devices. 8 Thine is the teeming cow, O Jatavedas, who pours at once her ceaseless flow, Sabardhuk, 9 Even Immortal Gods, O Jatavedas, Vadhryasva's Kinsman, have declared thy grandeur. 10 Like as a father bears his son, O Agni, Vadhryasva bare thee in his lap and served thee. 11 Vadhryasva's Agni evermore hath vanquished his foes with heroes who had pressed the Soma. 12 This Agni of Vadhryasva, Vrtra−slayer, lit from of old, must be invoked with homage.

2 What time the Rbus had with care and marvels done proper service to assist their Parents, 3 May they who made their Parents, who were lying like posts that moulder, young again for ever,− 4 As for a year the Rbhus kept the Milch−cow, throughout a year fashioned and formed her body, 5 Two beakers let us make,− thus said the eldest. Lct us make three,− this was the younger's sentence. 6 The men spake truth and even so they acted: this Godlike way of theirs the Rbhus followed. 7 When for twelve days the Rbhus joyed reposing as guests of him who never may be hidden, 8 May they who formed the swift car, bearing Heroes, and the Cow omniform and all−impelling, 9 So in their work the Gods had satisfaction, pondering it with thought and mental insight. 10 They whol made glad with sacrifice and praises, wrought the two Bays, his docile Steeds, for Indra,− 11 This day have they set gladdening drink before you. Not without toil are Gods inclined to friendship.

2 Aryaman art thou as regardeth maidens mysterious, is thy name, O Self−sustainer. 3 The Maruts deck their beauty for thy glory, yea, Rudra! for thy birth fair, brightly−coloured. 4 Gods through thy glory, God who art so lovely! granting abundant gifts gained life immortal. 5 There is no priest more skilled than thou in worship; none Self−sustainer pass thee in wisdom. 6 Aided by thee, O Agni may we conquer through our oblation, fain for wealth, awakened: 7 He shall bring evil on the evil−plottcr whoever turns against us sin and outrage. 8 At this dawn's flushing, God! our ancient fathers served thee with offerings, making thee their envoy, 9 Save, thou who knowest, draw thy father near thee, who counts as thine own son, O Child of Power. 10 Adoring thee he gives thee many a title, when thou, Good Lord! acceptest this as Father. 11 Most Youthful Agni, verily thou bearest thy praiser safely over all his troubles. 12 To thee these eulogies have been directed: or to the Vasu hath this sin been spoken.

2 Looking on man, O Varuna and Mitra, this Sun ascendeth up by both the pathways, 3 He from their home hath yoked the Seven gold Coursers who, dropping oil and fatness, carry Surya. 4 Your coursers rich in store of sweets have mounted: to the bright ocean Surya hath ascended, 5 For these, even Aryaman, Varuna and Mitra, are the chastisers of all guile and falsehood. 6 These, Mitra, Varuna whom none deceiveth, with great power quicken even the fool to wisdom, 7 They ever vigilant, with eyes that close not, caring for heaven and earth, lead on the thoughtless. 8 When Aditi and Varuna and Mitra, like guardians, give Sudas their friendly shelter, 9 May he with ofierings purify the altar from any stains of Varuna's reviler. 10 Hid from our eyes is their resplendent meeting: by their mysterious might they hold dominion. 11 He who wins favour for his prayer by worship, that he may gain him strength and highest riches, 12 This priestly task, Gods! Varuna and Mitra! hath been performed for you at sacrifices.

2 With him loud−roaring, ever watchful, Victor, bold, hard to overthrow, Rouser of battle, 3 He rules with those who carry shafts and quivers, Indra who with his band rings hosts together, 4 Brhaspati, fly with thy chariot hither, slayer of demons, driving off our foemen. 5 Conspicuous by thy strength, firm, foremost fighter, mighty and fierce, victorious, all−subduing, 6 Cleaver of stalls, kine−winner, armed with thunder, who quells an army and with might destroys it.− 7 Piercing the cow−stalls with surpassing vigour, Indra, the pitiless Hero, wild with anger, 8 Indra guide these: Brhaspati precede them, the guerdon, and the sacrifice, and Soma; 9 Ours be the potent host of mighty Indra, King Varuna, and Maruts, and Adityas. 10 Bristle thou up, O Maghavan, our weapons: excite the spirits of my warring heroes. 11 May Indra aid us when our flags are gathered: victorious be the arrows of our army. 12 Bewildering the senses of our foemen, seize thou their bodies and depart, O Apva. 13 Advance, O heroes, win the day. May Indra be your sure defence.

29 And lauds which strengthen thee for great bounty and valour, and exalt 30 And songs to thee who lovest song, and all those hymns addressed to thee− 31 Thus he, sole doer of great deeds whose hand holds thunder, gives us strength, 32 Vrtra he slays with his right hand, even Indra, great with mighty power, 33 He upon whom all men depend, all regions, all achievements, he 34 All this hath he accomplished, yea, Indra, most gloriously renowned, 35 Who drives his chariot seeking spoil, from afar, to him he loves: 36 The Sage who, winning spoil with steeds, slays Vrtra, Hero with the men, 37 O Priyamedhas, worship with collected mind this Indra whom 38 Ye Kanvas, sing the Mighty One, Lord of the Brave, who loves renown, 39 Strong Friend, who, with no trace of feet, restores the cattle to the men, 40 Shaped as a Ram, Stone−hurler I once thou camest hither to the son 41 Vibhindu, thou hast helped this man, giving him thousands four times ten, 42 And these twain pouring streams of milk, creative, daughters of delight,

