Book 5

Hymn I. Agni.

This hymn awakens Agni, the sacred fire, as Dawn arrives like a milch-cow, his flames rising to the vault of heaven. It celebrates his multiple births from water, stone, and wood, establishing him as the divine priest who sits at the center of the world's worship and anoints himself with the offerings.

1 Agni is wakened by the people's fuel to meet the Dawn who cometh like a milch-cow. > Like young trees shooting up on high their branches, his flames are rising to the vault of heaven. > 2 For worship of the Gods the Priest was wakened: at morning gracious Agni hath arisen. > Kindled, his radiant might is made apparent, and the great Deity set free from darkness. > 3 When he hath stirred the line of his attendants, with the pure milk pure Agni is anointed. > The strength-bestowing gift is then made ready, which spread in front, with tongues, erect, he drinketh. > 4 The spirits of the pious turn together to Agni, as the eyes of all to Sūrya. > He, when both Dawns of different hues have borne him, springs up at daybreak as a strong white charger. > 5 The noble One was born at days' beginning, laid red in colour mid the well-laid fuel. > Yielding in every house his seven rich treasures, Agni is seated, Priest most skilled in worship. > 6 Agni hath sat him down, a Priest most skilful, on a sweet-smelling place, his Mother's bosom. > Young, faithful, sage, preeminent o’er many, kindled among the folk whom he sustaineth. > 7 This Singer excellent at sacrifices, Agni the Priest, they glorify with homage. > Him who spread out both worlds by Law Eternal they balm with oil, strong Steed who never faileth. > 8. He, worshipful House-Friend, in his home is worshipped, our own auspicious guest, lauded by sages. > That strength the Bull with thousand horns possesses. In might, O Agni, thou excellest others. > 9 Thou quickly passest by all others, Agni, for him to whom thou hast appeared most lovely, > Wondrously fair, adorable, effulgent, the guest of men, the darling of the people. > 10 To thee, Most Youthful God! to thee, O Agni from near and far the people bring their tribute. > Mark well the prayer of him who best extols thee. Great, high, auspicious, Agni, is thy shelter. > 11 Ascend to-day thy splendid car, O Agni, in splendour, with the Holy Ones around it. > Knowing the paths by mid-air's spacious region bring hither Gods to feast on our oblation. > 12 To him adorable, sage, strong and mighty we have sung forth our song of praise and homage. > Gavisthira hath raised with prayer to Agni this laud far-reaching, like gold light to heaven.

Hymn II. Agni.

This mysterious hymn speaks of Agni as a secret boy hidden by his youthful mother, his face unfading and golden-toothed. It is a riddle-like exploration of the fire's elusive nature, his divine parentage, and the power of the sage Atri's prayers to protect him from those who would do him harm.

1 THE youthful Mother keeps the Boy in secret pressed to her close, nor yields him to the Father. > But, when he lies upon the arm, the people see his unfading countenance before them. > 2 What child is this thou carriest as handmaid, O Youthful One? The Consort-Queen hath borne him. > The Babe unborn increased through many autumns. I saw him born what time his Mother bare him. > 3 I saw him from afar gold-toothed, bright-coloured, hurling his weapons from his habitation, > What time I gave him Amṛta free from mixture. How can the Indraless, the hymnless harm me? > 4 I saw him moving from the place he dwells in, even as with a herd, brilliantly shining. > These seized him not: he had been born already. They who were grey with age again grow youthful. > 5 Who separate my young bull from the cattle, they whose protector was in truth no stranger? > Let those whose hands have seized upon them free them. May he, observant, drive the herd to us-ward. > 6 Mid mortal men godless have secreted the King of all who live, home of the people. > So may the prayers of Atri give him freedom. Reproached in turn be those who now reproach him. > 7 Thou from the stake didst loose e’en Śunaḥśepa bound for a thousand; for he prayed with fervour. > So, Agni, loose from us the bonds that bind us, when thou art seated here, O Priest who knowest. > 8 Thou hast sped from me, Agni, in thine anger: this the protector of Gods’ Laws hath told me. > Indra who knoweth bent his eye upon thee: by him instructed am I come, O Agni. > 9 Agni shines far and wide with lofty splendour, and by his greatness makes all things apparent. > He conquers godless and malign enchantments, and sharpens both his horns to gore the Rakṣas. > 10 Loud in the heaven above be Agni's roarings with keen-edged weapons to destroy the demons. > Forth burst his splendours in the Soma's rapture. The godless bands press round but cannot stay him. > 11 As a skilled craftsman makes a car, a singer I, Mighty One! this hymn for thee have fashioned. > If thou, O Agni, God, accept it gladly, may we obtain thereby the heavenly Waters. > 12 May he, the strong-necked Steer, waxing in vigour, gather the foeman's wealth with none to check him. > Thus to this Agni have the Immortals spoken. To man who spreads the grass may he grant shelter, grant shelter to the man who brings oblation.

Hymn III. Agni.

This hymn identifies Agni with the great sovereign gods, declaring him to be Varuṇa at birth and Mitra when kindled. It praises his fierce beauty, like a horse with a bit or a smelter's fire, and calls on him as the divine protector who distinguishes truth from falsehood.

1 THOU at thy birth art Varuṇa, O Agni; when thou art kindled thou becomest Mitra. > In thee, O Son of Strength, all Gods are centred. Indra art thou to man who brings oblation. > 2 Aryaman art thou as regardeth maidens mysterious, is thy name, O Self-sustainer. > As a kind friend with streams of milk they balm thee what time thou makest wife and lord one-minded. > 3 The Maruts deck their beauty for thy glory, yea, Rudra! for thy birth fair, brightly-coloured. > That which was fixed as Viṣṇu's loftiest station—therewith the secret of the Cows thou guardest. > 4 Gods through thy glory, God who art so lovely! granting abundant gifts gained life immortal. > As their own Priest have men established Agni; and serve him fain for praise from him who liveth. > 5 There is no priest more skilled than thou in worship; none Self sustainer pass thee in wisdom. > The man within whose house as guest thou dwellest, O God, by sacrifice shall conquer mortals. > 6 Aided by thee, O Agni may we conquer through our oblation, fain for wealth, awakened: > May we in battle, in the days’ assemblies, O Son of Strength, by riches conquer mortals. > 7 He shall bring evil on the evil-plotter whoever turns against us sin and outrage. > Destroy this calumny of him, O Agni, whoever injures us with double dealing. > 8 At this dawn's flushing, God! our ancient fathers served thee with offerings, making thee their envoy, > When, Agni, to the store of wealth thou goest, a God enkindled with good things by mortals. > 9 Save, thou who knowest, draw thy father near thee, who counts as thine own son, O Child of Power. > O sapient Agni, when wilt thou regard us? When, skilled in holy Law, wilt thou direct us? > 10 Adoring thee he gives thee many a title, when thou, Good Lord! acceptest this as Father. > And doth not Agni, glad in strength of Godhead, gain splendid bliss when he hath waxen mighty? > 11 Most Youthful Agni, verily thou bearest thy praiser safely over all his troubles. > Thieves have been seen by us and open foemen: unknown have been the plottings of the wicked. > 12 To thee these eulogies have been directed: or to the Vasu hath this sin been spoken. > But this our Agni, flaming high, shall never yield us to calumny, to him who wrongs us.

Hymn IV. Agni.

This is a direct appeal to Agni as the King and Lord of wealth, a divine father who provides strength and glory. The hymn asks him to enjoy the offerings of fuel and praise, and in return, to drive away the Dasyu and protect his worshippers with a triply-guarding shelter.

1 O AGNI, King and Lord of wealth and treasures, in thee is my delight at sacrifices. > Through thee may we obtain the strength we long for, and overcome the fierce attacks of mortals. > 2 Agni, Eternal Father, offering-bearer, fair to behold, far-reaching, far refulgent, > From well-kept household fire beam food to feed us, and measure out to us abundant glory. > 3 The Sage of men, the Lord of human races, pure, purifying Agni, balmed with butter, > Him the Omniscient as your Priest ye stablish: he wins among the Gods things worth the choosing. > 4 Agni, enjoy, of one accord with Iḷā, striving in rivalry with beams of Sūrya, > Enjoy, O Jātavedas, this our fuel, and bring the Gods to us to taste oblations. > 5 As dear House-Friend, guest welcome in the dwelling, to this our sacrifice come thou who knowest. > And, Agni, having scattered all assailants, bring to us the possessions of our foemen. > 6 Drive thou away the Dasyu with thy weapon. As, gaining vital power for thine own body, > O Son of Strength, the Gods thou satisfiest, so in fight save us, most heroic Agni. > 7 May we, O Agni, with our lauds adore thee, and with our gifts, fair beaming Purifier! > Send to us wealth containing all things precious: bestow upon us every sort of riches. > 8 Son of Strength, Agni, dweller in three regions, accept our sacrifice and our oblation. > Among the Gods may we be counted pious: protect us with a triply-guarding shelter. > 9 Over all woes and dangers, Jātavedas, bear us as in a boat across a river. > Praised with our homage even as Atri praised thee, O Agni, be the guardian of our bodies. > 10 As I, remembering thee with grateful spirit, a mortal, call with might on thee Immortal, > Vouchsafe us high renown, O Jātavedas, and may I be immortal by my children. > 11 The pious man, O Jātavedas Agni, to whom thou grantest ample room and pleasure, > Gaineth abundant wealth with sons and horses, with heroes and with kine for his well-being.

Hymn V. Āprīs.

This hymn is a formal invitation, an Āprī hymn, calling the various deities and divine powers to the sacrifice. Through Agni, it summons gods, goddesses, and deified ritual objects to partake in the offering of sacred oil.

1 To Agni, Jātavedas, to the flame, the well-enkindled God, > Offer thick sacrificial oil. > 2 He, Narāśaṁsa, ne’er beguiled, inspiriteth this sacrifice: > For sage is he, with sweets in hand. > 3 Adored, O Agni, hither bring Indra the Wonderful, the Friend, > On lightly-rolling car to aid. > 4 Spread thyself out, thou soft as wool The holy hymns have sung to thee. > Bring gain to us, O beautiful! > 5 Open yourselves, ye Doors Divine, easy of access for our aid: > Fill, more and more, the sacrifice. > 6 Fair strengtheners of vital power, young Mothers of eternal Law, > Morning and Night we supplicate. > 7 On the wind's flight come, glorified, ye two celestial Priests of man > Come ye to this our sacrifice. > 8 Iḷā, Sarasvatī, Mahī, three Goddesses who bring us weal, > Be seated harmless on the grass. > 9 Rich in all plenty, Tvaṣṭar, come auspicious of thine own accord > Help us in every sacrifice. > 10 Vanaspati, wherever thou knowest the Gods’ mysterious names, > Send our oblations thitherward. > 11 To Agni and to Varuṇa, Indra, the Maruts, and the Gods, > With Svāhā be oblation brought.

Hymn VI. Agni.

In this hymn, Agni is praised as the god of all mankind, the splendid Lord of flame who gives wealth and horses to his worshippers. The refrain, "Bring food to those who sing thy praise," turns the hymn into a litany of exchange, where praise and worship are offered in the hope of divine provision.

1 I VALUE Agni that good Lord, the home to which the kine return: > Whom fleet-foot coursers seek as home, and strong enduring steeds as home. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 2 ’Tis Agni whom we laud as good, to whom the milch-kine come in herds, > To whom the chargers swift of foot, to whom our well-born princes come. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 3 Agni the God of all mankind, gives, verily, a steed to man. > Agni gives precious gear for wealth, treasure he gives when he is pleased. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 4 God, Agni, we will kindle thee, rich in thy splendour, fading not, > So that this glorious fuel may send forth by day its light for thee. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 5 To thee the splendid, Lord of flame, bright, wondrous, Prince of men, is brought. > Oblation with the holy verse, O Agni, bearer of our gifts. > Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 6 These Agnis in the seats of the fire nourish each thing most excellent. > They give delight, they spread abroad, they move themselves continually. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 7 Agni, these brilliant flames of thine wax like strong chargers mightily, > Who with the treadings of their hoofs go swiftly to the stalls of kine. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 8 To us who laud thee, Agni, bring fresh food and safe and happy homes. > May we who have sung hymns to thee have thee for envoy in each house. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 9 Thou, brilliant God, within thy mouth warmest both ladles of the oil. > So fill us also, in our hymns, abundantly, O Lord of Strength. Bring food to those who sing thy praise. > 10 Thus Agni have we duly served with sacrifices and with hymns. > So may he give us what we crave, store of brave sons and fleet-foot steeds. Bring food to those who sing thy praise.

Hymn VII. Agni.

This hymn to Agni, the Son of Strength, celebrates him as the supreme priest who grasps the reins of the holy law. He is praised as the home of every living man, a powerful, brilliant force of nature who shears the wilderness and flashes like an axe.

1 OFFER to Agni, O my friends, your seemly food, your seemly praise; > To him supremest o’er the folk, the Son of Strength, the mighty Lord: > 2 Him in whose presence, when they meet in full assembly, men rejoice; > Even him whom worthy ones inflame, and living creatures bring to life. > 3 When we present to him the food and sacrificial gifts of men, > He by the might of splendour grasps the holy Ordinance's rein. > 4 He gives a signal in the night even to him who is afar, > When he, the Bright, unchanged by eld, consumes the sovrans of the wood. > 5 He in whose service on the ways they offer up their drops of sweat, > On him is their high kin have they mounted, as ridges on the earth. > 6 Whom, sought of many, mortal man hath found to be the Stay of all; > He who gives flavour to our food, the home of every man that lives. > 7 Even as a herd that crops the grass he shears the field and wilderness, > With flashing teeth and beard of gold, deft with his unabated might. > 8 For him, to whom, bright as an axe he, as to Atri, hath flashed forth, > Hath the well-bearing Mother borne, producing when her time is come. > 9 Agni to whom the oil is shed by him thou lovest to support, > Bestow upon these mortals fame and splendour and intelligence. > 10 Such zeal hath he, resistless one: he gained the cattle given by thee. > Agni, may Atri overcome the Dasyus who bestow no gifts, subdue the men who give no food.

Hymn VIII. Agni.

The Vasisthas implore Agni as the ancient friend and master of the home, whose light cannot be opposed. The hymn calls on this multiform god to be pleased with their songs and to grant subsistence and protection.

1 O AGNI urged to strength, the men of old who loved the Law enkindled thee, > the Ancient, for their aid, > Thee very bright, and holy, nourisher of all, most excellent, the Friend and Master of the home. > 2 Thee, Agni, men have stablished as their guest of old, as Master of the household, thee, with hair of flame; > High-bannered, multiform, distributor of wealth, kind helper, good protector, drier of the floods. > 3 The tribes of men praise thee, Agni, who knowest well burnt offerings, the Discerner, lavishest of wealth, > Dwelling in secret, Blest One! visible to all, loud-roaring, skilled in worship, glorified with oil. > 4 Ever to thee, O Agni, as exceeding strong have we drawn nigh with songs and reverence singing hymns. > So be thou pleased with us, Aṅgiras! as a God enkindled by the noble with man's goodly light. > 5 Thou, Agni! multiform, God who art lauded much! givest in every house subsistence as of old. > Thou rulest by thy might o’er food of many a sort: that light of thine when blazing may not be opposed. > 6 The Gods, Most Youthful Agni, have made thee, inflamed, the bearer of oblations and the messenger. > Thee, widely-reaching, homed in sacred oil, invoked, effulgent, have they made the Eye that stirs the thought. > 7 Men seeking joy have lit thee worshipped from of old, O Agni, with good fuel and with sacred oil. > So thou, bedewed and waxing mighty by the plants, spreadest thyself abroad over the realms of earth.

Hymn IX. Agni.

This hymn to Agni, the bearer of oblations, emphasizes his role as the essential priest and messenger. He is invoked as the one who makes the sacrifice effective, whose flames reach the mark like a smelter's blast, and who, with Mitra's friendly aid, can subdue all wickedness.

1 BEARING; oblations mortal men, O Agni, worship thee the God. > I deem thee Jātavedas: bear our offerings, thou, unceasingly. > 2 In the man's home who offers gifts, where grass is trimmed, Agni is Priest, > To whom all sacrifices come and strengthenings that win renown. > 3 Whom, as an infant newly-born, the kindling-sticks have brought to life, > Sustainer of the tribes of men, skilled in well-ordered sacrifice. > 4 Yea, very hard art thou to grasp, like offspring of the wriggling snakes, > When thou consumest many woods like an ox, Agni, in the mead. > 5 Whose flames, when thou art sending forth the smoke, completely reach the mark, > When Tṛta in the height of heaven, like as a smelter fanneth thee, e’en as a smelter sharpeneth thee. > 6 O Agni, by thy succour and by Mitra's friendly furtherance, > May we, averting hate, subdue the wickedness of mortal men. > 7 O Agni, to our heroes bring such riches, thou victorious God. > May he protect and nourish us, and help in gaining strength: be thou near us in fight for our success.

Hymn X. Agni.

The singers bring their song to Agni, a gift he loves, calling him the Car-driver of noble strength and sacrifice. They ask him to approach, bright as sunlight, and to accept their lauds, so his friendship may be a bond that brings prosperity.

1 This day with praises, Agni, we bring thee that which thou lovest. > Right judgment, like a horse, with our devotions. > 2 For thou hast ever been the Car-driver, Agni, of noble > Strength, lofty sacrifice, and rightful judgment. > 3 Through these our praises come thou to meet us, bright as the sunlight, > O Agni, well disposed, with all thine aspects. > 4 Now may we serve thee singing these lauds this day to thee, Agni. > Loud as the voice of Heaven thy blasts are roaring. > 5 Just at this time of the day and the night thy look is the sweetest: > It shineth near us even as gold for glory. > 6 Spotless thy body, brilliant as gold, like clarified butter: > This gleams like gold on thee, O Self. dependent. > 7 All hate and mischief, yea, if committed, Agni, thou turnest, > Holy One, from the man who rightly worships. > 8 Agni, with you Gods, prosperous be our friendships and kinships. > Be this our bond here by this place, thine altar.

Hymn XI. Agni.

This hymn praises Agni's splendid majesty, which shines brightly even at nighttime, and declares that from him all blessings flow. The singer invokes Agni as the source of wisdom, wealth, and heroic power, and as a friend who removes sorrow and ill-will.

1 THY blessed majesty, victorious Agni, shines brightly in the neighbourhood of Sūrya. > Splendid to see, it shows even at nighttime, and food is fair to look on in thy beauty. > 2 Agni, disclose his thought for him who singeth, the well, Strong God! while thou art praised with fervour. > Vouchsafe to us that powerful hymn, O Mighty, which, Radiant One! with all the Gods thou lovest. > 3 From thee, O Agni, springs poetic wisdom, from thee come thoughts and hymns of praise that prosper; > From thee flows wealth, with heroes to adorn it, to the true-hearted man who gives oblation. > 4 From thee the hero springs who wins the booty, bringer of help, mighty, of real courage. > From thee comes wealth, sent by the Gods, bliss-giving; Agni, from thee the fleet impetuous charger. > 5 Immortal Agni, thee whose voice is pleasant, as first in rank, as God, religious mortals > Invite with hymns; thee who removest hatred, Friend of the Home, the household's Lord, unerring. > 6 Far from us thou removest want and sorrow, far from us all ill-will when thou protectest. > Son of Strength, Agni, blest is he at evening, whom thou as God attendest for his welfare.

Hymn XII. Agni.

This hymn is a prayer for protection and prosperity, offered to Agni, the Most Youthful God. The singer asks to be kept sinless in the sight of Aditi, to be freed from all afflictions, and to be granted long life.

1 WHOSO enkindles thee, with lifted ladle, and thrice this day offers thee food, O Agni, > May he excel, triumphant through thy splendours, wise through thy mental power, O Jātavedas. > 2 Whoso with toil and trouble brings thee fuel, serving the majesty of mighty Agni, > He, kindling thee at evening and at morning, prospers, and comes to wealth, and slays his foemen. > 3 Agni is Master of sublime dominion, Agni is Lord of strength and lofty riches. > Straightway the self-reliant God, Most Youthful, gives treasures to the mortal who adores him. > 4 Most Youthful God, whatever sin, through folly, we here, as human beings, have committed, > In sight of Aditi make thou us sinless remit, entirely, Agni, our offences. > 5 Even in the presence of great sin, O Agni, free us from prison of the Gods or mortals. > Never may we who are thy friends be injured: grant health and strength unto our seed and offspring. > 6 Even as ye here, Gods Excellent and Holy, have loosed the cow that by the foot was tethered, > So also set us free from this affliction long let our life, O Agni, be extended.

Hymn XIII. Agni.

This hymn to Agni connects his light with the coming of the Dawn and the rising of the Sun, Savitar. It paints a cosmic picture of the gods establishing their order in the heavens and asks how the Sun, unbound and unsupported, holds his place as a pillar of the sky.

1 AGNI hath looked, benevolently-minded, on the wealth-giving spring of radiant Mornings. > Come, Aśvins, to the dwelling of the pious: Sūrya the God is rising with his splendour. > 2 Savitar, God, hath spread on high his lustre, waving his flag like a spoil-seeking hero. > Their stablished way go Varuṇa and Mitra, what time they make the Sun ascend the heaven. > 3 Him whom they made to drive away the darkness, Lords of sure mansions, constant to their object, > Him who beholds the universe, the Sun-God, seven strong and youthful Coursers carry onward. > 4 Spreading thy web with mightiest Steeds thou comest, rending apart, thou God, the black-hued mantle. > The rays of Sūrya tremulously shining sink, like a hide, the darkness in the waters. > 5 How is it that, unbound and not supported, he falleth not although directed downward? > By what self power moves he? Who hath seen it? He guards the vault of heaven, a close-set pillar.

