11 - Indra

ALL SACRED songs have magnified Indra expansive as the sea,

The best of warriors borne on cars, the Lord, the very Lord of strength. (1)

Strong in your friendship, Indra, Lord of power and might, we have no fear.

We glorify with praises you, the never-conquered conqueror. (2)

The gifts of Indra from of' old, his saving succours, never fail,

When to the praise-singers he gives the boon of substance rich in kine. (3)

Crusher of forts, the young, the wise, of strength unmeasured, was he born

Sustainer of each sacred rite, Indra, the Thunderer, much-extolled. (4)

Lord of the thunder, you didst burst the cave of Vala rich in cows.

The gods came pressing to your side, and free from terror aided you, (5)

I, hero, through your bounties am come to the flood addressing you.

Song-lover, here the singers stand and testify to you thereof. (6)

The wily Susna, Indra! you over-threw with your wondrous powers.

The wise beheld this deed of yours: now go beyond their eulogies. (7)

Our songs of praise have glorified Indra who rules by his might,

Whose precious gifts in thousands come, yea, even more abundantly.

12 - Agni

WE choose Agni the messenger, the herald, master of all wealth,

Well skilled in this our sacrifice. (1)

With callings ever they invoke Agni, Agni, Lord of the House,

Oblation-bearer, much beloved. (2)

Bring the gods here, Agni, born for him who strews the sacred grass:

You are our herald, meet for praise. (3)

Wake up the willing gods, since you, Agni, perform embassage:

Sit on the sacred grass with gods. (4)

Agni, radiant one, to whom the holy oil is poured, bum up

Our enemies whom fiends protect. (5)

By Agni Agni is inflamed, Lord of the House, wise, young, who bears

The gift: the ladle is his mouth. (6)

Praise Agni in the sacrifice, the Sage whose ways are ever true,

The god who drives grief away. (7)

God, Agni, be his strong defence who lord of sacrificial gifts,

Worship you the messenger. (8)

Whoso with sacred gift would fain call Agni to the feast of gods,

Purifier, favour him. (9)

Such, Agni, Purifier, bright, bring here to our sacrifice,

To our oblation bring the gods. (10)

So lauded by our newest song of praise bring opulence to us,

And food, with heroes for our sons. (11)

Agni, by effulgent flame, by all invokings of the gods,

Show pleasure in this laud of ours.

13 - Agni

AGNI, well-kindled, bring the gods for him who offers holy gifts.

Worship them, Purifier, priest. (1)

Son of Thyself, present, Sage, our sacrifice to the gods today.

Sweet to the taste, that they may feast. (2)

Dear Narasamsa, sweet of tongue, the giver of oblations, I

Invoke to this our sacrifice. (3)

Agni, on your most easy car, glorified, here bring the gods:

Manu appointed you as priest. (4)

Strew, you wise, the sacred grass that drips with oil, in order due,

Where the immortal is beheld. (5)

Thrown open be the Doors Divine, unfailing, that assist the rite,

For sacrifice this day and now. (6)

I call the lovely Night and Dawn to seat them on the holy grass

At this our solemn sacrifice. (7)

The two Invokers I invite, the wise, divine and sweet of tongue,

To celebrate this our sacrifice. (8)

Ila, Sarasvati, Mahi, three Goddesses who bring delight,

Be seated, peaceful, on the grass. (9)

Tvastar I call, the earliest born, the wearer of all forms at will:

May he be ours and curs alone. (10)

God, Sovran of the Wood, present this our oblation to the gods,

And let the giver be renowned. (11)

With Svaha. pay the sacrifice to Indra in the offerer's house:

There I call the deities.

14 - Visvedevas

To drink the soma, Agni, come, to our service and our songs.

With all these gods; and worship them. (1)

The Kanvas have invoked you; they, Singer, sing you songs of praise

Agni, come here with the gods; (2)

Indra, Vayu, Brihaspati, Mitra, Agni, Pusan, Bhaga,

Adityas, and the Marut host. (3)

For you these juices are poured forth that gladden and exhilarate,

The meath-drops resting in the cup. (4)

The sons of Kanva fain for help adore you, having strewn the grass,

With offerings and all things prepared. (5)

Let the swift steeds who carry you, thought-yoked and dropping holy oil,

Bring the gods to the soma draught. (6)

Adored, the strengtheners of Law, unite them, Agni, with their Dames:

Make them drink meath, bright of tongue. (7)

Let them, Agni, who deserve worship and praise drink with your tongue

Tle meath in solemn sacrifice. (8)

Away, from the Sun's realm of light, the wise invoking priest shall bring

All gods awaking with the dawn. (9)

With all the gods, with Indra, with Vayu, and Mitra's splendours, drink,

Agni, the pleasant soma juice. (10)

Ordained by Manu as our priest, you sit, Agni, at each rite:

Hallow you this our sacrifice. (11)

Harness the Red Mares to your car, the Bays, God, the flaming ones:

With those bring hitherward the gods.

15 - Ritu

INDRA drink the soma juice with Ritu; let the cheering drops

Sink deep within, which settle there. (1)

Drink from the Purifier's cup, Maruts, with Ritu; sanctify

The rite, for you give precious gifts. (2)

Nestar, with your Dame accept our sacrifice; with Ritu drink,

For you are he who gives wealth. (3)

Bring the gods, Agni; in the three appointed places set them down:

Surround them, and with Ritu drink. (4)

Drink Soma after the Ritus, from the Brahmana's bounty: undissolved,

Indra, is your friendship's bond. (5)

Mitra, Varuna, you whose ways are firm - a Power that none deceives-,

With Ritu you have reached the rite. (6)

The soma-pressers, fain for wealth, praise the Wealth-giver in the rite,

In sacrifices praise the god. (7)

May the Wealth-giver grant to us riches that shall be far renowned.

These things we gain, among the gods. (8)

He with the Ritu fain would drink, Wealth-giver, from the Nestar's bowl.

Haste, give your offering, and depart. (9)

As we this fourth time, Wealth-giver, honour you with the Ritus, be

A Giver bountiful to us. (10)

Drink you the meath, Asvins bright with flames, whose acts are pure. who with

Ritus accept the sacrifice. (11)

With Ritu, through the house-fire, you, kind Giver, guide sacrifice:

Worship the gods for the pious man.

16 - Indra

LET your bay steeds bring you, the Strong, here to drink the soma draught-

Those, Indra, who are bright as suns. (1)

Here are the grains bedewed with oil: here let the Bay coursers bring

Indra upon his easiest car. (2)

Indra at early morn we call, Indra in course of sacrifice,

Indra to drink the soma juice. (3)

Come here, with your long-maned steeds, Indra, to- the draught we pour

We call you where the juice is shed. (4)

Come to this our song of praise, to the libation poured for you

Drink of it like a stag athirst. (5)

Here are the drops of soma juice expressed on sacred grass: thereof

Drink, Indra, to increase your might. (6)

Welcome to you be this our hymn, reaching your heart, most excellent:

Then drink the soma juice expressed. (7)

To every draught of pressed-out juice Indra, the Vritra-slayer, comes,

To drink the soma for delight. (8)

Fulfil, Satakratu, all our wish with horses and with kine:

With holy thoughts we sing your praise.

17 - Indra-Varuna

I CRAVE help from the Imperial lords, from Indra-Varuna; may they

Both favour one of us like me. (1)

Guardians of men, you ever come with ready succour at the call

Of every singer such as I. (2)

Sate you, according to your wish, Indra-Varuna, with wealth:

Fain would we have you nearest us. (3)

May we be sharers of the powers, sharers of the benevolence

Of you who give strength bounteously. (4)

Indra and Varuna, among givers of thousands, meet for praise,

Are Powers who merit highest laud. (5)

Through their protection may we gain great store of wealth, and heap it up

Enough and still to spare, be ours. (6)

Indra-Varuna, on you for wealth in many a form I call:

Still keep us victorious. (7)

Indra-Varuna, - through our songs that seek to win you to ourselves,

Give us at once your sheltering help. (8)

Indra-Varuna, to you may fair praise which I offer come,

joint eulogy which you dignify.

18 - Brahmanaspati

BRAHMANAPSATI, make him who presses Soma glorious,

Even Kaksivan Ausija. (1)

The rich, the healer of disease, who gives wealth, increases store,

The prompt,-may he be with us still. (2)

Let not the foeman's curse, let not a mortal's onslaught fall on us

Preserve us, Brahmanaspati. (3)

Never is the mortal hero harmed whom Indra, Brahmanaspati,

And Soma graciously inspire. (4)

Do, you, Brahmanaspati, and Indra, Soma, Daksina,

Preserve that mortal from distress. (5)

To the Assembly's wondrous Lord, to Indra's lovely friend who gives

Wisdom, have I drawn near in prayer. (6)

He without whom no sacrifice, even of the wise man, prospers; he

Stirs up the series of thoughts. (7)

He makes the oblation prosper, he promotes the course of sacrifice:

Our voice of praise goes to the gods. (8)

I have seen Narasamsa, him most resolute, most widely famed,

As it were the Household priest of heaven.

19 - Agni, Maruts

To this fair sacrifice to drink the milky draught you are invoked:

Agni, with the Maruts come. (1)

No mortal man, no God exceeds your mental power, Mighty one -

Agni, with the Maruts come (2)

All gods devoid of guile, who know the mighty region of mid-air:

Agni, with those Maruts come. (3)

The terrible, who sing their song, not to be overcome by might:

Agni, with those Maruts come. (4)

Brilliant, and awful in their form, mighty, devourers of their foes':

Agni, with those Maruts come. (5)

Who sit as deities in heaven, above the sky-vault's luminous sphere:

Agni, with those Maruts come. (6)

Who scatter clouds about the sky, away over the billowy sea:

Agni, with those Maruts come. (7)

Who with their bright beams spread them forth over the ocean in their might

Agni, with those Maruts come. (8)

For you, to be your early draught, I pour the soma-mingled meath:

Agni, with the Maruts come.

20 - Rbhus

FOR the Celestial Race this song of praise which gives wealth lavishly

Was made by singers with their lips. (1)

They who for Indra, with their mind, formed horses harnessed by a word,

Attained by works to sacrifice. (2)

They for the two Nasatyas wrought a light car moving every way:

They formed a nectar-yielding cow. (3)

The Rbhus with effectual prayers, honest, with constant labour, made

Their Sire and Mother young again. (4)

Together came your gladdening drops with Indra by the Maruts girt,

With the Adityas, with the Kings. (5)

The sacrificial ladle, wrought newly by the god Tvastar's hand-

Four ladles have you made thereof. (6)

Vouchsafe us wealth, to him who pours thrice seven libations, yea, to each

Give wealth, pleased with our eulogies. (7)

As ministering priests they held, by pious acts they won themselves,

A share in sacrifice with gods.

21 - Indra-Agni

INDRA and Agni I invoke fain are we for their song of praise

Chief Soma-drinkers are they both. (1)

Praise you, men, and glorify Indra-Agni in the holy rites:

Sing praise to them in sacred songs. (2)

Indra and Agni we invite, the soma-drinkers, for the fame

Of Mitra, to the soma-draught. (3)

Strong gods, we bid them come to this libation that stands ready here:

Indra and Agni, come to us. (4)

Indra and Agni, mighty lords of our assembly, crush the fiends:

Childless be the devouring ones. (5)

Watch you, through this your truthfulness, there in the place of spacious view

Indra and Agni, send us bliss.

22 - Asvins and Others

WAKEN the Asvin Pair who yoke their car at early morn: may they

Approach to drink this soma juice. (1)

We call the Asvins two, the gods borne in a noble car, the best

Of charioteers, who reach the heavens. (2)

Dropping with honey is your whip, Asvins, and full of pleasantness

Sprinkle therewith the sacrifice. (3)

As you go there in your car, not far, Asvins, is the home

Of him who offers soma juice. (4)

For my protection I invoke the golden-handed Savitar.

He knows, as a God, the place. (5)

That he may send us succour, praise the Waters' Offspring Savitar:

Fain are we for his holy ways. (6)

We call on him, distributer of wondrous bounty and of wealth,

On Savitar who looks on men. (7)

Come here, friends, and seat yourselves Savitar, to be praised by us,

Giving good gifts, is beautiful. (8)

Agni, here bring to us the willing Spouses of the gods,

And Tvastar, to the soma draught. (9)

Most youthful Agni, here bring their Spouses, Hotra, Bharati,

Varutri, Dhisana, for aid. (10)

Spouses of heroes, Goddesses, with whole wings may they come to us

With great protection and with aid. (11)

Indrani, Varunani, and Agnayi here I invite,

For weal, to drink the soma juice. (12)

May Heaven and Earth, the Mighty Pair, bedew for us our sacrifice,

And feed us full with nourishments. (13)

Their water rich with fatness, there in the Gandharva's steadfast place,

The singers taste through sacred songs. (14)

Thornless be you, Earth, spread wide before us for a dwelling-place:

Vouchsafe us shelter broad and sure. (15)

The gods be gracious to us even from the place whence Visnu strode

Through the seven regions of the earth! (16)

Through all this world strode Visnu; thrice his foot he planted, and the whole

Was gathered in his footstep's dust. (17)

Visnu, the Guardian, he whom none deceives, made three steps; thenceforth

Establishing his high decrees. (18)

Look you on Visnu's works, by which the friend of Indra, close-allied,

Has let his holy ways be seen. (19)

The princes evermore behold that loftiest place where Visnu is,

Laid as it were an eye in heaven. (20)

This, Vishnu's station most sublime, the singers, ever vigilant,

Lovers of holy song, light up.

23 - Vayu and Others

STRONG are the somas; come nigh; these juices have been mixt with milk:

Drink, Vayu, the presented draughts. (1)

Both deities who touch the heaven, Indra and Vayu we invoke

To drink of this our soma juice. (2)

The singers' for their aid, invoke Indra and Vayu, swift as mind,

The thousand-eyed, the lords of thought. (3)

Mitra and Varupa, renowned as gods of consecrated might,

We call to drink the soma juice. (4)

Those who by Law uphold the Law, lords of the shining light of Law,

Mitra I call, and Varuna. (5)

Let Varuna be our chief defence, let Mitra guard us with all aids

Both make us rich exceedingly. (6)

Indra, by Maruts girt, we call to drink the soma juice: may he

Sate him in union with his troop. (7)

gods, Marut hosts whom Indra leads, distributers of Pusan's gifts,

Listen well you all to my cry. (8)

With conquering Indra for ally, strike Vritra down, you bounteous gods

Let not the wicked master us. (9)

We call the Universal gods, and Maruts to the soma draught,

For passing strong are Prsni's Sons. (10)

Fierce comes the Maruts' thundering voice, like that of conquerors, when you go

Forward to victory, Men. (11)

Born of the laughing lightning. may the Maruts guard us everywhere

May they be gracious to Us. (12)

Like some lost animal, drive to us, bright Pusan, him who bears up heaven,

Resting on many-coloured grass. (13)

Pusan the Bright has found the King, concealed and bidden in a cave,

Who rests on grass of many hues. (14)

And may he. duly bring to me the six bound closely, through these drops,

As one who ploughs with steers brings corn. (15)

Along their paths the Mothers go, Sisters of priestly ministrants,

Mingling their sweetness with the milk. (16)

May Waters gathered near the Sun, and those wherewith the Sun is joined,

Speed forth this sacrifice of ours. (17)

I call the Waters, Goddesses, wherein our cattle quench their thirst;

Oblations to the Streams be given. (18)

Amrit is in the Waters in the Waters there is healing balm

Be swift, you gods, to give them praise. (19)

Within the Waters-Soma thus has told me-dwell all balms that heal,

And Agni, he who blesses all. The Waters hold all medicines. (20)

Waters, teem with medicine to keep my body safe from harm,

So that I long may see the Sun. (21)

Whatever sin is found in me, whatever evil I have wrought.

If I have lied or falsely sworn, Waters, remove it far from me. (22)

The Waters I this day have sought, and to their moisture have we come:

Agni, rich in milk, come you, and with your splendour cover me. (23)

Fill me with splendour, Agni; give offspring and length of days; the gods

Shall know me even as I am, and Indra with the Rishis, know.

24 - Varuna and Others

WHnow is he, what God among immortals, of whose auspicious name we may bethink us?

Who shall to mighty Aditi restore us, that I may see my Father and my Mother? (1)

Agni the god the first among the immortals, - of his auspicious name let us bethink us.

He shall to mighty Aditi restore us, that I may see my Father and my Mother. (2)

To you, Savitar, the Lord of precious things, who help us

Continually, for our share we come- (3)

Wealth, highly lauded ere reproach has fallen on it, which is laid,

Free from all hatred, in your hands (4)

Through your protection may we come to even the height of affluence

Which Bhaga has dealt out to us. (5)

Never have those birds that fly through air attained to your high dominion or your might or spirit;

Nor these the waters that flow on forever, nor hills, abaters of the wind's wild fury. (6)

Varuna, King, of hallowed might, sustains erect the Tree's stem in the baseless region.

Its rays, whose root is high above, stream downward. Deep may they sink within us, and be hidden. (7)

King Varuna has made a spacious pathway, a pathway for the Sun wherein to travel.

Where no way was he made him set his footstep, and warned afar whatever afflicts the spirit. (8)

A hundred balms are your, King, a thousand; deep and wide-reaching also be your favours.