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

2 What child is this thou carriest as handmaid, O Youthful One? The Consort−Queen hath bome him. 3 I saw him from afar gold−toothed, bright−coloured, hurling his weapons from his habitation, 4 I saw him moving from the place he dwells in, even as with a herd, brilliantly shining. 5 Who separate my young bull from the cattle, they whose protector was in truth no stranger? 6 Mid mortal men godless have secreted the King of all who live, home of the people. 7 Thou from the stake didst loose e'en Sunahsepa bound for a thousand; for he prayed with fervour. 8 Thou hast sped from me, Agni, in thine anger: this the protector of Gods' Laws hath told me. 9 Agni shines far and wide with lofty splendour, and by his greatness makes all things apparent. 10 Loud in the heaven above be Agni's roarings with keen−edged weapons to destroy the demons. 11 As a skilled craftsman makes a car, a singer I, Mighty One! this hymn for thee have fashioned. 12 May he, the strong−necked Steer, waxing in vigour, gather the foeman's wealth with none to check hi

2 Make pleasant hymns, spin out your songs and praises: build ye a ship equipped with oars for transport. 3 Lay on the yokes, and fasten well the traces: formed is the furrow, sow the seed within it. 4 Wise, through desire of bliss from Gods, the skilful bind the traces fast, And lay the yokes on either side 5 Arrange the buckets in their place securely fasten on the straps. 6 I pour the water from the well with pails prepared and goodly straps, 7 Refresh the horses, win the prize before you: equip a chariot fraught with happy fortune. 8 Prepare the cow−stall, for there drink your heroes: stitch ye the coats of armour, wide and many. 9 Hither, for help, I turn the holy heavenly mind of you the Holy Gods, that longs for sacrifice. 10 Pour golden juice within the wooden vessel: with stone−made axes fashion ye and form it. 11 Between both poles the car−horse goes pressed closely, as in his dwelling moves the doubly−wedded. 12 Indra is he, O men, who gives us happiness: sport, urge the giver of delight to win us strength

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

2 Indra aids him who offers sacrifice and gifts: he takes not what is his, and gives him more thereto. 3 These are ne'er lost, no robber ever injures them: no evil−minded foe attempts to harass them. 4 The charger with his dusty brow o'ertakes them not, and never to the shambles do they take their way. 5 To me the Cows seem Bhaga, they seem Indra, they seem a portion of the first−poured Soma. 6 O Cows, ye fatten e'en the worn and wasted, and make the unlovely beautiful tolook on. 7 Crop goodly pasturage and be prolific drink pure sweet water at good drinking places. 8 Now let this close admixture be close intermigled with these Cows, 2 Him to whose hand, men closely cling, and drivers stand on his golden chariot firmly stationed. 3 Thy devotees embrace thy feet for glory. Bold, thunder−armed, rich, through thy strength, in guerdon, 4 That Soma when effused hath best consistence, for which the food is dressed and grain is mingled; 5 No limit of thy might hath been appointed, which by its greatness sundered earth and heaven. 6 So be the lofty Indra prompt to listen, Helper unaided, golden−visored Hero.

2 As such, O Wonderful, whose hand holds thunder, praised as mighty, Caster of the Stone! 3 We call upon that Indra, who, most active, ever slays the foe: 4 Rcisama, thou forcest men as with a bull, with anger, in the furious fray. 5 O Indra, bring us name and fame, enriching, mightiest, excellent, 6 We call on thee, O King, Mighty amid the Gods, Ruler of men, to succour us. 7 All strength and valour that is found, Indra, in tribes of Nahusas, and all the splendid fame that the Five 8 Or, Maghavan, what vigorous strength in Trksi lay, in Druhyus or in Paru's folk, 9 O Indra, grant a happy home, a triple refuge triply strong. 10 They who with minds intent on spoil subdue the foe, boldly attack and smite him down,− 11 And now, O Indra, strengthen us: come near and aid us in the fight, 12 Give us, where heroes strain their bodies in the fight, the shelter that our fathers loved. 13 When, Indra, in the mighty fray thou urgest chargers to their speed, 14 Speeding like rivers rushing down a steep descent, responsive to the urging call,

2 Bring swift, for offering, the snare that suits the time, to the pure−drinker Vayu, roaring as he goes, 3 May Savitar the God send us full life, to each who sacrifices, lives aright and pours the juice 4 May Indra evermore be gracious unto us, and may King Soma meditate our happiness, 5 Indra hath given the body with its song and strength: Brhaspati, thou art the lengthener of life. 6 Indra possesseth might celestial nobly formed: the singer in the hotise is Agni, prudent Sage. 7 Not often have we sinned against you secretly, nor, Vasus, have we openly provoked the Gods. 8 May Savitar remove from us our malady, and may the Mountains keep it far away from where 9 Ye Vasus, let the stone, the presser stand erect: avert all enmities and keep them far remote. 10 Eat strength and fatness in the pasture, kine, who are balmed at the reservoir and at the seat of Law. 11 The singer fills the spirit: all mens, love hath he. Indra takes kindly care of those who pour the juice. 12 Wondrous thy spirit−filling light, triumpliant; thy hosts save from decay and are resistless.