Hymn XIV. Agni.

Agni, Jātavedas, is again invoked at dawn, his light producing the world for all creatures to see. This hymn repeats the cosmic mystery from the previous one, questioning the power by which the sun travels through the sky, unbound and unsupported, a pillar of the heavens.

1 THE God hath looked, even Agni Jātavedas, to meet the Dawns refulgent in their glories. > Come on your chariot, ye who travel widely, come to this sacrifice of ours, Nāsatyas. > 2 Producing light for all the world of creatures, God Savitar hath raised aloft his banner. > Making his presence known by sunbeams, Sūrya hath filled the firmament and earth and heaven. > 3 Red Dawn is come, riding with brightness onward, distinguished by her beams, gay-hued and mighty. > Dawn on her nobly-harnessed car, the Goddess, awaking men to happiness, approacheth. > 4 May those most powerful steeds and chariot bring you, O Aśvins, hither at the break of morning. > Here for your draught of meath are Soma juices: at this our sacrifice rejoice, ye Mighty. > 5 How is it that, unbound and unsupported, he falleth not although directed downward? > By what self-power moves he? Who hath seen it? He guards the vault of heaven, a close-set pillar?

Hymn XV. Agni.

This hymn praises the Agni of Sṛñjaya, Devāvata's son, portraying the fire as a powerful, decorated hero led forth in the ritual. The poem then shifts to the voice of Somaka, son of Sahadeva, who recounts receiving a gift of two bay horses, and asks the Aśvins to grant long life to this princely patron.

1 AGNI the Herald, like a horse, is led forth at our solemn rite, > God among Gods adorable. > 2 Three times unto our solemn rite comes Agni like a charioteer, > Bearing the viands to the Gods. > 3 Round the oblations hath he paced, Agni the Wise, the Lord of Strength, > Giving the offerer precious boons. > 4 He who is kindled eastward for Sṛñjaya, Devāvata's son, > Resplendent, tamer of the foe. > 5 So mighty be the Agni whom the mortal hero shall command, > With sharpened teeth and bountiful. > 6 Day after day they dress him, as they clean a horse who wins the prize. > Dress the red Scion of the Sky. > 7 When Sahadeva's princely son with two bay horses thought of me, > Summoned by him I drew not back. > 8 And truly those two noble bays I straightway took when offered me, > From Sahadeva's princely son. > 9 Long, O ye Aśvins, may he live, your care, ye Gods, the princely son. > Of Sahadeva, Somaka. > 10 Cause him the youthful prince, the son of Sahadeva, to enjoy > Long life, O Aśvins, O ye Gods.

Hymn XVI. Indra.

This hymn is a forceful and passionate song to Indra, the impetuous hero who revealed the dawn and scattered darkness. The poet, Vamadeva, identifies himself as an inspired singer, offering his laud to Indra as a goad to action, and recalling Indra's cosmic deeds, such as cleaving the mountain and letting loose the waters.

1 IMPETUOUS, true, let Maghavan come hither, and let his Tawny Coursers speed to reach us. > For him have we pressed juice exceeding potent: here, praised with song, let him effect his visit. > 2 Unyoke, as at thy journey's end, O Hero, to gladden thee today at this libation. > Like Uśanā, the priest a laud shall utter, a hymn to thee, the Lord Divine, who markest. > 3 When the Bull, quaffing, praises our libation, as a sage paying holy rites in secret, > Seven singers here from heaven hath he begotten, who e’en by day have wrought their works while singing. > 4 When heaven's fair light by hymns was made apparent (they made great splendour shine at break of morning), > He with his succour, best of Heroes, scattered the blinding darkness so that men saw clearly. > 5 Indra, Impetuous One, hath waxed immensely: he with his vastness hath filled earth and heaven. > E’en beyond this his majesty extendeth who hath exceeded all the worlds in greatness. > 6 Śakra who knoweth well all human actions hath with his eager Friends let loose the waters. > They with their songs cleft e’en the mountain open and willingly disclosed the stall of cattle. > 7 He smote away the floods' obstructer, Vṛtra; Earth, conscious, lent her aid to speed thy thunder. > Thou sentest forth the waters of the ocean, as Lord through power and might, O daring Hero. > 8 When, Much-invoked! the water's rock thou cleftest, Saramā showed herself and went before thee. > Hymned by Aṅgirases, bursting the cow-stalls, much strength thou foundest for us as our leader. > 9 Come, Maghavan, Friend of Man, to aid the singer imploring thee in battle for the sunlight. > Speed him with help in his inspired invokings: down sink the sorcerer, the prayerless Dasyu. > 10 Come to our home resolved to slay the Dasyu: Kutsa longed eagerly to win thy friendship. > Alike in form ye both sate in his dwelling the faithful Lady was in doubt between you. > 11 Thou comest, fain to succour him, with Kutsa,—a goad that masters both the Wind-God's horses, > That, holding the brown steeds like spoil for capture, the sage may on the final day be present. > 12 For Kutsa, with thy thousand, thou at day-break didst hurl down greedy Śuṣṇa, foe of harvest. > Quickly with Kutsa's friend destroy the Dasyus, and roll the chariot wheel of Sūrya near us. > 13 Thou to the son of Vidathin, Ṛjiśvan, gavest up mighty Mṛgaya and Pipru. > Thou smotest down the swarthy fifty thousand, and rentest forts as age consumes a garment. > 14 What time thou settest near the Sun thy body, thy form, Immortal One, is seen expanding: > Thou a wild elephant with might invested. like a dread lion as thou wieldest weapons. > 15 Wishes for wealth have gone to Indra, longing for him in war for light and at libation, > Eager for glory, labouring with praisesongs: he is like home, like sweet and fair nutrition. > 16 Call we for you that Indra, prompt to listen, him who hath done so much for men's advantage; > Who, Lord of envied bounty, to a singer like me brings quickly booty worth the capture. > 17 When the sharp-pointed arrow, O thou Hero, flieth mid any conflict of the people, > When, Faithful One, the dread encounter cometh, then be thou the Protector of our body. > 18 Further the holy thoughts of Vamadeva be thou a guileless Friend in fight for booty. > We come to thee whose providence protects us: wide be thy sway for ever for thy singer. > 19 O Indra, with these men who love thee truly, free givers, Maghavan, in every battle, > May we rejoice through many autumns, quelling our foes, as days subdue the nights with splendour. > 20 Now, as the Bhṛgus wrought a car, for Indra the Strong, the Mighty, we our prayer have fashioned, > That he may, ne’er withdraw from us his friendship, but be our bodies' guard and strong defender. > 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell. high like rivers for the singer. > For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XVII. Indra.

This song celebrates the cosmic power of Indra, who slaughtered the Vṛtra-dragon and freed the waters. The hymn recounts his birth from Dyaus, the sky-father, and his role in making the world habitable for humanity by establishing the rivers, sun, and dawn.

1 GREAT art thou, Indra; yea, the earth, with gladness, and heaven confess to thee thine high dominion. > Thou in thy vigour having slaughtered Vṛtra didst free the floods arrested by the Dragon. > 2 Heaven trembled at the birth of thine effulgence; Earth trembled at the fear of thy displeasure. > The stedfast mountains shook in agitation . the waters flowed, and desert spots were flooded. > 3 Hurling his bolt with might he cleft the mountain, while, putting forth his strength, he showed his vigour. > He slaughtered Vṛtra with his bolt, exulting, and, their lord slain, forth flowed the waters swiftly. > 4 Thy Father Dyaus esteemed himself a hero: most noble was the work of Indra's Maker, > His who begat the strong bolt's Lord who roareth, immovable like earth from her foundation. > 5 He who alone o’erthrows the world of creatures, Indra the peoples' King, invoked of many Verily all rejoice in him, extolling the boons which Maghavan the God hath sent them. > 6 All Soma juices are his own for ever, most gladdening draughts are ever his, the Mighty, > Thou ever wast the Treasure-Lord of treasures: Indra, thou lettest all folk share thy bounty. > 7 Moreover, when thou first wast born, O Indra, thou struckest terror into all the people. > Thou, Maghavan, rentest with thy bolt the Dragon who lay against the waterfloods of heaven. > 8 The ever-slaying, bold and furious Indra, the bright bolt's Lord, infinite, strong and mighty, > Who slayeth Vṛtra and acquireth booty, giver of blessings, Maghavan the bounteous: > 9 Alone renowned as Maghavan in battles, he frighteneth away assembled armies. > He bringeth us the booty that he winneth may we, well-loved, continue in his friendship. > 10 Renowned is he when conquering and when slaying: 'fis he who winneth cattle in the combat. > When Indra hardeneth his indignation all that is fixed and all that moveth fear him. > 11 Indra hath won all kine, all gold, all horses,—Maghavan, he who breaketh forts in pieces; > Most manly with these men of his who help him, dealing out wealth and gathering the treasure. > 12 What is the care of Indra for his Mother, what cares he for the Father who begat him? > His care is that which speeds his might in conflicts, like wind borne onward by the clouds that thunder. > 13 Maghavan makes the settled man unsettled: he scatters dust that he hath swept together, > Breaking in pieces like Heaven armed with lightning: Maghavan shall enrich the man who lauds h;m. > 14 He urged the chariot-wheel of Sūrya forward: Etaśa, speeding on his way, he rested. > Him the black undulating cloud bedeweth, in this mid-air's depth, at the base of darkness, > 15 As in the night the sacrificing priest. > 16 Eager for booty, craving strength and horses, we-singers stir Indra, the strong, for friendship, > Who gives the wives we seek, whose succour fails not, to hasten, like a pitcher to the fountain. > 17 Be thou our guardian, show thyself our kinsman, watching and blessing those who pour the Soma; > As Friend, as Sire, most fatherly of fathers giving the suppliant vital strength and freedom. > 18 Be helping Friend of those who seek thy friendship . give life, when lauded, Indra, to the singer. > For, Indra, we the priests have paid thee worship, exalting thee with these our sacrifices. > 19 Alone, when Indra Maghavan is lauded, he slayeth many ne’er resisted Vṛtras. > Him in whose keeping is the well-loved singer never do Gods or mortals stay or hinder. > 20 E’en so let Maghavan, the loud-voiced Indra, give us true blessings, foeless, men's upholder. > King of all creatures, give us glory amply, exalted glory due to him who lauds thee. > 21 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers for the singer. > For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays! is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XVIII. Indra and Others.

This hymn is a dramatic dialogue and narrative exploring Indra's mysterious birth and his cosmic destiny. He emerges from his mother's side, drinks the Soma, and declares his heroic purpose, while other voices—his mother, the waters—comment on his strange and powerful arrival into the world.

1 THIS is the ancient and accepted pathway by which all Gods have come into existence. > Hereby could one be born though waxen mighty. Let him not, otherwise, destroy his Mother. > 2 Not this way go I forth: hard is the passage. Forth from the side obliquely will I issue. > Much that is yet undone must I accomplish; one must I combat and the other question. > 3 He bent his eye upon the dying Mother: My word I now withdraw. That way I follow. > In Tvaṣṭar's dwelling India drank the Soma, a hundredworth of juice pressed from the mortar. > 4 What strange act shall he do, he whom his Mother bore for a thousand months and many autumns? > No peer hath he among those born already, nor among those who shall be born hereafter. > 5 Deeming him a reproach, his mother hid him, Indra, endowed with all heroic valour. > Then up he sprang himself, assumed his vesture, and filled, as soon as born, the earth and heaven. > 6 With lively motion onward flow these waters, the Holy Ones, shouting, as ’twere, together. > Ask them to. tell thee what the floods are saying, what girdling rock the waters burst asunder. > 7 Are they addressing him with words of welcome? Will the floods take on them the shame of Indra? > With his great thunderbolt my Son hath slaughtered Vṛtra, and set these rivers free to wander. > 8 I cast thee from me, mine,—thy youthful mother: thee, mine own offspring, Kusava hath swallowed. > To him, mine infant, were the waters gracious. Indra, my Son, rose up in conquering vigour. > 9 Thou art mine own, O Maghavan, whom Vyaṁsa struck to the ground and smote thy jaws in pieces. > But, smitten through, the mastery thou wonnest, and with thy bolt the Dāsa's head thou crushedst. > 10 The Heifer hath brought forth the Strong, the Mighty, the unconquerable Bull, the furious Indra. > The Mother left her unlicked Calf to wander, seeking himself, the path that he would follow. > 11 Then to her mighty Child the Mother turned her, saying, My son, these Deities forsake thee. > Then Indra said, about to slaughter Vṛtra, O my friend Vṛtra, stride full boldly forward. > 12 Who was he then who made thy Mother widow? Who sought to stay thee lying still or moving? > What God, when by the foot thy Sire thou tookest and slewest, was at hand to give thee comfort? > 13 In deep distress I cooked a dog's intestines. Among the Gods I found not one to comfort. > My consort I beheld in degradation. The Falcon then brought me the pleasant Soma.

Hymn XIX. Indra.

Indra's deeds are recounted here as the singer offers him the sweet Soma juice to fuel his might. The hymn celebrates his victory over the dragon Ahi, which released the seven rivers, and his gift of the sun to humanity, completing the works of days with the night.

1 THEE, verily, O Thunder-wielding Indra, all the Gods here, the Helpers swift to listen, > And both the worlds elected, thee the Mighty, High, waxen strong, alone to slaughter Vṛtra. > 2 The Gods, as worn witheld, relaxed their efforts: thou, Indra, born of truth, wast Sovran Ruler. > Thou slewest Ahi who besieged the waters, and duggest out their all supporting channels. > 3 The insatiate one, extended, hard to waken, who slumbered in perpetual sleep, O Indra,— > The Dragon stretched against the seven prone rivers, where no joint was, thou rentest with thy thunder. > 4 Indra with might shook earth and her foundation as the wind stirs the water with its fury. > Striving, with strength he burst the firm asunder, and tore away the summits of the mountains. > 5 They ran to thee as mothers to their offspring: the clouds, like chariots, hastened forth together. > Thou didst refresh the streams and force the billows: thou, Indra, settest free obstructed rivers. > 6 Thou for the sake of Vayya and Turvīti didst stay the great stream, flowing, all-sustaining: > Yea, at their prayer didst check the rushing river and make the floods easy to cross, O Indra. > 7 He let the young Maids skilled in Law, unwedded, like fountains, bubbling, flow forth streaming onward. > He inundated thirsty plains and deserts, and milked the dry Cows of the mighty master. > 8 Through many a morn and many a lovely autumn, having slain Vṛtra, he set free the rivers. > Indra hath set at liberty to wander on earth the streams encompassed pressed together. > 9 Lord of Bay Steeds, thou broughtest from the ant-hill the unwedded damsel's son whom ants were eating. > The blind saw clearly, as he grasped the serpent, rose, brake the jar: his joints again united. > 10 To the wise man, O Sage and Sovran Ruler, the man who knoweth all thine ancient exploits. > Hath told these deeds of might as thou hast wrought them, great acts, spontaneous, and to man's advantage. > 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let powers swell high, like rivers, for the singer. > For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays! is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XX. Indra.

This hymn to Indra celebrates his mighty and glorious acts, sung by the poet Vamadeva. It recounts Indra's heroic deeds, such as crushing forts, slaying the Dāsa, and winning the light of heaven, positioning him as the great and terrible God who protects his worshippers.

1 FROM near or far away may mighty Indra giver of succour, come for our protection > Lord of men, armed with thunder, with the Strongest, slaying his foes in conflict, in the battles. > 2 May Indra come to us with Tawny Coursers, inclined to us, to favour and enrich us. > May Maghavan, loud-voiced and wielding thunder, stand by us at this sacrifice, in combat. > 3 Thou, honouring this our sacrifice, O Indra, shalt give us strength and fill us full of courage. > To win the booty, Thunder-armed! like hunters may we with thee subdue in fight our foemen. > 4 Loving us well, benevolent, close beside us, drink, Godlike Indra, of the well-pressed Soma. > Drink of the meath we offer, and delight thee with food that cometh from the mountain ridges. > 5 Him who is sung aloud by recent sages, like a ripe-fruited tree, a scythe-armed victor,— > I, like a bridegroom thinking of his consort, call hither Indra, him invoked of many; > 6 Him who in native strength is like a mountain, the lofty Indra born or old for conquest, > Terrific wielder of the ancient thunder. filled full with splendour as a jar with water. > 7 Whom from of old there is not one to hinder, none to curtail the riches of his bounty. > Pouring forth freely, O thou Strong and Mighty, vouchsafe us riches, God invoked of many! > 8 Of wealth and homes of men thou art the ruler, and opener of the stable of the cattle. > Helper of men, winner of spoil in combats, thou leadest to an ample heap of riches. > 9 By what great might is he renowned as strongest, wherewith the Lofty One stirs up wild battles? > Best soother of the worshipper's great sorrow, he gives possessions to the man who lauds him. > 10 Slay us not; bring, bestow onus the ample gift which thou hast to give to him who offers. > At this new gift, with this laud sung before thee, extolling thee, we, Indra, will declare it. > 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for the singer. > A new hymn, Lord of Bays! for thee is fashioned. May we, car-born, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XXI. Indra.

The singers laud Indra as the Lord of great and lasting riches, who came from earth or heaven with the Maruts to aid his worshippers. The hymn is a petition for protection and opulence, calling on the hero who makes the pathways of the world.

1 MAY Indra come to us for our protection; here be the Hero, praised, our feast-companion. > May he whose powers are many, waxen mighty, cherish, like Dyaus, his own supreme dominion. > 2 Here magnify his great heroic exploits, most glorious One, enriching men with bounties, > Whose will is like a Sovran in assembly, who rules the people, Conqueror, all-surpassing. > 3 Hither let Indra come from earth or heaven, hither with speech from firmament or ocean; > With Maruts, from the realm of light to aid us, or from a distance, from the seat of Order. > 4 That Indra will we laud in our assemblies, him who is Lord of great and lasting riches, > Victor with Vāyu where the herds are gathered, who leads with boldness on to higher fortune. > 5 May the Priest, Lord of many blessings, striving,—who fixing reverence on reverence, giving > Vent to his voice, inciteth men to worship—with lauds bring Indra hither to our dwellings. > 6 When sitting pondering in deep devotion in Auśija's abode they ply the press-stone, > May he whose wrath is fierce, the mighty bearer, come as the house lord's priest within our chambers. > 7 Surely the power of Bhārvara the mighty for ever helpeth to support the singer; > That which in Auśija's abode lies hidden, to come forth for delight and for devotion. > 8 When he unbars the spaces of the mountains, and quickens with his floods the water-torrents, > He finds in lair the buffalo and wild-ox when the wise lead him on to vigorous exploit. > 9 Auspicious are thy hands, thine arms well-fashioned which proffer bounty, Indra, to thy praiser. > What sloth is this? Why dost thou not rejoice thee? Why dost thou not delight thyself with giving? > 10 So Indra is the truthful Lord of treasure. Freedom he gave to man by slaying Vṛtra. > Much-lauded! help us with thy power to riches: may I be sharer of thy Godlike favour. > 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let power swell high, like rivers, for the singer. > For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays! is fashioned. May we, care-borne, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XXII. Indra.

This hymn to Indra, the Bull and hurler of the rain-producing thunderbolt, is a song of praise and petition. The singer calls on the god to drink the Soma, and in his power, to bestow wealth, victory, and protection upon the worshippers.

1 THAT gift of ours which Indra loves and welcomes, even that he makes for us, the Great and Strong One. > He who comes wielding in his might the thunder, Maghavan, gives prayer, praise, and laud, and Soma. > 2 Bull, hurler of the four-edged rain-producer with both his arms, strong, mighty, most heroic; > Wearing as wool Paruṣṇī for adornment, whose joints for sake of friendship he hath covered. > 3 God who of all the Gods was born divinest, endowed with ample strength and mighty powers, > And bearing in his arms the yearning thunder, with violent rush caused heaven and earth to tremble. > 4 Before the High God, at his birth, heaven trembled, earth, many floods and all the precipices. > The Strong One bringeth nigh the Bull's two Parents: loud sing the winds, like men, in air's mid-region. > 5 These are thy great deeds, Indra, thine, the Mighty, deeds to be told aloud at all libations, > That thou, O Hero, bold and boldly daring, didst with thy bolt, by strength, destroy the Dragon. > 6 True are all these thy deeds, O Most Heroic. The Milch-kine issued from the streaming udder. > In fear of thee, O thou of manly spirit, the rivers swiftly set themselves in motion. > 7 With joy, O Indra, Lord of Tawny Coursers, the Sisters then, these Goddesses, extolled thee, > When thou didst give the prisoned ones their freedom to wander at their will in long succession. > 8 Pressed is the gladdening stalk as ’twere a river: so let the rite, the toiler's power, attract thee > To us-ward, of the Bright One, as the courser strains his. exceedingly strong leather bridle. > 9 Ever by us perform thy most heroic, thine highest, best victorious deeds, O Victor. > For us make Vṛtras easy to be conquered: destroy the weapon of our mortal foeman. > 10 Graciously listen to our prayer, O Indra, and strength of varied sort bestow thou on us. > Send to us all intelligence arid wisdom O Maghavan, be he who gives us cattle. > 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let wealth swell high like rivers to the singer. > For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XXIII. Indra.