Far from us, far away drive you Destruction. Put from us even the sin we have committed. (9)

Where by day depart the constellations that shine at night, set high in heaven above us?

Varuna's holy laws remain unweakened, and through the night the Moon moves on in splendor (10)

I ask this of you with my prayer adoring; your worshipper craves this with his oblation.

Varuna, stay you here and be not angry; steal not our life from us, you Wide-Ruler. (11)

Nightly and daily this one thing they tell me, this too the thought of mine own heart repeateth.

May he to whom prayed fettered Sunahsepa, may he the Sovran Varuna release us. (12)

Bound to three pillars captured Sunahsepa thus to the Aditya made his supplication.

Him may the Sovran Varuna deliver, wise, never deccived, loosen the bonds that bind him. (13)

With bending down, oblations, sacrifices, Varuna, we deprecate your anger:

Wise Asura, you King of wide dominion, loosen the bonds of sins by us committed. (14)

Loosen the bonds, Varuna, that hold me, loosen the bonds above, between, and under.

So in your holy law may we made sinless belong to Aditi, you Aditya.

25 - Varuna

WHATEVER law of yours, God, Varurna, as we are men,

Day after day we violate. (1)

give us not as a prey to death, to be destroyed by you in wrath,

To your fierce anger when displeased. (2)

To gain your mercy, Varuna, with hymns we bind your heart, as binds

The charioteer his tethered horse. (3)

They flee from me dispirited, bent only on obtaining wealths

As to their nests the birds of air. (4)

When shall we bring, to be appeased, the hero, Lord of warrior might,

Him, the far-seeing Varuna? (5)

This, this with joy they both accept in common: never do they fail

The ever-faithful worshipper. (6)

He knows the path of birds that fly through heaven, and, Sovran of the sea,

He knows the ships that are thereon. (7)

True to his holy law, he knows the twelve moons with their progeny:

He knows the moon of later birth. (8)

He knows the pathway of the wind, the spreading, high, and mighty wind

He knows the gods who dwell above. (9)

Varuna, true to holy law, sits down among his people; he,

Most wise, sits there to govern. all. (10)

From thence percerving he beholds all wondrous things, both what has been,

And what hereafter will be done. (11)

May that Aditya, very -wise, make fair paths for us all our days:

May lie prolong our lives for us. (12)

Varuna, wearing golden mail, has clad him in a shining robe.

His spies are seated found about. (13)

The god whom enemies threaten not, nor those who tyrannize over men,

Nor those whose minds are bent on wrong. (14)

He who gives glory to mankind, not glory that is incomplete,

To our own bodies giving it. (15)

Yearning for the wide-seeing One, my thoughts move onward to him,

As kine to their pastures move. (16)

Once more together let us speak, because my meath is brought: priest-like

You eatest what is dear to you. (17)

Now saw I him whom all may see, I saw his car above the earth:

He has accepted these my songs. (18)

Varuna, hear this call of mine: be gracious to us this day

Longing for help I cried to you. (19)

You, wise God, art Lord of all, you are the King of earth and heaven

Hear, as you go on your way. (20)

Release us from the upper bond, untie the bond between, and loose

The bonds below, that I may live.

26 - Agni

WORTHY of oblation, Lord of prospering powers, assume your robes,

And offer this our sacrifice. (1)

Sit ever to be chosen, as our priest., most youthful, through our hymns,

Agni, through our heavenly word. (2)

For here a Father for his son, Kinsman for kinsman worship,

And friend, choice-worthy, for his friend. (3)

Fiere let the foe-destroyers sit, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman,

Like men, upon our sacred grass. (4)

ancient Herald, be you glad in this our rite and fellowship:

Listen you well to these our songs. (5)

Whatever in this perpetual course we sacrifice to God and God,

That gift is offered up in you (6)

May he be our dear household Lord, priest, pleasant and, choice-worthy may

We, with bright fires, be dear to him. (7)

The gods, adored with brilliant fires. have granted precious wealth to us

So, with bright fires, we pray to you. (8)

And, immortal One, so may the eulogies of mortal men

Belong to us and you alike. (9)

With all your fires, Agni, find pleasure in this our sacrifice,

And this our speech, Son of Strength.

27 - Agni

WITH worship will I glorify you, Agni, like a long-tailed steed,

Imperial Lord of sacred rites. (1)

May the far-striding Son of Strength, bringer of great felicity,

Who pours his gifts like rain, be ours. (2)

Lord of all life, from near; from far, do you, Agni evermore

Protect us from the sinful man. (3)

Agni, graciously announce this our oblation to the gods,

And this our newest song of praise. (4)

Give us a share of strength most high, a share of strength that is below,

A share of strength that is between. (5)

You dealest gifts, resplendent One; nigh, as with waves of Sindhu, you

Swift streamest to the worshipper. (6)

That man is lord of endless strength whom you protectest in the fight,

Agni, or urgest to the fray. (7)

Him, whosoever he may be, no man may vanquish, mighty One:

Nay, very glorious power is his. (8)

May he who dwells with all mankind bear us with war-steeds through the fight,

And with the singers win the spoil. (9)

Help, you who know lauds, this work, this eulogy to Rudra ("Howler" and Archer), him

Adorable in every house. (10)

May this our God, great, limitless, smoke-bannered excellently bright,

Urge us to strength and holy thought. (11)

Like some rich Lord of men may he, Agni the banner of the gods,

Refulgent, hear us through our lauds. (12)

Glory to gods, the mighty and the lesser glory to gods the younger and the elder!

Let us, if we have power, pay the god worship: no better prayer than this, you gods, acknowledge.

28 - Indra, etc

THERE where the broad-based stone raised on high to press the juices out,

Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds. (1)

Where, like broad hips, to hold the juice the platters of the press are laid,

Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds. (2)

There where the woman marks and leans the pestle's constant rise and fall,

Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds. (3)

Where, as with reins to guide a horse, they bind the churning-staff with cords,

Indra, drink with eager thirst the droppings which the mortar sheds. (4)

If of a truth in every house, Mortar you are set for work,

Here give you forth your clearest sound, loud as the drum of conquerors. (5)

Sovran of the Forest, as the wind blows soft in front of you,

Mortar, for Indra press you forth the soma juice that he may drink. (6)

Best strength-givers, you stretch wide jaws, Sacrificial Implements,

Like two bay horses champing herbs. (7)

You Sovrans of the Forest, both swift, with swift pressers press to-day

Sweet soma juice for Indra's drink. (8)

Take up in beakers what remains: the soma on the filter pour,

and on the ox-hide set the dregs.

29 - Indra

SOMA DRINKER, ever true, utterly hopeless though we be,

Do you, Indra, give us hope of beauteous horses and of kine,

In thousands, most wealthy One. (1)

Lord of Strength, whose jaws are strong, great deeds are your, the powerful:

Do you, Indra, give us hope of beauteous horses and of kine,

In thousands, most wealthy One. (2)

Lull you asleep, to wake no more, the pair who on each other look

Do you, Indra, give us, help of beauteous horses and of kine,

In thousands, most wealthy One. (3)

Hero, let hostile spirits sleep, and every gentler genius wake:

Do you, Indra,. give us hope of beauteous horses and of kine,

In thousands, most wealthy One. (4)

Destroy this ass, Indra, who in tones discordant brays to you:

Do you, Indra, give us hope of beauteous horses and of kine,

In thousands, most wealthy One. (5)

Far distant on the forest fall the tempest in a circling course!

Do you, Indra, give us hope of beauteous horses and of kine,

In thousands, most wealthy One. (6)

Slay each reviler, and destroy him who in secret injures us:

Do you, Indra, give us hope of beauteous horses and of kine

In thousands, most wealthy One.

30 - Indra

WE seeking strength with Soma-drops fill full your Indra like a well,

Most liberal, Lord of Hundred Powers, (1)

Who lets a hundred of the pure, a thousand of the milk-blent draughts

Flow, even as down a depth, to him; (2)

When for the strong, the rapturous joy he in this manner has made room

Within his belly, like the sea. (3)

This is your own. You drawest near, as turns a pigeon to his mate:

You carest too for this our prayer. (4)

Hero, Lord of Bounties, praised in hymns, may power and joyfulness

Be his who sings the laud to you. (5)

Lord of a Hundred Powers, stand up to lend us succour in this fight

In others too let us agree. (6)

In every need, in every fray we call as friends to succour us

Indra the mightiest of all. (7)

If he will hear us let him come with succour of a thousand kinds,

And all that strengthens, to our call. (8)

I call him mighty to resist, the hero of our ancient home,

You whom my sire invoked of old. (9)

We pray to you, much-invoked, rich in all prccious gifts, friend,

Kind God to those who sing your praise. (10)

Soma-drinker, Thunder-armed, friend of our lovely-featured dames

And of our Soma-drinking friends. (11)

Thus, Soma-drinker, may it be; thus, friend, who wieldest thunder, act

To aid each wish as we desire. (12)

With Indra splendid feasts be ours, rich in all strengthening things wherewith,

Wealthy in food, we may rejoice. (13)

Like you, thyself, the singers' friend, you movest, as it were, besought,

Bold One, the axle of the car. (14)

That, Satakratu, you to grace and please your praisers, as it were,

Stirrest the axle with your strength. (15)

With champing, neighing loudly-snorting horses Indra has ever won himself great treasures

A car of gold has he whose deeds are wondrous received from us, and let us too receive it. (16)

Come, Asvins, with enduring strength wealthy in horses and in kine,

And gold, you of wondrous deeds. (17)

Your chariot yoked for both alike, immortal, you of mighty acts,

Travels, Aivins, in the sea. (18)

High on the forehead of the Bull one chariot wheel you ever keep,

The other round the sky revolves. (19)

What mortal, immortal Dawn, enjoyeth you? Where love you?

To whom, radiant, dost you go? (20)

For we have had you in our thoughts whether anear or far away,

Red-hued and like a dappled mare. (21)

Here, Daughter of the Sky, come with these your strengthenings,

And send you riches down to us.

31 - Agni

You, Agni, were the earliest Angiras, a Seer; you were, a God thyself, the gods' auspicious friend.

After your holy ordinance the Maruts, sage, active through wisdom, -with their glittering spears, were born. (1)

Agni, you, the best and earliest Angiras, fulfillest as a Sage the holy law of gods.

Sprung from two mothers, wise, through all existence spread, resting in many a place for sake of living man. (2)

To Matarisvan first you, Agni, were disclosed, and to Vivasvan through your noble inward power.

Heaven and Earth, Vasu! shook at the choosing of the priest: the burthen you didst bear, didst worship mighty gods. (3)

Agni you madest heaven to thunder for mankind; you, yet more pious, for pious Pururavas.

When you are rapidly freed from your parents, first eastward they bear you round, and, after, to the west. (4)

You, Agni, art a Bull who makes our store increase, to be invoked by him who lifts the ladle up.

Well knowing the oblation with the hallowing word, uniting all who live, you lightenest first our folk (5)

Agni, you savest in the synod when pursued even him, farseeing One! who walks in evil ways.

You, when the heroes fight for spoil which men rush, round, slayest in war the many by the hands of few. (6)

For glory, Agni, day by day, you liftest up the mortal man to highest immortality,

Even you who yearning for both races givest them great bliss, and to the prince grantest abundant food. (7)

Agni, highly lauded, make our singer famous that he may win us store of riches:

May we improve the rite with new performance. Earth and Heaven, with all the gods, protect us. (8)

blameless Agni lying in your Parents' lap, a God among the gods, be watchful for our good.

Former of bodies, be the singer's Providence: all good things have you sown for him, auspicious One! (9)

Agni, you are our Providence, our Father you - we are your brethren and you are our spring of life. in you, rich in good heroes, guard of high decrees, meet hundred, thousand treasures, infallible! (10)

You, Agni, have the gods made the first living One for living man, Lord of the house of Nahusa.

Ila they made the teacher of the sons of men, what time a Son was born to the father of my race. (11)

Worthy to be revered, Agni, God, preserve our wealthy patrons with your succours, and ourselves.

Guard of our seed are you, aiding our cows to bear, incessantly protecting in your holy way. (12)

Agni, you are a guard close to the pious man; kindled are you, four-eyed! for him who is unarmcd.

With fond heare you accept even the poor man's prayer, when he has brought his gift to gain security. (13)

You, Agni gainest for the loudly-praising priest the highest wealth, the object of a man's desire.

You are called Father, caring even for the weak, and wisest, to the simple one you teachest lore. (14)

Agni, the man who gives guerdon to the priests, like well-sewn armour you guardest on every side.

He who with grateful food shows kindness in his house, an offerer to the living, is the type of heaven. (15)

Pardon, we pray, this sin of ours, Agni, -- the path which we have trodden, widely straying,

Dear friend and Father, caring for the pious, who speedest nigh and who inspirest mortals. (16)

As erst to Manus, to Yayiti, Angiras, so Angiras! pure Agni! come to our hall

Bring here the celestial host and seat them here upon the sacred grass, and offer what they love. (17)

By this our prayer be you, Agni, strengthened, prayer made by us after our power and knowledge.

Lead us, therefore, to increasing riches; endow us with your strength-bestowing favour.

32 - Indra

I WILL declare the manly deeds of Indra, the first that he achieved, the Thunder- wielder.

He slew the Dragon, then disclosed the waters, and cleft the channels of the mountain torrents. (1)

He slew the Dragon lying on the mountain: his heavenly bolt of thunder Tvastar fashioned.

Like lowing kine in rapid flow descending the waters glided downward to the ocean. (2)

Impetuous as a bull, he chose the soma and in three sacred beakers drank the juices.

Maghavan grasped the thunder for his weapon, and smote to death this firstborn of the dragons. (3)

When, Indra, you had slain the dragon's firstborn, and overcome the charms of the enchanters,

Then, giving life to Sun and Dawn and Heaven, you found not one foe to stand against you. (4)

Indra with his own great and deadly thunder smote into pieces Vritra, worst of Vritras.

As trunks of trees, what time the axe has felled them, low on the earth so lies the prostrate Dragon. (5)

He, like a mad weak warrior, challenged Indra, the great impetuous many-slaying hero.

He. brooking not the clashing of the weapons, crushed-Indra's foe-the shattered forts in falling. (6)

Footless and handless still he challenged Indra, who smote him with his bolt between the shoulders.

Emasculate yet claiming manly vigour, thus Vritra lay with scattered limbs dissevered. (7)

There as he lies like a bank-bursting river, the waters taking courage flow above him.

The Dragon lies beneath the feet of torrents which Vritra with his greatness had encompassed. (8)

Then humbled was the strength of Vritra's mother: Indra has cast his deadly bolt against her.

The mother was above, the son was under and like a cow beside her calf lay Danu. (9)

Rolled in the midst of never-ceasing currents flowing without a rest forever onward.

The waters bear off Vritra's nameless body: the foe of Indra sank to during darkness. (10)

Guarded by Ahi stood the thralls of Dasas, the waters stayed like kine held by the robber.

But he, when he had smitten Vritra, opened the cave wherein the floods had been imprisoned. (11)

A horse's tail were you when he, Indra, smote on your bolt; you, God without a second,

You have won back the kine, have won the soma; you have let loose to flow the Seven Rivers. (12)

Nothing availed him lightning, nothing thunder, hailstorm or mist which had spread around him:

When Indra and the Dragon strove in battle, Maghavan gained the victory forever. (13)

Whom saw you to avenge the Dragon, Indra, that fear possessed your heart when you had slain him;

That, like a hawk affrighted through the regions, you crossed nine-and-ninety flowing rivers? (14)

Indra is King of all that moves and moves not, of creatures tame and horned, the Thunder- wielder.

Over all living men he rules as Sovran, containing all as spokes within the felly.

33 - Indra

Come, fain for booty let us seek to Indra: yet more shall he increase his care that guides us.

Will not the Indestructible endow us with perfect knowledge of this wealth, of cattle? (1)

I fly to him invisible Wealth-giver as flies the falcon to his cherished eyrie,

With fairest hymns of praise adoring Indra, whom those who laud him must invoke in battle. (2)

Mid all his host, he binds on the quiver he drives cattle from what foe he pleases:

Gathering up great store of riches, Indra. be you no trafficker with us, most mighty. (3)

You slew with your bolt the wealthy Dasyu, alone, yet going with your helpers, Indra!

Far from the floor of heaven in all directions, the ancient riteless ones fled to destruction. (4)

Fighting with pious worshippers, the riteless turned and fled, Indra! with averted faces.

When you, fierce Lord of the Bay steeds, the Stayer, blew from earth and heaven and sky the godless. (5)

They met in fight the army of the blameless. then the Navagvas put forth all their power.

They, like emasculates with men contending, fled, conscious, by steep paths from Indra, scattered. (6)

Whether they weep or laugh, you have overthrown them, Indra, on the sky's most extreme limit.

The Dasyu you have burned from heaven, and welcomed the prayer of him who pours the juice and lauds you. (7)

Adorned with their array of gold and jewels, they over the earth a covering veil extended.

Although they hastened, they overcame not Indra: their spies he compassed with the Sun of morning. (8)

As you enjoy heaven and earth, Indra, on every side surrounded with your greatness,

So you with priests have blown away the Dasyu, and those who worship not with those who worship. (9)

They who pervaded earth's most extreme limit subdued not with their charms the Wealth- bestower:

Indra, the Bull, made his ally the thunder, and with its light milked cows from out the darkness. (10)

The waters flowed according to their nature; he raid the navigable streams waxed mighty.