2 Not interrupting heavenly ordinances, although she minisheth human generations. 3 There in the eastern region she, Heaven's Daughter, arrayed in garments all of light, appeareth. 4 Near is she seen, as 'twere the Bright One's bosom: she showeth sweet things like a new song−singer. 5 There in the east half of the watery region the Mother of the Cows hath shown her ensign. 6 She, verily, exceeding vast to look on debarreth from her light nor kin nor stranger. 7 She seeketh men, as she who hath no brother, mounting her car, as 'twere to gather riches. 8 The Sister quitteth, for the elder Sister, her place, and having looked on her departeth. 9 To all these Sisters who ere now have vanished a later one each day in course succeedeth. 10 Rouse up, O Wealthy One, the liberal givers; let niggard traffickers sleep on unwakened: 11 This young Maid from the east hath shone upon us; she harnesseth her team of bright red oxen. 12 As the birds fly forth from their resting places, so men with store of food rise at thy dawning. 13 Praised through my prayer be ye who should be lauded. Ye have increased our wealth, ye Dawns who

2 Forth have they rushed from holding hands, like chariots that are urged to speed, 3 The Somas deck themselves with milk, as Kings are graced with eulogies, 4 Pressed for the gladdening draught, the drops flow forth abundantly with song, 5 Winning Vivasvan's glory and producing Morning's light, the Suns 6 The singing−men of ancient time open the doors of sacred songs,− 7 Combined in close society sit the seven priests, the brother−hood, 8 He gives us kinship with the Gods, and with the Sun unites our eye: 9 The Sun with his dear eye beholds that quarter of the heavens which priests 2 Together with thy pleasant juice the Atharvans have commingled milk, 3 Bring, by thy flowing, weal to kine, weal to the people, weal to steeds. 4 Sing a praise−song to Soma brown of hue, of independent might. 5 Purify Soma when effused with stones which bands move rapidly, 6 With humble homage draw ye nigh; blend the libation with the curds: 7 Soma, foe−que chief o'er men, doing the will of pour forth 8 Heart−knower, Sovran of the heart, thou art effused, O Soma, that Indra may drink thee and rejoice. 9 O Soma Pavamana, give us riches and heroic strength,−

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

Many−named with this same thought that longs for milk, 18 Much−honoured by libations, may the Vrtra−slayer wake for us: 19 O Hero, with that aid dost thou delight us, with what succour bring 20 With whose libation joys the Strong, the Hero with his team who quells 21 Rejoicing in thy spirit bring thousandfold opulence to us: 22 These juices with their wedded wives flow to enjoyment lovingly: 23 Presented strengthening gifts have sent Indra away at sacrifice, 24 These two who share his feast, Bay Steeds with golden manes, shall bring him to 25 For thee, O Lord of Light, are shed these Soma−drops, and grass is strewn 26 May Indra give thee skill, and lights of heaven, wealth to his votary 27 O Satakratu, wondrous strength and all our lauds I bring to thee: 28 Bring to us all things excellent, O Satakratu, food and strength: 30 Bearing the Soma juice we call, best Vrtra−slayer, unto thee: 31 Come, Lord of rapturous, joys, to our libation with thy Bay Steeds, come 32 Known as best Vrtra−slayer erst, as Indra Satakratu, come 33 O Vrtra−slayer, thou art he who drinks these drops of Soma: come 34 May Indra give, to aid us, wealth handy that rules the Skilful Ones:

2 When thou hast made him ready, Jatavedas, then do thou give him over to the Fathers. 3 The Sun receive thine eye, tne Wind thy spirit; go, as thy merit is, to earth or heaven. 4 Thy portion is the goat: with heat consume him: let thy fierce flame, thy glowing splendour, burn him 5 Again, O Agni, to the Fathers send him who, offered in thee, goes with our oblations. 6 What wound soe'er the dark bird hath inflicted, the emmet, or the serpent, or the jackal, 7 Shield thee with flesh against the flames of Agni, encompass thee about with fat and marrow, 8 Forbear, O Agni, to upset this ladle: the Gods and they who merit Soma love it. 9 1 send afar flesh eating Agni, bearing off stains may he depart to Yama's subjects. 10 I choose as God for Father−worship Agni, flesh−eater, who hath past within your dwelling, 11 With offerings meet let Agni bring the Fathers who support the Law. 12 Right gladly would we set thee down, right gladly make thee burn and glow. 13 Cool, Agni, and again refresh the spot which thou hast scorched and burnt. 14 O full of coolness, thou cool Plant, full of fresh moisture, freshening Herb,

2 Supreme in sovran power, far−sighted, Chiefs and Kings, most swift to hear from far away, 3 The rapid messenger who runs before you, Mitra−Varuna, with iron head, swift to the draught, 4 He whom no man may question, none may summon back, who stands not still for colloquy,− 5 To Aryaman and Mitra sing a reverent song, O pious one, 6 The true, Red Treasure they have sent, one only Son born of the Three. 7 My songs are lifted up, and acts most splendid are to be performed. 8 Lords of great wealth, when we invoke your bounty which no demon checks, 9 Come, Vayu, drawn by fair hymns, to our sacrifice that reaches heaven. 10 He comes by straightest paths, as ministering Priest, to taste the sacrificial gifts. 11 Verily, Surya, thou art great; truly, Aditya, thou art great. 12 Yea, Surya, thou art great in fame thou evermore, O God, art great. 13 She yonder, bending lowly down, clothed in red hues and rich in rays, 14 Past and gone are three mortal generations: the fourth and last into the Sun hath entered. 15 The Rudras' Mother, Daughter of the Vasus, centre of nectar, the Adityas' Sister− 16 Weak−minded men have as a cow adopted me who came hither from the Gods, a Goddess,