This hymn is a meditation on the nature of Indra's friendship and the meaning of eternal Law. The singer questions the god, asking how a mortal can win his favor and how the streams of milk can move like wondrous sunlight, while affirming that true worship is the key to all blessings.

1 How, what priest's sacrifice hath he made mighty, rejoicing in the Soma and its fountain? > Delighting in juice, eagerly drinking, the Lofty One hath waxed for splendid riches. > 2 What hero hath been made his feast-companion? Who hath been partner in his loving-kindness? > What know we of his wondrous acts? How often comes he to aid and speed the pious toiler? > 3 How heareth Indra offered invocation? How, hearing, marketh he the invoker's wishes? > What are his ancient acts of bounty? Wherefore call they him One who filleth full the singer? > 4 How doth the priest who laboureth, ever longing, win for himself the wealth which he possesseth? > May he, the God, mark well my truthful praises, having received the homage which he loveth. > 5 How, and what bond of friendship with a mortal hath the God chosen as this morn is breaking? > How, and what love hath he for those who love him, who have entwined in him their firm affection? > 6 Is then thy friendship with thy friends most mighty? Thy brotherhood with us,—when may we tell it? > The streams of milk move, as most wondrous sunlight, the beauty of the Lovely One for glory. > 7 About to stay the Indra-less destructive spirit he sharpens his keen arms to strike her. > Whereby the Strong, although our debts’ exactor, drives in the distant mornings that we know not. > 8 Eternal Law hath varied food that strengthens; thought of eternal Law, removes transgressions. > The praise-hymn of eternal Law, arousing, glowing, hath oped the deaf ears of the living. > 9 Firm-seated are eternal Law's foundations in its fair form are many splendid beauties. > By holy Law long lasting food they bring us; by holy Law have cows come to our worship. > 10 Fixing eternal Law he, too, upholds it swift moves the might of Law and wins the booty. > To Law belong the vast deep Earth and Heaven: Milch-kine supreme, to Law their milk they render. > 11 Now, Indra! lauded,—glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers to the singer. > For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XXIV. Indra.

This hymn is a reflection on the nature of Indra's worship, contrasting the true, devoted sacrificer with the faithless and the negligent. The poet recounts the story of how he, as a singer, offered his Indra for sale for ten milch-kine, a metaphor for the transactional and yet deeply personal relationship between worshipper and god.

1 WHAT worthy praise will bring before us Indra, the Son of Strength, that he may grant us riches; > For he the Hero, gives the singer treasures: he is the Lord who sends us gifts, ye people. > 2 To be invoked and hymned in fight with Vṛtra, that well-praised Indra gives us real bounties. > That Maghavan brings comfort in the foray to the religious man who pours libations. > 3 Him, verily, the men invoke in combat; risking their lives they make him their protector, > When heroes, foe to foe, give up their bodies, fighting, each side, for children and their offspring. > 4 Strong God! the folk at need put forth their vigour, striving together in the whirl of battle. > When warrior bands encounter one another some in the grapple quit themselves like Indra. > 5 Hence many a one worships the might of Indra: hence let the brew succeed the meal-oblation. > Hence let the Soma banish those who pour not: even hence I joy to pay the Strong One worship. > 6 Indra gives comfort to the man who truly presses, for him who longs for it, the Soma, > Not disaffected, with devoted spirit this man he takes to be his friend in battles. > 7 He who this day for Indra presses Soma, prepares the brew and fries the grains of barley— > Loving the hymns of that devoted servant, to him may Indra give heroic vigour. > 8 When the impetuous chief hath sought the conflict, and the lord looked upon the long-drawn battle, > The matron calls to the Strong God whom pressers of Soma have encouraged in the dwelling. > 9 He bid a small price for a thing of value: I was content, returning, still unpurchased. > He heightened not his insufficient offer. Simple and clever, both milk out the udder. > 10 Who for ten milch-kine purchaseth from me this Indra who is mine? > When he hath slain the Vṛtras let the buyer give him back to me. > 11 Now, Indra! lauded, glorified with praises, let wealth swell high like rivers for the singer. > For thee a new hymn, Lord of Bays, is fashioned. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever.

Hymn XXV. Indra.

This hymn is a direct address to Indra, seeking his friendship, protection, and blessing. The singer asks who will win the god's favor today, affirms that Indra cherishes the zealous Soma-bringer, and calls upon him to destroy the impious.

1 WHAT friend of man, God-loving, hath delighted, yearning therefor, this day in Indra's friendship? > Who with enkindled flame and flowing Soma laudeth him for his great protecting favour? > 2 Who hath with prayer bowed to the Soma-lover? What pious man endues the beams of morning? > Who seeks bond, friendship, brotherhood with Indra? Who hath recourse unto the Sage for succour? > 3 Who claims to-day the Deities' protection, asks Aditi for light, or the Ādityas? > Of whose pressed stalk of Soma drink the Aśvins, Indra, and Agni, well inclined in spirit? > 4 To him shall Agni Bhārata give shelter: long shall he look upon the Sun up-rising, > Who sayeth, Let us press the juice for Indra, man's Friend, the Hero manliest of heroes. > 5 Him neither few men overcome, nor many to him shall Aditi give spacious shelter. > Dear is the pious, the devout, to Indra dear is the zealous, dear the Soma-bringer. > 6 This Hero curbs the mighty for the zealous: the presser's brew Indra possesses solely: > No brother, kin, or friend to him who pours not, destroyer of the dumb who would resist him. > 7 Not with the wealthy churl who pours no Soma doth Indra, Soma drinker, bind alliance. > He draws away his wealth and slays him naked, own Friend to him who offers, for oblation. > 8 Highest and lowest, men who stand between diem, going, returning, dwelling in contentment, > Those who show forth their strength when urged to battle-these are the men who call for aid on Indra.

Hymn XXVI. Indra.

The singer, in a moment of divine inspiration, identifies himself with the great sages of the past—Manu, Sūrya, Kakṣīvān—and claims Indra's power as his own. The hymn celebrates Indra's cosmic deeds, such as bestowing the earth on the Ārya, and recounts the myth of the Falcon who brought the Soma from heaven.

1 I WAS aforetime Manu, I was Sūrya: I am the sage Kakṣīvān, holy singer. > Kutsa the son of Ārjuni I master. I am the sapient Uśanā behold me. > 2 I have bestowed the earth upon the Ārya, and rain upon the man who brings oblation. > I guided forth the loudly-roaring waters, and the Gods moved according to my pleasure. > 3 In the wild joy of Soma I demolished Śambara's forts, ninety-and-nine, together; > And, utterly, the hundredth habitation, when helping Divodāsa Atithigva. > 4 Before all birds be ranked this Bird, O Maruts; supreme of falcons be this fleet-winged Falcon, > Because, strong- pinioned, with no car to bear him, he brought to Manu the Godloved oblation. > 5 When the Bird brought it, hence in rapid motion sent on the wide path fleet as thought he hurried. > Swift he returned with sweetness of the Soma, and hence the Falcon hath acquired his glory. > 6 Bearing the stalk, the Falcon speeding onward, Bird bringing from afar the draught that gladdens, > Friend of the Gods, brought, grasping fast, the Soma which be bad taken from yon loftiest heaven. > 7 The Falcon took and brought the Soma, bearing thousand libations with him, yea, ten thousand. > The Bold One left Malignities behind him, wise, in wild joy of Soma, left the foolish.

Hymn XXVII. The Falcon.

In a voice of mythic power, the speaker recounts his birth and escape from a hundred iron fortresses, flying forth as a Falcon. The hymn tells the story of how the Soma was brought from heaven, with the archer Kṛśānu attempting to strike the divine bird, and concludes with an offering of the sweet liquid to Maghavan (Indra).

1 I, As I lay within the womb, considered all generations of these Gods in order. > A hundred iron fortresses confined me but forth I flew with rapid speed a Falcon. > 2 Not at his own free pleasure did he bear me: he conquered with his strength and manly courage. > Straightway the Bold One left the fiends behind him and passed the winds as he grew yet more mighty. > 3 When with loud cry from heaven down sped the Falcon, thence hasting like the wind he bore the Bold One. > Then, wildly raging in his mind, the archer Kṛśānu aimed and loosed the string to strike him. > 4 The Falcon bore him from heaven's lofty summit as the swift car of Indra's Friend bore Bhujyu. > Then downward hither fell a flying feather of the Bird hasting forward in his journey. > 5 And now let Maghavan accept the beaker, white, filled with milk, filled with the shining liquid; > The best of sweet meath which the priests have offered: that Indra to his joy may drink, the Hero, that he may take and drink it to his rapture.

Hymn XXVIII. Indra-Soma.

This hymn praises the divine partnership of Indra and Soma, who together brought order to the cosmos. They are lauded for slaying the serpent Ahi, releasing the seven rivers, and setting the sun's wheel in motion.

1 ALLIED with thee, in this thy friendship, Soma, Indra for man made waters flow together, > Slew Ahi, and sent forth the Seven Rivers, and opened as it were obstructed fountains. > 2 Indu, with thee for his confederate, Indra swiftly with might pressed down the wheel of Sūrya. > What rolled, all life's support, on heaven's high summit was separated from the great oppressor. > 3 Indra smote down, Agni consumed, O Indu, the Dasyus ere the noontide in the conflict. > Of those who gladly sought a hard-won dwelling he cast down many a thousand with his arrow. > 4 Lower than all besides hast thou, O Indra, cast down the Dasyus, abject tribes of Dāsas. > Ye drave away, ye put to death the foemen, and took great vengeance with your murdering weapons. > 5 So, of a truth, Indra and Soma, Heroes, ye burst the stable of the kine and horses, > The stable which the bar or stone obstructed; and piercing through set free the habitations.

Hymn XXIX. Indra.

Indra is invoked with his tawny steeds, called to the sacrifice as a man's friend who is ever victorious. The singer asks for his favor, to be brought into the company of the gods and to share in the wealth of heaven.

1 COME, lauded, unto us with powers and succours, O Indra, with thy Tawny Steeds; exulting, > Past even the foeman's manifold libations, glorified with our hymns, true Wealth-bestower. > 2 Man's Friend, to this our sacrifice he cometh marking how he is called by Soma-pressers. > Fearless, and conscious that his Steeds are noble, he joyeth with the Soma-pouring heroes. > 3 Make his cars hear, that he may show his vigour and may be joyful in the way he loveth. > May mighty Indra pouring forth in bounty bestow on us good roads and perfect safety; > 4 He who with succour comes to his implorer, the singer here who with his song invites him; > He who himself sets to the pole swift Coursers, he who hath hundreds, thousands, Thunder-wielder. > 5 O Indra Maghavan, by thee protected may we be thine, princes and priests and singers, > Sharing the riches sent from lofty heaven which yields much food, and all desire its bounty.

Hymn XXX. Indra.

This hymn is a powerful declaration of Indra's unparalleled might, celebrating his many victories. The singer recounts how Indra conquered all the gods, crushed Uṣas (Dawn), and slew the Dāsas, establishing his supreme and heroic power.

1 O INDRA, Vṛtra-slayer, none is better, mightier than thou: > Verily there is none like thee. > 2 Like chariot-wheels these people all together follow after thee: > Thou ever art renowned as Great. > 3 Not even all the gathered Gods conquered thee, Indra, in the war, > When thou didst lengthen days by night. > 4 When for the sake of those oppressed, and Kutsa as he battled, > Thou stolest away the Sun's car-wheel. > 5 When, fighting singly, Indra. thou o’ercamest all the furious Gods, thou slewest those who strove with thee. > 6 When also for a mortal man, Indra, thou speddest forth the Sun, > And holpest Etaśa with might. > 7 What? Vṛtra-slayer, art not thou, Maghavan, fiercest in thy wrath? > So hast thou quelled the demon too. > 8 And this heroic deed of might thou, Indra, also hast achieved, > That thou didst smite to death the Dame, Heaven's Daughter, meditating ill. > 9 Thou, Indra, Mighty One, didst crush Uṣas, though Daughter of the Sky. > When lifting up herself in pride. > 10 Then from her chariot Uṣas fled, affrighted, from her ruined car. > When the strong God had shattered it. > 11 So there this car of Uṣas lay, broken to pieces, in Vipāś, > And she herself fled far away. > 12 Thou, Indra, didst. with magic power resist the overflowing stream > Who spread her waters o’er the land. > 13 Valiantly didst thou seize and take the store which Śuṣṇa had amassed, > When thou didst crush his fortresses. > 14 Thou, Indra, also smotest down Kulitara's son Śambara, > The Dāsa, from the lofty hill. > 15 Of Dāsa Varcin's thou didst slay the hundred thousand and the five, > Crushed like the fellies, of a car. > 16 So Indra, Lord of Heroes, Powers, caused the unwedded damsel's son, > The castaway, to share the lauds. > 17 So sapient Indra, Lord of Might, brought Turvaśa and Yadu, those > Who feared the flood, in safety o’er. > 18 Arṇa and Citraratha, both Āryas, thou, Indra, slewest swift, > On yonder side of Sarayu, > 19 Thou, Vṛtra-slayer, didst conduct those two forlorn, the blind, the lame. > None may attain this bliss of thine. > 20 For Divodāsa, him who brought oblations, Indra overthrew > A hundred fortresses of stone. > 21 The thirty thousand Dāsas he with magic power and weapons sent > To slumber, for Dabhīti's sake. > 22 As such, O Vṛtra-slayer, thou art general Lord of kine for all, > Thou Shaker of all things that be. > 23 Indra, whatever deed of might thou hast this day to execute, > None be there now to hinder it. > 24 O Watchful One, may Aryaman the God give thee all goodly things. > May Pūṣan, Bhaga, and the God Karūḷatī give all things fair.

Hymn XXXI. Indra.

This hymn to Indra is a song of devotion and a plea for aid, seeking the god's friendship and assistance. The singer asks Indra to open the stables filled with kine and to bestow his celestial opulence, so that the worshippers may be strengthened and protected.

1 WITH what help will he come to us, wonderful, ever-waxing Friend; > With what most mighty company? > 2 What genuine and most liberal draught will spirit thee with juice to burst > Open e’en strongly-guarded wealth? > 3 Do thou who art Protector of us thy friends who praise thee > With hundred aids approach us. > 4 Like as a courser's circling wheel, so turn thee hitherward to us, > Attracted by the hymns of men. > 5 Thou seekest as it were thine own stations with swift descent of powers: > I share thee even with the Sun. > 6 What time thy courage and his wheels together, Indra, run their course > With thee and with the Sun alike, > 7 So even, Lord of Power and Might, the people call thee Maghavan, > Giver, who pauses not to think. > 8 And verily to him who toils and presses Soma juice for thee > Thou quickly givest ample wealth. > 9 No, not a hundred hinderers can check thy gracious bounty's flow, > Nor thy great deeds when thou wilt act. > 10 May thine assistance keep us safe, thy hundred and thy thousand aids: > May all thy favours strengthen us. > 11 Do thou elect us this place for friendship and prosperity, > And great celestial opulence. > 12 Favour us, Indra, evermore with overflowing store of wealth: > With all thy succours aid thou us. > 13 With new protections, Indra, like an archer, open thou for us > The stables that are filled with kine. > 14 Our chariot, Indra, boldly moves endued with splendour, ne’er repulsed, > Winning for us both kine and steeds. > 15 O Sūrya, make our fame to be most excellent among the Gods, > Most lofty as the heaven on high.

Hymn XXXII. Indra.

This hymn is a series of short, powerful invocations to Indra, calling him to the Soma libation. The singer, a member of the Gotama family, praises Indra's might, his love of song, and his ability to bestow wealth and heroic energy, asking him to turn his bay steeds toward their sacrifice.

1 O THOU who slewest Vṛtra, come, O Indra, hither to our side, > Mighty One with thy mighty aids. > 2 Swift and impetuous art thou, wondrous amid the well-dressed folk: > Thou doest marvels for our help. > 3 Even with the weak thou smitest down him > who is stronger, with thy strength > The mighty, with the Friends thou hast. > 4 O Indra, we are close to thee; to thee we sing aloud our songs: > Help and defend us, even us. > 5 As such, O Caster of the Stone, come with thy succours wonderful, > Blameless, and irresistible. > 6 May we be friends of one like thee, O Indra, with the wealth of kine, > Comrades for lively energy. > 7 For thou, O Indra, art alone the Lord of strength that comes from kine > So grant thou us abundant food. > 8 They turn thee not another way, when, lauded, Lover of the Song, > Thou wilt give wealth to those who praise. > 9 The Gotamas have sung their song of praise to thee that thou mayst give, > Indra, for lively energy. > 10 We will declare thy hero deeds, what Dāsa forts thou brakest down, > Attacking them in rapturous joy. > 11 The sages sing those manly deeds which, Indra, Lover of the Song, > Thou wroughtest when the Soma flowed. > 12 Indra, the Gotamas who bring thee praises have grown strong by thee. > Give them renown with hero sons. > 13 For, Indra, verily thou art the general treasure even of all . > Thee, therefore, do we invocate. > 14 Excellent Indra, turn to us: glad thee among us with the juice > Of Somas, Soma-drinker thou. > 15 May praise from us who think Qn thee, O Indra, bring thee near to us. > Turn thy two Bay Steeds hitherward. > 16 Eat of our sacrificial cake: rejoice thee in the songs we sing. > Even as a lover in his bride. > 17 To India for a thousand steeds well-trained and fleet of foot we pray, > And hundred jars of Soma juice. > 18 We make a hundred of thy kine, yea, and a thousand, hasten nigh: > So let thy bounty come to us. > 19 We have obtained, a gift from thee, ten water-ewers wrought of gold: > Thou, Vṛtra-slayer, givest much. > 20 A bounteous Giver, give us much, bring much and not a trifling gift: > Much, Indra, wilt thou fain bestow. > 21 O Vṛtra-slayer, thou art famed in many a place as bountiful > Hero, thy bounty let us share. > 22 I praise thy pair of Tawny Steeds, wise Son of him who giveth kine > Terrify not the cows with these. > 23 Like two slight images of girls, unrobed, upon a new-wrought post, > So shine the Bay Steeds in their course. > 24 For me the Bays are ready when I start, or start not, with the dawn, > Innocuous in the ways they take.

Hymn XXXIII. Ṛbhus.

This hymn to the Ṛbhus, divine artisans, is a narrative of their ascent to godhood. The singer, as a messenger from the gods, relays the challenge for them to fashion one sacrificial chalice into four, which they accomplish, earning them immortality and a share in the sacrifice.

1 I SEND my voice as herald to the Ṛbhus; I crave the white cow for the overspreading. > Wind-sped, the Skillful Ones in rapid motion have in an instant compassed round the heaven. > 2 What time the Rbus had with care and marvels done proper service to assist their Parents, > They won the friendship of the Gods; the Sages carried away the fruit of their devotion. > 3 May they who made their Parents, who were lying like posts that moulder, young again for ever,— > May Vāja, Vibhvan, Ṛbhu, joined with Indra , protect our sacrifice, the Soma-lovers. > 4 As for a year the Ṛbhus kept the Milch-cow, throughout a year fashioned and formed her body, > And through a year's space still sustained her brightness, through these their labours they were made immortal. > 5 Two beakers let us make,—thus said the eldest. Let us make three,—this was the younger's sentence. > Four beakers let us make,—thus spoke the youngest. Tvaṣṭar approved this rede of yours, O Ṛbhus. > 6 The men spake truth and even so they acted: this Godlike way of theirs the Ṛbhus followed. > And Tvaṣṭar, when he looked on the four beakers resplendent as the day, was moved with envy. > 7 When for twelve days the Ṛbhus joyed reposing as guests of him who never may be hidden, > They made fair fertile fields, they brought the rivers. Plants spread o’er deserts, waters filled the hollows. > 8 May they who formed the swift car, bearing Heroes, and the Cow omniform and all-impelling, > Even may they form wealth for us,—the Ṛbhus, dexterous-handed, deft in work and gracious. > 9 So in their work the Gods had satisfaction, pondering it with thought and mental insight. > The Gods’ expert artificer was Vāja, Indra's Ṛbhukṣan, Varuṇa's was Vibhvan. > 10 They who made glad with sacrifice and praises, wrought the two Bays, his docile Steeds, for Indra,— > Ṛbhus, as those who wish a friend to prosper, bestow upon us gear and growth of riches. > 11 This day have they set gladdening drink before you. Not without toil are Gods inclined to friendship. > Therefore do ye who are so great, O Ṛbhus, vouchsafe us treasures at this third libation.

Hymn XXXIV. Ṛbhus.

This hymn invites the Ṛbhus—along with Vāja and Vibhvan—to the sacrifice, reminding them that the gladdening Soma drops have reached them. The song recounts their great deeds, such as fashioning the milch-cow and helping their parents, and asks them to rejoice with the other gods and grant riches.