Then Indra, with his spirit concentrated, smote him forever with his strongest weapon. (11)

Indra broke through Ilibisa's strong castles, and Suspa with his horn he cut to pieces:

You, Maghavan, for all his might and swiftness, slew your fighting foeman with your thunder (12)

Fierce on his enemies fell Indra's weapon: with. his sharp bull he rent their forts in pieces.

He with his thunderbolt dealt blows on Vritra; and conquered, executing all his purpose. (13)

Indra, you help Kutsa whom you loved, and guarded brave Dagadyu when he battled,

The dust of trampling horses rose to heaven, and Svitri's son stood up again for conquest. (14)

Svitra's mild steer, Maghavan you help in combat for the land, mid Tugra's houses.

Long stood they there before the task was ended: you were the master of the foemen's treasure.

34 - Asvins

You who observe this day be with us even thrice: far-stretching is you bounty, Asvins and your course.

To you, as to a cloak in winter, we cleave close: you are to be drawn nigh to us by the wise. (1)

Three are the fellies in your honey-bearing car, that travels after Soma's loved one, as all know.

Three are the pillars set upon it for support: thrice journey you by night, Asvins, thrice by day. (2)

Thrice in the self-same day, you gods who banish want, sprinkle you thrice to-day our sacrifice with meath;

And thrice vouchsafe us store of food with plenteous strength, at evening, you Asvins, and at break of day. (3)

Thrice come to our home, thrice to the righteous folk, thrice triply aid the man who well deserves your help.

Thrice, you Asvins, bring us what shall make us glad; thrice send us store of food as nevermore to fail. (4)

Thrice, you Asvins, bring to us abundant wealth: thrice in the gods' assembly, thrice assist our thoughts.

Thrice, grant us prosperity, thrice grant us fame; for the Sun's daughter has mounted your three-wheeled car. (5)

Thrice, Asvins, grant to us the heavenly medicines, thrice those of earth and thrice those that the waters hold,

Favour and health and strength bestow upon my son; triple protection, lords of Splendour, grant to him. (6)

Thrice are you to be worshipped day by day by us: thrice, you Asvins, you travel around the earth.

Car-borne from far away, you Nasatyas, come, like vital air to bodies, come to the three. (7)

Thrice, you Asvins, with the Seven Mother Streams; three are the jars, the triple offering is prepared.

Three are the worlds, and moving on above the sky you guard the firm-set vault of heaven through days and nights. (8)

Where are the three wheels of your triple chariot, where are the three seats thereto firmly fastened?

When will you yoke the mighty ass that draws it, to bring you to our sacrifice. Nasatyas? (9)

Nasatyas, come: the sacred gift is offered up; drink the sweet juice with lips that know the sweetness well.

Savitar sends, before the dawn of day, your car, fraught with oil, various-coloured, to our sacrifice. (10)

Come, Nasatyas, with the thrice-eleven gods; come, you Asvins, to the drinking of the meath.

Make long our days of life, and wipe out all our sins: ward off our enemies; be with us evermore. (11)

Borne in your triple car, Asvins, bring us present prosperity with noble offspring.

I cry to you who hear me for protection be you our helpers where men win the booty.

35 - Savitar

AGNI I first invoke for our prosperity; I call on Mitra, Varuna, to aid us here.

I call on Night who gives rest to all moving life; I call on Savitar the god to lend us help. (1)

Throughout the dusky firmament advancing, laying to rest the immortal and the mortal,

Borne in his golden chariot he cometh, Savitar, God who looks on every creature. (2)

The god moves by the upward path, the downward; with two bright Bays, adorable, he journeys.

Savitar comes, the god from the far distance, and chases from us all distress and sorrow. (3)

His chariot decked with pearl, of various colours, lofty, with golden pole, the god has mounted,

The many-rayed One, Savitar the holy, bound, bearing power and might, for darksome regions. (4)

Drawing the gold-yoked car his Bays, white-footed, have manifested light to all the peoples.

Held in the lap of Savitar, divine One, all men, all beings have their place forever. (5)

Three heavens there are; two Savitar's, adjacent: in Yama's world is one, the home of heroes,

As on a linch-pin, firm, rest things immortal: he who has known it let him here declare it. (6)

He, strong of wing, has lightened up the regions, deep-quivering Asura, the gentle Leader.

Where now is Surya, where is one to tell us to what celestial sphere his ray has wandered? (7)

The earth's eight points his brightness has illumined, three desert regions and the Seven Rivers.

God Savitar the gold-eyed has come here, giving choice treasures to him who worships. (8)

The golden-handed Savitar, far-seeing, goes on his way between the earth and heaven,

Drives away sickness, bids the Sun approach us, and spreads the bright sky through the darksome region. (9)

May he, gold-handed Asura, kind Leader, come here to us with his help and favour.

Driving off Raksasas and Yatudhanas, the god is present, praised in hymns at evening. (10)

Savitar, your ancient dustless pathways are well established in the air's mid-region:

God, come by those paths so fair to travel, preserve us from harm this day, and bless us.

36 - Agni

WITH words sent forth in holy hymns, Agni we supplicate, the Lord

Of many families who duly serve the gods, yea, him whom others also praise. (1)

Men have won Agni, him who makes their strength abound: we, with oblations, worship you.

Our gracious-minded helper in our deeds of might, be you, Excellent, this day. (2)

You for our messenger we choose, you, the Omniscient, for our priest.

The flames of you the mighty are spread wide around: your splendour reaches to the sky. (3)

The gods enkindle you their ancient messenger, - Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman.

That mortal man, Agni, gains through you all wealth, who has poured offerings to you. (4)

You, Agni, art a cheering priest, Lord of the House, men's messenger:

All constant high decrees established by the gods, gathered together, meet in you. (5)

In you, the auspicious One, Agni, most youthful, each sacred gift is offered up:

This day, and after, gracious, worship you our gods, that we may have heroic sons. (6)

To him in his own splendour bright draw near in worship the devout.

Men kindle Agni with their sacrificial gifts, victorious over the enemies. (7)

Vritra they smote and slew, and made the earth and heaven and firmament a wide abode.

The glorious Bull, invoked, has stood at Kanva's side: loud neighed the steed in frays for kine. (8)

Seat you, for you are mighty; shine, best entertainer of the gods.

Worthy of sacred food, praised Agni! loose the smoke, ruddy and beautiful to see. (9)

Bearer of offerings, whom, best sacrificing priest, the gods for Manu's sake ordained;

Whom Kanva, whom Medhyatithi made the source of wealth, and Vrsan and Upastuta. (10)

Him, Agni, whom Medhyatithi, whom Kanva kindled for his rite,

Him these our songs of praise, him, Agni, we extol: his powers shine out preeminent. (11)

Make our wealth perfect you, Agni, Lord divine: for you have kinship with the gods.

You rule as a King over widely-famous strength: be good to us, for you are great. (12)

Stand up erect to lend us aid, stand up like Savitar the god:

Erect as strength-bestower we call aloud, with unguents and with priests, on you. (13)

Erect, preserve us from sore trouble; with your flame burn you each ravening demon dead.

Raise us up that we may walk and live. so you shall find our worship mid the gods. (14)

Preserve us, Agni, from the fiend, preserve us from malicious wrong.

Save us from him who fain would injure us or slay, Most Youthful, you with lofty light. (15)

Smite down as with a club, you who have fire for teeth, smite you the wicked, right and left.

Let not the man who plots against us in the night, nor any foe prevail over us. (16)

Agni has given heroic might to Kainva, and felicity:

Agni has helped our friends, has helped Medhyitithi, has helped Upastuta to win. (17)

We call on Ugradeva, Yadu, Turvasa, by means of Agni, from afar;

Agni, bring Navavastva and Brhadratba, Turviti, to subdue the foe. (18)

Manu has stablished you a light, Agni, for all the race of men:

Sprung from the Law, oil-fed, for Kanva have you blazed, you whom the people reverence. (19)

The flames of Agni full of splendour and of might are fearful, not to be approached.

Consume forever all demons and sorcerers, consume you each devouring fiend.

37 - Maruts

Sing forth, Kanvas, to your band of Maruts unassailable,

Sporting, resplendent on their car (1)

They who, self-luminous, were born together, with the spotted deer,

Spears, swords, and glittering ornaments. (2)

One hears, as though it were close at hand, the cracking of the whips they hold

They gather glory on their way. (3)

Now sing you forth the god-given hymn to your exultant Marut host,

The fiercely-vigorous, the strong. (4)

Praise you the Bull among the cows; for it is the Maruts' sportive band:

It strengthened as it drank the rain. (5)

Who is your mightiest, heroes, when, shakers of the earth and heaven,

You shake them like a garment's hem? (6)

At your approach man holds him down before the fury of your wrath:

The rugged-jointed mountain yields. (7)

They at whose racings forth the earth, like an age-weakened lord of men,

Trembles in terror on their ways. (8)

Strong is their birth: vigour have they to issue from their Mother; strength,

Yea, even twice enough, is theirs. (9)

And these, the Sons, the Singers, in their racings have enlarged the bounds,

So that the kine must walk knee-deep. (10)

Before them, on the ways they go, they drop this offspring of the cloud,

Long, broad, and inexhaustible. (11)

Maruts, as your strength is great, so have you cast men down on earth,

So have you made the mountains fall. (12)

The while the Maruts pass along, they talk together on the way:

Doth any hear them as they speak? (13)

Come quick with swift steeds, for you have worshippers among Kanva's sons

May you rejoice among them well. (14)

All is prepared for your delight. We are their servants evermore,

To live as long as life may last.

38 - Maruts

WHAT now? When will you take us by both hands, as a dear sire his son,

gods, for whom sacred grass is clipped? (1)

Now where? To what goal of yours go you in heaven, and not on earth?

Where do your cows disport themselves? (2)

Where are your newest favours shown? Where, Maruts, your prosperity?

Where all your high felicities? (3)

If, you Maruts, you the Sons whom Prishni bore, were mortal, and

immortal he who sings your praise. (4)

Then never were your praiser loathed like a wild beast in pasture-land,

Nor should he go on Yama's path. (5)

Let not destructive plague on plague hard to be conquered, strike its down:

Let each, with drought, depart from us. (6)

Truly, they the fierce and mighty Sons of Rudra send their windless

Rain even on the desert places. (7)

Like a cow the lightning lows and follows, mother-like, her youngling,

When their rain-flood has been loosened. (8)

When they inundate the earth they spread forth darkness even in day time,

With the water-laden rain-cloud. (9)

Maruts, at your voice's sound this earthly habitation shakes,

And each man reels who dwells therein. (10)

Maruts, with your strong-hoofed steeds, unhindered in their courses, haste

Along the bright embanked streams. (11)

Firm be the fellies of your wheels, steady your horses and your cars,

And may your reins be fashioned well. (12)

Invite you here with this song, for praise, Agni the Lord of Prayer,

Him who is fair as Mitra is. (13)

Form in your mouth the hymn of praise expand you like, a rainy cloud

Sing forth the measured eulogy. (14)

Sing glory to the Marut host, praiseworthy, tuneful, vigorous:

Here let the Strong Ones dwell with us.

39 - Maruts

WHEN thus, like flame, from far away, Maruts, you cast your measure forth,

To whom go You, to whom, shakers of the earth, moved by whose wisdom, whose design? (1)

Strong let your weapons be to drive away your foes, firm for resistance let them be.

Yea, passing glorious must be your warrior might, not as a guileful mortal's strength. (2)

When what is strong you overthrow, and whirl about each ponderous thing,

Heroes, your course is through the forest trees of earth, and through the fissures of the rocks. (3)

Consumers of your foes, no enemy of yours is found in heaven or on the earth:

You Rudras (storm gods, also called Maruts), may the strength, held in this bond, be yours, to bid defiance even now. (4)

They make the mountains rock and reel, they rend the forest-kings apart.

onward, you Maruts, drive, like creatures drunk with wine, you, gods with all your company. (5)

You to your chariot have yoked the spotted deer: a red deer, as a leader, draws.

Even the Earth herself listened as you came near, and men were sorely terrified. (6)

Rudras, quickly we desire your succour for this work of ours.

Come to us with your aid as in the days of old, so now for frightened Kanva's sake. (7)

Should any monstrous foe, Maruts, sent by you or sent by mortals threaten us,

Tear you him from us with your power and with your might, and with the succours that are yours. (8)

For you, the worshipful and wise, have guarded Kanva perfectly.

Maruts, come to us with full protecting help, as lightning flashes seek the rain. (9)

Whole strength have you, Bounteous Ones; perfect, earth-shakers, is your might.

Maruts, against the poet's wrathful enemy send you an enemy like a dart.

40 - Brahmanaspati

BRAMANASPATI, stand up: God-serving men we pray to you.

May they who give good gifts, the Maruts, come to us. Indra, most swift, be you with them. (1)

Son of Strength, each mortal calls to you for aid when spoil of battle waits for him.

Maruts, may this man who loves you well obtain wealth of good steeds and hero might. (2)

May Brahmanaspati draw nigh, may Sunrita the goddess come,

And gods bring to this rite which gives the five-fold gift the hero, lover of mankind. (3)

He who bestows a noble guerdon on the priest wins fame that never shall decay.

For him we offer sacred hero-giving food, peerless and conquering easily. (4)

Now Brahmanaspati speaks forth aloud the solemn hymn of praise,

Wherein Indra and Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, the gods, have made their dwelling place. (5)

May we in holy synods, gods! recite that hymn, peerless, that brings felicity.

If you, heroes, graciously accept this word, may it obtain all bliss from you. (6)

Who shall approach the pious? who the man whose sacred grass is trimmed?

The offerer with his folk advances more and more: he fills his house with precious things. (7)

He amplifies his lordly might, with kings he slays: even mid alarms he dwells secure

In great or lesser fight none checks him, none subdues,-the wielder of the thunderbolt.

41 - Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman

NEVER is he injured whom the gods Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman,

The excellently wise, protect. (1)

He prospers ever, free from scathe, whom they, as with full hands, enrich,

Whom they preserve from every foe. (2)

The Kings drive far away from him his troubles and his enemies,

And lead him safely over distress. (3)

Thornless, Adityas, is the path, easy for him who seeks the Law:

With him is naught to anger you. (4)

What sacrifice, Adityas, you heroes guide by the path direct,-

May that come nigh to your thought. (5)

That mortal, ever unsubdued, gains wealth and every precious thing,

And children also of his own. (6)

How, my friends, shall we prepare Aryaman's and Mitra's laud,

Glorious food of Varuna? (7)

I point not out to you a man who strikes the pious, or reviles:

Only with hymns I call you nigh. (8)

Let him not love to speak ill words: but fear the One who holds all four

Within his hand, until they fall.

42 - Pusan

SHORTEN our ways, Pusan, move aside obstruction in the path:

Go close before us, cloud-born God. (1)

Drive, Pusan, from our road the wolf, the wicked inauspicious wolf,

Who lies in Wait to injure us. (2)

Who lurks about the path we take, the robber with a guileful heart:

Far from the road chase him away. (3)

Tread with your foot and trample out the firebrand of the wicked one,

The double-tongued, whoever he be. (4)

Wise Pusan, Wonder-Worker, we claim of you now the aid wherewith

You furthered our sires of old. (5)

So, Lord of all prosperity, best wielder of the golden sword,

Make riches easy to be won. (6)

Past all pursuers lead us, make pleasant our path and fair to tread:

Pusan, find you power for this. (7)

Lead us to meadows rich in grass: send on our way no early heat:

Pusan, find you power for this. (8)

Be gracious to us, fill us full, give, feed us, and invigorate:

Pusan, find you power for this. (9)

No blame have we for Pusan; him we magnify with songs of praise:

We seek the Mighty One for wealth.

43 - Rudra

WHAT shall we sing to Rudra, strong, most bounteous, excellently wise,

That shall be dearest to his heart? (1)

That Aditi may grant the grace of Rudra to our folk, our kine,

Our cattle and our progeny; (2)

That Mitra and that Varuna, that Rudra may remember us,

Yea, all the gods with one accord. (3)

To Rudra Lord of sacrifice, of hymns and balmy medicines,

We pray for joy and health and strength. (4)

He shines in splendour like the Sun, refulgent as bright gold is he,

The good, the best among the gods. (5)

May he grant health into our steeds, wellbeing to our rams and ewes,

To men, to women, and to kine. (6)

Soma, set you upon us the glory of a hundred men,

The great renown of mighty chiefs. (7)

Let not malignities, nor those who trouble Soma, hinder us.

Indu, give us a share of strength. (8)

Soma! head, central point, love these; Soma! know these as serving you,

Children of you immortal, at the highest place of holy law.