2 Even here is Indra famed, and among us this day the glorious Thunderer is praised, 3 He who is Sovran Lord of great and perfect strength, exerter of heroic might, 4 Harnessing to thy car, as God, two blustering Steeds Of the Wind−God, O Thunderer, 5 Even to these dark Steeds of Wind thou of thyself hast come to ride, 6 When ye approach, men ask you, thee and Usana: Why come ye to our dwelling−place? 7 O Indra, thou shalt speak us fair: our holy prayer is offered up. 8 Around us is the Dasyu, riteless, void of sense, inhuman, keeping alien laws. 9 Hero with Heroes, thou art ours: yea, strong are they whom thou dost help. 10 Urge thou these heroes on to slay the enemy, brave Thunderer! in the fight with swords. 11 Swift come those gifts of thine whose hand is prompt to rend and burn, O Hero Thunder−armed: 12 Let not thine excellent assistance come to us, O Hero Indra, profitless. 13 May those soft impulses of thine, O Indra, be fruitful and innocent to us. 14 That Earth, through power of knowing things that may be known, handless and footless yet might thriv 15 Drink, drink the Soma, Hero Indra; be not withheld as thou art good, O Treasure−giver.

2 They come trooping together bearing milk to him, and bring him sustenance who gives support to all. 3 One priest announces what the institutor gives: one, altering the forms, zealously plies his task, 4 Dealing out food unto their people there they sit, like wealth to him who comes, more than the back can 5 Thou hast created earth to look upon the sky: thou, slaying Ahi, settest free the river's paths. 6 Thou givest increase, thou dealest to us our food: thou milkest from the moist the dry, the rich in sweets 7 Thou who hast spread abroad the streams by stablished law, and in the field the plants that blossom and 8 Who broughtest Narmara with all his wealth, for sake of food, to slay him that the fiends might be 9 Thou boundest up the Dasa's hundred friends and ten, when, at one's hearing, thou belpest thy worshipp 10 All banks of rivers yielded to his manly might; to him they gave, to him, the Strong, gave up their weal 11 Meet for high praise, O Hero, is thy power, that with thy single wisdom thou obtainest wealth, 12 Thou for Turviti heldest still the flowing floods, the river−stream for Vayya easily to pass 13 Prepare thyself to grant us that great bounty, O Vasu, for abundant is thy treasure.

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

2 Sakra protects from woe the man who gives him sacrificial cake. 3 His chariot shall be glorious, sped by Gods, and mighty shall he be, 4 Each day that passes, in his house flows his libation, rich in milk, 5 O Gods, with constant draught of milk, husband and wife with one accord 6 They gain sufficient food: they come united to the sacred grass, 7 Never do they deny or seek to hide the favour of the Gods: 8 With sons and daughters by their side they reach their full extent of life, 9 Serving the Immortal One with gifts of sacrificial meal and wealth, 10 We claim protection from the Hills, we claim protection of the Floods, 11 May Pusan come, and Bhaga, Lord of wealth, All−bounteous, for our weal 12 Aramati, and, free from foes, Visva with spirit of a God, 13 Seeing that Mitra, Aryaman, and Varuna are guarding us, 14 I glorify with song, for wealth, Agni the God, the first of you. 15 As in all frays the hero, so swift moves his car whom Gods attend. 16 Ne'er are ye injured, worshipper, presser of juice, or pious man. 17 None in his action equals him, none holds him far or keeps him off. 18 Such strength of heroes shall be his, such mastery of fleet−foot steeds.

2 They speak out like a hundred, like a thousand men: they cry aloud to us with their green−tinted mouths 3 Loudly they speak, for they have found the savoury meath: they make a humming sound over the meat 4 They cry aloud, with strong exhilarating drink, calling on Indra now, for they have found the meath. 5 The Eagles have sent forth their cry aloft in heaven; in the sky's vault the dark impetuous ones have dan 6 Like strong ones drawing, they have put forth all their strength: the Bulls, harnessed together, bear the 7 To these who have ten workers and a tenfold girth, to these who have ten yoke−straps and ten binding 8 These Stones with ten conductors, rapid in their course, with lovely revolution travel round and round. 9 These Soma−eaters kiss Indra's Bay−coloured Steeds: draining. the stalk they sit upon the ox's hide. 11 Bored deep, but not pierced through with holes, are ye, O Stones, not loosened, never weary, and exem 12 Your fathers, verily, stand firm from age to age: they, loving rest, are not dissevered from their seat. 13 This, this the Stones proclaim, what time they are disjoined, and when with ringing sounds they move 14 They have raised high their voice for juice, for sacrifice, striking the Mother earth as though they danc