1 To this our sacrifice come Ṛbhu, Vibhvan, Vāja, and Indra with the gift of riches, > Because this day hath Dhiṣaṇā the Goddess set drink for you: the gladdening draughts have reached you. > 2 Knowing your birth and rich in gathered treasure, Ṛbhus, rejoice together with the Ṛtus. > The gladdening draughts and wisdom have approached you: send ye us riches with good store of heroes. > 3 For you was made this sacrifice, O Ṛbhus, which ye, like men, won for yourselves aforetime. > To you come all who find in you their pleasure: ye all were—even the two elder—Vājas. > 4 Now for the mortal worshipper, O Heroes, for him who served you, was the gift of riches. > Drink, Vājas, Ṛbhus! unto you is offered, to gladden you, the third and great libation. > 5 Come to us, Heroes, Vājas and Ṛbhukṣans, glorified for the sake of mighty treasure. > These draughts approach you as the day is closing, as cows, whose calves are newly-born, their stable. > 6 Come to this sacrifice of ours, ye Children of Strength, invoked with humble adoration. > Drink of this meath, Wealth-givers, joined with Indra with whom ye are in full accord, ye Princes. > 7 Close knit with Varuṇa drink the Soma, Indra; close-knit, Hymn-lover! with the Maruts drink it: > Close-knit with drinkers first, who drink in season; close-knit with heavenly Dames who give us treasures. > 8 Rejoice in full accord with the Ādityas, in concord with the Parvatas, O Ṛbhus; > In full accord with Savitar, Divine One; in full accord with floods that pour forth riches. > 9 Ṛbhus, who helped their Parents and the Aśvins, who formed the Milch-cow and the pair of horses, > Made armour, set the heaven and earth asunder,—far- reaching Heroes, they have made good offspring. > 10 Ye who have wealth in cattle and in booty, in heroes, in rich sustenance and treasure, > Such, O ye Ṛbhus, first to drink, rejoicing, give unto us and those who laud our present. > 11 Ye were not far: we have not left you thirsting, blameless in this our sacrifice, O Ṛbhus. > Rejoice you with the Maruts and with Indra, with the Kings, Gods! that ye may give us riches.

Hymn XXXV. Ṛbhus.

This hymn to the Ṛbhus, the Children of Sudhanvan, recalls their great artistic feats that won them immortality. The singer invites them to the Soma libation after Indra, reminding them how they fashioned four chalices from one, made their parents young again, and crafted Indra's two bay steeds.

1 Come hither, O ye Sons of Strength, ye Ṛbhus; stay not afar, ye Children of Sudhanvan. > At this libation is your gift of treasure. Let gladdening draughts approach you after Indra's. > 2 Hither is come the Ṛbhus' gift of riches; here was the drinking of the well-pressed Soma, > Since by dexterity and skill as craftsmen ye made the single chalice to be fourfold > 3 Ye made fourfold the chalice that wag single: ye spake these words and said, O Friend, assist us; > Then, Vājas! gained the path of life eternal, deft-handed Ṛbhus, to the Gods’ assembly. > 4 Out of what substance was that chalice fashioned which ye made fourfold by your art and wisdom? > Now for the gladdening draught press out the liquor, and drink, O Ṛbhus, of die meath of Soma. > 5 Ye with your cunning made your Parents youthful; the cup, for Gods to drink, ye formed with cunning; > With cunning, Ṛbhus, rich in treasure, fashioned the two swift Tawny Steeds who carry Indra. > 6 Whoso pours out for you, when days are closing, the sharp libation for your joy, O Vājas, > For him, O mighty Ṛbhus, ye, rejoicing, have fashioned wealth with plenteous store of heroes. > 7 Lord of Bay Steeds, at dawn the juice thou drankest: thine, only thine, is the noonday libation. > Now drink thou with the wealth-bestowing Ṛbhus, whom for their skill thou madest friends, O Indra. > 8 Ye, whom your artist skill hath raised to Godhead have set you down above in heaven like falcons. > So give us riches, Children of Sudhanvan, O Sons of Strength; ye have become immortal. > 9 The third libation, that bestoweth treasure, which ye have won by skill, ye dexterous-handed,— > This drink hath been effused for you, O Ṛbhus . drink it with high delight, with joy like Indra's.

Hymn XXXVI. Ṛbhus.

The singer praises the Ṛbhus for their divine craftsmanship, celebrating their three-wheeled chariot that rolls around the firmament and their other miraculous deeds. The hymn is a petition for wealth and power, asserting that those whom the Ṛbhus favor will be strong, eloquent, and victorious.

1 THE car that was not made for horses or for reins, three-wheeled, worthy of lauds, rolls round the firmament. > That is the great announcement of your Deity, that, O ye Ṛbhus, ye sustain the earth and heaven. > 2 Ye Sapient Ones who made the lightly-rolling car out of your mind, by thought, the car that never errs, > You, being such, to drink of this drink-offering, you, O ye Vājas, and ye Ṛbhus, we invoke. > 3 O Vājas, Ṛbhus, reaching far, among the Gods this was your exaltation gloriously declared, > In that your aged Parents, worn with length of days, ye wrought again to youth so that they moved at will. > 4 The chalice that wag single ye have made fourfold, and by your wisdom brought the Cow forth from the hide. > So quickly, mid the Gods, ye gained immortal life. Vājas and Ṛbhus, your great work must be extolled. > 5 Wealth from the Ṛbhus is most glorious in renown, that which the Heroes, famed for vigour, have produced. > In synods must be sung the car which Vibhvan wrought: that which ye favour, Gods! is famed among mankind. > 6 Strong is the steed, the man a sage in eloquence, the bowman is a hero hard to beat in fight, > Great store of wealth and manly power hath he obtained whom Vāja, Vibhvan, Ṛbhus have looked kindly on. > 7 To you hath been assigned the fairest ornament, the hymn of praise: Vājas and Ṛbhus, joy therein; > For ye have lore and wisdom and poetic skill: as such, with this our prayer we call on you to come. > 8 According to the wishes of our hearts may ye, who have full knowledge of all the delights of men, > Fashion for us, O Ṛbhus, power and splendid wealth, rich in high courage, excellent, and vital strength. > 9 Bestowing on us here riches and offspring, here fashion fame for us befitting heroes. > Vouchsafe us wealth of splendid sort, O Ṛbhus, that we may make us more renowned than others.

Hymn XXXVII. Ṛbhus.

This hymn invites the Ṛbhus—Vājas and Ṛbhukṣans—to the sacrifice, calling them to come with their well-fed horses and splendid car. The singer asks for their favor, invoking them as the progeny of Indra and Sons of Strength, and praying that ample riches may be won.

1 COME to our sacrifice, Vājas, Ṛbhukṣans, Gods, by the paths which Gods are wont to travel, > As ye, gay Gods, accept in splendid weather the sacrifice among these folk of Manus. > 2 May these rites please you in your heart and spirit; may the drops clothed in oil this day approach you. > May the abundant juices bear you onward to power and strength, and, when imbibed, delight you. > 3 Your threefold going near is God-appointed, so praise is given you, Vājas and Ṛbhukṣans. > So, Manus-like, mid younger folk I offer, to you who are aloft in heaven, the Soma. > 4 Strong, with fair chains of gold and jaws of iron, ye have a splendid car and well-fed horses. > Ye Sons of Strength, ye progeny of Indra, to you the best is offered to delight you. > 5 Ṛbhukṣans! him, for handy wealth, the mightiest comrade in the fight, > Him, Indra's equal, we invoke, most bounteous ever, rich in steeds. > 6 The mortal man whom, Ṛbhus, ye and Indra favour with your help, > Must be successful, by his thoughts, at sacrifice and with the steed. > 7 O Vājas and Ṛbhukṣans, free for us the paths to sacrifice, > Ye Princes, lauded, that we may press forward to each point of heaven. > 8 O Vājas and Ṛbhukṣans, ye Nāsatyas, Indra, bless this wealth, > And, before other men's, the steed, that ample riches may be won.

Hymn XXXVIII. Dadhikris.

This hymn praises Dadhikrās, the divine horse given by the Aśvins, who is likened to a swift hawk and a victorious king. The singer celebrates his speed in battle, his power to win booty, and his glorious presence among the people, who cry after him as he rushes into the fray.

1 FROM you two came the gifts in days aforetime which Trasadasyu granted to the Pūrus. > Ye gave the winner of our fields and plough-lands, and the strong smiter who subdued the Dasyus. > 2 And ye gave mighty Dadhikrās, the giver of many gifts, who visiteth all people, > Impetuous hawk, swift and of varied colour, like a brave King whom each true man must honour. > 3 Whom, as ’twere down a precipice, swift rushing, each Pūru praises and his heart rejoices,— > Springing forth like a hero fain for battle, whirling the car and flying like the tempest. > 4 Who gaineth precious booty in the combats and moveth, winning spoil, among the cattle; > Shown in bright colour, looking on the assemblies, beyond the churl, to worship of the living. > 5 Loudly the folk cry after him in battles, as ’twere a thief who steals away a garment; > Speeding to glory, or a herd of cattle, even as a hungry falcon swooping downward. > 6 And, fain to come forth first amid these armies, this way and that with rows of cars he rushes, > Gay like a bridesman, making him a garland, tossing the dust, champing the rein that holds him. > 7 And that strong Steed, victorious and faithful, obedient with his body in the combat, > Speeding straight on amid the swiftly pressing, casts o’er his brows the dust he tosses upward. > 8 And at his thunder, like the roar of heaven, those who attack tremble and are affrighted; > For when he fights against embattled thousands, dread is he in his striving; none may stay him. > 9 The people praise the overpowering swiftness of this fleet Steed who giveth men abundance. > Of him they say when drawing back from battle. Dadhikrās hath sped forward with his thousands. > 10 Dadhikrās hath o’erspread the Fivefold People with vigour, as the Sun lightens the waters. > May the strong Steed who winneth hundreds, thousands, requite with sweetness these my words and praises.

Hymn XXXIX. Dadhikrās.

This hymn to Dadhikrās, the swift divine horse, is offered at the break of dawn. The singer calls on the mornings to inspire him, and praises the stallion for bringing food, strength, and light, asking that he make their mouths sweet and prolong their days.

1 Now give we praise to Dadhikrās the rapid, and mention in our laud the Earth and Heaven. > May the Dawns flushing move me to exertion, and bear me safely over every trouble. > 2 I praise the mighty Steed who fills my spirit, the Stallion Dadhikrāvan rich in bounties, > Whom, swift of foot and shining bright as Agni, ye, Varuṇa and Mitra, gave to Pūrus. > 3 Him who hath honoured, when the flame is kindled at break of dawn, the Courser Dadhikrāvan, > Him, of one mind with Varuṇa and Mitra may Aditi make free from all transgression. > 4 When we remember mighty Dadhikrāvan our food and strength, then the blest name of Maruts, > Varuṇa, Mitra, we invoke for welfare, and Agni, and the thunder wielding Indra. > 5 Both sides invoke him as they call on Indra when they stir forth and turn to sacrificing. > To us have Varuṇa and Mitra granted the Courser Dadhikrās, a guide for mortals. > 6 So have I glorified with praise strong Dadhikrāvan, conquering Steed. > Sweet may he make our mouths; may he prolong the days we have to live.

Hymn XL. Dadhikrāvan.

This hymn is a morning recitation in praise of Dadhikrāvan, the divine horse. The singer calls upon the Lord of Waters, Dawn, Agni, and Sūrya, and celebrates the courser's swiftness and power, likening him to a bird and a falcon as he springs along the paths.

1 LET us recite the praise of Dadhikrāvan: may all the Mornings move me to exertion; > Praise of the Lord of Waters, Dawn, and Agni, Bṛhaspati Son of Aṅgiras, and Sūrya. > 2 Brave, seeking war and booty, dwelling with the good and with the swift, may he hasten the food of Dawn. > May he the true, the fleet, the lover of the course, the bird-like Dadhikrāvan, bring food, strength, and light. > 3 His pinion, rapid runner, fans him m his way, as of a bird that hastens onward to its aim, > And, as it were a falcon's gliding through the air, strikes Dadhikrāvan's side as he speeds on with might. > 4 Bound by the neck and by the flanks and by the mouth, the vigorous Courser lends new swiftness to his speed. > Drawing himself together, as his strength allows, Dadhikrās springs along the windings of the paths. > 5 The Haṁsa homed in light, the Vasu in mid-air, the priest beside the altar, in the house the guest, > Dweller in noblest place, mid men, in truth, in sky, born of flood, kine, truth, mountain, he is holy Law.

Hymn XLI. Indra-Varuṇa.

This hymn to Indra and Varuṇa is a prayer for aid and a song of praise, seeking their favor in the ongoing cosmic and earthly battles. The singer calls on the two great gods to bring wealth, protection, and victory, celebrating their power to make the paths of life easy for their worshippers.

1 WHAT laud, O Indra-Varuṇa, with oblation, hath like the Immortal Priest obtained your favour? > Hath our effectual laud, addressed with homage, touched you, O Indra Varuṇa, in spirit? > 2 He who with dainty food hath won you, Indra and Varuṇa, Gods, as his allies to friendship, > Slayeth the Vṛtras and his foes in battles, and through your mighty favours is made famous. > 3 Indra and Varuṇa are most liberal givers of treasure to the men who toil to serve them, > When they, as Friends inclined to friendship, honoured with dainty food, delight in flowing Soma. > 4 Indra and Varuṇa, ye hurl, O Mighty, on him your strongest flashing bolt of thunder > Who treats us ill, the robber and oppressor: measure on him your overwhelming vigour. > 5 O Indra-Varuṇa, be ye the lovers of this my song, as steers who love the milch-Cow. > Milk may it yield us as, gone forth to pasture, the great Cow pouring out her thousand rivers. > 6 For fertile fields, for worthy sons and grandsons, for the Sun's beauty and for steer-like vigour, > May Indra-Varuṇa with gracious favours work marvels for us in the stress of battle. > 7 For you, as Princes, for your ancient kindness, good comrades of the man who seeks for booty, > We choose to us for the dear bond of friendship, most liberal Heroes bringing bliss like parents. > 8 Showing their strength, these hymns for grace, Free-givers I have gone to you, devoted, as to battle. > For glory have they gone, as milk to Soma, to Indra-Varuṇa my thoughts and praises. > 9 To Indra and to Varuṇa, desirous of gaining wealth have these my thoughts proceeded. > They have come nigh to you as treasure-lovers, like mares, fleet-footed, eager for the glory. > 10 May we ourselves be lords of during riches, of ample sustenance for car and hones. > So may the Twain who work with newest succours bring yoked teams hitherward to us and riches. > 11 Come with your mighty succours, O ye Mighty; come, Indra-Varuṇa, to us in battle. > What time the flashing arrows play in combat, may we through you be winners in the contest.

Hymn XLII. Indra-Varuṇa.

This hymn is a powerful declaration of sovereignty, spoken alternately by Indra and Varuṇa, who claim their dominion over the cosmos. They declare their shared power, with Varuṇa as the royal ruler and Indra as the warrior who excites the conflict, demonstrating that their divine authority is absolute and unchallenged.

1 I AM the royal Ruler, mine is empire, as mine who sway all life are all Immortals. > Varuṇa's will the Gods obey and follow. I am the King of men's most lofty cover. > 2 I am King Varuṇa. To me were given these first existing high celestial powers. > Varuṇa's will the Gods obey and follow. I am the King of men's most lofty cover. > 3 I Varuṇa am Indra: in their greatness, these the two wide deep fairly fashioned regions, > These the two world-halves have I, even as Tvaṣṭar knowing all beings, joined and held together. > 4 I made to flow the moisture-shedding waters, and set the heaven firm in the scat of Order. > By Law the Son of Aditi, Law Observer, hath spread abroad the world in threefold measure. > 5 Heroes with noble horses, fain for battle, selected warriors, call on me in combat. > I Indra Maghavan, excite the conflict; I stir the dust, Lord of surpassing vigour. > 6 All this I did. The Gods’ own conquering power never impedeth me whom none opposeth. > When lauds and Soma juice have made me joyful, both the unbounded regions are affrighted. > 7 All beings know these deeds of thine thou tellest this unto Varuṇa, thou great Disposer! > Thou art renowned as having slain the Vṛtras. Thou madest flow the floods that were obstructed. > 8 Our fathers then were these, the Seven his, what time the son of Durgaha was captive. > For her they gained by sacrifice Trasadasyu, a demi-god, like Indra, conquering foemen. > 9 The spouse of Purukutsa gave oblations to you, O Indra-Varuṇa, with homage. > Then unto her ye gave King Trasadasyu, the demi-god, the slayer of the foeman. > 10 May we, possessing much, delight in riches, Gods in oblations and the kine in pasture; > And that Milch-cow who shrinks not from the milking, O Indra-Varuṇa, give to us daily.

Hymn XLIII. Aśvins.

This hymn to the Aśvins questions which god will hear their homage and come most quickly to bring bliss. The singer asks what prayer will bring the divine twins to their aid, praising them as lovers of sweetness who can save their worshippers from betrayal.

1 WHO will hear, who of those who merit worship, which of all Gods take pleasure in our homage? > On whose heart shall we lay this laud celestial, rich with fair offerings, dearest to Immortals? > 2 Who will be gracious? Who will come most quickly of all the Gods? Who will bring bliss most largely? > What car do they call swift with rapid coursers? That which the Daughter of the Sun elected. > 3 So many days do ye come swiftly hither, as Indra to give help in stress of battle. > Descended from the sky, divine, strong-pinioned, by which of all your powers are ye most mighty? > 4 What is the prayer that we should bring you, Aśvins, whereby ye come to us when invocated? > Whether of you confronts e’en great betrayal? Lovers of sweetness, Dasras, help and save us. > 5 In the wide space your chariot reacheth heaven, what time it turneth hither from the ocean. > Sweets from your sweet shall drop, lovers of sweetness! These have they dressed for you as dainty viands. > 6 Let Sindhu with his wave bedew your horses: in fiery glow have the red birds come hither. > Observed of all was that your rapid going, whereby ye were the Lords of Sūrya's Daughter. > 7 Whene’er I gratified you here together, your grace was given us, O ye rich in booty. > Protect, ye Twain, the singer of your praises: to you, Nāsatyas, is my wish directed.

Hymn XLIV. Aśvins.

The singer invokes the far-spreading chariot of the Aśvins, praised in hymns and rich in treasure. The hymn is a petition for their favor and for riches, reminding the divine twins of the ancient bonds of friendship that tie them to their worshippers.

1 WE will invoke this day your car, far-spreading, O Aśvins, even the gathering, of the sunlight,— > Car praised in hymns, most ample, rich in treasure, fitted with seats, the car that beareth Sūrya. > 2 Aśvins, ye gained that glory by your Godhead, ye Sons of Heaven, by your own might and power. > Food followeth close upon your bright appearing when stately horses in your chariot draw you. > 3 Who bringeth you to-day for help with offered oblation, or with hymns to drink the juices? > Who, for the sacrifice's ancient lover, turneth you hither, Aśvins, offering homage? > 4 Borne on your golden car, ye omnipresent! come to this sacrifice of ours, Nāsatyas. > Drink of the pleasant liquor of the Soma give riches to the people who adore you. > 5 Come hitherward to us from earth, from heaven, borne on your golden chariot rolling lightly. > Suffer not other worshippers to stay you here are ye bound by earlier bonds of friendship. > 6 Now for us both, mete out, O Wonder-Workers, riches exceeding great with store of heroes, > Because the men have sent you praise, O Aśvins, and Ajamīlhas come to the laudation. > 7 Whene’er I gratified you here together, your grace was given us, O ye rich in booty. > Protect, ye Twain, the singer of your praises: to you, Nāsatyas, is my wish directed.

Hymn XLV. Aśvins.

This hymn to the Aśvins paints a vivid picture of their cosmic journey, with viands of pleasant meath, friendly swans, and the Sun's radiance. The singer declares his devotion, offering Soma and praise in the hope of receiving their favor and protection.

1 YONDER goes up that light: your chariot is yoked that travels round upon the summit of this heaven. > Within this car are stored three kindred shares of food, and a skin filled with meath is rustling as the fourth. > 2 Forth come your viands rich with store of pleasant meath, and cars and horses at the flushing of the dawn, > Stripping the covering from the surrounded gloom, and spreading through mid-air bright radiance like the Sun. > 3 Drink of the meath with lips accustomed to the draught; harness for the meath's sake the chariot that ye love. > Refresh the way ye go, refresh the paths with meath: hither, O Aśvins, bring the skin that holds the meath. > 4 The swans ye have are friendly, rich in store of meath, gold-pinioned, strong to draw, awake at early morn, > Swimming the flood, exultant, fain for draughts that cheer: ye come like flies to our libations of the meath. > 5 Well knowing solemn rites and rich in meath, the fires sing to the morning Aśvins at the break of day, > When with pure hands the prudent energetic priest hath with the stones pressed out the Soma rich in meath. > 6 The rays advancing nigh, chasing with day the gloom, spread through the firmament bright radiance like the Sun; > And the Sun harnessing his horses goeth forth: ye through your Godlike nature let his paths be known. > 7 Devout in thought I have declared, O Aśvins, your chariot with good steeds, which lasts for ever, > Wherewith ye travel swiftly through the regions to the prompt worshipper who brings oblation.

Hymn XLVI. Vāyu. Indra-Vāyu.

This hymn is a swift, direct invocation to Vāyu, the wind god, and to the divine pair of Indra-Vāyu. The singers offer the pressed Soma juice, calling on the gods to come on their golden-seated car and drink the first draught at their holy rites.