44 - Agni

IMMORTAL Jatavedas, you many-hued fulgent gift of Dawn,

Agni, this day to him who pays oblations bring the gods who waken with the morn. (1)

For you are offering-bearer and loved messenger, the charioteer of sacrifice:

Accordant with the Asvins and with Dawn grant us heroic strength and lofty fame. (2)

As messenger we choose to-day Agni the good whom many love,

Smoke-bannered spreader of the light, at break of day glory of sacrificial rites. (3)

Him noblest and most youthful, richly worshipped guest, dear to the men who offer gifts,

Him, Agni Jatavedas, I beseech at dawn that he may bring the gods to us. (4)

You, Agni, will I glorify, deathless nourisher of the world,

immortal, offering-bearer, meet for sacred food, preserver, best at sacrifice. (5)

Tell good things to your praiser, most youthful God, as richly worshipped, honey- tongued,

And, granting to Praskanva lengthened days of life, show honour to the Heavenly Host. (6)

For the men, Agni, kindle you as all possessor and as priest;

So Agni, much-invoked, bring here with all speed the gods, the excellently wise, (7)

At dawn of day, at night, Ushas and Savitar, the Asvins, Bhaga, Agni's self:

Skilled in fair rites, with Soma poured, the Kanvas light you, the oblation-wafting God. (8)

For, Agni, Lord of sacrifice and messenger of men are you:

Bring you the gods who wake at dawn who see the light, this day to drink the soma juice. (9)

You shone forth, Agni, after former dawns, all visible, rich in light.

You are our help in battle-strife, the friend of man, the great high priest in sacrifice. (10)

Like Manu, we will stablish you, Agni, performer of the rite,

Invoker, ministering priest, exceeding wise, the swift immortal messenger. (11)

When as the gods' High priest, by many loved, you dost their mission as their nearest friend,

Then, like the far-resounding billows of the flood, your flames, Agni, roar aloud. (12)

Heat-, Agni, who have ears to hear, with all your train of escort gods;

Let Mitra, Aryaman,- seeking betimes our rite, seat them upon the sacred grass. (13)

Let those who strengthen Law, who bountifully give, the life-tongued Maruts, hear our praise.

May Law-supporting Varuna with the Asvins twain and Ushas, drink the soma juice.

45 - Agni

WORSHIP the Vasus, Agni! here, the Rudras, the Adityas, all

Who spring from Manu, those who know fair rites, who pour their blessings down. (1)

Agni, the gods who understand give ear to the worshipper:

Lord of Red steeds, who love song, bring you those thirty-three gods. (2)

Jatavedas, great in act, listen to Praskanva's call,

As Priyamedha first was heard, Atri, Virupa, Angiras. (3)

The sons of Priyamedha skilled in lofty praise have called for help

On Agni who with fulgent flame is ruler of all holy rites. (4)

Hear you, invoked with holy oil, bountiful giver of rewards,

These eulogies, by which the sons of Kanva call you to their aid. (5)

Agni, loved by many, you of fame most wondrous, in their homes

Men call on you whose hair is flame, to be the bearer of their gifts. (6)

You, Agni, best to find out wealth, most widely famous, quick to hear,

Singers have stablished in their rites Herald and ministering priest. (7)

Singers with Soma pressed have made you, Agni, hasten to the feast,

Great light to mortal worshipper, what time they bring the sacred gift. (8)

Good, bounteous, Son of Strength, this day seat here on sacred grass the gods

Who come at early morn, the host of heaven, to drink the soma juice (9)

Bring with joint invocations you, Agni, the celestial host:

Here stands the soma, bounteous gods drink this expressed ere yesterday.

46 - Asvins

Now Morning with her earliest light shines forth, dear Daughter of the Sky:

High, Asvins, I extol your praise, (1)

Sons of the Sea, mighty to save discoverers of riches, you

gods with deep thought who find out wealth. (2)

Your giant coursers hasten on over the region all in flames, -

When your car flies with winged steeds. (3)

He, liberal, lover of the flood, Lord of the House, the vigilant,

Chiefs! with oblations feeds you full. (4)

You have regard to our hymns, Nasatyas, thinking of our words:

Drink boldly of the soma juice. (5)

Vouchsafe to us, Asvin Pair, such strength as, with attendant light,

May through the darkness carry us. (6)

Come in the ship of these our hymns to bear you to the here shore

Asvins, harness you the car. (7)

The heaven's wide vessel is your own on the flood's shore your chariot waits

Drops, with the hymn, have been prepared. (8)

Kanvas, the drops are in the heaven; the wealth is at the waters' place:

Where will you manifest your form? (9)

Light came to lighten up the branch, the Sun appeared as it were gold:

And with its-tongue shone forth the dark. (10)

The path of sacrifice was made to travel to the farther goal:

The road of heaven was manifest. (11)

The singer of their praise awaits whatever grace the Asvins give,

who save when Soma gladdens them. (12)

You dwellers with Vivasvan come, auspicious, as to Manu erst;

come to the soma and our praise. (13)

circumambient Asvins, Dawn follows the brightness of your way:

Approve with beams our solemn rites. (14)

Drink you of our libations, grant protection, you Asvins two,

With aids which none may interrupt.

47 - Asvins

ASVINS, for you who strengthen Law this sweetest Soma has been shed.

Drink this expressed ere yesterday and give riches to him who offers it. (1)

Come, you Asvins, mounted on your triple car three-seated, beautiful of form

To you at sacrifice the Kanvas send the prayer: graciously listen to their call. (2)

Asvins, you who strengthen Law, drink you this sweetest soma juice.

Borne on your wealth-fraught car come this day to him who offers, you of wondrous deeds. (3)

Omniscient Asvins, on the thrice-heaped grass bedew with the sweet juice the sacrifice.

The sons of Kanva, striving heavenward, call on you with draughts of soma juice out- poured. (4)

Asvins, with those aids wherewith you guarded Kanva carefully,

Keep us, hords of Splendour: drink the soma juice, you strengtheners of holy law. (5)

Mighty Ones, you gave Sudas abundant food, brought on your treasure-laden car;

So now vouchsafe to us the wealth which many crave, either from heaven or from the sea. (6)

Nasatyas, whether you be far away or close to Turvasa,

Borne on your lightly-rolling chariot come to us, together with the sunbeams come. (7)

So let your coursers, ornaments of sacrifice, bring you to our libations here.

Bestowing food on him who acts and gives aright, sit, Chiefs, upon the sacred grass. (8)

Come, Nasatyas, on your car decked with a sun-bright canopy,

Whereon you ever bring wealth to the worshipper, to drink the soma's pleasant juice. (9)

With lauds and songs of praise we call them down to us, that they, most rich, may succour us;

For you have ever in the Kanvas' well-loved house, Asvins, drunk the soma juice.

48 - Dawn

DAWN on us with prosperity, Ushas, Daughter of the Sky,

Dawn with great glory, Goddess, Lady of the Light, dawn you with riches, Bounteous One. (1)

They, bringing steeds and kine, boon-givers of all wealth, have oft sped forth to lighten us.

Ushas, waken up for me the sounds of joy: send us the riches of the great. (2)

Ushas has dawned, and now shall dawn, the goddess, driver forth of cars

Which, as she cometh nigh, have fixed their thought on her, like glory-seekers on the flood. (3)

Here Kanva, chief of Kanva's race, sings forth aloud the glories of the heroes' names,-

The. princes who, Ushas, as you come near, direct their thoughts to liberal gifts. (4)

Like a good matron Ushas comes carefully tending everything:

Rousing all life she stirs all creatures that have feet, and makes the birds of air fly up. (5)

She sends the busy forth, each man to his pursuit: delay she knows not as she springs.

rich in opulence, after your dawning birds that have flown forth no longer rest. (6)

This Dawn has yoked her steeds afar, beyond the rising of the Sun:

Borne on a hundred chariots she, auspicious Dawn, advances on her way to Men. (7)

To meet her glance all living creatures bend them down: Excellent One, she makes the light.

Ushas, the Daughter of the Sky, the opulent, shines foes and enmities away. (8)

Shine on us with your radiant light, Ushas, Daughter of the Sky,

Bringing to us great store of high felicity, and beaming on our solemn rites. (9)

For in you is each living creature's breath and life, when, Excellent! you dawn forth.

Borne on your lofty car, Lady of the Light, hear, you of wondrous wealth, our call. (10)

Ushas, win thyself the strength which among men is wonderful.

Bring you thereby the pious to holy rites, those who as priests sing praise to you. (11)

Bring from the firmament, Ushas, all the gods, that they may drink our soma juice,

And, being what you are, vouchsafe us kine and steeds, strength meet for priest and hero might. (12)

May Ushas whose auspicious rays are seen resplendent round about,

Grant us great riches, fair in form, of all good things, wealth which light labour may attain. (13)

Mighty One, whom the Rishis of old time invoked for their protection and their help,

Ushas, graciously answer our songs of praise with bounty and with brilliant

light. (14)

Ushas, as you with light today have opened the twin doors of heaven,

So grant us a dwelling wide and free from foes. Goddess, give us food with kine. (15)

Bring us to wealth abundant, sent in every shape, to plentiful refreshing food,

To all-subduing splendour, Ushas, Mighty One, to strength, you rich in spoil and wealth.

49 - Dawn

EVEN from above the sky's bright realm come, Ushas, by auspicious ways:

Let red steeds bear you to the house of him who pours the soma, juice. (1)

The chariot which you mount, fair of shape, Ushas light to move,-

Therewith, Daughter of the Sky, aid men of noble fame today. (2)

Bright Ushas, when your times return, all quadrupeds and bipeds stir,

And round about flock winged birds from all the boundaries of heaven. (3)

You dawning with your beams of light illumine all the radiant realm.

You, as you are, the Kanvas, fain for wealth, have called with sacred songs.

50 - Surya

His bright rays bear him up aloft, the god who knows all that lives,

Surya, that all may look on him. (1)

The constellations pass away, like thieves, together with their beams,

Before the all-beholding Sun (2)

His herald rays are seen afar refulgent over the world of men,

Like flames of fire that burn and blaze. (3)

Swift and all beautiful are you, Surya, maker of the light,

Illuming all the radiant realm. (4)

You go to the hosts of gods, you come here to mankind,

Here all light to be beheld. (5)

With that same eye of yours wherewith you look brilliant Varuna,

On the busy race of men, (6)

Traversing sky and wide mid-air, you mete with your beams our days,

Sun, seeing all things that have birth. (7)

Seven Bay steeds harnessed to your car bear you, farseeing One,

God, Surya, with the radiant hair. (8)

Surya has yoked the pure bright Seven, the daughters of the car; with these,

His own dear team, he goes forth. (9)

Looking on the loftier light above the darkness we have come

To Surya, God among the gods, the light that is most excellent. (10)

Rising this day, rich in friends, ascending to the loftier heaven,

Surya remove my heart's disease, take from me this my yellow hue. (11)

To parrots and to starlings let us give away my yellowness,

Or this my yellowness let us transfer to Haritala trees. (12)

With all his conquering vigour this Aditya has gone up on high,

Giving my foe into my hand: let me not be my foeman's prey.

51 - Indra

Make glad with songs that Ram whom many men invoke, worthy of songs of praise, Indra, the sea of wealth;

Whose gracious deeds for men spread like the heavens abroad: sing praise to him the Sage, most liberal for our good. (1)

As aids the skilful Rbhus yearned to Indra strong to save, who fills mid-air, encompassed round with might,

Rushing in rapture; and over Satakratu came the gladdening shout that urged him on to victory. (2)

You have disclosed the kine's stall for the Angirases, and made a way for Atri by a hundred doors.

On Vimada you have bestowed both food and wealth, making your bolt dance in the sacrificer's fight. (3)

You have unclosed the prisons of the waters; you have in the mountain seized the treasure rich in gifts.

When you had slain with might the dragon Vritra, you, Indra, did raise the Sun in heaven for all to see. (4)

With wondrous might you blew enchanter fiends away, with powers celestial those who called on you in jest.

You, hero-hearted, have broken down Pipru's forts, and helped Rjisvan when the Dasyus were struck dead. (5)

You saved Kutsa when Susna was smitten down; to Atithigva gave Sambara for a prey.

Even mighty Arbuda you trod under foot: you from of old were born to strike the Dasyus dead. (6)

All power and might is closely gathered up in you; your bounteous spirit joys in drinking soma juice.

Known is the thunderbolt that lies within your arms: rend off therewith all manly prowess of our foe. (7)

Discern you well Aryas and Dasyus; punishing the lawless give them up to him whose grass is strewn.

Be you the sacrificer's strong encourager all these your deeds are my delight at festivals. (8)

Indra gives up the lawless to the pious man, destroying by the Strong Ones those who have no strength.

Vamra when glorified destroyed the gathered piles of the still waxing great one who would reach the heaven. (9)

The might which Usana has formed for you with might rends in its greatness and with strength both worlds apart.

Hero-souled, the steeds of Vata, yoked by thought, have carried you to fame while you are filled with power. (10)

When Indra has rejoiced with Kavya Usana, he mounts his steeds who swerve wider and wider yet.

The Strong has loosed his bolt with the swift rush of rain, and he has rent in pieces Susna's firm- built forts. (11)

You mount on your car amid strong Soma draughts: Saryata brought you those in which you have delight.

Indra, when you are pleased with men whose Soma flows you risest to unchallenged glory in the sky. (12)

To old Kaksivin, Soma-presser, skilled in song, Indra, you gave the youthful Vricaya.

You, very wise, were Mena, Vrisanaiva's child: those deeds of yours must all be told at Soma feasts. (13)

The good man's refuge in his need is Indra, firm as a doorpost, praised among the Pajras.

Indra alone is Lord of wealth, the Giver, lover of riches, chariots, kine, and horses. (14)

To him the Mighty One, the self-resplendent, verily strong and great, this praise is uttered.

May we and all the heroes, with the princes, be, in this fray, Indra, in your keeping.

52 - Indra

I GLORIFY that Ram who finds the light of heaven, whose hundred nobly-natured ones go forth with him.

With hymns may I turn here Indra to mine aid,-the Car which like a strong steed hastes to the call. (1)

Like as a mountain on firm basis, unremoved, he, thousandfold protector, waxed in mighty strength,

When Indra, joying in the draughts of soma juice, forced the clouds, slaying Vritra stayer of their flow. (2)

For he stays even the stayers, spread over laden cloud, rooted in light, strengthened in rapture by the wise.

Indra with thought, with skilled activity, I call, most liberal giver, for he sates him with the juice. (3)

Whom those that flow in heaven on sacred grass, his own assistants, nobly-natured, fill full like the sea,-

Beside that Indra when he smote down Vritra stood his helpers, straight in form, mighty, invincible. (4)

To him, as in wild joy he fought with him who stayed the rain, his helpers sped like swift streams down a slope,

When Indra, thunder-armed, made bold by Soma draughts, as Trita cleaves Vala's fences, cleft him through. (5)

Splendour encompassed you, forth shone your warrior might: the rain-obstructer lay in mid-air's lowest deep,

What time, Indra, you cast your thunder down upon the jaws of Vritra hard to be restrained. (6)

The hymns which magnify you, Indra, reach to you even as water-brooks flow down and fill the lake.

Tvastar gave yet more force to your appropriate strength, and forged your thunderbolt of overpowering might. (7)

When, Indra, you whose power is linked with your Bay steeds had smitten Vritra, causing floods to flow for man,

You heldst in your arms the metal thunderbolt, and settest in the heaven the Sun for all to see. (8)

In fear they raised the lofty self-resplendent hymn, praise giving and effectual, leading up to heaven,

When Indra's helpers fighting for the good of men, the Maruts, faithful to mankind, joyed in the light. (9)

Then Heaven himself, the mighty, at that Dragon's roar reeled back in terror when, Indra, your thunderbolt

In the wild joy of soma had struck off with might the head of Vritra, tyrant of the earth and heaven. (10)

Indra, were this earth extended forth tenfold, and men who dwell therein multiplied day by day,

Still here your conquering might, Maghavan, would be famed: it has waxed vast as heaven in majesty and power. (11)

You, bold of heart, in your own native might, for help, upon the limit of this mid-air and of heaven,

Have made the earth to be the pattern of your strength: embracing flood and light you reachest to the sky. (12)

You are the counterpart of earth, the Master of lofty heaven with all its mighty heroes:

You have filled all the region with your greatness: yea, of a truth there is none other like you. (13)

Whose amplitude the heaven and earth have not attained, whose bounds the waters of mid- air have never reached,-

Not, when in joy he fights the stayer of the rain: you, and none else, have made all things in order due. (14)

The Maruts sang your praise in this encounter, and in you all the deities delighted,

What time you, Indra, with your spiky weapon, your deadly bolt, smote the face of Vritra.

53 - Indra

WE will present fair praise to the Mighty One, our hymns to Indra in Vivasvdn's dwelling- place;

For he has never found wealth in those who seem to sleep: those who give wealth to men accept no paltry praise. (1)

Giver of horses, Indra, giver, you, of kine, giver of barley, you are Lord and guard of wealth:

Man's helper from of old, not disappointing hope, friend of our friends, to you,as such we sing this praise. (2)

Indra, most splendid, powerful, rich in mighty deeds, this treasure spread around is known to be your own.

Gather from there, Conqueror, and bring to us: fail not the hope of him who loves and sings to you. (3)

Well pleased with these bright flames and with these soma drops, take you away our poverty with seeds and kine.

With Indra scattering the Dasyu through these drops, freed from their hate may we obtain abundant food. (4)

Let us obtain, Indra, plenteous wealth and food, with strength exceeding glorious, shining to the sky:

May we obtain the goddess Providence, the strength of heroes, special source of cattle, rich in steeds. (5)

These our libations strength-inspiring, Soma draughts, gladdened you in the fight with Vritra, hero Lord,

What time you slew for the singer with trimmed grass ten thousand Vritras, you resistless in your might. (6)

You go on from fight to fight intrepidly, destroying castle after castle here with strength.