2 I have beheld his strong and secret dwelling, longing have sought the Founder's habitation. 3 We will tell, Indra, when we pour libation, what mighty deeds thou hast performed to please us. 4 Indra, when born, thou madest firm thy spirit: alone thou seekest war to fight with many. 5 When thou wast born supremest at a distance, bearing a name renowned in far−off regions, 6 These blissful Maruts sing their psalm to praise thee, and pour to thee libation of the Soma. 7 Thou, Maghavan, from the first didst scatter foemen, speeding, while joying in the milk, the Giver. 8 Pounding the head of Namuci the Dasa, me, too thou madest thine associate, Indra! 9 Women for weapons hath the Dasa taken, What injury can his feeble armies To me? 10 Divided from their calves the Cows went lowing around, on every side, hither and thither. 11 What time the Somas mixed by Babhru cheered him, loud the Steer bellowed in his habitations. 12 This good deed have the Rusamas done, Agni! that they have granted me four thousand cattle. 13 The Rusamas, O Agni, sent me homeward with fair adornment and with kine in thousands. 14 Night, well−nigh ended, at Rnancaya's coming, King of the Rusamas, was changed to morning. 15 We have received four thousand head of cattle presented by the Rusamas, O Agni.

3 Bright God, whose look is free from stain like Surya's, thou, swift, what time thou earnestly desirest, 4 Fierce is his gait and vast his wondrous body: he champeth like a horse with bit and bridle, 5 Archer−like, fain toshoot, he sets his arrow, and whets his splendour like the edge of iron: 6 In beams of morn he clothes him like the singer, and bright as Mitra with his splendour crackles. 7 Like Heaven's when scattering beams his voice was uttered: among the plants the radiant Hero shouted, 8 Who, with supporting streams and rays that suit him, hath flashed like lightning with his native vigour. 2 May Agni, radiant Herald of the morning, meet to be known, accept our praise with favour. 3 Whose might the very heavens regard with wonder: bright as the Sun he clothes himself with lustre. 4 Thou art a Singer, Son! our feast−companion: Agni at birth prepared his food and pathway. 5 Even he who cats his firm hard food with swiftness,and overtakes the nights as Vayu kingdoms. 6 Like Surya with his fulgent rays, O Agni, thou overspreadest both the worlds with splendour. 7 We have elected thee as most delightful for thy beams' glow: hear our great laud, O Agni. 8 Now, Agni, on the tranquil paths of riches come to us for our weal: save us from sorrow.

2 Come, Asvins, with your car more swift than is the twinkling of an eye 3 Asvins, ye overlaid with cold the fiery pit for Atri's sake: 4 Where are ye? whither are ye gone? whither, like falcons, have ye flown? 5 If ye at any time this day are listening to this my call, 6 The Asvins, fust to hear our prayer, for closest kinship I approach: 7 For Atri ye, O Asvins, made a dwellingplace to shield him well, 8 Ye warded off the fervent heat for Atri when he sweetly spake: 9 Erst Saptavadbri by his prayer obtained the trenchant edge of fire: 10 Come hither, O ye Lords of wealth, and listen to this call of mine: 11 What is this praise told forth of you as Elders in the ancient way? 12 One common brotherhood is yours, Asvins your kindred is the same: 13 This is your chariot, Asvins, which speeds through the regions, earth and heaven 14 Approach ye hitherward to us with thousands both of steeds and kine: 15 Pass us not by, remember us with thousands both of kine aud steeds: 16 The purple−tinted Dawn hath risen, and true to Law hath made the light 17 He looked upon the Asvins, as an axearmed man upon a tree: 18 By the black band encompassed round, break it down, bold one, like a fort.

2 What time the Maruts sang their song to Indra, joyous when he had drunk of Soma juices, 3 And, O ye Brahmans, Maruts, so may Indra drink draughts of this my carefully pressed Sorna; 4 Then heaven and earth he sundered and supported: wrapped even in these he struck the Beast with terror 5 Thus all the Gods, O Maghavan, delivered to thee of their free will the draught of Soma; 6 When Maghavan with the thunderbolt demolished his nine−and−ninety castles all together, 7 As friend to aid a friend, Agni dressed quickly three hundred buffaloes, even as he willed it. 8 When thou three hundred buffaloes' flesh hadst eaten, and drunk, as Maghavan, three lakes of Soma, 9 What time ye came with strong steeds swiftly speeding, O Usana and Indra, to the dwelling, 10 One car−wheel of the Sun thou rolledst forward, and one thou settest free to move for Kutsa. 11 The lauds of Gauriviti made thee mighty to Vidathin's son, as prey, thou gavest Pipru. 12 Navagvas and Dasgvas with libations of Soma juice sing hymns of praise to Indra. 13 How shall I serve thee, Maghavan, though knowing full well what hero deeds thou hast accomplished? 14 Resistless from of old through hero courage, thou hast done all these many acts, O Indra. 15 Indra, accept the prayers which now are offered, accept the new prayers, Mightiest! which we utter.