1 DRINK the best draught of Soma-juice, O Vāyu, at our holy rites: > For thou art he who drinketh first. > 2 Come, team-drawn, with thy hundred helps, with Indra, seated in the car, > Vāyu, and drink your fill of juice. > 3 May steeds a thousand bring you both, Indra. and Vāyu, hitherward > To drink the Soma, to the feast. > 4 For ye, O Indra-Vāyu, mount the golden-seated car that aids > The sacrifice, that reaches heaven. > 5 On far-refulgent chariot come unto the man who offers gifts: > Come, Indra-Vāyu, hitherward. > 6 Here, Indra-Vāyu, is the juice: drink it, accordant with the Gods, > Within the giver's dwelling-place. > 7 Hither, O Indra-Vāyu, be your journey here unyoke your steeds, > Here for your draught of Soma juice.

Hymn XLVII. Vāyu. Indra-Vāyu.

This brief hymn is a series of focused calls to Vāyu and the divine pair of Indra-Vāyu. The singer offers the bright Soma juice, inviting the mighty gods to come with their teams and drink, turning toward the worshipper with favor.

1 Vāyu, the bright is offered thee, best of the meath at holy rites. > Come thou to drink the Soma juice, God, longed-for, on thy team-drawn car. > 2 O Vāyu, thou and Indra are meet drinkers of these Soma-draughts, > For unto you the drops proceed as waters gather to the vale. > 3 O Indra-Vāyu, mighty Twain, speeding together, Lords of Strength, > Come to our succour with your team, that ye may drink the Soma juice. > 4 The longed-for teams which ye possess, O Heroes, for the worshipper, > Turn to us, Indra-Vāyu, ye to whom the sacrifice is paid.

Hymn XLVIII. Vāyu.

This hymn is a litany of praise, calling on Vāyu to come on his refulgent car and drink the Soma juice. The singer repeats the refrain, urging the god with his teams of nine-and-ninety or even a thousand steeds to hasten to their offering.

1 TASTE offerings never tasted yet, as bards enjoy the foeman's wealth. > O Vāyu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. > 2 Removing curses, drawn by teams, with Indra, seated by thy side, > O Vāyu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. > 3 The two dark treasuries of wealth that wear > all beauties wait on thee. > O Vāyu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. > 4 May nine-and-ninety harnessed steeds who yoke them at thy will bring thee. > O Vāyu, on refulgent car come to the drinking of the juice. > 5 Harness, O Vāyu, to thy car a hundred well-fed tawny steeds, > Yea, or a thousand steeds, and let thy chariot come to us with might.

Hymn XLIX. Indra-Bṛhaspati.

This short, powerful hymn calls upon the divine pair of Indra and Bṛhaspati, offering them the sweet Soma juice. The singers invite the two gods to their house, asking for riches and a share of their gladdening draught.

The singers invite the two gods to their house, asking for riches and a share of their gladdening draught.

1 DEAR is this offering in your mouth, O Indra and Bṛhaspati: > Famed is the laud, the gladdening draught. > 2 This lovely Soma is effused, O Indra and Bṛhaspati, > For you, to drink it and rejoice. > 3 As Soma-drinkers to our house come, Indra and Bṛhaspati-and Indra to drink Soma juice. > 4 Vouchsafe us riches hundredfold, O Indra, and Bṛhaspati, > With store of horses, thousandfold. > 5 O Indra. and Bṛhaspati, we call you when the meath is shed, > With songs, to drink the Soma juice. > 6 Drink, Indra and Bṛhaspati, the Soma in the giver's house: > Delight yourselves abiding there.

Hymn L. Bṛhaspati.

This hymn to Bṛhaspati, the lord of prayer, celebrates his cosmic power as the one who propped up the ends of the earth and dispersed the darkness. The singer recalls how Bṛhaspati, with a voice of thunder, broke open the stall of the celestial kine and destroyed the obstructive Vala.

1 Him who with might hath propped earth's ends, who sitteth in threefold seat, Bṛhaspati, with thunder, > Him of the pleasant tongue have ancient sages, deep-thinking, holy singers, set before them. > 2 Wild in their course, in well-marked wise rejoicing were they, Bṛhaspati, who pressed around us. > Preserve Bṛhaspati, the stall uninjured, this company's raining, ever moving birthplace. > 3 Bṛhaspati, from thy remotest distance have they sat down who love the law eternal. > For thee were dug wells springing from the mountain, which murmuring round about pour streams of sweetness. > 4 Bṛhaspati, when first he had his being from mighty splendour in supremest heaven, > Strong, with his sevenfold mouth, with noise of thunder, with his seven rays, blew and dispersed the darkness. > 5 With the loud-shouting band who sang his praises, with thunder, he destroyed obstructive Vala. > Bṛhaspati thundering drave forth the cattle, the lowing cows who make oblations ready. > 6 Serve we with sacrifices, gifts, and homage even thus the Steer of all the Gods, the Father. > Bṛhaspati, may we be lords of riches, with noble progeny and store of heroes. > 7 Surely that King by power and might heroic hath made him lord of all his foes' posses-ions, > Who cherishes Bṛhaspati well-tended, adorns and worships him as foremost sharer. > 8 In his own house he dwells in peace and comfort: to him for ever holy food flows richly. > To him the people with free will pay homage-the King with whom the Brahman hath precedence. > 9 He, unopposed, is master of the riches of his own subjects and of hostile people. > The Gods uphold that King with their protection who helps the Brahman when he seeks his favour. > 10 Indra, Bṛhaspati, rainers of treasure, rejoicing at this sacrifice drink the Soma. > Let the abundant drops sink deep within you: vouchsafe us riches with full store of heroes. > 11 Bṛhaspati and Indra, make us prosper may this be your benevolence to us-ward. > Assist our holy thoughts, wake up our spirit: weaken the hatred of our foe and rivals.

Hymn LI. Dawn.

This hymn to Dawn is a song of praise and petition, celebrating her as the one who brings light and welfare to the people. The singer, on behalf of the seven-toned singer (Aṅgiras), asks the Goddesses to bestow wealth and heroic vigor, so that they may be masters of their own destiny.

1 FORTH from the darkness in the region eastward this most abundant splendid light hatb mounted. > Now verily the far-refulgent Mornings, Daughters of Heaven, bring welfare to the people. > 2 The richly-coloured Dawns have mounted eastward, like pillars planted at our sacrifices, > And, flushing far, splendid and purifying, unbarred the portals of the fold of darkness. > 3 Dispelling gloom this day the wealthy Mornings urge liberal givers to present their treasures. > In the unlightened depth of darkness round them let niggard traffickers sleep unawakened. > 4 O Goddesses, is this your car, I ask you, ancient this day, or is it new, ye Mornings, > Wherewith, rich Dawns, ye seek with wealth Navagva, Daśagva Aṅgira, the seven-toned singer? > 5 With horses harnessed by eternal Order, Goddesses, swiftly round the worlds ye travel, > Arousing from their rest, O Dawns, the sleeping, and all that lives, man, bird, and beast, to motion. > 6 Which among these is eldest, and where is she through whom they fixed the Ṛbhus' regulations? > What time the splendid Dawns go forth for splendour, they are not known apart, alike, unwasting. > 7 Blest were these Dawns of old, shining with succour, true with the truth that springs from holy Order; > With whom the toiling worshipper, by praises, hymning and lauding, soon attained to riches. > 8 Hither from eastward all at once they travel, from one place spreading in the selfsame manner. > Awaking, from the seat of holy Order the Godlike Dawns come nigh like troops of cattle. > 9 Thus they go forth with undiminished colours, these Mornings similar, in self-same fashion, > Concealing the gigantic might of darkness with radiant bodies bright and pure and shining. > 10 O Goddesses, O Heaven's refulgent Daughters, bestow upon us wealth with store of children. > As from our pleasant place of rest ye rouse us may we be masters of heroic vigour. > 11 Well-skilled in lore of sacrifice, ye Daughters of Heaven, refulgent Dawns, I thus address you. > May we be glorious among the people. May Heaven vouchsafe us this, and Earth the Goddess,

Hymn LII. Dawn.

This brief hymn is a simple, affectionate address to Uṣas, the Dawn. The singer praises her as the mother of the kine and the friend of the Aśvins, who rules over wealth and drives away hate, asking her to overspread the world with her bright, shining lustre.

1 THIS Lady, giver of delight, after her Sister shining forth, Daughter of Heaven, hath shown herself.- > 2 Unfailing, Mother of the Kine, in colour like a bright red mare, > The Dawn became the Aśvins' Friend. > 3 Yea, and thou art the Aśvins' Friend, the Mother of the Kine art thou: > O Dawn thou rulest over wealth. > 4 Thinking of thee, O joyous One, as her who driveth hate away, > We woke to meet thee with our lauds. > 5 Our eyes behold thy blessed rays like troops of cattle loosed to feed. > Dawn hath filled full the wide expanse. > 6 When thou hast filled it, Fulgent One! thou layest bare the gloom with light. > After thy nature aid us, Dawn. > 7 Thou overspreadest heaven with rays, the dear wide region of mid-air. > With thy bright shining lustre, Dawn.

Hymn LIII. Savitar.

This hymn to Savitar, the god of impulse, praises his power to sustain the heavens and cherish all life. The singer invokes him as the golden-handed Asura who spreads his arms across the world, setting all things in motion and protecting the holy ordinances.

1 OF Savitar the God, the sapient Asura, we crave this great gift which is worthy of our choice, > Wherewith he freely grants his worshiper defence. This with his rays the Great God hath vouchsafed to us. > 2 Sustainer of the heaven, Lord of the whole world's life, the Sage, he putteth on his golden-coloured mail. > Clear-sighted, spreading far, filling the spacious realm, Savitar hath brought forth bliss that deserveth laud. > 3 He hath filled full the regions of the heaven and earth: the God for his own strengthening waketh up the hymn. > Savitar hath stretched out his arms to cherish life, producing with his rays and lulling all that moves. > 4 Lighting all living creatures, ne’er to be deceived, Savitar, God, protects each holy ordinance. > He hath stretched out his arms to all the folk of earth, and, with his laws observed, rules his own mighty course. > 5 Savitar thrice surrounding with his mightiness mid-air, three regions, and the triple sphere of light, > Sets the three heavens in motion and the threefold earth, and willingly protects us with his triple law. > 6 Most gracious God, who brings to life and lulls to rest, he who controls the world, what moves not and what moves, > May he vouchsafe us shelter,—Savitar the God,—for tranquil life, with triple bar against distress. > 7 With the year's seasons hath Savitar, God, come nigh: may he prosper our home, give food and noble sons. > May he invigorate us through the days and nights, and may he send us opulence with progeny.

Hymn LIV. Savitar.

This hymn is a prayer to Savitar, the God who distributes wealth and opens the path of life. The singer asks for absolution from sin, whether committed through weakness or insolence, and prays for the blessing and protection of all the great gods.

1 Now must we praise and honour Savitar the God: at this time of the day the men must call to him, > Him who distributes wealth to Manu's progeny, that he may grant us here riches most excellent. > 2 For thou at first producest for the holy Gods the noblest of all portions, immortality: > Thereafter as a gift to men, O Savitar, thou openest existence, life succeeding life. > 3 If we, men as we are, have sinned against the Gods through want of thought, in weakness, or through insolence, > Absolve us from the guilt and make us free from sin, O Savitar, alike among both Gods and men. > 4 None may impede that power of Savitar the God whereby he will maintain the universal world. > What the fair-fingered God brings forth on earth's expanse or in the height of heaven, that work of his stands sure. > 5 To lofty hills thou sendest those whom Indra leads, and givest fixed abodes with houses unto these. > However they may fly and draw themselves apart, still, Savitar, they stand obeying thy behest. > 6 May the libations poured to thee thrice daily, day after day, O Savitar, bring us blessing. > May Indra, Heaven, Earth, Sindhu with the Waters, Aditi with Ādityas, give us shelter.

Hymn LV. Viśvedevas.

This hymn to the All-Gods is a plea for protection from the stronger mortal and from all forms of distress. The singer invokes the great deities who uphold the ancient statutes, including the Housewife Goddess Aditi and the river Sindhu, asking for their friendship and aid.

1 WHO of you, Vasus, saveth? who protecteth? O Heaven and Earth and Aditi, preserve us, > Varuṇa., Mitra, from the stronger mortal. Gods, which of you at sacrifice giveth comfort? > 2 They who with laud extol the ancient statutes, when they shine forth infallible dividers, > Have ordered as perpetual Ordainers, and beamed as holy-thoughted Wonder-Workers. > 3 The Housewife Goddess, Aditi, and Sindhu, the Goddess Svasti I implore for friendship: > And may the unobstructed Night and Morning both, day and night, provide for our protection. > 4 Aryaman, Varuṇa have disclosed the pathway, Agni as Lord of Strength the road to welfare. > Lauded in manly mode may Indra-Viṣṇu grant us their powerful defence and shelter. > 5 I have besought the favour of the Maruts, of Parvata, of Bhaga God who rescues. > From trouble caused by man the Lord preserve us; from woe sent by his friend let Mitra save us. > 6 Agree, through these our watery oblations, Goddesses, Heaven and Earth, with Ahibudhnya. > As if to win the sea, the Gharma-heaters have opened, as they come anear, the rivers. > 7 May Goddess Aditi with Gods defend us, save us the saviour God with care unceasing. > We dare not stint the sacred food of Mitra and Varuṇa upon the back of Agni. > 8 Agni is Sovran Lord of wealth, Agni of great prosperity: > May he bestow these gifts on us. > 9 Hither to us, rich pleasant Dawn, bring many things to be desired, > Thou who hast ample store of wealth. > 10 So then may Bhaga, Savitar, Varuṇa, Mitra, Aryaman, Indra, with bounty come to us.

Hymn LVI. Heaven and Earth.

This hymn praises the divine pair of Heaven and Earth, the holy and wise parents of all creatures. The singer celebrates them as the skillful craftspeople who measured out the world and established it with pillars that never decay, asking them to bestow glory and lordly sway.

1 MAY mighty Heaven and Earth, most meet for honour, be present here with light and gleaming splendours; > When, fixing them apart, vast, most extensive, the Steer roars loudly in far-reaching courses. > 2 The Goddesses with Gods, holy with holy, the Two stand pouring out their rain, exhaustless: > Faithful and guileless, having Gods for children, leaders of sacrifice with shining splendours. > 3 Sure in the worlds he was a skilful Craftsman, he who produced these Twain the Earth and Heaven. > Wise, with his power he brought both realms, together spacious and deep, well-fashioned, unsupported. > 4 O Heaven and Earth, with one accord promoting, with high protection as of Queens, our welfare, > Far-reaching, universal, holy, guard us. May we, car-borne, through song be victors ever. > 5 To both of you, O Heaven and Earth, we bring our lofty song of praise, > Pure Ones! to glorify you both. > 6 Ye sanctify each other's form, by your own proper might ye rule, > And from of old observe the Law. > 7 Furthering and fulfilling, ye, O Mighty, perfect Mitra's Law. > Ye sit around our sacrifice.

Hymn LVII. Ksetrapati, Etc.

This hymn is a prayer for agricultural abundance, addressed to Kṣetrapati, the Master of the Field, and other deities of the farm. The singer asks for sweet plants, happy work for steers and men, and for Śuna and Sīra (personifications of good fortune and the plough) to bedew the earth with the milk of heaven.

1 WE through the Master of the Field, even as through a friend, obtain > What nourisheth our kine and steeds. In such may he be good to us. > 2 As the cow yieldeth milk, pour for us freely, Lord of the Field, the wave that beareth sweetness, > Distilling meath, well-purified like butter, and let the. Lords of holy Law be gracious. > 3 Sweet be the plants for us. the heavens, the waters, and full of sweets for us be air's mid-region. > May the Field's Lord for us be full of sweetness, and may we follow after him uninjured. > 4 Happily work our steers and men, may the plough furrow happily. > Happily be the traces bound; happily may he ply the goad. > 5 Śuna and Sīra, welcome ye this laud, and with the milk which ye have made in heaven > Bedew ye both this earth of ours. > 6 Auspicious Sītā, come thou near: we venerate and worship thee > That thou mayst bless and prosper us and bring us fruits abundantly. > 7 May Indra press the furrow down, may Pūṣan guide its course aright. > May she, as rich in milk, be drained for us through each succeeding year. > 8 Happily let the shares turn up the plough-land, happily go the ploughers with the oxen. > With meath and milk Parjanya make us happy. Grant us prosperity, Śuna and Sīra.

Hymn LVIII. Ghṛta.

This hymn is a vibrant and mystical praise of Ghṛta, the sacred clarified butter used in oblations. Ghṛta is described as a wave of sweetness sprung from the ocean, a four-horned Buffalo whose streams flow in countless channels, and a Golden Reed that shines among the descending drops.

1 FORTH from the ocean sprang the wave of sweetness: together with the stalk it turned to Amṛta, > That which is holy oil's mysterious title: but the Gods’ tongue is truly Amṛta's centre. > 2 Let us declare aloud the name of Ghṛta, and at this sacrifice hold it up with homage. > So let the Brahman hear the praise we utter. This hath the four-horned Buffalo emitted. > 3 Four are his horns, three are the feet that bear him; his heads are two, his hands are seven in number. > Bound with a triple bond the Steer roars loudly: the mighty God hath entered in to mortals. > 4 That oil in triple shape the Gods discovered laid down within the Cow, concealed by Paṇis. > Indra produced one shape, Sūrya another: by their own power they formed the third from Vena. > 5 From inmost reservoir in countless channels flow down these rivers which the foe beholds not. > I look upon the streams of oil descending, and lo! the Golden Reed is there among them. > 6 Like rivers our libations flow together, cleansing themselves in inmost heart and spirit. > The streams of holy oil pour swiftly downward like the wild beasts that fly before the bowman. > 7 As rushing down the rapids of a river, flow swifter than the wind the vigorous currents, > The streams of oil in swelling fluctuation like a red courser bursting through the fences. > 8 Like women at a gathering fair to look on and gently smiling, they incline to Agni. > The streams of holy oil attain the fuel, and Jātavedas joyfully receives them. > 9 As maidens dock themselves with gay adornment to join the bridal feast, I now behold them. > Where Soma flows and sacrifice is ready, thither the streams of holy oil are running. > 10 Send to our eulogy a herd of cattle bestow upon us excellent possessions. > Bear to the Gods the sacrifice we offer the streams of oil flow pure and full of sweetness. > 11 The universe depends upon thy power and might within the sea, within the heart, within all life.

Hymn LIX. Heaven and Earth.

This hymn to Heaven and Earth is a meditation on the cosmic order, praising the two divine parents who brought forth all life. The singer marvels at their creation by well-skilled sons and asks them for riches, wealth, and hundredfold treasure.

1 I PRAISE with sacrifices mighty Heaven and Earth at festivals, the wise, the Strengtheners of Law. > Who, having Gods for progeny, conjoined with Gods, through wonder working wisdom bring forth choicest boons. > 2 With invocations, on the gracious Father's mind, and on the Mother's great inherent power I muse. > Prolific Parents, they have made the world of life, and for their brood all round wide immortality. > 3 These Sons of yours well skilled in work, of wondrous power, brought forth to life the two great Mothers first of all. > To keep the truth of all that stands and all that moves, ye guard the station of your Son who knows no guile. > 4 They with surpassing skill, most wise, have measured out the Twins united in their birth and in their home. > They, the refulgent Sages, weave within the sky, yea, in the depths of sea, a web for ever new. > 5 This is to-day the goodliest gift of Savitar: this thought we have when now the God is furthering us. > On us with loving-kindness Heaven and Earth bestow riches and various wealth and treasure hundredfold!

Hymn LX. Heaven and Earth.

This hymn continues the praise of Heaven and Earth, the two great bowls of noble kind between which the sun travels. The singer celebrates them as the beautiful and mighty pair who keep all creatures safe, and asks them to bestow glory, lordly sway, and strength.

1 THESE, Heaven and Earth, bestow prosperity on all, sustainers of the region, Holy Ones and wise, > Two Bowls of noble kind: between these Goddesses the God, the fulgent Sun, travels by fixed decree. > 2 Widely-capacious Pair, mighty, that never fail, the Father and the Mother keep all creatures safe: > The two world-halves, the spirited, the beautiful, because the Father hath clothed them in goodly forms. > 3 Son of these Parents, he the Priest with power to cleanse, Sage, sanctifies the worlds with his surpassing power. > Thereto for his bright milk he milked through all the days the party coloured Cow and the prolific Bull. > 4 Among the skilful Gods most skilled is he, who made the two world halves which bring prosperity to all; > Who with great wisdom measured both the regions out, and stablished them with pillars that shall ne’er decay. > 5 Extolled in song, O Heaven and Earth, bestow on us, ye mighty Pair, great glory and high lordly sway, > Whereby we may extend ourselves ever over the folk; and send us strength that shall deserve the praise of men.

Hymn LXI. Ṛbhus.

This hymn is a dramatic narrative about the Ṛbhus and their challenge from the gods, delivered by Agni. It tells the story of how they accepted the task of making four chalices from one, earning them a share in the sacrifice and immortality.