You, Indra, with your friend who makes the foe bow down, slew from far away the guileful Namuci. (7)

You have struck down in death Karanja, Parnaya, in Atithigva's very glorious going forth.

Unyielding, when Rjisvan compassed them with siege, you have destroyed the hundred forts of Vangrida. (8)

With all-outstripping chariot-wheel, Indra, you far-famed, have overthrown the twice ten Kings of men,

With sixty thousand nine-and-ninety followers, who came in arms to fight with friendless Susravas. (9)

You have protected Susravas with succour, and Turvayana with your aid, Indra.

You made Kutsa, Atithigva, Ayu, subject to this King, the young, the mighty. (10)

May we protected by the gods hereafter remain your very prosperous friends, Indra.

You we extol, enjoying through your favour lifelong and joyful and with store of heroes.

54 - Indra

URGE us not, Maghavan, to this distressful fight, for none may comprehend the limit of your strength.

You with fierce shout have made the woods and rivers roar: did not men run in crowds together in their fear? (1)

Sing hymns of praise to Sakra, Lord of power and might; laud you and magnify Indra who hears you,

Who with his daring might, a Bull exceeding strong in strength, makes him master of the heaven and earth. (2)

Sing forth to lofty Dyaus a strength-bestowing song, the Bold, whose resolute mind has independent sway.

High glory has the Asura, compact of strength, drawn on by two Bay steeds: a Bull, a Car is he. (3)

The ridges of the lofty heaven you made shake; you, daring, of yourself smote through Sambara,

When bold with gladdening juice, you warred with your bolt, sharp and two-edged, against the banded sorcerers. (4)

When with a roar that fills the woods, you force down on wind's head the stores which 8usga kept confined,

Who shall have power to stay you firm and eager-souled from doing still this day what you of old have done? (5)

You help Narya, Turvasa, and Yadu, and Vayya's son Turviti, Satakratu!

You help horse and car in final battle you break down the nine-and-ninety castles. (6)

A hero-lord is he, King of a mighty folk, who offers free oblations and promotes the Law,

Who with a bounteous guerdon welcomes hymns of praise: for him flows down the abundant stream below the sky. (7)

His power is matchless, matchless is his wisdom; chief, through their work, be some who drink the soma,

Those, Indra, who increase the lordly power, the firm heroic strength of you the Giver. (8)

Therefore for you are these abundant beakers Indra's drink, stone-pressed juices held in ladles.

Quaff them and satisfy therewith your longing; then fix your mind upon bestowing treasure. (9)

There darkness stood, the vault that stayed the waters' flow: in Vritra's hollow side the rain- cloud lay concealed.

But Indra smote the rivers which the obstructer stayed, flood following after flood, down steep declivitics. (10)

So give us, Indra, bliss-increasing glory give us great sway and strength that conquers people.

Preserve our wealthy patrons, save our princes; vouchsafe us wealth and food with noble offspring.

55 - Indra

THOUGH even this heaven's wide space and earth have spread them out, nor heaven nor earth may be in greatness Indra's match.

Awful and very mighty, causing woe to men, he whets his thunderbolt for sharpness, as a bull. (1)

Like as the watery ocean, so doth he receive the rivers spread on all sides in their ample width.

He bears him like a bull to drink of soma juice, and will, as Warrior from of old, be praised for might. (2)

You sway, Indra, all kinds of great manly power, so as to bend, as it were, even that famed mountain down.

Foremost among the gods is he through hero might, set in the van, the Strong One, for each arduous deed. (3)

He only in the wood is praised by worshippers, when he shows forth to men his own fair Indra- power.

A friendly Bull is he, a Bull to be desired when Maghavan auspiciously sends forth his voice. (4)

Yet verily the Warrior in his vigorous strength stirs up with his might great battles for mankind;

And men have faith in Indra, the resplendent One, what time he hurls down his bolt, his dart of death. (5)

Though, fain for glory, and with strength increased on earth, he with great might destroys the dwellings made with art,

He makes the lights of heaven shine forth secure, he bids, exceeding wise, the floods flow for his worshipper. (6)

Drinker of soma, let your heart incline to give; bring your Bays over here, you who hear praise.

Those charioteers of' your, best skilled to draw the rein, the rapid sunbeams, Indra, lead you not astray. (7)

You bear in both hands treasure that never fails; the famed One in his body holds unvanquished might.

Indra, in your members many powers abide, like wells surrounded by the ministering priests.

56 - Indra

For this man's full libations held in ladles, he has roused him, eager, as a horse to meet the mare.

He stays his golden car, yoked with Bay horses, swift, and drinks the soma juice which strengthens for great deeds. (1)

To him the guidance-following songs of praise flow full, as those who seek gain go in company to the flood.

To him the Lord of power, the holy synod's might, as to a hill, with speed, ascend the loving ones. (2)

Victorious, great is he; in manly battle shines, unstained with dust, his might, as shines a mountain peak;

Wherewith the iron one, fierce even against the strong, in rapture, fettered wily Sushna fast in bonds. (3)

When Strength the goddess, made more strong for help by you, waits upon Indra as the Sun attends the Dawn,

Then. he who with his might unflinching kills the gloom stirs up the dust aloft, with joy and triumphing. (4)

When you with might, on the framework of the heaven, fixed, across, air's region firmly, unremoved,

In the light-winning war, Indra, in rapturous joy, you smote Vritra dead and brought floods of rain. (5)

You with your might grasped the holder-up of heaven, you who are mighty also in the seats of earth.

You, gladdened by the juice, have set the waters free, and broken Vritra's stony fences through and through.

57 - Indra

To him most liberal, lofty Lord of lofty wealth, verily powerful and strong, I bring my hymn,-

Whose checkless bounty, as of waters down a slope, is spread abroad for all that live, to give them strength. (1)

Now all this world, for worship, shall come after you-the offerer's libations like floods to the depth,

When the well-loved one seems to rest upon the hill, the thunderbolt of Indra, shatterer wrought of gold. (2)

To him the terrible, most meet for lofty praise, like bright Dawn, now bring gifts with reverence in this rite,

Whose being, for renown, yea, Indra-power and light, have been created, like bay steeds, to move with speed. (3)

Your, Indra, praised by many, excellently rich! are we who trusting in your help draw near to you.

Lover of praise, none else but you receives our laud: as earth loves all her creatures, love you this our hymn. (4)

Great is your power, Indra, we are your. Fulfil, Maghavan, the wish of this your worshipper.

After you lofty heaven has measured out its strength: to you and to your power this earth has bowed itself. (5)

You, who have thunder for your weapon, with your bolt have shattered into pieces this broad massive cloud.

You have sent down the obstructed floods that they may flow: you have, your own forever, all victorious might.

58 - Agni

NEVER waxes faint the immortal, Son of Strength, since he, the Herald, has become Vivasvan's messenger.

On paths most excellent he measured out mid-air: he with oblation calls to service of the gods. (1)

Never decaying, seizing his appropriate food, rapidly, eagerly through the dry wood he spreads.

His back, as he is sprinkled, glistens like a horse: loud has he roared and shouted like the heights of heaven? (2)

Set high in place over all that Vasus, Rudras do, immortal, Lord of riches, seated as High priest;

Hastening like a car to men, to those who live, the god without delay gives boons to be desired. (3)

Urged by the wind be spreads through dry wood as he lists, armed with his tongues for sickles, with a mighty roar.

Black is your path, Agni, changeless, with glittering waves! when like a bull you rush eager to the trees. (4)

With teeth of flame, wind-driven, through the wood he speeds, triumphant like a bull among the herd of cows,

With bright strength roaming to the everlasting air: things fixed, things moving quake before him as he flies. (5)

The Bhrigus established you among mankind for men, like as a treasure, beauteous, easy to invoke;

You, Agni, as a herald and choice-worthy guest, as an auspicious friend to the Celestial Race. (6)

Agni, the seven tongues' deftest Sacrificer, him whom the priests elect at solemn worship,

The Herald, messenger of all the Vasus, I serve with dainty food, I ask for riches. (7)

Grant, Son of Strength, you rich in friends, a refuge without a flaw this day to us your praisers.

Agni, Son of Strength, with forts of iron preserve you from distress the man who lauds you. (8)

Be you a refuge, Bright One, to the singer, a shelter, Bounteous Lord, to those who worship.

Preserve the singer from distress, Agni. May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.

59 - Agni

The other fires are, verily, your branches; the immortals all rejoice in you, Agni.

Centre are you, Vaisvanara, of the people, sustaining men like a deep-founded pillar. (1)

The forehead of the sky, earth's centre, Agni became the messenger of earth and heaven.

Vaisvanara, the deities produced you, a God, to be a light to the Arya. (2)

As in the Sun firm rays are set forever, treasures are in Vaisvanara, in Agni.

Of all the riches in the hills, the waters, the herbs, among mankind, you are the Sovran. (3)

As the great World-halves, so are their Son's praises; skilled, as a man, to act, is he the Herald.

Vaisvanara, celestial, truly mighty, most manly One, has many a youthful consort. (4)

Even the lofty heaven, Jatavedas Vaisvanara, has not attained your greatness.

You are the King of lands where men are settled, you have brought comfort to the gods in battle. (5)

Now will I tell the greatness of the hero whom Prarti's sons follow as Vritra's slayer:

Agni Vaisvanara struck down the Dasyu, cleave Sambara through and shattered down his fences. (6)

Vaisvanara, dwelling by his might with all men, far-shining, holy mid the Bharadvajas,

Is lauded, excellent, with hundred praises by Purunitha, son of Satavani.

60 - Agni

As it were Some goodly treasure Matarisvan brought, as a gift, the glorious priest to Bhrigu,

Banner of sacrifice, the good Protector, child of two births, the swiftly moving envoy. (1)

Both gods and men obey this Ruler's order, gods who are worshipped, men who yearn and worship.

As priest he takes his seat before break of morning, House-Lord, adorable with men, Ordainer. (2)

May our fair praise, heart-born, most recent, reach him whose tongue, even at his birth, is sweet as honey;

Whom mortal priests, men, with their strong endeavour, supplied with dainty viands, have created. (3)

Good to mankind, the yearning Purifier has among men been placed as priest choice- worthy.

May Agni be our friend, Lord of the Household, protector of the riches in the dwelling. (4)

As such we Gotamas with hymns extol you, Agni, as the guardian Lord of riches,

Decking you like a horse, the swift prizewinner. May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.

61 - Indra

EVEN to him, swift, strong and high. exalted, I bring my song of praise as dainty viands,

My thought to him resistless, praise-deserving, prayers offered most especially to Indra. (1)

Praise, like oblation, I present, and utter aloud my song, my fair hymn to the Victor.

For Indra, who is Lord of old, the singers have decked their lauds with heart and mind and spirit. (2)

To him then with my lips mine adoration, winning heaven's light, most excellent, I offer,

To magnify with songs of invocation and with fair hymns the Lord, most bounteous Giver. (3)

Even for him I frame a laud, as fashions the wright a chariot for the man who needs it,-

Praises to him who gladly hears our praises, a hymn well-formed, all-moving, to wise Indra. (4)

So with my tongue I deck, to please that Indra, my hymn, as it were a horse, through love of glory,

To reverence the hero, bounteous Giver, famed far and wide, destroyer of the castles. (5)

Even for him has Tvastar forged the thunder, most deftly wrought, celestial, for the battle,

Wherewith he reached the vital parts of Vritra, striking-the vast, the mighty with the striker. (6)

As soon as, at libations of his mother, great Visnu had drunk up the draught, he plundered.

The dainty cates, the cooked mess; but One stronger transfixed the wild boar, shooting through the mountain. (7)

To him, to Indra, when he slew the Dragon, the Dames, too, Consorts of the goda, wove praises.

The mighty heaven and earth has he encompassed: your greatness heaven and earth, combined, exceed not. (8)

Yea, of a truth, his magnitude surpasses the magnitude of earth, mid-air, and heaven.

Indra, approved by all men, self-resplendent, waxed in his home, loud-voiced and strong for battle. (9)

Through his own strength Indra with bolt of thunder cut piece-meal Vritra, drier up of waters.

He let the floods go free, like cows imprisoned, for glory, with a heart inclined to bounty. (10)

The rivers played, through his impetuous splendour, since with his bolt he compassed them on all sides.

Using his might and favouring him who worshipped, he made a ford, victorious, for Turviti. (11)

Vast, with your ample power, with eager movement, against this Vritra cast your bolt of thunder.

Rend you his joints, as of an ox, dissevered, with bolt oblique, that floods of rain may follow. (12)

Sing with new lauds his exploits wrought aforetime, the deeds of him, yea, him who moves swiftly,

When, hurling forth his weapons in the battle, he with impetuous wrath lays low the foemen. (13)

When he, yea, he, comes forth the firm. Set mountains and the whole heaven and earth, tremble for terror.

May Nodhas, ever praising the protection of that dear friend, gain quickly strength heroic. (14)

Now to him of these things has been given what he who rules alone over much, elects.

Indra has helped Etasa, Soma-presser, contending in the race of steeds with Sarya. (15)

Thus to you, Indra, yoker of Bay coursers, the Gotamas have brought their prayers to please you.

Bestow upon them thought, decked with all beauty. May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.

62 - Indra

LIKE Angiras a gladdening laud we ponder to him who loves song, exceeding mighty.

Let us sing glory to the far-famed hero who must be praised with fair hymns by the singer. (1)

To the great bring you great adoration, a chant with praise to him exceeding mighty,

Through whom our sires, Angirases, singing praises and knowing well the places, found the cattle. (2)

When Indra and the Angirases desired it, Sarama found provision for her offspring.

Brihaspati cleft the mountain, found the cattle: the heroes shouted with the kine in triumph. (3)

Mid shout, loud shout, and roar, with the Navagvas, seven singers, have you, heavenly, rent the mountain;

You have, with speeders, with Dasagvas, Indra, Sakra, with thunder rent obstructive Vala. (4)

Praised by Angirases, you, foe-destroyer, have, with the Dawn, Sun, rays, dispelled the darkness.

You Indra, have spread out the earths high ridges, and firmly fixed the region under heaven. (5)

This is the deed most worthy of all honour, the fairest marvel of the Wonder-Worker,

That, nigh where heaven bends down, he made four rivers flow full with waves that carry down sweet water. (6)

Unwearied, won with lauding hymns, he parted of old the ancient Pair, united ever.

In highest sky like Bhaga, he the doer of marvels set both Dames and earth and heaven. (7)

Still born afresh, young Dames, each in her manner, unlike in hue, the Pair in alternation

Round heaven and earth from ancient time have travelled, Night with her dark limbs, Dawn with limbs of splendour. (8)

Rich in good actions, skilled in operation, the Son with might maintains his perfect friendship.

You in the raw cows, black of hue or ruddy, store the ripe milk glossy white in colour. (9)

Their paths, of old connected, rest uninjured; they with great might preserve the immortal statutes.

For many thousand holy works the Sisters wait on the haughty Lord like wives and matrons. (10)

Thoughts ancient, seeking wealth, with adoration, with newest lauds have sped to you, Mighty.

As yearning wives cleave to their yearning husband, so cleave our hymns to you, Lord most potent. (11)

Strong God, the riches which your hands have held from days of old have perished not nor wasted.

Splendid are you, Indra, wise, unbending: strengthen us with might, Lord of Power. (12)

Mighty Indra, Gotama's son Nodhas has fashioned this new prayer to you Eternal,

Sure leader, yoker of the Tawny coursers. May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.

63 - Indra

You are the Mighty One; when born, Indra, with power you tcrrifiedst earth and heaven -

When, in their fear of you, all firm-set mountains and monstrous creatures shook like dust before you. (1)

When your two wandering Bays you draw here, your praiser laid within your arms the thunder,

Wherewith, Much-invoked, in will resistless, you smitest foemen down and many a castle. (2)

Faithful are you, these you defy, Indra; you are the Rbhus' Lord, heroic, victor.

You, by his side, for young and glorious Kutsa, with steed and car in battle slew Susna, (3)

That, as a friend, you furthered, Indra, when, Thunderer, strong in act, you crushed Vritra;

When, hero, you, great-souled, with easy conquest rent the Dasyus in their distant dwelling. (4)

This you do, and are not harmed, Indra, even in the anger of the strongest mortal.

Lay you the race-course open for our horses: as with a club, slay, Thunderarmed One, our foemen. (5)

Hence men invoke you, Indra, in the tumult of battle, in the light-bestowing conflict.

This aid of yours, Godlike One, was ever to be implored in deeds of might in combat. (6)

Warring for Purukutsa you, Indra, Thunder-armed I break down the seven castles;

Easily, for Sudis, like grass rent them, and out of need, King, brought gain to Puru. (7)

Indra, God who movest round about us, feed us with varied food plenteous as water-

Food wherewithal, hero, you bestowest vigour itself to flow to us forever. (8)

Prayers have been made by Gotamas, Indra, addressed to you, with laud for your Bay horses.

Bring us in noble shape abundant riches. May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.

64 - Maruts

BRING for the manly host, wise and majestical, Nodhas, for the Maruts bring you a pure gift.

I deck my songs as one deft-handed, wise in mind prepares the water that has power in solemn rites. (1)

They spring to birth, the lofty Ones, the Bulls of Heaven, divine, the youths of Rudra, free from spot and stain;

The purifiers, shining brightly even as suns, awful of form like giants, scattering rain-drops down. (2)

Young Rudras, demon-slayers, never growing old, they have waxed, even as mountains, irresistible.