19 Agni, the Bharata, hath been sought, the Vrtra−slayer, marked of all, 20 For he gave riches that surpass in greatness all the things of earth, 21 Thou, Agni, as in days of old, with recent glory, gathered light, 22 Bring to your Agni, O my friends, boldly your laud and sacrifice: 23 For as sagacious Herald he hath sat through every age of man, 24 Bring those Two Kings whose ways are pure, Adityas, and the Marut host, 25 For strong and active mortal man, excellent, Agni, is the look Of thee Immortal, Son of Strength 26 Rich through his wisdom, noblest be the giver serving thee to−day: 27 These, Agni, these are helped by thee, who strong and active all their lives, 28 May Agni with his pointed blaze cast down each fierce devouring fiend 29 O active Jatavedas, bring riches with store of hero sons: 30 Keep us, O Jatavedas, from the troubling of the man of sin: 31 Whatever sinner, Agni, brings oblations to procure our death, 32 Drive from us with thy tongue, O God, the man who doeth evil deeds, 33 Give shelter reaching far and wide to Bharadvaja, conquering Lord! 34 May Agni slay the Vrtras,−fain for riches, through the lord of song, 35 His Father's Father, shining in his Mother's everlasting side, 36 O active Jatavedas, bring devotion that wins progeny, Agni, that it may shine to heaven.

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

2 For him, strong, independent Ruler, Heaven and Earth have fashioned forth for power and might. 3 Fill thyself full, O Lord of wealth, O Indra, with the juice we shed. 4 Changeless in truth, O Maghavan Indra, let it be as thou in wisdom willest it. 5 Indra, with all thy saving helps give us assistance, Lord of power. 6 Increaser of our steeds and multiplying kine, a golden well, O God, art thou, 7 For thou,−come to the worshipper!−wilt find great wealth to make us rich. 8 Thou as thy gift bestowest many hundred herds, yea, many thousands dost thou give. 9 Whether the simple or the sage, Indra, have offered praise to thee, 10 If he the Strong of arm, the breaker−down of forts, the great Destroyer, hear my call, 11 We count not then as sinners, nor as niggardly or foolish men, 12 Him have we yoked in fight, the powerful Conqueror, debt−claimer, not to be deceived. 13 Indra, give us security from that whereof we are afraid. 14 For thou, O liberal Lord of bounty, strengthenest his ample home who worships thee. 15 Indra is Vrtra−slayer, guard, our best defender from the foe. 16 Defend us from behind, below, above, in front, on all sides, Indra, shield us well. 17 Protect us, Indra, each to−day, each morrow, and each following day. 18 A crushing Warrior, passing rich is Maghavan, endowed with all heroic might.

2 His pair of Tawny Coursers bring Indra of unresisted might 3 Slayer of Vrtra, mount thy car; thy Bay Steeds have been yoked by prayer. 4 This poured libation, Indra, drink, immortal, gladdening, excellent. 5 Sing glory now to Indra, say to him your solemn eulogies. 6 When, Indra, thou dost yoke thy Steeds, there is no better charioteer: 7 He who alone bestoweth on mortal man who offereth gifts, 8 When will he trample, like a weed, the man who hath no gift for him? 9 He who with Soma juice prepared amid the many honours thee,− 10 The juice of Soma thus diffused, sweet to the taste, the bright cows drink, 11 Craving his touch the dappled kine mingle the Soma with their milk. 12 With veneration, passing wise, honouring his victorious might, 13 With bones of Dadhyac for his arms, Indra, resistless in attack, 14 He, searching for the horse's head, removed among the mountains, found 15 Then verily they recognized the essential form of Tvastar's Bull, 16 Who yokes to−day unto the pole of Order the strong and passionate steers of checkless spirit, 17 Who fleeth forth? who suffereth? who feareth? Who knoweth Indra present, Indra near us? 18 Who with poured oil and offering honours Agni, with ladle worships at appointed seasons? 19 Thou as a God, O Mightiest, verily blessest mortal man. 20 Let not thy bounteous gifts, let not thy saving help fail us, good Lord, at any time;

2 The richly−coloured Dawns have mounted eastward, like pillars planted at our sacrifices, 3 Dispelling gloom this day the wealthy Mornings urge liberal givers to present their treasures. 4 O Goddesses, is this your car, I ask you, ancient this day, or is it new, ye Mornings, 5 With horses harnessed by eternal Order, Goddesses, swiftly round the worlds ye travel, 6 Which among these is eldest, and where is she through whom they fixed the Rbhus' regulations? 7 Blest were these Dawns of old, shining with succour, true with the truth that springs from holy Order; 8 Hither from eastward all at once they travel, from one place spreading in the selfsame manner. 9 Thus they go forth with undiminished colours, these Mornings similar, in self−same fashion, 10 O Goddesses, O Heaven's refulgent Daughters, bestow upon us wealth with store of children. 11 Well−skilled in lore of sacrifice, ye Daughters of Heaven, refulgent Dawns, I thus address you. 2 Unfailing, Mother of the Kine, in colour like a bright red mare, 3 Yea, and thou art the Asvins' Friend, the Mother of the Kine art thou: 4 Thinking of thee, O joyous One, as her who driveth hate away, 5 Our eyes behold thy blessed rays like troops of cattle loosed to feed. 6 When thou hast filled it, Fulgent One! thou layest bare the gloom with light. 7 Thou overspreadest heaven with rays, the dear wide region of mid−air.