1 WHY hath the Best, why hath the Youngest come to us? Upon what embassy comes he? What have we said? > We have not blamed the chalice of illustrious birth. We, Brother Agni, praised the goodness of the wood. > 2 The chalice that is single make ye into four: thus have the Gods commanded; therefore am I come. > If, O Sudhanvan's Children, ye will do this thing ye shall participate in sacrifice with Gods. > 3 What to the envoy Agni in reply ye spake, A courser must be made, a chariot fashioned here, > A cow must be created, and the Twain made young. When we have done these things, Brother, we turn to you. > 4 When thus, O Ṛbhus, ye had done ye questioned thus, Whither went he who came to us a messenger? > Then Tvaṣṭar, when he viewed the four wrought chalices, concealed himself among the Consorts of the Gods. > 5 As Tvaṣṭar thus had spoken, Let us slay these men who have reviled the chalice, drinking-cup of Gods, > They gave themselves new names when Soma juice was shed, and under these new names the Maiden welcomed them. > 6 Indra hath yoked his Bays, the Aśvins' car is horsed, Bṛhaspati hath brought the Cow of every hue. > Ye went as Ṛbhus, Vibhvan, Vāja to the Gods, and skilled in war, obtained your share in sacrifice. > 7 Ye by your wisdom brought a cow from out a hide; unto that ancient Pair ye gave again their youth. > Out of a horse, Sudhanvan's Sons, ye formed a horse: a chariot ye equipped, and went unto the Gods. > 8 Drink ye this water, were the words ye spake to them; or drink ye this, the rinsing of the Muñja-grass. > If ye approve not even this, Sudhanvan's Sons, then at the third libation gladden ye yourselves. > 9 Most excellent are waters, thus said one of you; most excellent is Agni, thus another said. > Another praised to many a one the lightning cloud. Then did ye shape the cups, speaking the words of truth. > 10 One downward to the water drives the crippled cow, another trims the flesh brought on the carving-board. > One carries off the refuse at the set of sun. How did the Parents aid their children in their task! > 11 On the high places ye have made the grass for man, and water in the valleys, by your skill, O Men. > Ṛbhus, ye iterate not to-day that act of yours, your sleeping in the house of him whom naught can hide. > 12 As, compassing them round, ye glided through the worlds, where had the venerable Parents their abode? > Ye laid a curse on him who raised his arm at you: to him who spake aloud to you ye spake again. > 13 When ye had slept your fill, ye Ṛbhus, thus ye asked, O thou whom naught may hide, who now hath wakened us? > The goat declared the hound to be your wakener. That day, in a full year, ye first unclosed our eyes. > 14 The Maruts move in heaven, on earth this Agni; through the mid firmament the Wind approaches. > Varuṇa comes in the sea's gathered waters, O Sons of Strength, desirous of your presence.

Hymn LXII. The Horse.

This hymn is a detailed account of the sacrificial horse, a central and complex ritual in Vedic tradition. The verses follow the horse's journey from being led forth as a sacred offering to the gods, to the intricate process of its immolation, cooking, and distribution, with every part of the ritual given divine significance.

1 SLIGHT us not Varuṇa, Aryaman, or Mitra, Ṛbhukṣan, Indra, Āyu, or the Maruts, > When we declare amid the congregation the virtues of the strong Steed, God-descended. > 2 What time they bear before the Courser, covered with trappings and with wealth, the grasped oblation, > The dappled goat goeth straightforward, bleating, to the place dear to Indra and to Pūṣan. > 3 Dear to all Gods, this goat, the share of Pūṣan, is first led forward with the vigorous Courser, > While Tvaṣṭar sends him forward with the Charger, acceptable for sacrifice, to glory. > 4 When thrice the men lead round the Steed, in order, who goeth to the Gods as meet oblation, > The goat precedeth him, the share of Pūṣan, and to the Gods the sacrifice announceth. > 5 Invoker, ministering priest, atoner, fire-kindler Soma-presser, sage, reciter, > With this well ordered sacrifice, well finished, do ye fill full the channels of the rivers. > 6 The hewers of the post and those who carry it, and those who carve the knob to deck the Horse's stake; > Those who prepare the cooking-vessels for the Steed,—may the approving help of these promote our work. > 7 Forth, for the regions of the Gods, the Charger with his smooth back is come my prayer attends him. > In him rejoice the singers and the sages. A good friend have we won for the Gods’ banquet. > 8 May the fleet Courser's halter and his heel-ropes, the head-stall and the girths and cords about him. > And the grass put within his mouth to bait him,—among the Gods, too, let all these be with thee. > 9 What part of the Steed's flesh the fly hath eaten, or is left sticking to the post or hatchet, > Or to the slayer's hands and nails adhereth,—among the Gods, too, may all this be with thee. > 10 Food undigested steaming from his belly, and any odour of raw flesh remaining, > This let the immolators set in order and dress the sacrifice with perfect cooking. > 11 What from thy body which with fire is roasted, when thou art set upon the spit, distilleth, > Let not that lie on earth or grass neglected, but to the longing Gods let all be offered. > 12 They who observing that the Horse is ready call out and say, the smell is good; remove it; > And, craving meat, await the distribution,—may their approving help promote labour. > 13 The trial-fork of the flesh-cooking caldron, the vessels out of which the broth is sprinkled, > The warming-pots, the covers of the dishes, hooks, carving-boards,—all these attend the Charger. > 14 The starting-place, his place of rest and rolling, the ropes wherewith the Charger's feet were fastened, > The water that he drank, the food he tasted,—among the Gods, too, may all these attend thee. > 15 Let not the fire, smoke-scented, make thee crackle, nor glowing caldron smell and break to pieces. > Offered, beloved, approved, and consecrated,—such Charger do the Gods accept with favour. > 16 The robe they spread upon the Horse to clothe him, the upper covering and the golden trappings, > The halters which restrain the Steed, the heel-ropes,—all these, as grateful to the Gods, they offer. > 17 If one, when seated, with excessive urging hath with his heel or with his whip distressed thee, > All these thy woes, as with the oblations' ladle at sacrifices, with my prayer I banish. > 18 The four-and-thirty ribs of the Swift Charger, kin to the Gods, the slayer's hatchet pierces. > Cut ye with skill, so that the parts be flawless, and piece by piece declaring them dissect them. > 19 Of Tvaṣṭar's Charger there is one dissector,—this is the custom-two there are who guide him. > Such of his limbs as I divide in order, these, amid the balls, in fire I offer. > 20 Let not thy dear soul burn thee as thou comest, let not the hatchet linger in thy body. > Let not a greedy clumsy immolator, missing the joints, mangle thy limbs unduly. > 21 No, here thou diest not, thou art not injured: by easy paths unto the Gods thou goest. > Both Bays, both spotted mares are now thy fellows, and to the ass's pole is yoked the Charger. > 22 May this Steed bring us all-sustaining riches, wealth in good kine, good horses, manly offspring. > Freedom from sin may Aditi vouchsafe us: the Steed with our oblations gain us lordship!

Hymn CLXIII. The Horse.

This hymn is a mythic and cosmic ode to the divine Horse, who is identified with Yama, Āditya, and even Varuṇa. The singer describes his celestial origins, his journey through the heavens as a bird, and his arrival at the sacrifice, where the gods themselves come to taste the oblation.

1 WHAT time, first springing into life, thou neighedst, proceeding from the sea or upper waters, > Limbs of the deer hadst thou, and eagle pinions. O Steed, thy birth is nigh and must be lauded. > 2 This Steed which Yama gave hath Trita harnessed, and him, the first of all, hath Indra mounted. > His bridle the Gandharva grasped. O Vasus, from out the Sun ye fashioned forth the Courser. > 3 Yama art thou, O Horse; thou art Āditya; Trita art thou by secret operation. > Thou art divided thoroughly from Soma. They say thou hast three bonds in heaven that hold thee. > 4 Three bonds, they say, thou hast in heaven that bind thee, three in the waters, three within the ocean. > To me thou seemest Varuṇa, O Courser, there where they say is thy sublimest birth-place. > 5 Here-, Courser, are the places where they groomed thee, here are the traces of thy hoofs as winner. > Here have I seen the auspicious reins that guide thee, which those who guard the holy Law keep safely. > 6 Thyself from far I recognized in spirit,—a Bird that from below flew through the heaven. > I saw thy head still soaring, striving upward by paths unsoiled by dust, pleasant to travel. > 7 Here I beheld thy form, matchless in glory, eager to win thee food at the Cow's station. > Whene’er a man brings thee to thine enjoyment, thou swallowest the plants most greedy eater. > 8 After thee, Courser, come the car, the bridegroom, the kine come after, and the charm of maidens. > Full companies have followed for thy friendship: the pattern of thy vigour Gods have copied. > 9 Horns made of gold hath he: his feet are iron: less fleet than he, though swift as thought, is Indra. > The Gods have come that they may taste the oblation of him who mounted, first of all, the Courser. > 10 Symmetrical in flank, with rounded haunches, mettled like heroes, the Celestial Coursers > Put forth their strength, like swans in lengthened order, when they, the Steeds, have reached the heavenly causeway. > 11 A body formed for flight hast thou, O Charger; swift as the wind in motion is thy spirit. > Thy horns are spread abroad in all directions: they move with restless beat in wildernesses. > 12 The strong Steed hath come forward to the slaughter, pondering with a mind directed God-ward. > The goat who is his kin is led before him the sages and the singers follow after. > 13 The Steed is come unto the noblest mansion, is come unto his Father and his Mother. > This day shall he approach the Gods, most welcome: then he declares good gifts to him who offers.

Hymn CLXIV. Viśvedevas.

This complex and highly symbolic hymn is a series of cosmic riddles addressed to the All-Gods. The poet, through enigmatic questions about the "one-wheeled chariot," the "boneless One," and the nature of Speech, explores the hidden structures of the universe, the sacrifice, and divine knowledge.

1 OF this benignant Priest, with eld grey-coloured, the brother midmost of the three is lightning. > The third is he whose back with oil is sprinkled. Here I behold the Chief with seven male children. > 2 Seven to the one-wheeled chariot yoke the Courser; bearing seven names the single Courser draws it. > Three-naved the wheel is, sound and undecaying, whereon are resting all these worlds of being. > 3 The seven who on the seven-wheeled car are mounted have horses, seven in tale, who draw them onward. > Seven Sisters utter songs of praise together, in whom the names of the seven Cows are treasured. > 4 Who hath beheld him as he sprang to being, seen how the boneless One supports the bony? > Where is the blood of earth, the life, the spirit? Who may approach the man who knows, to ask it? > 5 Unripe in mind, in spirit undiscerning, I ask of these the Gods’ established places; > For up above the yearling Calf the sages, to form a web, their own seven threads have woven. > 6 I ask, unknowing, those who know, the sages, as one all ignorant for sake of knowledge, > What was that ONE who in the Unborn's image hath stablished and fixed firm these worlds' six regions. > 7 Let him who knoweth presently declare it, this lovely Bird's securely founded station. > Forth from his head the Cows draw milk, and, wearing his vesture, with their foot have drunk the water. > 8 The Mother gave the Sire his share of Order: with thought, at first, she wedded him in spirit. > She, the coy Dame, was filled with dew prolific: with adoration men approached to praise her. > 9 Yoked was the Mother to the boon Cow's car-pole: in the dank rows of cloud the Infant rested. > Then the Calf lowed, and looked upon the Mother, the Cow who wears all shapes in three directions. > 10 Bearing three Mothers and three Fathers, single he stood erect: they never make him weary. > There on the pitch of heaven they speak together in speech all-knowing but not all-impelling. > 11 Formed with twelve spokes, by length of time, unweakened, rolls round the heaven this wheel of during Order. > Herein established, joined in pairs together, seven hundred Sons and twenty stand, O Agni. > 12 They call him in the farther half of heaven the Sire five-footed, of twelve forms, wealthy in watery store. > These others say that he, God with far-seeing eyes, is mounted on the lower seven-wheeled, six-spoked car. > 13 Upon this five-spoked wheel revolving ever all living creatures rest and are dependent. > Its axle, heavy-laden, is not heated: the nave from ancient time remains unbroken. > 14 The wheel revolves, unwasting, with its felly: ten draw it, yoked to the far-stretching car-pole. > The Sun's eye moves encompassed by the region: on him dependent rest all living creatures. > 15 Of the co-born they call the seventh single-born; the six twin pairs are called Ṛṣis, Children of Gods. > Their good gifts sought of men are ranged in order due, and various in their form move for the Lord who guides. > 16 They told me these were males, though truly females: he who hath eyes sees this, the blind discerns not. > The son who is a sage hath comprehended: who knows this rightly is his father's father. > 17 Beneath the upper realm, above this lower, bearing her calf at foot the Cow hath risen. > Witherward, to what place hath she departed? Where calves she? Not amid this herd of cattle. > 18 Who, that the father of this Calf discerneth beneath the upper realm, above the lower, > Showing himself a sage, may here declare it? Whence hath the Godlike spirit had its rising? > 19 Those that come hitherward they call departing, those that depart they call directed hither. > And what so ye have made, Indra and Soma, steeds bear as ’twere yoked to the region's car-pole. > 20 Two Birds with fair wings, knit with bonds of friendship, in the same sheltering tree have found a refuge. > One of the twain eats the sweet Fig-tree's fruitage; the other eating not regardeth only. > 21 Where those fine Birds hymn ceaselessly their portion of life eternal, and the sacred synods, > There is the Universe's mighty Keeper, who, wise, hath entered into me the simple. > 22 The, tree whereon the fine Birds eat the sweetness, where they all rest and procreate their offspring,— > Upon its top they say the fig is luscious: none gaineth it who knoweth not the Father. > 23 How on the Gāyatrī the Gāyatrī was based, how from the Triṣṭup they fashioned the Triṣṭup forth, > How on the Jagatī was based the Jagatī,—they who know this have won themselves immortal life. > 24 With Gāyatrī he measures out the praise-song, Sāma with praise song, triplet with the Triṣṭup. > The triplet with the two or four-foot measure, and with the syllable they form seven metres. > 25 With Jagatī the flood in heaven he stablished, and saw the Sun in the Rathantara Sāman. > Gāyatrī hath, they say, three brands for kindling: hence it excels in majesty and vigour. > 26 I invocate the milch-cow good for milking so that the milker, deft of hand, may drain her. > May Savitar give goodliest stimulation. The caldron is made hot; I will proclaim it. > 27 She, lady of all treasure, is come hither yearning in spirit for her calf and lowing. > May this cow yield her milk for both the Aśvins, and may she prosper to our high advantage. > 28 The cow hath lowed after her blinking youngling; she licks his forehead, as she lows, to form it. > His mouth she fondly calls to her warm udder, and suckles him with milk while gently lowing. > 29 He also snorts, by whom encompassed round the Cow laws as she clings unto the shedder of the rain. > She with her shrilling cries hath humbled mortal man, and, turned to lightning, hath stripped off her covering robe. > 30 That which hath breath and speed and life and motion lies firmly stablished in the midst of houses. > Living, by offerings to the Dead he moveth Immortal One, the brother of the mortal. > 31 I saw the Herdsman, him who never stumbles, approaching by his pathways and departing. > He, clothed with gathered and diffusive splendour, within the worlds continually travels. > 32 He who hath made him cloth not comprehend him: from him who saw him surely is he hidden. > He, yet enveloped in his Mother's bosom, source of much life, hath sunk into destruction. > 33 Dyaus is my Father, my begetter: kinship is here. This great earth is my kin and Mother. > Between the wide-spread world-halves is the birth-place: the Father laid the Daughter's germ within it. > 34 I ask thee of the earth's extremest limit, where is the centre of the world, I ask thee. > I ask thee of the Stallion's seed prolific, I ask of highest heaven where Speech abideth. > 35 This altar is the earth's extremest limit; this sacrifice of ours is the world's centre. > The Stallion's seed prolific is the Soma; this Brahman highest heaven where Speech abideth. > 36 Seven germs unripened yet are heaven's prolific seed: their functions they maintain by Viṣṇu's ordinance. > Endued with wisdom through intelligence and thought, they compass us about present on every side. > 37 What thing I truly am I know not clearly: mysterious, fettered in my mind I wander. > When the first-born of holy Law approached me, then of this speech I first obtain a portion. > 38 Back, forward goes he, grasped by strength inherent, the Immortal born the brother of the mortal > Ceaseless they move in opposite directions: men mark the one, and fail to mark the other. > 39 Upon what syllable of holy praise-song, as twere their highest heaven, the Gods repose them,— > Who knows not this, what will he do with praise-song? But they who know it well sit here assembled. > 40 Fortunate mayst thou be with goodly pasture, and may we also be exceeding wealthy. > Feed on the grass, O Cow, at every season, and coming hitherward drink limpid water. > 41 Forming the water-floods, the buffalo hath lowed, one-footed or two footed or four-footed, she, > Who hath become eight-footed or hath got nine feet, the thousand syllabled in the sublimest heaven. > 42 From her descend in streams the seas of water; thereby the world's four regions have their being, > Thence flows the imperishable flood and thence the universe hath life. > 43 I saw from far away the smoke of fuel with spires that rose on high o’er that beneath it. > The Mighty Men have dressed the spotted bullock. These were the customs in the days aforetime, > 44 Three with long tresses show in ordered season. One of them sheareth when the year is ended. > One with his powers the universe regardeth: Of one, the sweep is seen, but his figure. > 45 Speech hath been measured out in four divisions, the Brahmans who have understanding know them. > Three kept in close concealment cause no motion; of speech, men speak only the fourth division. > 46 They call him Indra, Mitra, Varuṇa, Agni, and he is heavenly nobly winged Garutmān. > To what is One, sages give many a title they call it Agni, Yama, Mātariśvan. > 47 Dark the descent: the birds are golden-coloured; up to the heaven they fly robed in the waters. > Again descend they from the seat of Order, and all the earth is moistened with their fatness. > 48 Twelve are the fellies, and the wheel is single; three are the naves. What man hath understood it? > Therein are set together spokes three hundred and sixty, which in nowise can be loosened. > 49 That breast of thine exhaustless, spring of pleasure, wherewith thou feedest all things that are choicest, > Wealth-giver, treasure. finder, free bestower,—bring that, Sarasvatī, that we may drain it. > 50 By means of sacrifice the Gods accomplished their sacrifice: these were the earliest ordinances. > These Mighty Ones attained the height of heaven, there where the Sādhyas, Gods of old, are dwelling. > 51 Uniform, with the passing days, this water mounts and fails again. > The tempest-clouds give life to earth, and fires re-animate the heaven. > 52 The Bird Celestial, vast with noble pinion, the lovely germ of plants, the germ of waters, > Him who delighteth us with rain in season, Sarasvān I invoke that he may help us.

Hymn CLXV. Indra. Maruts.

This hymn is a dramatic dialogue between Indra and the Maruts, exploring their relationship and Indra's solitary battle against the Vṛtra-dragon. Indra questions their absence, while the Maruts offer their praise, and together they reconcile, celebrating their shared strength and the glorious hymn of the poet.

1 WITH what bright beauty are the Maruts jointly invested, peers in age, who dwell together? > From what place have they come? With what intention? Sing they their strength through love of wealth, these Heroes? > 2 Whose prayers have they, the Youthful Ones, accepted? Who to his sacrifice hath turned the Maruts? > We will delay them on their journey sweeping—with what high spirit!—through the air like eagles. > 3 Whence comest thou alone, thou who art mighty, Indra, Lord of the Brave? What is thy purpose? > Thou greetest us when meeting us the Bright Ones. Lord of Bay Steeds, say what thou hast against us. > 4 Mine are devotions, hymns; sweet are libations. Strength stirs, and hurled forth is my bolt of thunder. > They call for me, their lauds are longing for me. These my Bay Steeds bear me to these oblations. > 5 Therefore together with our strong companions, having adorned our bodies, now we harness, > Our spotted deer with might, for thou, O Indra, hast learnt and understood our Godlike nature. > 6 Where was that nature then of yours, O Maruts, that ye charged me alone to slay the Dragon? > For I in truth am fierce and strong and mighty. I bent away from every foeman's weapons. > 7 Yea, much hast thou achieved with us for comrades, with manly valour like thine own, thou Hero. > Much may we too achieve, O mightiest Indra, with our great power, we Maruts, when we will it. > 8 Vṛtra I slew by mine own strength, O Maruts, having waxed mighty in mine indignation. > I with the thunder in my hand created for man these lucid softly flowing waters. > 9 Nothing, O Maghavan, stands firm before thee; among the Gods not one is found thine equal. > None born or springing into life comes nigh thee. Do what thou hast to do, exceeding mighty? > 10 Mine only be transcendent power, whatever I, daring in my spirit, may accomplish. > For I am known as terrible, O Maruts I, Indra, am the Lord of what I ruined. > 11 Now, O ye Maruts, hath your praise rejoiced me, the glorious hymn which ye have made me, Heroes! > For me, for Indra, champion strong in battle, for me, yourselves, as lovers for a lover. > 12 Here, truly, they send forth their sheen to meet me, wearing their blameless glory and their vigour. > When I have seen you, Maruts, in gay splendour, ye have delighted me, so now delight me. > 13 Who here hath magnified you, O ye Maruts? speed forward, O ye lovers, to your lovers. > Ye Radiant Ones, assisting their devotions, of these my holy rites he ye regardful. > 14 To this hath Mānya's wisdom brought us, so as to aid, as aids the poet him who worships. > Bring hither quick! On to the sage, ye Maruts! These prayers for you the singer hath recited. > 15 May this your praise, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Māna's son, Māndārya, > Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance!