They make all beings tremble with their mighty strength, even the very strongest, both of earth and heaven. (3)

With glittering ornaments they deck them forth for show; for beauty on their breasts they bind their chains of gold.

The lances on their shoulders pound to pieces; they were born together, of themselves, the Men of Heaven. (4)

Loud roarers, giving strength, devourers of the foe, they make the winds, they make the lightnings with their powers.

The restless shakers drain the udders of the sky, and ever wandering round fill the earth full with milk. (5)

The bounteous Maruts with the fatness dropping milk fill full the waters which avail in solenm rites.

They lead, as it were, the Strong horse forth, that it may rain: they milk the thundering, the never- failing spring. (6)

Mighty, with wondrous power and marvellously bright, selfstrong like mountains, you glide swiftly on your way.

Like the wild elephants you eat the forests up when you assume your strength among the bright red flames. (7)

Exceeding wise they roar like lions mightily, they, all-possessing, are beauteous as antelopes;

Stirring the darkness with lances and spotted deer, combined as priests, with serpents' fury through their might. (8)

Heroes who march in companies, befriending man, with serpents' ire through strength, you greet the earth and heaven.

Upon the seats, Maruts, of your chariots, upon the cars stands lightning visible as light. (9)

lords of all riches, dwelling in the home of wealth, endowed with mighty vigour, singers loud of voice,

Heroes, of powers infinite, armed with strong men's rings, the archers, they have laid the arrow on their arms. (10)

They who with golden fellies make the rain increase drive forward the big clouds like wanderers on the way.

Self-moving, brisk, unwearied, they overthrow the firm; the Maruts with bright lances make all things to reel. (11)

The progeny of Rudra we invoke with prayer, the brisk, the bright, the worshipful, the active Ones

To the strong band of Maruts cleave for happiness, the chasers of the sky, impetuous, vigorous. (12)

Maruts, the man whom you have guarded with your help, he verily in strength surpasses all mankind.

Spoil with his steeds he gaineth, treasure with his men; he winneth honourable strength and prospereth. (13)

Maruts, to the worshippers give glorious strength invincible in battle, brilliant, bringing wealth,

Praiseworthy, known to all men. May we foster well, during a hundred winters, son and progeny. (14)

Will you then, you Maruts, grant us riches, durable, rich in men, defying onslaught.

A hundred, thousandfold, ever increasing? May he, enriched with prayer, come soon and early.

65 - Agni

ONE-MINDED, wise, they tracked you like a thief lurking in dark cave with a stolen cow:

You claiming worship, bearing it to gods -. there nigh to you sate all the Holy Ones. (1)

The gods approached the ways of holy Law; there was a gathering vast as heaven itself.

The waters feed with praise the growing Babe, born nobly in the womb, the seat of Law. (2)

Like grateful food, like some wide dwelling place, like a fruit-bearing hill, a wholesome stream.

Like a steed urged to run in swift career, rushing like Sindhu, who may check his course? (3)

Kin as a brother to his sister floods, he cats the woods as a King eats the rich.

When through the forest, urged by wind, he spreads, verily Agni shears the hair of earth. (4)

Like a swan sitting in the floods he pants wisest in mind mid men he wakes at morn.

A Sage like Soma, sprung from Law, he grew like some young creature, mighty, shining far.

66 - Agni

LIKE the Sun's glance, like wealth of varied sort, like breath which is the life, like one's own son,

Like a swift bird, a cow who yields her milk, pure and refulgent to the wood he speeds. (1)

He offers safety like a pleasant home, like ripened corn, the Conqueror of men.

Like a Seer lauding, famed among the folk; like a steed friendly he vouchsafes us power. (2)

With flame insatiate, like eternal might; caring for each one like a dame at home;

Bright when he shines forth, whitish mid the folk, like a car, gold-decked, thundering to the fight. (3)

He strikes with terror like a dart shot forth, even like an archer's arrow tipped with flame;

Master of present and of future life, the maidens' lover and the matrons' Lord. (4)

To him lead all your ways: may we attain the kindled God as cows their home at eve.

He drives the flames below as floods their swell: the rays rise up to the fair place of heaven.

67 - Agni

VICTORIOUS in the wood, friend among men, ever he claims obedience as a King.

Gracious like peace, blessing like mental power, priest was he, offering-bearer, full of thought. (1)

He, bearing in his hand all manly might, crouched in the cavern, struck the gods with fear.

Men filled with understanding find him there, when they have sting prayers formed within their heart. (2)

He, like the Unborn, holds the broad earth up; and with effective utterance fixed the sky.

Agni, guard the spots which cattle love: you, life of all, have gone from lair to lair. (3)

Whoso has known him dwelling in his lair, and has approached the stream of holy Law,-

They who release him, paying sacred rites, -truly to such doth he announce great wealth. (4)

He who grows mightily in herbs, within each fruitful mother and each babe she bears,

Wise, life of all men, in the waters' home,-for him have sages built as it were a seat.

68 - Agni

COMMINGLING, restless, he ascends the sky, unveiling nights and all that stands or moves,

As he the sole God is preeminent in great. ness among all these other gods. (1)

All men are joyful in your power, God, that living from the dry wood you are born.

All truly share your Godhead while they keep, in their accustomed ways, eternal Law. (2)

Strong is the thought of Law, the Law's behest; all works have they performed; he quickens all.

Whoso will bring oblation, gifts to you, to him, bethinking you, vouchsafe you wealth. (3)

Seated as priest with Manu's progeny, of all these treasures he alone is Lord.

Men yearn for children to prolong their line, and are not disappointed in their hope. (4)

Eagerly they who hear his word fulfil his wish as sons obey their sire's behest.

He, rich in food, unbars his wealth like doors: he, the House-Friend, bath decked heaven's vault with stars.

69 - Agni

BRIGHT, splendid, like Dawn's lover, he bath filled the two joined worlds as with the light of heaven.

When born, with might you have encompassed them: Father of gods, and yet their Son were you. (1)

Agni, the Sage, the humble, who discerns like the cow's udder, the sweet taste of food,

Like a bliss-giver to be drawn to men, sits gracious in the middle of the house. (2)

Born in the dwelling like a lovely son, pleased, like a strong steed, he bears on the folk.

What time the men and I, with heroes, call, may Agni then gain all through Godlike power. (3)

None breaks these holy laws of yours when you have granted audience to these chieftains here.

This is your boast, you smote with your peers, and joined with heroes dravest off disgrace. (4)

Like the Dawn's lover, spreading light, well-known as hued like morn, may he remember me.

They, bearing of themselves, unbar the doors: they all ascend to the fair place of heaven.

70 - Agni

MAY we, the pious, win much food by prayer, may Agni with fair light pervade each act,-

He the observer of the heavenly laws of gods, and of the race of mortal man. (1)

He who is germ of waters, germ of woods, germ of all things that move not and that move,-

To him even in the rock and in the house: immortal One, he cares for all mankind. (2)

Agni is Lord of riches for the man who serves him readily with sacred songs.

Protect these beings you with careful thought, knowing the races both of gods and men. (3)

Whom many dawns and nights, unlike, make strong, whom, born in Law, all things that move and stand,-

He bath been won, Herald who sits in light, making effectual all our holy works. (4)

You settest value on our cows and woods: all shall bring tribute to us to the light.

men have served you in many and sundry spots, parting, as it were, an aged father's wealth. (5)

Like a brave archer, like one skilled and bold, a fierce avenger, so he shines in fight.

71 - Agni

1. LOVING the loving One, as wives their husband, the sisters of one home have urged him forward,

Bright-coloured, even, as the cows love morning, dark, breaking forth to view, and redly beaming. (1)

Our sires with lauds burst even the firmset fortress, yea, the Angirases, with roar, the mountain.

They made for us a way to reach high heaven, they found us day, light, day's sign, beams of morning. (2)

They stablished order, made his service fruitful; then parting them among the longing faithful,

Not thirsting after aught, they come, most active, while with sweet food the race of gods they strengthen. (3)

Since Matarisvan, far-diffused, bath stirred him, and he in every house grown bright and noble,

He, Bhrigu-like I has gone as his companion, as on commission to a greater Sovran. (4)

When man poured juice to Heaven, the mighty Father, he knew and freed himself from close embracement.

The archer boldly shot at him his arrow, and the god threw his splendour on his Daughter. (5)

Whoso, bath flames for you within his dwelling, or brings the worship which you love daily,

Do you of double might increase his substance: may he whom you incitest meet with riches. (6)

All sacrificial viands wait on Agni as the Seven mighty Rivers seek the ocean.

Not by our brethren was our food discovered: find with the gods care for us, you who know. (7)

When light bath filled the Lord of men for increase, straight from the heaven descends the limpid moisture.

Agni bath brought to light and filled with spirit the youthful host blameless and well providing. (8)

He who like thought goes swiftly on his journey, the Sun, alone is ever Lord of riches.

The Kings with fair hands, Varuna and Mitra, protect the precious nectar in our cattle. (9)

Agni, break not our ancestral friendship, Sage as you are, endowed with deepest knowledge.

Old age, like gathering cloud, impairs the body: before that evil be come nigh protect me.

72 - Agni

THOUGH holding many gifts for men, he humbleth the higher powers of each wise ordainer.

Agni is now the treasure-lord of treasures, forever granting all immortal bounties. (1)

The gods infallible all searching found not him, the dear Babe who still is round about us.

Worn weary, following his track, devoted, they reached the lovely highest home of Agni. (2)

Because with holy oil the pure Ones, Agni, served you the very pure three autumn seasons,

Therefore they won them holy names for worship, and nobly born they dignified their bodies. (3)

Making them known to spacious earth and heaven, the holy Ones revealed the powers of Rudra.

The mortal band, discerning in the distance, found Agni standing in the loftiest station. (4)

Nigh they approached, one-minded, with their spouses, kneeling to him adorable paid worship.

Friend finding in his own friend's eye protection, they made their own the bodies which they chastened. (5)

Soon as the holy beings had discovered the thrice-seven mystic things contained within you,

With these, one-minded., they preserve the Amrta: guard you the life of all their plants and cattle. (6)

You, Agni, knower of men's works, have sent us good food in constant course for our subsistence:

You deeply skilled in paths of gods becamest an envoy never wearied, offeringbearer. (7)

Knowing the Law, the seven strong floods from heaven, full of good thought, discerned the doors of riches.

Sarama found the cattle's firm-built prison by which the race of man is still supported. (8)

They who approached all noble operations making a path that leads to life immortal,

To be the Bird's support, the spacious mother, Aditi, and her great Sons stood in power. (9)

When gods immortal made both eyes of heaven, they gave to him the gift of beauteous glory.

Now they flow forth like rivers set in motion: they knew the Red steeds coming down, Agni.

73 - Agni

HE who gives food, like patrimonial riches and guides aright like some wise man's instruction,

Loved like a guest who lies in pleasant lodging,-may he, as priest, prosper his servant's dwelling. (1)

He who like Savitar the god, true-minded protecteth with his power. all acts of vigour,

Truthful, like splendourr, glorified by many, like breath joy-giving,-all must strive to win him. (2)

He who on earth dwells like a king surrounded by faithful friends, like a God all- sustaining,

Like heroes who preside, who sit in safety: like as a blameless dame dear to her husband. (3)

You, such, in settlements secure, Agni, our men serve ever kindled in each dwelling.

On him have they laid splendour in abundance: dear to all men, bearer be he of riches. (4)

May your rich worshippers win food, Agni, and princes gain long life who bring oblation.

May we get booty from jur foe in battle, presenting to the gods their share for glory. (5)

The cows of holy law, sent us by Heaven, have swelled with laden udders, loudly lowing;

Soliciting his favour, from a distance the rivers to the rock have flowed together. (6)

Agni, with you, soliciting your favour, the holy Ones have gained glory in heaven.

They made the Night and Dawn of different colours, and set the black and purple hues together. (7)

May we and those who worship be the mortals whom you, Agni, leadest on to riches.

You have filled earth and heaven and air's mid-region, and followest the whole world like a shadow. (8)

Aided by you, Agni, may we conquer steeds with steeds, men with men, heroes with heroes,

lords of the wealth transmitted by our fathers: and may our princes live a hundred winters. (9)

May these our hymns of praise, Agni, Ordainer, be pleasant to you in your heart and spirit.

May we have power to hold your steeds of riches, laying on you the god-sent gift of glory.

74 - Agni

As forth to sacrifice we go, a hymn to a hymn let us say,

Who hears us even when afar; (1)

Who, from of old, in carnage, when the people gathered, has preserved

His household for the worshipper. (2)

And let men say, Agni is born, even he who slayeth Vritra, he

Who winneth wealth in every fight. (3)

Him in whose house an envoy you love to taste his offered gifts,

And strengthenest his sacrifice, (4)

Him, Angiras, you Son of Strength, all men call happy in his God,

His offerings, and his sacred grass. (5)

To this place shall you bring these gods to our laudation and to taste.

These offered gifts, fair-shining One. (6)

When, Agni, on your embassage you go not a sound is heard of steed or straining of your car. (7)

Aided by you uninjured, strong, one after other, goes he forth:

Agni, the ofterer forward steps. (8)

And splendid strength, heroic, high, Agni, you grantest from the gods,

You God, to him who offers gifts.

75 - Agni

ACCEPT our loudest-sounding hymn, food most delightful to the gods,

Pouring our offerings in your mouth. (1)

Now, Agni, will we say to you, wisest and best Afigiras,

Our precious, much-availing prayer. (2)

Who, Agni, is your kin, of men? who is your worthy worshipper?

On whom dependent? who are you? (3)

The kinsman, Agni, of mankind, their well beloved friend are you,

A friend whom friends may supplicate. (4)

Bring to us Mitra, Varuna, bring the gods to mighty sacrifice.

Bring them, Agni, to your home.

76 - Agni

How may the mind draw nigh to please you, Agni? What hymn of praise shall bring us greatest blessing?

Or who has gained your power by sacrifices? or with what mind shall we bring you oblations? (1)

Come here, Agni; sit you down as Hotar; be you who never were deceived our leader.

May Heaven and Earth, the all-pervading, love you: worship the gods to win for us their favour. (2)

Burn you up all the Riksasas, Agni; ward you off curses from our sacrifices.

Bring here with his Bays the Lord of soma: here is glad welcome for the Bounteous Giver. (3)

You priest with lip and voice that bring us children have been invoked. Here with the gods be seated.

Your is the task of Cleanser and Presenter: waken us, Wealth-bestower and Producer. (4)

As with oblations of the priestly Manus you worshippedst the gods, a Sage with sages,

So now, truthfullest Invoker Agni, worship this day with joy-bestowing ladle.

77 - Agni

How shall we pay oblation to Agni? What hymn, Godloved, is said to him refulgent?

Who, deathless, true to Law, mid men a herald, bringeth the gods as best of sacrificers? (1)

Bring him with reverence here, most propitious in sacrifices, true to Law, the herald;

For Agni, when he seeks the gods for mortals, knows them full well and worships them in spirit. (2)

For he is mental power, a man, and perfect; he is the bringer, friend-,like, of the wondrous.

The pious Aryan tribes at sacrifices address them first to him who doeth marvels. (3)

May Agni, foe-destroyer, manliest hero, accept with love our hymns and our devotion.

So may the liberal lords whose strength is strongest, urged by their riches, stir our thoughts with vigour. (4)

Thus Agni Jatavedas, true to Order, has by the priestly Gotamas been lauded.

May he augment in them splendour and vigour: observant, as he lists, he gathers increase.

78 - Agni

JATAVEDAS, keen and swift, we Gotamas with sacred song exalt you for your glories' sake. (1)

You, as you are, desiring wealth Gotama worships with his song:

We laud you for your glories' sake. (2)

As such, like Angiras we call on you best winner of the spoil:

We laud you for your glories' sake. (3)

You, best of Vritra-slayers, you who shakest off our Dasyu foes:

We laud you for your glories' sake. (4)

A pleasant song to Agni we, sons of Rahugana, have sung:

We laud you for your glories' sake.

79 - Agni

HE in mid-air's expanse has golden tresses; a raging serpent, like the rushing tempest:

Purely refulgent, knowing well the morn. ing; like honourable dames, true, active workers. (1)

Your well-winged flashes strengthen in their manner, when the black Bull has bellowed round about us.

With drops that bless and seem to smile he cometh: the waters fall, the clouds utter their thunder. (2)

When he comes streaming with the milk of worship, conducting by directest paths of Order

Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna, Parijman fill the hide full where lies the nether press-stone. (3)

Agni, you who are the lord of wealth in kine, you Son of Strength,

Vouchsafe to us, Jatavetlas, high renown. (4)

He, Agni, kindled, good and wise, must be exalted in our song:

Shine, you of many forms, shine radiantly on us. (5)

Agni, shining of yourself by night and when the morning breaks,

Burn, you whose teeth are sharp, against the Raksasas. (6)

Adorable in all our rites, favour us, Agni, with your.aid,

When the great hymn is chanted forth. (7)

Bring to us ever-conquering wealth, wealth, Agni, worthy of our choice,

In all our frays invincible. (8)

Give us, Agni, through your grace wealth that supporteth all our life,

Your favour so that we may live. (9)

Gotama, desiring bliss present your songs composed with care

To Agni of the pointed flames. (10)

May the man fall, Agni, who near or afar assaileth us:

Do you increase and prosper us. (11)

Keen and swift Agni, thousand-eyed, chaseth the Raksasas afar:

He singeth, herald meet for lauds.