27 For so much bliss, or even more, O Asvins, Wealthy Gods, than this, 28 Ascend your car with golden seat, O Asvins, and with reins of gold, 29 Golden is its supporting shaft, the axle also is of gold, 30 Thereon, ye Lords of ample wealth, come to us even from afar, 31 From far away ye come to us, Asvins, enjoying plenteous food 32 With splendour, riches, and renown, O Asvins, hither come to us, 33 May dappled horses, steeds who fly with pinions, bring you hitherward 34 The whcel delayeth not that car of yours accompanied by song, 35 Borne on that chariot wrought of gold, with coursers very fleet of foot, 36 O Wealthy Gods, ye taste and find the brisk and watchful wild beast good. 37 As such, O Asvins, find for me my share of new−presented gifts, 38 He who hath given me for mine own ten Kings like gold to look upon. 39 No man, not any, goes upon the path on which the Cedis walk. 2 When the priests, strengthening the Son of Holy Law, present their gifts, 3 Since Kanvas with their lauds have made Indra complete the sacrifice. 4 Before his hot displeasure all the peoples, all the men, bow down, 5 This power of his shone brightly forth when Indra brought together, like 6 The fiercely−moving Vrtra's head he severed with his thunderbolt, 7 Here are−we sing them loudly forth−our thoughts among−the best of songs.

2 May Mitra bear us oer distress, and Varuna and Aryaman, 3 For wonderful and meet for praise is these Adityas' saving help 4 The mighty aid of you, the Great, Varuna, Mitra, Aryarnan, 5 Guard us, Adityas, still alive, before the deadly weapon strike: 6 What sheltering defence ye have for him who toils in pouring gifts, 7 Adityas, Gods, from sorrow there is freedom; for the sinless, wealth, 8 Let not this fetter bind us fast: may he release us for success; 9 O Gods who fain would lend your aid, destroy not us as ye destroy 10 And thee too, O Great Aditi, thee also, Goddess, I address, 11 Save us in depth and shallow from the foe, thbu Mother of Strong Sons 12 Far−spread! wide−ruling! grant that we, unharmed by envy, may expand 13 Those who, the Princes of the folk, in native glory, neer deceived, 14 As such, from mouth of ravening wolves, O ye Adityas, rescue us, 15 Adityas, let this arrow, yea, let this mali. gnity depart 16 Fori Bountiful Adityas, we have evermore enjoyed your help, 17 To every one, O ye Most Wise, who turneth even from sin to you, 18 May this new mercy profit us, which, ye Adityas, frees like one, 19 O ye Adityas, this your might is not to be despised by us: 20 Let not Vivasvan's weapon nor the shaft, Adityas, wrought with skill, 21 On every side dispel all sin, Adityas, all hostility,

2 A hundred necklets from the King, beseeching, a hundred gift−steeds I at once accepted; 3 Horses of dusky colour stood beside me, ten chariots, Svanaya's gift, with mares to draw them. 4 Forty bay horses of the ten cars' master before a thousand lead the long procession. 5 An earlier gift for you have I accepted eight cows, good milkers, and tree harnessed horses, 2 We, sacrificing, call on thee best worshipper, the eldest of Angirases, Singer, with hymns, thee, brilliant 3 He with his shining glory blazing far and wide, he verily it is who slayeth demon foes, slayeth the demo 4 To him, as one who knows, even things solid yield: unrough fire−sticks heated hot he gives his gifts to a 5 Here near we place the sacrificial food for him who shines forth fairer in the night than in the day, with l 6 He, roaring very loudly like the Maruts' host, in fertile cultivated fields adorable, in desert spots adorabl 7 Even as they who sarig forth hymns, addressed to heaven, the Blirgus with their prayer and praise invite 8 Thee we invoke, the Lord of all our settled homes, common to all, the household's guardian, to enjoy, 9 Thou, Agni, most victorious with thy conquering strength, most Mighty One, art born for service of the 10 To him the mighty, conquering with victorious strength, to Agni walking with the dawn, who sendeth 11 Agni, beheld by us in nearest neighbourhood, accordant with the Gods, bring us, with gracious love, gr

2 Men, Vasu! by the Soma, with lauds call thee to the foremost place: 3 Boldly, Bold Hero, bring us spoil in thousands for the Kanvas' sake. 4 Medhyatithi, to Indra sing, drink of the juice to make thee glad. 5 He Who is praised as strong of hand both right and left, most wise and hold: 6 The bold of heart whom none provokes, who stands in bearded confidence; 7 Who knows what vital ower he wins, drinking beside the flowing juice? 8 As a wild elephant rushes on this way and that way, mad with heat,' 9 When he, the Mighty, ne'er o'erthrown, steadfast, made ready for the fight, 10 Yea, verily, thou art a Bull, with a bull's rush. whom none may stay: 11 Thy reins are very bulls in strength, bulls' strength is in thy golden whip. 12 Let the strong presser press for thee. Bring hither, thou straight−rushing Bull. 13 Come, thou most potent Indra, come to drink the savoury Soma juice. 14 When thou hast mounted on thy car let thy yoked Bay Steeds carry thee, 15 O thou Most Lofty One, accept our laud as nearest to thine heart. 16 Neither in thy decree nor mine, but in another's he delights,− 17 Indra himself hath said, The mind of woman brooks not discipline, 18 His pair of horses, rushing on in their wild transport, draw his car: 19 Cast down thine eyes and look not up. More closely set thy feet. Let none