Hymn CLXVI. Maruts.

This hymn to the Maruts is a song of praise, celebrating their primeval might as the heralds of the Strong One, Indra. The singer describes their fierce, brilliant power, their ability to make the mountains roar and shake the heavens, and their benevolence toward the worshipper, asking for their favor and for strengthening food.

1 Now let us publish, for the vigorous company the herald of the Strong One, their primeval might. > With fire upon your way, O Maruts loud of voice, with battle, Mighty Ones, achieve your deeds of strength. > 2 Bringing the pleasant meath as ’twere their own dear son, they sport in sportive wise gay at their gatherings. > The Rudras come with succour to the worshipper; self-strong they fail not him who offers sacrifice. > 3 To whomsoever, bringer of oblations, they immortal guardians, have given plenteous wealth, > For him, like loving friends, the Maruts bringing bliss bedew the regions round with milk abundantly. > 4 Ye who with mighty powers have stirred the regions up, your coursers have sped forth directed by themselves. > All creatures of the earth, all dwellings are afraid, for brilliant is your coming with your spears advanced. > 5 When they in dazzling rush have made the mountains roar, and shaken heaven's high back in their heroic strength, > Each sovran of the forest fears as ye drive near, aid the shrubs fly before you swift as whirling wheels. > 6 Terrible Maruts, ye with ne’er-diminished host, with great benevolence fulfil our heart's desire. > Where’er your lightning bites armed with its gory teeth it crunches up the cattle like a well-aimed dart. > 7 Givers of during gifts whose bounties never fail, free from ill-will, at sacrifices glorified, > They sing their song aloud that they may drink sweet juice: well do they know the Hero's first heroic deeds. > 8 With castles hundredfold, O Maruts, guard ye well the man whom ye have loved from ruin and from sin,— > The man whom ye the fierce, the Mighty ones who roar, preserve from calumny by cherishing his seed. > 9 O Maruts, in your cars are all things that are good: great powers are set as ’twere in rivalry therein. > Rings are upon your shoulders when ye journey forth: your axle turns together both the chariot wheels. > 10 Held in your manly arms are many goodly things, gold chains are on your chests, and glistering ornaments, > Deer-skins are on their shoulders, on their fellies knives: they spread their glory out as birds spread out their wings. > 11 Mighty in mightiness, pervading, passing strong, visible from afar as ’twere with stars of heaven, > Lovely with pleasant tongues, sweet singers with their mouths, the Maruts, joined with Indra, shout forth all around. > 12 This is your majesty, ye Maruts nobly born, far as the sway of Aditi your bounty spreads. > Even Indra by desertion never disannuls the boon bestowed by you upon the pious man. > 13 This is your kinship, Maruts, that, Immortals, ye were oft in olden time regardful of our call, > Having vouchsafed to man a hearing through this prayer, by wondrous deeds the Heroes have displayed their might. > 14 That, O ye Maruts, we may long time flourish through your abundant riches, O swift movers, > And that our men may spread in the encampment, let me complete the rite with these oblations. > 15 May this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Māna's son, Māndārya, > Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXVII. Indra. Maruts.

This hymn is a praise-song to Indra and the Maruts, celebrating their thousandfold helps and their cosmic journey. The singer recounts the myth of the goddess Rodasī, who chose to follow the Maruts, climbing their chariot like the sun, and asks for the gods' friendship and protection.

1 A THOUSAND are thy helps for us, O Indra: a thousand, Lord of Bays, thy choice refreshments. > Wealth of a thousand sorts hast thou to cheer us: may precious goods come nigh to us in thousands. > 2 May the most sapient Maruts, with protection, with best boons brought from lofty heaven, approach us, > Now when their team of the most noble horses speeds even on the sea's extremest limit. > 3 Close to them clings one moving in seclusion, like a man's wife, like a spear carried rearward, > Well grasped, bright, decked with gold there is Vāk also, like to a courtly, eloquent dame, among them. > 4 Far off the brilliant, never-weary Maruts cling to the young Maid as a joint possession. > The fierce Gods drave not Rodasī before them, but wished for her to grow their friend and fellow. > 5 When chose immortal Rodasī to follow—she with loose tresses and heroic spirit— > She climbed her servant's chariot, she like Sūrya with cloud-like motion and refulgent aspect. > 6 Upon their car the young men set the Maiden wedded to glory, mighty in assemblies, > When your song, Maruts, rose, and, with oblation, the Soma-pourer sang his hymn in worship. > 7 I will declare the greatness of these Maruts, their real greatness, worthy to be lauded, > How, with them, she though firm, strong-minded, haughty, travels to women happy in their fortune. > 8 Mitra and Varuṇa they guard from censure: Aryaman too, discovers worthless sinners Firm things are overthrown that ne’er were shaken: he prospers, Maruts, who gives choice oblations. > 9 None of us, Maruts, near or at a distance, hath ever reached the limit of your vigour. > They in courageous might still waxing boldly have compassed round their foemen like an ocean. > 10 May we this day be dearest friends of Indra, and let us call on him in fight to-morrow. > So were we erst. New might attend us daily! So be with us! Ṛbhukṣan of the Heroes! > 11 May this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Māna's son, Māndārya, > Bring offspring for ourselves with. food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXVIII. Maruts.

This hymn to the Maruts is a song of praise, celebrating their swift, powerful nature. The singer describes their coming as a force that makes the rivers roar and the lightnings laugh, and asks for their favor, so that they may be victorious in battle.

1 SWIFT gain is his who hath you near at every rite: ye welcome every song of him who serves the Gods. > So may I turn you hither with fair hymns of praise to give great succour for the weal of both the worlds. > 2 Surrounding, as it were, self-born, self-powerful, they spring to life the shakers-down of food and light; > Like as the countess undulations of the floods, worthy of praise when near, like bullocks and like kine. > 3 They who, like Somas with their well-grown stalks pressed out, > imbibed within the heart, dwell there in friendly wise. > Upon their shoulders rests as ’twere a warrior's spear and in their hand they hold a dagger and a ring. > 4 Self-yoked they have descended lightly from the sky. With your own lash, Immortals, urge yourselves to speed. > Unstained by dust the Maruts, mighty in their strength, have cast down e’en firm things, armed with their shining spears. > 5 Who among you, O Maruts armed with lightning-spears, moveth you by himself, as with the tongue his jaws? > Ye rush from heaven's floor as though ye sought for food, on many errands like the Sun's diurnal Steed. > 6 Say where, then, is this mighty region's farthest bound, where, Maruts, is the lowest depth that ye have reached, > When ye cast down like chaff the firmly stablished pile, and from the mountain send the glittering water-flood? > 7 Your winning is with strength, dazzling, with heavenly light, with fruit mature, O Maruts, fall of plenteousness. > Auspicious is your gift like a free giver's meed, victorious, spreading far, as of immortal Gods. > 8 The rivers roar before your chariot fellies when they are uttering the voice of rain-clouds. > The lightnings laugh upon the earth beneath them, what time the Maruts scatter forth their fatness. > 9 Pṛśni brought forth, to fight the mighty battle, the glittering army of the restless Maruts. > Nurtured together they begat the monster, and then looked round them for the food that strengthens. > 10 May this your laud, may this your song O Maruts, sung by the poet Māna's son, Māndārya, > Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXIX. Indra.

This hymn to Indra praises his power to protect his worshippers from treachery and to grant them blessings. The singer celebrates the Maruts as Indra's dear companions and asks for the god's favor, so that they may be victorious in battle and win the light-bestowing spoil.

1 As, Indra, from great treason thou protectest, yea, from great treachery these who approach us, > So, marking well, Controller of the Maruts grant us their blessings, for they are thy dearest. > 2 The various doings of all mortal people by thee are ordered, in thy wisdom, Indra. > The host of Maruts goeth forth exulting to win the light-bestowing spoil of battle. > 3 That spear of thine sat firm for us, O Indra: the Maruts set their whole dread power in motion. > E’en Agni shines resplendent in the brush-wood: the viands hold him as floods hold an island. > 4 Vouchsafe us now that opulence, O Indra, as guerdon won by mightiest donation. > May hymns that please thee cause the breast of Vāyu to swell as with the mead's refreshing sweetness. > 5 With thee, O Indra, are most bounteous riches that further every one who lives uprightly. > Now may these Maruts show us loving-kindness, Gods who of old were ever prompt to help us. > 6 Bring forth the Men who rain down boons, O Indra: exert thee in the great terrestrial region; > For their broad-chested speckled deer are standing like a King's armies on the field of battle. > 7 Heard is the roar of the advancing Maruts, terrific, glittering, and swiftly moving, > Who with their rush o’erthrow as ’twere a sinner the mortal who would fight with those who love him > 8 Give to the Mānas, Indra with Maruts, gifts universal, gifts of cattle foremost. > Thou, God, art praised with Gods who must be lauded. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXX. Indra. Maruts.

This hymn is a dialogue of reconciliation between Indra and the Maruts, mediated by the sage Agastya. Indra questions the Maruts' past desertion, and they, in turn, offer their praise, re-establishing their alliance and friendship for the good of the worshipper.

1 NAUGHT is to-day, to-morrow naught. Who comprehends the mystery? > We must address ourselves unto another's thought, and lost is then the hope we formed. > 2 The Maruts are thy brothers. Why, O Indra, wouldst thou take our lives? > Agree with them in friendly wise, and do not slay us in the fight. > 3 Agastya, brother, why dost thou neglect us, thou who art our friend? > We know the nature of thy mind. Verity thou wilt give us naught. > 4 Let them prepare the altar, let them kindle fire in front: we two > Here will spread sacrifice for thee, that the Immortal may observe. > 5 Thou, Lord of Wealth, art Master of all treasures, thou, Lord of friends, art thy friends' best supporter. > O Indra, speak thou kindly with the Maruts, and taste oblations in their proper season.

Hymn CLXXI. Maruts.

The singer, trembling in terror before the mighty Indra, offers this hymn of adoration to the Maruts. He asks for their favor and for them to suppress their anger, so that they may unyoke their horses and join the sacrifice, bringing pleasant and triumphant days.

1 To you I come with this mine adoration, and with a hymn I crave the Strong Ones' favour > A hymn that truly makes you joyful, Maruts. Suppress your anger and unyoke your horses. > 2 Maruts, to you this laud with prayer and worship, formed in the mind and heart, ye Gods, is offered. > Come ye to us, rejoicing in your spirit, for ye are they who make our prayer effective. > 3 The Maruts, praised by us, shall show us favour; Maghavan, lauded, shall be most propitious. > Maruts,, may all our days that are to follow be very pleasant, lovely and triumphant. > 4 I fled in terror from this mighty Indra, my body trembling in alarm, O Maruts. > Oblations meant for you had been made ready; these have we set aside: for this forgive us. > 5 By whom the Mānas recognize the day-springs, by whose strength at the dawn of endless mornings, > Give us, thou Mighty, glory with Maruts. fierce with the fierce, the Strong who givest triumph. > 6 Do thou, O Indra, guard the conquering Heroes, and rid thee of thy wrath against the Maruts, > With them, the wise, victorious and bestowing. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXII. Maruts.

This is a brief, intense prayer to the Maruts, the bounteous givers who gleam like serpents. The singer asks them to keep their impetuous shafts and hurled stones far away, and to lift up the people so that they may live.

1 WONDERFUL let your coming be, wondrous with help, ye Bounteous Ones, > Maruts, who gleam as serpents gleam. > 2 Far be from us, O Maruts, ye free givers, your impetuous shaft; > Far from us be the stone ye hurl. > 3 O Bounteous Givers, touch ye not, O Maruts, Tṛṇskanda's folk; > Lift ye us up that we may live.

Hymn CLXXIII. Indra.

This hymn to Indra, the car-borne warrior, is a song of praise that expands like heaven's light. The singer invokes the god with the sounds of the press-stone and the lowing of the steer, asking him to accept their oblations and to lead them, as a true friend, to victory.

1 THE praise-song let him sing forth bursting bird-like: sing we that hymn which like heaven's light expandeth, > That the milk-giving cows may, unimpeded call to the sacred grass the Gods’ assembly. > 2 Let the Bull sing with Bulls whose toil is worship, with a loud roar like some wild beast that hungers. > Praised God! the glad priest brings his heart's devotion; the holy youth presents twofold oblation. > 3 May the Priest come circling the measured stations, and with him bring the earth's autumnal fruitage. > Let the Horse neigh led near, let the Steer bellow: let the Voice go between both worlds as herald, > 4 To him we offer welcomest oblations, the pious bring their strength inspiring praises. > May Indra, wondrous in his might, accept them, car-borne and swift to move like the Nāsatyas. > 5 Praise thou that Indra who is truly mighty, the car-borne Warrior, Maghavan the Hero; > Stronger in war than those who fight against him, borne by strong steeds, who kills enclosing darkness; > 6 Him who surpasses heroes in his greatness: the earth and heavens suffice not for his girdles. > Indra endues the earth to be his garment, and, God-like, wears the heaven as ’twere a frontlet, > 7 Thee, Hero, guardian of the brave in battles, who roamest in the van,—to draw thee hither, > Indra, the hosts agree beside the Soma, and joy, for his great actions, in the Chieftain. > 8 Libations in the sea to thee are pleasant, when thy divine Floods come to cheer these people. > To thee the Cow is sum of all things grateful when with the wish thou seekest men and princes. > 9 So may we in this One be well befriended, well aided as it were through praise of chieftains, > That Indra still may linger at our worship, as one led swift to work, to hear our praises. > 10 Like men in rivalry extolling princes, our Friend be Indra, wielder of the thunder. > Like true friends of some city's lord within them held in good rule with sacrifice they help him. > 11 For every sacrifice makes Indra stronger, yea, when he goes around angry in spirit; > As pleasure at the ford invites the thirsty, as the long way brings him who gains his object. > 12 Let us not here contend with Gods, O Indra, for here, O Mighty One, is thine own portion, > The Great, whose Friends the bounteous Maruts honour, as with a stream, his song who pours oblations. > 13 Addressed to thee is this our praise, O Indra: Lord of Bay Steeds, find us hereby advancement. > So mayst thou lead us on, O God, to comfort. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXIV. Indra.

This hymn celebrates Indra as the king of all the gods, the Vṛtra-slayer who humbled the insulting tribes and gave freedom to the waters. The singer praises his ancient deeds and asks for his protection, so that they may rest in their tilled fields and homesteads.

1 THOU art the King of all the Gods, O Indra: protect the men, O Asura, preserve us. > Thou Lord of Heroes, Maghavan, our saver, art faithful, very rich, the victory-giver. > 2 Indra, thou humbledst tribes that spake with insult by breaking down seven autumn forts, their refuge. > Thou stirredst, Blameless! billowy floods, and gavest his foe a prey to youthful Purukutsa. > 3 With whom thou drivest troops whose lords are heroes, and bringest daylight now, much worshipped Indra, > With them guard lion-like wasting active Agni to dwell in our tilled fields and in our homestead. > 4 They through the greatness of thy spear, O Indra, shall, to thy praise, rest in this earthly station. > To loose the floods, to seek, for kine, the battle, his Bays he mounted boldly seized the booty. > 5 Indra, bear Kutsa, him in whom thou joyest: the dark-red horses of the Wind are docile. > Let the Sun roll his chariot wheel anear us, and let the Thunderer go to meet the foemen. > 6 Thou Indra, Lord of Bays, made strong by impulse, hast slain the vexers of thy friends, who give not. > They who beheld the Friend beside the living were cast aside by thee as they rode onward. > 7 Indra, the bard sang forth in inspiration: thou madest earth a covering for the Dāsa. > Maghavan made the three that gleam with moisture, and to his home brought Kuyavāc to slay him. > 8 These thine old deeds new bards have sung, O Indra. Thou conqueredst, boundest many tribes for ever. > Like castles thou hast crushed the godless races, and bowed the godless scorner's deadly weapon. > 9 A Stormer thou hast made the stormy waters flow down, O Indra, like the running rivers. > When o’er the flood thou broughtest them, O Hero, thou keptest Turvaśa and Yadu safely. > 10 Indra, mayst thou be ours in all occasions, protector of the men, most gentle-hearted, > Giving us victory over all our rivals. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXV. Indra.

This hymn to Indra is a song of joyful praise, calling the Lord of Bay Steeds to drink the Soma that has been quaffed as the bowl's enlivening mead. The singer recounts Indra's heroic deeds, such as stealing the sun's chariot wheel, and asks for his continued favor.

1 GLAD thee: thy glory hath been quaffed, Lord of Bay Steeds, as ’twere the bowl's enlivening mead. > For thee the Strong there is strong drink, mighty, omnipotent to win. > 2 Let our strong drink, most excellent, exhilarating, come to thee, > Victorious, Indra! bringing gain, immortal conquering in fight, > 3 Thou, Hero, winner of the spoil, urgest to speed the car of man. > Burn, like a vessel with the flame, the lawless Dasyu, Conqueror! > 4 Empowered by thine own might, O Sage, thou stolest Sūrya's chariot wheel. > Thou barest Kutsa with the steeds of Wind to Śuṣṇa as his death. > 5 Most mighty is thy rapturous joy, most splendid is thine active power, > Wherewith, foe-slaying, sending bliss, thou art supreme in gaining steeds. > 6 As thou, O Indra, to the ancient singers wast ever joy, as water to the thirsty, > So unto thee I sing this invocation. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXVI. Indra.

This hymn is a direct and powerful address to Indra, the Only One of men, asking him to pierce the strongholds of the enemy with the strength of the Soma. The singer, Vasiṣṭha, offers his songs and prayers, asking for Indra's favor and the wealth that the worshipper awaits.

1 CHEER thee with draughts to win us bliss: Soma, pierce Indra in thy strength. > Thou stormest trembling in thy rage, and findest not a foeman nigh. > 2 Make our songs penetrate to him who is the Only One of men; > For whom the sacred food is spread, as the steer ploughs the barley in. > 3 Within whose hands deposited all the Five Peoples’ treasures rest. > Mark thou the man who injures us and kill him like the heavenly bolt. > 4 Slay everyone who pours no gift, who, hard to reach, delights thee not. > Bestow on us what wealth he hath: this even the worshipper awaits. > 5 Thou helpest him the doubly strong whose hymns were sung unceasingly. > When Indra fought, O Soma, thou helpest the mighty in the fray. > 6 As thou, O Indra, to the ancient singers wast ever joy, like water to the thirsty, > So unto thee I sing this invocation. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXVII. Indra.

This hymn is a formal invitation to Indra, the Bull of men, calling him to the sacrifice with his vigorous bay horses. The singer, Māna, offers his devotions, asking the highly lauded god to come and drink the Soma that has been poured for him.

1 THE Bull of men, who cherishes all people, King of the Races, Indra, called of many, > Fame-loving, praised, hither to me with succour turn having yoked both vigorous Bay Horses! > 2 Thy mighty Stallions, yoked by prayer, O Indra, thy. Coursers to thy mighty chariot harnessed,— > Ascend thou these, and borne by them come hither: with Soma juice outpoured, Indra, we call thee. > 3 Ascend thy mighty car: the mighty Soma is poured for thee and sweets are sprinkled round us. > Come down to us-ward, Bull of human races, come, having harnessed them, with strong Bay Horses. > 4 Here is God-reaching sacrifice, here the victim; here, Indra, are the prayers, here is the Soma. > Strewn is the sacred grass: come hither, Śakra; seat thee and drink: unyoke thy two Bay Coursers. > 5 Come to us, Indra, come thou highly lauded to the devotions of the singer Māna. > Singing, may we find early through thy succour, may we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXVIII. Indra.

This hymn is a plea to Indra not to be disappointed in his worshippers, who have offered their praises and libations. The singer asks for the god's friendship and protection, so that he may bring his car near and they may pay their devotions in peace.

1 IF, Indra, thou hast given that gracious hearing where with thou helpest those who sang thy praises. > Blast not the wish that would exalt us may I gain all from thee, and pay all man's devotions. > 2 Let not the Sovran Indra disappoint us in what shall bring both Sisters to our dwelling. > To him have run the quickly flowing waters. May Indra come to us with life and friendship. > 3 Victorious with the men, Hero in battles, Indra, who hears the singer's supplication, > Will bring his car nigh to the man who offers, if he himself upholds the songs that praise him. > 4 Yea, Indra, with the men, through love of glory consumes the sacred food which friends have offered. > The ever-strengthening song of him who worships is sung in fight amid the clash of voices. > 5 Aided by thee, O Maghavan, O Indra, may we subdue our foes who count them mighty. > Be our protector, strengthen and increase us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXIX. Rati.

This unusual hymn presents a dialogue between the sage Agastya and his wife Lopāmudrā, who complains of his neglect and the passing of her youth. It is a rare portrayal of human desire and the tension between ascetic devotion and worldly life, culminating in the sage's prayerful reconciliation.