80 - Indra

THUS in the soma, in wild joy the Brahman has exalted you:

You, mightiest It thunder-armed, have driven by force he Dragon from the earth, lauding your own imperial sway. (1)

The mighty flowing Soma-draught, brought by the Hawk, has gladdened you,

That in your strength, Thunderer, you have struck down Vritra from the floods, lauding your own imperial sway. (2)

Go forward, meet the foe, be bold; your bolt of thunder is not checked.

Manliness, Indra, is your might: stay Vritra, make the waters your, lauding your own imperial sway. (3)

You smote Vritra from the earth, smote him, Indra, from the sky.

Let these life-fostering waters flow attended by the Marut host, lauding your own imperial sway. (4)

The wrathful Indra with his bolt of thunder rushing on the foe,

Smote fierce on trembling Vritra's back, and loosed the waters free to run, lauding his own imperial sway. (5)

With hundred-jointed thunderbolt Indra has struck him on the back,

And, while rejoicing in the juice, seeketh prosperity for friends, lauding his own imperial sway. (6)

Indra, unconquered might is your, Thunderer, Caster of the Stone;

For you with your surpassing power smote to death the guileful beast, lauding your own imperial sway. (7)

Far over ninety spacious floods your thunderbolts were cast abroad:

Great, Indra, is your hero might, and strength is seated in your arms, lauding your own imperial sway. (8)

Laud him a thousand all at once, shout twenty forth the hymn of praise.

Hundreds have sung aloud to him, to Indra has the prayer been raised, lauding his own imperial sway. (9)

Indra has smitten down the power of Vritra, - might with stronger might.

This was his manly exploit, he slew Vritra and let loose the floods, lauding his own imperial sway. (10)

Yea, even this great Pair of Worlds trembled in terror at your wrath,

When, Indra, Thunderer, Marut-girt, you slew Vritra in your strength, lauding your own imperial sway. (11)

But Vritra scared not Indra with his shaking or his thunder roar.

On him that iron thunderbolt fell fiercely with its thousand points, lauding his own imperial sway. (12)

When with the thunder you made your dart and Vritra meet in war,

Your might, Indra, fain to slay the Dragon, was set firm in heaven, lauding your own imperial sway. (13)

When at your shout, Thunder-armed, each thing both fixed and moving shook,

Even Tvastar trembled at your wrath and quaked with fear because of you, lauding your own imperial sway. (14)

There is not, in our knowledge, one who passes Indra in his strength:

In him the deities have stored manliness, insight, power and might, lauding his own imperial sway. (15)

Still as of old, whatever rite Atharvan, Manus sire of all,

Dadhyach performed, their prayer and praise united in that Indra meet, lauding his own imperial sway.

81 - Indra

The men have lifted Indra up, the Vritra slayer, to joy and strength:

Him, verily, we invocate in battles whether great or small: be he our aid in deeds of might. (1)

You, hero, are a warrior, you are giver of abundant spoil.

Strengthening even the feeble, you aidest the sacrificer, you give the offerer ample wealth. (2)

When war and battles are on foot, booty is laid before the bold.

Yoke you your wildly-rushing Bays. Whom will you slay and whom enrich? Do you, Indra, make us rich. (3)

Mighty through wisdom, as he lists, terrible, he has waxed in strength.

Lord of Bay steeds, strong-jawed, sublime, he in joined hands for glory's sake has grasped his iron thunderbolt. (4)

He filled the earthly atmosphere and pressed against the lights in heaven.

None like you ever has been born, none, Indra, will be born like you. You have waxed mighty over all. (5)

May he who to the offerer gives the foeman's man-sustaining food,

May Indra lend his aid to us. Deal forth -abundant is your wealth-that in your bounty 1 may share. (6)

He, righteous-hearted, at each time of rapture gives us herds of kine.

Gather in both your hands for us treasures of many hundred sorts. Sharpen us, and bring us wealth. (7)

Refresh you, hero, with the juice outpoured for bounty and for strength.

We know you Lord of ample store, to you have sent our hearts' desires: be therefore our Protector you. (8)

These people, Indra, keep for you all that is worthy of your choice.

Discover you, as Lord, the wealth of men who offer up no gifts: bring you to us this wealth of theirs.

82 - Indra

GRACIOUSLY listen to our songs, Maghavan, be not negligent.

As you have made us full of joy and lettest us solicit you, now, Indra, yoke your two Bay steeds. (1)

Well have they eaten and rejoiced; the friends have risen and passed away.

The sages luminous in themselves have. praised you with their latest hymn. Now, Indra, yoke your two Bay steeds. (2)

Maghavan, we will reverence you who are so fair to look upon.

Thus praised, according to our wish come now with richly laden car. Now, Indra, yoke your two Bay steeds. (3)

He will in very truth ascend the powerful car that finds the kine,

Who thinks upon the well-filled bowl, the Tawny coursers' harnesser. Now, Indra, yoke your two Bay steeds. (4)

Let, Lord of Hundred Powers, your steeds be harnessed on the right and left.

Therewith in rapture of the juice, draw near to your beloved Spouse. Now, Indra, yoke your two Bay steeds. (5)

With holy prayer I yoke your long-maned pair of Bays: come over here; you holdest them in both your hands.

The stirring draughts of juice outpoured have made you glad: you, Thunderer, have rejoiced with Pusan and your Spouse.

83 - Indra

INDRA, the mortal man well guarded by your aid goes foremost in the wealth of horses and of kine.

With amplest wealth you fillest him, as round about the waters clearly seen afar fill Sindhu full. (1)

The heavenly Waters come not nigh the priestly bowl: they but look down and see how far mid-air is spread:

The deities conduct the pious man to them: like suitors they delight in him who loves prayer. (2)

Praiseworthy blessing have you laid upon the pair who with uplifted ladle serve you, man and wife.

Unchecked he dwells and prospers in your law: your power brings blessing to the sacrificer pouring gifts. (3)

First the Angirases won themselves vital power, whose fires were kindled through good deeds and sacrifice.

The men together found the Pani's hoarded wealth, the cattle, and the wealth in horses and in kine. (4)

Atharvan first by sacrifices laid the paths then, guardian of the Law, sprang up the loving Sun.

Usana Kavya straightway here drove the kine. Let us with offerings honour Yama's deathless birth. (5)

When sacred grass is trimmed to aid the auspicious work, or the hymn makes its voice of praise sound to the sky.

Where the stone rings as'twere a singer skilled in laud, --Indra in truth delights when these come near to him.

84 - Indra

The soma has been pressed for you, Indra; mightiest, bold One, come.

May Indra-vigour fill you full, as the Sun fills mid-air with rays. (1)

His pair of Tawny coursers bring Indra of unresisted might

Here to Rsis' songs of praise and sacrifice performed by men. (2)

Slayer of Vritra, mount your car; your Bay steeds have been yoked by prayer.

May, with its voice, the pressing-stone draw your attention to this place. (3)

This poured libation, Indra, drink, immortal, gladdening, excellent.

Streams of the bright have flowed to you here at the seat of holy Law. (4)

Sing glory now to Indra, say to him your solemn eulogies.

The drops poured forth have made him glad: pay reverence to his might supreme. (5)

When, Indra, you dost yoke your steeds, there is no better charioteer:

None has surpassed you in your might, none with good steeds overtaken you. (6)

He who alone bestoweth on mortal man who offereth gifts,

The ruler of resistless power, is Indra, sure. (7)

When will he trample, like a weed, the man who has no gift for him?

When, verily, will Indra hear our songs of praise? (8)

He who with soma juice prepared amid the many honours you,-

Verily Indra gains thereby tremendous might. (9)

The juice of soma thus diffused, sweet to the taste, the bright cows drink,

Who for the sake of splendour close to mighty Indra's side rejoice, good in their own supremacy. (10)

Craving his touch the dappled kine mingle the soma with their milk.

The milch-kine dear to Indra send forth his death-dealing thunderbolt, good in their own supremacy. (11)

With veneration, passing wise, honouring his victorious might,

They follow close his many laws to win them due preeminence, good in their

own supremacy. (12)

With bones of Dadhyac for his arms, Indra, resistless in attack,

Struck nine-and-ninety Vritras dead. (13)

He, searching for the horse's head, removed among the mountains, found

At Suryanavan what he sought. (14)

Then verily they recognized the essential form of Tvastar's Bull,

Here in the mansion of the Moon. (15)

Who yokes to-day to the pole of Order the strong and passionate steers of checkless spirit,

With shaft-armed mouths, heart-piercing, health-bestowing?

Long shall he live who richly pays their service. (16)

Who fleeth forth? who suffereth? who feareth? Who knows Indra present, Indra near us?

Who sendeth benediction on his offspring, his household, wealth and person, and the People? (17)

Who with poured oil and offering honours Agni, with ladle worships at appointed seasons?

To whom to the gods bring oblation quickly? What offerer, God-favoured, knows him thoroughly? (18)

You as a God, Mightiest, verily blessest mortal man.

Maghavan, there is no comforter but you: Indra, I speak my words to you. (19)

Let not your bounteous gifts, let not your saving help fail us, good Lord, at any time;

And measure out to us, you lover of mankind, all riches to this place from men.

85 - Maruts

THEY who are glancing forth, like women, on their way, doers of mighty deeds, swift racers, Rudra's Sons,

The Maruts have made heaven and earth increase and grow: in sacrifices they delight, the strong and wild. (1)

Grown to their perfect strength greatness have they attained; the Rudras have established their abode in heaven.

Singing their song of praise and generating might, they have put glory on, the Sons whom Prani bare. (2)

When, Children of the Cow, they shine in bright attire, and on their fair limbs lay their golden ornaments,

They drive away each adversary from their path, and, following their traces, fatness floweth down, (3)

When, mighty Warriors, you who glitter with your spears, overthrowing with your strength even what is never overthrown,

When, you Maruts, you the host that send the rain, had harnessed to your cars the thought- fleet spotted deer. (4)

When you have harnessed to your cars the spotted deer, urging the thunderbolt, Maruts, to the fray,

Forth rush the torrents of the dark red stormy cloud, and moisten, like a skin, the earth with water- floods. (5)

Let your swift-gliding coursers bear you to this place with their fleet pinions. Come forward with your arms.

Sit on the grass; a wide scat has been made for you: delight yourselves, Maruts, in the pleasant food. (6)

Strong in their native strength to greatness have they grown, stepped to the firmament and made their dwelling wide.

When Visnu saved the soma bringing wild delight, the Maruts sate like birds on their dear holy grass. (7)

In sooth like heroes fain for fight they rush about, like combatants fame-seeking have they striven in war.

Before the Maruts every creature is afraid: the men are like to Kings, terrible to behold. (8)

When Tyastar deft of hand had turned the thunderbolt, golden, with thousand edges, fashioned more skilfully,

Indra received it to perform heroic deeds. Vritra he slew, and forced the flood of water forth. (9)

They with their vigorous strength pushed the well up on high, and clove the cloud in twain though it was passing strong.

The Maruts, bounteous Givers, sending forth their voice, in the wild joy of soma wrought their glorious deeds. (10)

They drave the cloud transverse directed to this place, and poured the fountain forth for thirsting Gotama.

Shining with varied light they come to him with help: they with their might fulfilled the longing of the sage. (11)

The shelters which you have for him who lauds you, bestow them threefold on the man who offers.

Extend the same boons to us, you Maruts. Give us, heroes, wealth with noble offipring.

86 - Maruts

The best of guardians has that man within whose dwelling place you drink,

Maruts, giants of the sky. (1)

Honoured with sacrifice or with the worship of the sages' hymns,

Maruts, listen to the call. (2)

Yea, the strong man to whom you have vouchsafed to give a sage, shall move

Into a stable rich in kine. (3)

Upon this hero's sacred grass Soma is poured in daily rites:

Praise and delight are sung aloud. (4)

Let the strong Maruts hear him, him surpassing all men: strength be his

That reaches even to the Sun. (5)

For, through the swift gods' loving help, in many an autumn, Maruts, we

Have offered up our sacrifice. (6)

Fortunate shall that mortal be, Maruts most adorable,

Whose offerings you bear away. (7)

Heroes truly strong, you know the toil of him who sings your praise,

The heart's desire of him who loves. (8)

you of true strength, make this thing manifest by your greatness - strike

The demon with your thunderbolt. (9)

Conceal the horrid darkness, drive far from us each devouring fiend.

Create the light for which we long.

87 - Maruts

LOUD Singers, never humbled, active, full of strength, immovable, impetuous, manliest, best-beloved,

They have displayed themselves with glittering ornaments, a few in number only, like the heavens with stars. (1)

When, Maruts, on the steeps you pile the moving cloud, you are like birds on whatsoever path it be.

Clouds everywhere shed forth the rain upon your cars. Drop fatness, honey-hued, for him who sings your praise. (2)

Earth at their racings trembles as if weak and worn, when on their ways they yoke their cars for victory.

They, sportive, loudly roaring, armed with glittering spears, shakers of all, themselves admire their mightiness. (3)

Self-moving is that youthful band, with spotted steeds; thus it has lordly sway, endued with power and might.

Truthful are you, and blameless, searcher out of sin: so you, Strong Host, will be protector of this prayer. (4)

We speak by our descent from our primeval Sire; our tongue, when we behold the soma, stirs itself.

When, shouting, they had joined Indra in toil of fight, then only they obtained their sacrificial names. (5)

Splendours they gained for glory, they who wear bright rings; rays they obtained, and men to celebrate their praise.

Armed with their swords, impetuous and fearing naught, they have possessed the Maruts' own beloved home.

88 - Maruts

Come here, Maruts, on your lightning laden cars, sounding with sweet songs, armed with lances, winged with steeds.

Fly to us with noblest food, like birds, you of mighty power. (1)

With their red-hued or, haply, tawny coursers which speed their chariots on, they come for glory.

Brilliant like gold is he who holds the thunder. Earth have they smitten with the chariot's felly. (2)

For beauty you have swords upon your bodies. As they stir woods so may they stir our spirits.

For your sake, you Maruts very mighty and well-born, have they set the stone, in motion. (3)

The days went round you and came back yearners, back, to this prayer and to this solemn worship.

The Gotamas making their prayer with singing have pushed the well's lid up to drink the water. (4)

No hymn way ever known like this aforetime which Gotama sang forth for you, Maruts,

What time upon your golden wheels he saw you, wild boars rushing about with tusks of iron. (5)

To you this freshening draught of soma rusheth, Maruts, like the voice of one who prayeth.

It rusheth freely from our hands as these. libations wont to flow.

89 - Visvedevas

MAY powers auspicious come to us from every side, never deceived, unhindered, and victorious,

That the gods ever may be with us for our gain, our guardians day by day unceasing in their care. (1)

May the auspicious favour of the gods be ours, on us descend the bounty of the righteous gods.

The friendship of the gods have we devoutly sought: so may the gods extend our life that we may live. (2)

We call them here with a hymn of olden time, Bhaga, the friendly Daksa, Mitra, Aditi,

Aryaman, Varuna, Soma, the Asvins. May Sarasvati, auspicious, grant felicity. (3)

May the Wind waft to us that pleasant medicine, may Earth our Mother give it, and our Father Heaven,

And the joy-giving stones that press the soma's juice. Asvins, may you, for whom our spirits long, hear this. (4)

Him we invoke for aid who reigns supreme, the Lord of all that stands or moves, inspirer of the soul,

That Pusan may promote the increase of our wealth, our keeper and our guard infallible for our good. (5)

Illustrious far and wide, may Indra prosper us: may Pusan prosper us, the Master of all wealth.

May Tarksya with uninjured fellies prosper us: Brihaspati vouchsafe to us prosperity. (6)

The Maruts, Sons of Prani, borne by spotted steeds, moving in glory, oft visiting holy rites,

Sages whose tongue is Agni, brilliant as the Sun,- here let all the gods for our protection come. (7)

gods, may we with our ears listen to what is good, and with our eyes see what is good, you Holy Ones.

With limbs and bodies firm may we extolling you attain the term of life appointed by the gods. (8)

A hundred autumns stand before us, you gods, within whose space you bring our bodies to decay;

Within whose space our sons become fathers in turn. Break you not in the midst our course of fleeting life. (9)

Aditi is the heaven, Aditi is mid-air, Aditi is the Mother and the Sire and Son.

Aditi is all gods, Aditi five-classed men, Aditi all that has been bom and shall be born.

90 - Visvedevas

MAY Varuna with guidance straight, and Mitra lead us, he who knows,

And Aryaman in accord with gods. (1)

For they are dealers forth of wealth, and, not deluded, with their might

Guard evermore the holy laws. (2)

Shelter may they vouchsafe to us, immortal gods to mortal men,

Chasing our enemies away. (3)

May they mark out our paths to bliss, Indra, the Maruts, Pusan,

and Bhaga, the gods to be adored. (4)

Yea, Pusan, Visnu, you who run your course, enrich our hymns with kine;

Bless us with all prosperity. (5)

The winds waft sweets, the rivers pour sweets for the man who keeps the Law

So may the plants be sweet for us. (6)

Sweet be the night and sweet the dawns, sweet the terrestrial atmosphere;

Sweet be our Father Heaven to us. (7)

May the tall tree be full of sweets for us, and full of sweets the Sun:

May our milch-kine be sweet for us. (8)

Be Mitra gracious to us, and Varuna and Aryaman:

Indra, Brihaspati be kind, and Visnu of the mighty stride.