2 Thou, Indra, heedless passest by the ill Vrsakapi hath wrought; 3 What hath he done to injure thee, this tawny beast Vrsakapi, 4 Soon may the hound who hunts the boar seize him and bite him in the car, 5 Kapi hath marred the beauteous things, all deftly wrought, that were my joy. 6 No Dame hath ampler charms than 1, or greater wealth of love's delights. 7 Mother whose love is quickly wibn, I say what verily will be. 8 Dame with the lovely hands and arms, with broad hair−plaits add ample hips, 9 This noxious creature looks on me as one bereft of hero's love, 10 From olden time the matron goes to feast and general sacrifice. 11 So have I heard Indrani called most fortunate among these Dames, 12 Never, Indralni, have I joyed without my friend Vrsakapi, 13 Wealthy Vrsakapayi, blest with sons and consorts of thy sons, 14 Fifteen in number, then, for me a score of bullocks they prepare, 15 Like as a bull with pointed horn, loud bellowing amid the herds, 18 O Indra this Vrsakapi hath found a slain wild animal, 19 Distinguishing the Dasa and the Arya, viewing all, I go. 20 The desert plains and steep descents, how many leagues in length they spread! 21 Turn thee again Vrsakapi: we twain will bring thee happiness. 22 When, Indra and Vrsakapi, ye travelled upward to your home, 23 Daughter of Manu, Parsu bare a score of children at a birth.

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 He who with might bowed down the things that should be bowed, and in his fury rent the holds of Samb 3 That was a great deed for the Godliest of the Gods: strong things were loosened and the firmly fixed gav 4 The well with mouth of stone that poured a flood of meath, which Brahmapaspati hath opened with his 5 Ancient will be those creatures, whatsoe'er they be; with moons, with autumns, doors unclose themselve 6 They who with much endeavour searching round obtained the Panis' noblest treasure hidden in the cave, 7 The pious ones when they had seen the falsehoods turned them back, the sages stood again upon the loft 8 With his swift bow, strung truly, Brahmanaspati reaches the mark whate'er it be that he desires. 9 He brings together and he parts, the great High Priest; extolled is he, in battle Brahmapaspati. 10 First and preeminent, excelling all besides are the kind gifts of liberal Brhaspati. 11 Thou who in every way supreme in earthly power, rejoicing, by thy mighty strength hast waxen great, 12 From you, twain Maghavans, all truth proceedeth: even the waters break not your commandment. 13 The sacrificial flames most swiftly hear the call: the priest of the assembly gaineth wealth for hymns. 14 The wrath of Brahmanaspati according to his will had full effect when he would do a mighty deed. 15 O Brahmanaspati, may we be evermore masters of wealth well−guided, full of vital strength. 16 O Brahmanaspati, be thou controller of this our hymn, and prosper thou our children.

2 With one accord may Aryaman and Mitra and Varuna this day accept this praise−song− 3 These Gods, Adityas, vast, profound, and faithful, with many eyes, fain to deceive the wicked, 4 Upholding that which moves and that which moves not, Adityas, Gods, protectors of all being, 5 May I, Adityas, share m this your favour which, Aryaman, brings profit e'en in danger. 6 Smooth is your path, O Aryaman and Mitra; excellent is it, Varuna, and thornless. 7 Mother of Kings, may Aditi transport us, by fair paths Aryaman, beyond all hatred. 8 With their support they stay three earths, three heavens; three are their functions in the Gods' assembly. 9 Golden and splendid, pure like streams of water, they hold aloft the three bright heavenly regions. 10 Thou over all, O Varuna, art Sovran, be they Gods, Asura! or be they mortals. 11 Neither the right nor left do I distinguish, neither the cast nor yet the west, Adityas. 12 He who bears gifts unto the Kings, true Leaders, he whom their everlasting blessings prosper, 13 Pure, faithful, very strong, with heroes round him, he dwells beside the waters rich with pasture. 14 Aditi, Mitra, Varuna, forgive us however we have erred and sinned against you. 15 For him the Twain united pour their fulness, the rain from heaven: he thrives most highly favoured. 16 Your guiles, ye Holy Ones, to quell oppressors, your snares spread out against the foe, Adityas, 17 May1 not live, O Varuna, to witness my wealthy, liberal, dear friend's destitution.

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

2 Then Agni was his name, most active to bestow, gathering up the trees with his consuming tooth; 3 Praise him, yourGod who, bird−like, rests upon a tree, scattering drops of juice and pouring forth his flo 4 Thou Everlasting, whom, far−striding fain to burn, the winds, uninterrupted, never overcome, 5 This Agni is the best of Kanvas, Kanvas' Friend, Conqueror of the foe whether afar or near. 6 Do thou, Supitrya, swiftly following, make thyself the lord of Jatavedas, mightiest of all, 7 Thus noble Agni with princes and mortal men is lauded, excellent for conquering strength with chiefs, 8 O Son of Strength, Victorious, with this title Upastuta's most potent voice reveres thee. 9 Thus, Agni, have the sons of Vrstihavya, the Rsis, the Upastutas invoked thee. 2 Drink of the foodful juice stirred into motion, drink what thou choosest of the flowing Soma. 3 Let heavenly Soma gladden thee, O Indra, let that effused among mankind delight thee. 4 Let Indra come, impetuous, doubly mighty, to the poured juice, the Bull, with two Bay Coursers. 5 Dash down, outffaming their sharp flaming weapons, the strong−holds of the men urged on by demons. 6 Extend afar the votary's fame and glory, as the firm archer's strength drives off the foeman. 7 To thee have we presented this oblation: accept it, Sovran Ruler, free from anger. 8 Eat, Indra, these oblations which approach thee: be pleased with food made ready and with Soma. 9 I send sweet speech to Indra and to Agni: with hymns I speed it like a boat through waters.