1 'Through many autumns have I toiled and laboured, at night and morn, through age-inducing dawnings. > Old age impairs the beauty of our bodies. Let husbands still come near unto their spouses. > 2 For even the men aforetime, law-fulfillers, who with the Gods declared eternal statutes,— > They have decided, but have not accomplished: so now let Wives come near unto their husbands. > 3 Non inutilis est labor cui Dii favent: nos omnes aemulos et aemulas vincamus. > Superemus in hac centum artium pugna in qua duas partes convenientes utrinque commovemus. > 4 Cupido me cepit illius tauri [viri] qui me despicit, utrum hinc utrum illinc ab aliqua parte nata sit. > Lopamudra taurum [maritum suum] ad se detrahit: insipiens illa sapientem anhelantem absorbet. > 5 This Soma I address that is most near us, that which hath been imbibed within the spirit, > To pardon any sins we have committed. Verily mortal man is full of longings. > 6 Agastya thus, toiling with strong endeavour, wishing for children, progeny and power, > Cherished—a sage of mighty strength—both classes, and with the Gods obtained his prayer's fulfilment.

Hymn CLXXX. Aśvins.

This hymn to the Aśvins is a song of praise, celebrating their golden chariot that flies through the regions and their benevolent deeds. The singer, Agastya, recalls how they made the fierce heat sweet for Atri and asks them to bring their new chariot, with its never-injured fellies, for the worshippers' well-being.

1 LIGHTLY your coursers travel through the regions when round the sea of air your car is flying. > Your golden fellies scatter drops of moisture: drinking the sweetness ye attend the Mornings. > 2 Ye as ye travel overtake the Courser who flies apart, the Friend of man, most holy. > The prayer is that the Sister may convey you, all praised, meath drinkers! to support and strengthen. > 3 Ye have deposited, matured within her, in the raw cow the first milk of the milch-cow, > Which the bright offerer, shining like a serpent mid trees, presents to you whose form is perfect. > 4 Ye made the fierce heat to be full of sweetness for Atri at his wish, like streaming water. > Fire-offering thence is yours, O Aśvins, Heroes: your car-wheels speed to us like springs of honey. > 5 Like Tugra's ancient son may I, ye Mighty, bring you to give your gifts with milk-oblations. > Your greatness compasseth Earth, Heaven, and Waters: decayed for you is sorrow's net, ye Holy. > 6 When, Bounteous Ones, ye drive your yoked team downward, ye send, by your own natures, understanding. > Swift as the wind let the prince please and feast you: he, like a pious man, gains strength for increase. > 7 For verily we truthful singers praise you the niggard trafficker is here excluded. > Now, even now do ye O blameless Aśvins, ye Mighty, guard the man whose God is near him. > 8 You of a truth day after day, O Aśvins, that he might win the very plenteous torrent, > Agastya, famous among mortal heroes, roused with a thousand lauds like sounds of music. > 9 When with the glory of your car ye travel, when we go speeding like the priest of mortals, > And give good horses to sacrificers, may we, Nāsatyas! gain our share of riches. > 10 With songs of praise we call to-day, O Aśvins, that your new chariot, for our own well-being, > That circles heaven with never-injured fellies. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXXI. Aśvins.

This hymn to the Aśvins is a plea for their divine presence at the sacrifice, where the singer brings his mighty song. He praises their chariot, their heroic deeds, and their power to bring wealth, asking them to come and enjoy the Soma that has been prepared.

1 WHAT, dearest Pair, is this in strength and riches that ye as Priests are bring from the waters? > This sacrifice is your glorification, ye who protect mankind and give them treasures. > 2 May your pure steeds, rain-drinkers, bring you hither, swift as the tempest, your celestial coursers, > Rapid as thought, with fair backs, full of vigour, resplendent in their native light, O Aśvins. > 3 Your car is like a torrent rushing downward: may it come nigh, broad seated, for our welfare,— > Car holy, strong, that ever would be foremost, thought-swift, which ye, for whom we long, have mounted. > 4 Here sprung to life, they both have sung together, with bodies free from stain, with signs that mark them; > One of you Prince of Sacrifice, the Victor, the other counts as Heaven's auspicious offspring. > 5 May your car-seat, down-gliding, golden-coloured, according to your wish approach our dwellings. > Men shall feed full the bay steeds of the other, and, Aśvins they with roars shall stir the regions. > 6 Forth comes your strong Bull like a cloud of autumn, sending abundant food of liquid sweetness. > Let them feed with the other's ways and vigour: the upper streams have come and do us service. > 7 Your constant song hath been sent forth, Disposers! that flows threefold in mighty strength, O Aśvins. > Thus lauded, give the suppliant protection moving or resting hear mine invocation. > 8 This song of bright contents for you is swelling in the men's hall where three-fold grass is ready. > Your strong rain-cloud, ye Mighty Ones, hath swollen, honouring men as ’twere with milk's outpouring. > 9 The prudent worshipper, like Pūṣan, Aśvins! praises you as he praises Dawn and Agni, > When, singing with devotion, he invokes you. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXXII. Aśvins.

The singer offers this hymn to the Aśvins, heart-stirring and longed-for, as a task to be accomplished. He calls on the Heaven's Sons, most Indra-like and Marut-like, to come to the sacrifice and not to linger with those who offer no libations, but to give light to the eloquent singer.

1 THIS was the task. Appear promptly, ye prudent Ones. Here is the chariot drawn by strong steeds: be ye glad. > Heart-stirring, longed for, succourers of Viśpalā, here are Heaven's Sons whose sway blesses the pious man. > 2 Longed for, most Indra-like, mighty, most Marut-like, most wonderful in deed, car-borne, best charioteers, > Bring your full chariot hither heaped with liquid sweet: thereon, ye Aśvins, come to him who offers gifts. > 3 What make ye there, ye Mighty? Wherefore linger ye with folk who, offering not, are held in high esteem? > Pass over them; make ye the niggard's life decay: give light unto the singer eloquent in praise. > 4 Crunch up on. every side the dogs who bark at us: slay ye our foes, O Aśvins this ye understand. > Make wealthy every word of him who praises you: accept with favour, both Nāsatyas, this my laud. > 5 Ye made for Tugra's son amid the water-floods that animated ship with wings to fly withal, > Whereon with God-devoted mind ye brought him forth, and fled with easy flight from out the mighty surge. > 6 Four ships most welcome in the midst of ocean, urged by the Aśvins, save the son of Tugra, > Him who was cast down headlong in the waters, plunged in the thick inevitable darkness. > 7 What tree was that which stood fixed in surrounding sea to which the son of Tugra supplicating clung? > Like twigs, of which some winged creature may take hold, ye, Aśvins, bore him off safely to your renown. > 8 Welcome to you be this the hymn of praises uttered by Mānas, O Nāsatyas, Heroes, > From this our gathering where we offer Soma. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXXIII. Aśvins.

This hymn to the Aśvins praises their swift, three-wheeled chariot that passes thought in its speed. The singer, a member of the Māna family, offers his laud as their share, asking them to come and enjoy the pleasant juices that have been prepared.

1 MAKE ready that which passes thought in swiftness, that hath three wheels and triple seat, ye Mighty, > Whereon ye seek the dwelling of the pious, whereon, threefold, ye fly like birds with pinions. > 2 Light rolls your easy chariot faring earthward, what time, for food, ye, full of wisdom, mount it. > May this song, wondrous fair, attend your glory: ye, as ye travel, wait on Dawn Heaven's Daughter. > 3 Ascend your lightly rolling car, approaching the worshipper who turns him to his duties,— > Whereon ye come unto the house to quicken man and his offspring, O Nāsatyas, Heroes. > 4 Let not the wolf, let not the she-wolf harm you. Forsake me not, nor pass me by or others. > Here stands your share, here is your hymn, ye Mighty: yours are these vessels, full of pleasant juices. > 5 Gotama, Purumīlha, Atri bringing oblations all invoke you for protection. > Like one who goes straight to the point directed, ye Nāsatyas, to mine invocation. > 6 We have passed o’er the limit of this darkness: our praise hath been bestowed on you, O Aśvins. > Come hitherward by paths which Gods have travelled. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXXIV. Aśvins.

This hymn to the Aśvins is an invocation at the break of morning, asking for their grace and protection. The singer, Māna, praises their glorious deeds and their giant steeds that move on sprung from the waters, and asks them to come to the house of Agastya, their worshipper.

1 LET us invoke you both this day and after the priest is here with lauds when morn is breaking: > Nāsatyas, wheresoe’er ye be, Heaven's Children, for him who is more liberal than the godless. > 2 With us, ye Mighty, let yourselves be joyful, glad in our stream of Soma slay the niggards. > Graciously hear my hymns and invitations, marking, O Heroes, with your cars my longing. > 3 Nāsatyas, Pūṣans, ye as Gods for glory arranged and set in order Sūrya's bridal. > Your giant steeds move on, sprung from the waters, like ancient times of Varuṇa the Mighty. > 4 Your grace be with us, ye who love sweet juices: further the hymn sung by the poet Māna, > When men are joyful in your glorious actions, to win heroic strength, ye Bounteous Givers. > 5 This praise was made, O liberal Lords, O Aśvins, for you with fair adornment by the Mānas. > Come to our house for us and for our children, rejoicing, O Nāsatyas, in Agastya. > 6 We have passed o’er the limit of this darkness: our praise hath been bestowed on you, O Aśvins. > Come hitherward by paths which Gods have travelled. may we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXXV. Heaven and Earth.

This hymn is a series of questions and prayers addressed to Heaven and Earth, the two divine parents. The singer asks which of them is elder, how they were born, and how they uphold the world, while repeatedly praying for their protection from fearful danger.

1 WHETHER of these is elder, whether later? How were they born? Who knoweth it, ye sages? > These of themselves support all things existing: as on a car the Day and Night roll onward. > 2 The Twain uphold, though motionless and footless, a widespread offspring having feet and moving. > Like your own son upon his parents’ bosom, protect us, Heaven and earth, from fearful danger. > 3 I call for Aditi's unrivalled bounty, perfect, celestial, deathless, meet for worship. > Produce this, ye Twain Worlds, for him who lauds you. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger. > 4 May we be close to both the Worlds who suffer no pain, Parents of Gods, who aid with favour, > Both mid the Gods, with Day and Night alternate. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger. > 5 Faring together, young, with meeting limits, Twin Sisters lying in their Parents’ bosom, > Kissing the centre of the world together. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger. > 6 Duly I call the two wide seats, the mighty, the general Parents, with the God's protection. > Who, beautiful to look on, make the nectar. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger. > 7 Wide, vast, and manifold, whose bounds are distant,—these, reverent, I address at this our worship, > The blessed Pair, victorious, all-sustaining. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger. > 8 What sin we have at any time committed against the Gods, our friend, our house's chieftain, > Thereof may this our hymn be expiation. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger. > 9 May both these Friends of man, who bless, preserve me, may they attend me with their help and favour. > Enrich the man more liberal than the godless. May we, ye Gods, be strong with food rejoicing. > 10 Endowed with understanding, I have uttered this truth, for all to hear, to Earth and Heaven. > Be near us, keep us from reproach and trouble. Father and Mother, with your help preserve us. > 11 Be this my prayer fulfilled, O Earth and Heaven, wherewith, Father and Mother, I address you. > Nearest of Gods be ye with your protection. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXXVI. Viśvedevas.

This hymn to the All-Gods is a broad invocation, calling on Savitar, the Maruts, Tvaṣṭar, and the great Dragon of the Deep to come to their synod. The singer, on behalf of the Bharadvājas, offers his reverent thought, asking for protection and strengthening food.

1 LOVED of all men, may Savitar, through praises offered as sacred food, come to our synod, > That you too, through-our hymn, ye ever-youthful, may gladden, at your visit, all our people. > 2 To us may all the Gods come trooped together, Aryaman, Mitra, Varuṇa concordant, > That all may be promoters of our welfare, and with great might preserve our strength from slackness. > 3 Agni I sing, the guest you love most dearly: the Conqueror through our lauds is friendly-minded. > That he may be our Varuṇa rich in glory and send food like a prince praised by the godly. > 4 To you I seek with reverence, Night and Morning, like a cow good to milk, with hope to conquer, > Preparing on a common day the praise. song with milk of various hues within this udder. > 5 May the great Dragon of the Deep rejoice us: as one who nourishes her young comes Sindhu, > With whom we will incite the Child of Waters whom vigorous course swift as thought bring hither. > 6 Moreover Tvaṣṭar also shall approach us, one-minded with the princes at his visit. > Hither shall come the Vṛtra-slayer Indra, Ruler of men, as strongest of the Heroes. > 7 Him too our hymns delight, that yoke swift horses, like mother cows who lick their tender youngling. > To him our songs shall yield themselves like spouses, to him the most delightful of the Heroes. > 8 So may the Maruts, armed with mighty weapons, rest here on heaven and earth with hearts in concord, > As Gods whose cars have dappled steeds like torrents, destroyers of the foe allies of Mitra. > 9 They hasten on to happy termination their orders when they are made known by > glory. > As on a fair bright day the arrow flieth o’er all the barren soil their missiles sparkle. > 10 Incline the Aśvins to show grace, and Pūṣan, for power and might have they, their own possession. > Friendly are Viṣṇu, Vāta, and Ṛbhukṣan so may I bring the Gods to make us happy. > 11 This is my reverent thought of you, ye Holy; may it inspire you, make you dwell among us,— > Thought, toiling for the Gods and seeking treasure. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CLXXXVII. Praise of Food.

This hymn is a powerful praise of Food itself, deified as a great and pleasant force that upholds the world. The singer celebrates Food's invigorating power, which allowed Trita to rend Vṛtra, and describes its juices as flowing through all regions like the wind.

1 Now will I glorify Food that upholds great strength, > By whose invigorating power Trita rent Vṛtra limb from limb. > 2 O pleasant Food, O Food of meath, thee have we chosen for our own, > So be our kind protector thou. > 3 Come hitherward to us, O Food, auspicious with auspicious help, > Health-bringing, not unkind, a dear and guileless friend. > 4 These juices which, O Food, are thine throughout the regions are diffused. > like winds they have their place in heaven. > 5 These gifts of thine, O Food, O Food most sweet to taste, > These savours of thy juices work like creatures that have mighty necks. > 6 In thee, O Food, is set the spirit of great Gods. > Under thy flag brave deeds were done he slew the Dragon with thy help. > 7 If thou be gone unto the splendour of the clouds, > Even from thence, O Food of meath, prepared for our enjoyment, come. > 8 Whatever morsel we consume from waters or from plants of earth, O Soma, wax thou fat thereby. > 9 What Soma, we enjoy from thee in milky food or barley-brew, Vātāpi, grow thou fat thereby. > 10 O Vegetable, Cake of meal, he wholesome, firm, and strengthening: > Vātāpi, grow thou fat thereby. > 11 O Food, from thee as such have we drawn forth with lauds, like cows, our sacrificial gifts, > From thee who banquetest with Gods, from thee who banquetest with us.

Hymn CLXXXVIII. Āprīs.

This is an Āprī hymn, a formal litany of invitations to the various divine powers and deified elements of the sacrifice. It calls upon Agni as the winner of thousands, the sacrificial grass, the divine doors, and the goddesses Sarasvatī, Bhāratī, and Iḷā to come and bless the offering.

1 WINNER of thousands, kindled, thou shinest a God with Gods to-day. > Bear out oblations, envoy, Sage. > 2 Child of Thyself the sacrifice is for the righteous blent with meath, > Presenting viands thousandfold. > 3 Invoked and worthy of our praise bring Gods whose due is sacrifice: > Thou, Agni, givest countless gifts. > 4 To seat a thousand Heroes they eastward have strewn the grass with might, > Whereon, Ādityas, ye shine forth. > 5 The sovran all-imperial Doors, wide, good, many and manifold, > Have poured their streams of holy oil. > 6 With gay adornment, fair to see, in glorious beauty shine they forth: > Let Night and Morning rest them here. > 7 Let these two Sages first of all, heralds divine and eloquent, > Perform for us this sacrifice. > 8 You I address, Sarasvatī, and Bhāratī, and Iḷā, all: > Urge ye us on to glorious fame. > 9 Tvaṣṭar the Lord hath made all forms and all the cattle of the field > Cause them to multiply for us. > 10 Send to the Gods, Vanaspati, thyself, the sacrificial draught: > Let Agni make the oblations sweet. > 11 Agni, preceder of the Gods, is honoured with the sacred song: > He glows at offerings blest with Hail!

Hymn CLXXXIX. Agni.

This hymn to Agni is a plea for guidance and protection, asking the god who knows every sacred duty to lead his worshippers to riches. The singer offers ample adoration, asking Agni to remove the sin that makes them stray and to lead them beyond all danger and affliction.

1 BY goodly paths lead us to riches, Agni, God who knowest every sacred duty. > Remove the sin that makes us stray and wander. most ample adoration will we bring thee. > 2 Lead us anew to happiness, O Agni; lead us beyond all danger and affliction. > Be unto us a wide broad ample castle bless, prosper on their way our sons and offspring. > 3 Far from us, Agni, put thou all diseases let them strike lauds that have no saving Agni. > God, make our home again to be a blessing, with all the Immortal Deities, O Holy. > 4 Preserve us, Agni, with perpetual succour, refulgent in the dwelling which thou lovest. > O Conqueror, most youthful, let no danger touch him who praises thee to-day or after. > 5 Give not us up a prey to sin, O Agni, the greedy enemy that brings us trouble; > Not to the fanged that bites, not to the toothless: give not us up, thou Conqueror, to the spoiler. > 6 Such as thou art, born after Law, O Agni when lauded give protection to our bodies, > From whosoever would reproach or injure: for thou, God, rescuest from all oppression. > 7 Thou, well discerning both these classes, comest to men at early morn, O holy Agni. > Be thou obedient unto man at evening, to be adorned, as keen, by eager suitors. > 8 To him have we addressed our pious speeches, I, Māna's son, to him victorious Agni. > May we gain countless riches with the sages. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CXC. Bṛhaspati.

This hymn glorifies Bṛhaspati, the scatheless lord of prayer, who is praised by both gods and mortals. The singer celebrates him as the one who laid out the expanses of the world and whose song of praise pervades heaven and earth.

1 GLORIFY thou Bṛhaspati, the scatheless, who must be praised with hymns, sweet-tongued and mighty, > To whom as leader of the song, resplendent, worthy of lauds, both Gods and mortals listen. > 2 On him wait songs according to the season even as a stream of pious men set moving. > Bṛhaspati—for he laid out the expanses—was, at the sacrifice, vast Mātariśvan. > 3 The praise, the verse that offers adoration, may he bring forth, as the Sun sends his arms out, > He who gives daily light through this God's wisdom, strong as a dread wild beast, and inoffensive. > 4 His song of praise pervades the earth and heaven: let the wise worshipper draw it, like a courser. > These of Bṛhaspati, like hunters' arrows, go to the skies that change their hue like serpents. > 5 Those, God, who count thee as a worthless bullock, and, wealthy sinners, live on thee the Bounteous,— > On fools like these no blessing thou bestowest: Bṛhaspati, thou punishest the spiteful. > 6 Like a fair path is he, where grass is pleasant, though hard to win, a Friend beloved most early. > Those who unharmed by enemies behold us, while they would make them bare, stood closely compassed. > 7 He to whom songs of praise go forth like torrents, as rivers eddying under banks flow sea-ward— > Bṛhaspati the wise, the eager, closely looks upon both, the waters and the vessel. > 8 So hath Bṛhaspati, great, strong and mighty, the God exceeding powerful, been brought hither. > May he thus lauded give us kine and horses. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

Hymn CXCI. Water. Grass. Sun.

This hymn is a powerful charm against poison, whether from stinging creatures, venomous plants, or things unseen. The singer invokes the healing power of the waters, the sacred grasses, and the all-seeing sun to consume and drive away all venom.

1 VENOMOUS, slightly venomous, or venomous aquatic worm,— > Both creatures, stinging, unobserved, with poison have infected me. > 2 Coming, it kills the unobserved; it kills them as it goes away, > It kills them as it drives them off, and bruising bruises them to death. > 3 Sara grass, Darbha, Kuśara, and Sairya, Muñja, Vīraṇa, > Where all these creatures dwell unseen, with poison have infected me. > 4 The cows had settled in their stalls, the beasts of prey had sought their lairs, > Extinguished were the lights of men, when things unseen infected me. > 5 Or these, these reptiles, are observed, like lurking thieves at evening time. > Seers of all, themselves unseen: be therefore very vigilant. > 6 Heaven is your Sire, your Mother Earth, Soma your Brother, Aditi > Your Sister: seeing all, unseen, keep still and dwell ye happily. > 7 Biters of shoulder or of limb, with needle-stings, most venomous, > Unseen, whatever ye may be, vanish together and be gone. > 8 Slayer of things unseen, the Sun, beheld of all, mounts, eastward, up, > Consuming all that are not seen, and evil spirits of the night. > 9 There hath the Sun-God mounted up, who scorches much and everything. > Even the Āditya from the hills, all-seen, destroying things unseen. > 10 I hang the poison in the Sun, a wine-skin in a vintner's house, > He will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath. > 11 This little bird, so very small, hath swallowed all thy poison up. > She will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath. > 12 The three-times-seven bright sparks of fire have swallowed up the poison's strength. > They will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath. > 13 Of ninety rivers and of nine with power to stay the venom's course,— > The names of all I have secured: his path is far: he whom Bay Horses bear hath turned thee to sweet meath. > 14 So have the peahens three-times-seven, so have the maiden Sisters Seven > Carried thy venom far away, as girls bear water in their jars. > 15 The poison-insect is so small; I crush the creature with a stone. > I turn the poison hence away, departed unto distant lands. > 16 Forth issuing from the mountain's side the poison-insect spake and said: > Scorpion, they venom is but weak.