91 - Soma

You, Soma, are preeminent for wisdom; along the straightest path you are our leader.

Our wise forefathers by your guidance, Indu, dealt out among the gods their share of treasure. (1)

You by your insight art most wise, Soma, strong by your energies and all possessing,

Mighty are you by all your powers and greatness, by glories are you glorious, guide of mortals. (2)

Your are King Varuna's eternal statutes, lofty and deep, Soma, is your glory.

All-pure are you like Mitra the beloved, adorable, like Aryaman, Soma. (3)

With all your glories on the earth, in heaven, on mountains, in the plants, and in the waters,-

With all of these, well-pleased and not in anger, accept, royal Soma, our oblations. (4)

You, Soma, are the Lord of heroes, King, yea, Vritra-slayer you:

You are auspicious energy. (5)

And, Soma, let it be your wish that we may

live and may not die:

Praise-loving Lord of plants are you. (6)

To him who keeps the law, both old and young, you give happiness,

And energy that he may live. (7)

Guard us, King Soma, on all sides from him who threatens us: never let

The friend of one like you be harmed. (8)

With those delightful aids which you have, Soma, for the worshipper,-

Even with those protect us. (9)

Accepting this our sacrifice and this our praise, Soma, come,

And be you nigh to prosper us. (10)

Well-skilled in speech we magnify you, Soma, with our sacred songs:

Come to us, most gracious One. (11)

Enricher, healer of disease, wealth-finder, prospering our store,

Be, Soma, a good friend to us. (12)

Soma, be happy in our heart, as milch-kine in the grassy meads,

As a young man in his own house. (13)

Soma, God, the mortal man who in your friendship has delight,

Him doth the mighty Sage befriend. (14)

Save us from slanderous reproach, keep us., Soma, from distress:

Be to us a gracious friend. (15)

Soma, wax great. From every side may vigorous powers unite in you:

Be in the gathering-place of strength. (16)

Wax, most gladdening Soma, great through all your rays of light, and be

A friend of most illustrious fame t6 prosper us. (15)

In you be juicy nutriments united, and powers and mighty foe-subduing vigour,

Waxing to immortality, Soma: win highest glories for yourself in heaven. (18)

Such of your glories as with poured oblations men honour, may they all invest our worship.

Wealth-giver, furtherer with troops of heroes, sparing the brave, come, Soma, to our houses. (19)

To him who worships Soma gives the milchcow, a fleet steed and a man of active knowledge,

Skilled in home duties, meet for holy synod, for council meet, a glory to his father. (20)

Invincible in fight, saver in battles, guard of our camp, winner of light and water,

Born amid hymns, well-housed, exceeding famous, victor, in you will we rejoice, Soma. (21)

These herbs, these milch-kine, and these running waters, all these, Soma, you have generated.

The spacious firmament bast you expanded, and with the light you have dispelled the darkness. (22)

Do you, God Soma, with your Godlike spirit, victorious, win for us a share of riches.

Let none prevent you: you are Lord of valour. Provide for both sides in the fray for booty.

92 - Dawn

THESE Dawns have raised their banner; in the eastern half of the mid-air they spread abroad their shinine light.

Like heroes who prepare their weapons for the war, onward they come bright red in hue, the Mother Cows. (1)

Readily have the purple beams of light shot up; the Red Cows have they harnessed, easy to be yoked.

The Dawns have brought distinct perception as before: red-hued, they have attained their fulgent brilliancy. (2)

They sing their song like women active in their tasks, along their common path here from far away,

Bringing refreshment to the liberal devotee, yea, all things to the worshipper who pours the juice. (3)

She, like a dancer, puts her broidered garments on: as a cow yields her udder so she bares her breast.

Creating light for all the world of life, the Dawn has laid the darkness open as the cows their stall. (4)

We have beheld the brightness of her shining; it spreads and drives away the darkiorne monster.

Like tints that deck the Post at sacrifices, Heaven's Daughter has attained her wondrous splendour. (5)

We have overpast the limit of this darkness; Dawn breaking forth again brings clear perception.

She like a flatterer smiles in light for glory, and fair of face has wakened to rejoice

us. (6)

The Gotamas have praised Heaven's radiant Daughter, the leader of the charm of pleasant voices.

Dawn, you conferrest on us strength with offspring and men, conspicuous with kine and horses. (7)

you who shinest forth in wondrous glory, urged onward by your strength, auspicious Lady,

Dawn, may I gain that wealth, renowned and ample, in brave sons, troops of slaves, far- famed for horses. (8)

Bending her looks on all the world, the goddess shines, widely spreading with her bright eye westward.

Waking to motion every living creature, she understands the voice of each adorer. (9)

Ancient of days, again again born newly, decking her beauty with the self-same raiment.

The goddess wastes away the life of mortals, like a skilled hunter cutting birds in pieces. (10)

She has appeared discovering heaven's borders: to the far distance she drives off her Sister.

Diminishing the days of human creatures, the Lady shines with all her lover's splendour. (11)

The bright, the blessed One shines forth extending her rays like kine, as a flood rolls his waters.

Never transgressing the divine commandments, she is beheld visible with the sunbeams. (12)

Dawn enriched with ample wealth, bestow on us the wondrous gift

Wherewith we may support children and children's sons. (13)

You radiant mover of sweet sounds, with wealth of horses and of kine

Shine you on us this day, Dawn auspiciously. (14)

Dawn enriched with holy rites, yoke to your car your purple steeds,

And then bring you to us all felicities. (15)

Asvins wonderful in act, do you unanimous direct

Your chariot to our home wealthy in kine and gold. (16)

You who brought down the hymn from heaven, a light that gives light to man,

Do you, Asvius, bring strength bither to us. (17)

Here may they who wake at dawn bring, to drink Soma both the gods

Health-givers Wonder-Workers, borne on paths of gold.

93 - Agni-Sona

AGNI and Soma, mighty Pair, graciously listen to my call,

Accept in friendly wise my hymn, and prosper him who offers gifts. (1)

The man who honours you to-day, Agni and Soma, with this hymn,

Bestow on him heroic strength, increase of kine, and noble steeds. (2)

The man who offers holy oil and burnt oblations to you,

Agni and Soma, shall enjoy great strength, with offspring, all his life. (3)

Agni and Soma, famed is that your. prowess wherewith you stole the kine, his food, from Pani.

You caused the brood of Brsaya to perish; you found the light, the single light for many. (4)

Agni and Soma, joined in operation you have set up the shining lights in heaven.

From curse and from reproach, Agni and Soma, you freed the rivers that were bound in fetters. (5)

One of you Mitarisvan brought from heaven, the Falcon rent the other from the mountain.

Strengthened by holy prayer Agni and Soma have made us ample room for sacrificing. (6)

Taste, Agni, Soma, this prepared oblation; accept it, Mighty Ones, and let it please you.

Vouchsafe us good protection and kind favour: grant to the sacrificer health and riches. (7)

Whoso with oil and poured oblation honours, with God-devoted heart, Agni and Soma,-

Protect his sacrifice, preserve him from distress, grant to the sacrificer great felicity. (8)

Invoked together, mates in wealth, AgniSoma, accept our hymns:

Together be among the gods. (9)

Agni and Soma, to him who worships you with holy oil

Shine forth an ample recompense. (10)

Agni and Sonia, be you pleased with these oblations brought to you,

And come, together, nigh to us. (11)

Agni and Soma, cherish well our horses, and let our cows be fat who yield oblations.

Grant power to us and to our wealthy patrons, and cause our holy rites to be successful.

94 - Agni

FOR Jatavedas worthy of our praise will we frame with our mind this eulogy as it were a car.

For good, in his assembly, is this care of ours. Let us not, in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (1)

The man for whom you sacrificest prospereth, dwelleth without a foe, gaineth heroic might.

He waxeth strong, distress never approacheth him. Let us riot, in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (2)

May we have power to kindle you. Fulfil our thoughts. In you the gods eat the presented offering,

Bring here the Adityas, for we long for them. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (3)

We will bring fuel and prepare burnt offerings, reminding you at each successive festival.

Fulfil our thought that so we may prolong our lives. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (4)

His ministers move forth, the guardians of the folk, protecting quadruped and biped with their rays.

Mighty are you, the wondrous herald of the Dawn. Let us not in your friend. ship, Agni, suffer harm. (5)

You are Presenter and the chief Invoker, you Director, Purifier, great High priest by birth.

Knowing all priestly work you perfectest it, Sage. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (6)

Lovely of form are you, alike on every side; though far, you shinest brightly

as if close at hand.

God, you seest through even the dark of night. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (7)

gods, foremost he his car who pours libations out, and let our hymn prevail over evil- hearted men.

Attend to this our speech and make it prosper well. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (8)

Smite with your weapons those of evil speech and thought, devouring demons, whether near or tar away.

Then to the singer give free way for sacrifice. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (9)

When to your chariot you had yoked two red steeds and two ruddy steeds, wind-sped, your roar was like a bull's.

You with smoke-bannered flame attackest forest trees. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (10)

Then at your roar the very birds are terrified, when, eating-up the grass, your sparks fly forth abroad.

Then is it easy for you and your car to pass. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (11)

He has the Power to soothe Mitra and Varuna: wonderful is the Maruts' wrath when they descend.

Be gracious; let their hearts he turned to us again. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (12)

You are a God, you are the wondrous friend of gods, the Vasu of the Vasus, fair in sacrifice.

Under, your own most wide protection may we dwell. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (13)

This is your grace that, kindled in your own abode, invoked with Soma you soundest forth most benign,

You give wealth and treasure to the worshipper. Let us not in your friendship, Agni, suffer harm. (14)

To whom you, Lord of goodly riches, grantest freedom from every sin with perfect wholeness,

Whom with good strength you quikenest, with children and wealth-may we be they, Eternal Being. (15)

Such, Agni, you who know all good fortune, God, lengthen here the days of our existence.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

95 - Agni

To fair goals travel Two unlike in semblance: each in succession nourishes an infant.

One bears a Godlike Babe of golden colour; bright and fair-shining, is he with the other. (1)

Tvastar's ten daughters, vigilant and youthful, produced this Infant borne to sundry quarters.

They bear around him whose long flames are pointed, fulgent among mankind with native splendour.

3. Three several places of his birth they honour, in mid-air, in the heaven, and in the waters.

Governing in the cast of earthly regions, the seasons has he stablished in their order. (3)

Who of you knows this secret One? The Infant by his own nature has brought forth his Mothers.

The germ of many, from the waters' bosom he goes forth, wise and great, of Godlike nature. (4)

Visible, fair, he grows in native brightness uplifted in the lap of waving waters.

When he was born both Tvastar's worlds were frightened: they turn to him and reverence the Lion. (5)

The Two auspicious Ones, like women, tend him: like lowing cows they seek him in their manner.

He is the Lord of Might among the mighty; him, on the right, they balm with their oblations. (6)

Like Savitar his arms with might he stretches; awful, he strives grasping the world's two borders.

He forces out from all a brilliant vesture, yea, from his Mothers draws he forth new raiment. (7)

He makes him a most noble form of splendour, decking him in his home with milk and waters.

The Sage adorns the depths of air with wisdom . this is the meeting where the gods are worshipped. (8)

Wide through the firmament spreads forth triumphant the far-resplendent strength of' you the Mighty.

Kindled by us do you preserve us, Agni, with all your self-bright undiminished succours. (9)

In dry spots he makes stream, and course, and torrent, and inundates the earth with floods that glisten.

All ancient things within his maw he gathers, and moves among the new fresh-sprouting grasses. (10)

Fed with our fuel, purifying Agni, so blaze to us auspiciously for glory.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

96 - Agni

HE in the ancient way by strength engendered, lo! straight has taken to himself all wisdom.

The waters and the bowl have made him friendly. The gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. (1)

At Ayu's ancient call he by his wisdom gave all this progeny of men their being,

And, by refulgent light, heaven and the waters. The gods possessed the wealth. bestowing Agni. (2)

Praise him, you Aryan folk, as chief performer of sacrifice adored and ever toiling,

Well-tended, Son of Strength, the Constant Giver. The gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. (3)

That Matarisvan rich in wealth and treasure, light-winner, finds a pathway for his offispring.

Guard of our folk, Father of earth and heaven. The gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. (4)

Night and Dawn, changing each the other's colour, meeting together suckle one same Infant:

Golden between the heaven and earth he shineth. The gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. (5)

Root of wealth, gathering-place of treasures, banner of sacrifice, who grants the suppliant's wishes:

Preserving him as their own life immortal, the gods possessed the wealth-bestowing Agni. (6)

Now and of old the home of wealth, the mansion of what is born and what was born aforetime,

Guard of what is and what will be hereafter,-the gods possessed the wealth bestowing Agni. (7)

May the Wealth-Giver grant us conquering riches; may the Wealth-Giver grant us wealth with heroes.

May the Wealth-Giver grant us food with offspring, and length of days may the Wealth- Giver send us. (8)

Fed with our fuel, purifying Agni, so blaze to us auspiciously for glory.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

97 - Agni

CHASing with light our sin away, Agni, shine you wealth on us.

May his light chase our sin away. (1)

For goodly fields, for pleasant homes, for wealth we sacrifice to you.

May his light chase our sin away. (2)

Best praiser of all these be he; foremost, our chiefs who sacrifice.

May his light chase our sin away. (3)

So that your worshippers and we, your, Agni, in our sons may live.

May his light chase our sin away. (4)

As ever- conquering Agni's beams of splendour go to every side,

May his light chase our sin away. (5)

To every side your face is turned, you are triumphant everywhere.

May his light chase our sin away. (6)

you whose face looks every way, bear us past foes as in a ship.

May his light chase our sin away. (7)

As in a ship, convey us for our advantage over the flood.

May his light chase our sin away.

98 - Agni

STILL in Vaisvanara's grace may we continue: yea, he is King supreme over all things living.

Sprung hence to life upon this All he looketh. Vaisvanara has rivalry with Surya. (1)

Present in heaven, in earth, all-present Agni,-all plants that grow on ground has he pervaded.

May Agni, may Vaisvanara with vigour, present, preserve us day and night from foemen. (2)

Be this your truth, Vaisvanara, to us-ward: let wealth in rich abundance gather round us.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

99 - Agni

For Jatavedas let us press the soma: may he consume the wealth of the malignant.

May Agni carry us through all our troubles, through grief as in a boat across the river.

100 - Indra

MAY he who has his home with strength, the Mighty, the King supreme of earth and spacious heaven,

Lord of true power, to he invoked in battles,-may Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (1)

Whose way is unattainable like Surya's: he in each fight is the strong Vritra-slayer,

Mightiest with his friends in his own courses. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (2)

Whose paths go forth in their great might resistless, forthmilking, as it were, heaven's genial moisture.

With manly strength triumphant, foe-subduer,-may Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (3)

Among Angirases he was the chiefest, a friend with friends, mighty amid the mighty.

Praiser mid praisers, honoured most of singers. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (4)

Strong with the Rudras as with his own children, in manly battle conquering his foemen '

With his close comrades doing deeds of glory,-may Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (5)

Humbler of pride, exciter of the conflict, the Lord of heroes, God invoked of many,

May he this day gain with our men the sunlight. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be oursuccour. (6)

His help has made him cheerer in the battle, the folk have made him guardian of their comfort.

Sole Lord is he of every holy service. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (7)

To him the hero, on high days of prowess, heroes for help and booty shall betake them.

He has found light even in the blinding darkness. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (8)

He with his left hand checketh even the mighty, and with his righthand gathereth up the booty.

Even with the humble he acquireth riches. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (9)

With hosts on foot and cars he winneth treasures: well is he known this day by all the people.

With manly might he conquereth those who hate him. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (10)

When in his ways with kinsmen or with strangers he speedeth to the fight, invoked of many,

For gain of waters, and of sons and grandsons, may Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (11)

Awful and fierce, fiend-slayer, thunder-wielder, with boundless knowledge, hymned by hundreds, mighty,

In strength like Soma, guard of the Five Peoples, may Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (12)

Winning the light, to this place roars his thunder like the terrific mighty voice of Heaven.

Rich gifts and treasures evermore attend him. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (13)

Whose home eternal through his strength surrounds him on every side, his laud, the earth and heaven,

May he, delighted with our service, save us. May Indra, girt by Maruts, be our succour. (14)

The limit of whose power not gods by Godhead, nor mortal men have reached, nor yet the Waters.

Both Earth and Heaven in vigour he surpasses. May Indra, girt by Maruts, he our succour. (15)

The red and tawny mare, blaze-marked, high standing, celestial who, to bring Rjrasva riches,

Drew at the pole the chariot yoked with stallions, joyous, among the hosts of men was noted. (16)

The Varsagiras to you, Indra, the Mighty One, sing forth this laud to please you,

Rjrasva with his fellows, Ambarisa, Suradhas, Sahadeva, Bhayamana. (17)

He, much invoked, has slain Dasyus and Simyus, after his wont, and laid them low with arrows.

The mighty Thunderer with his fair-complexioned friends won the land, the sunlight, and the waters. (18)

May Indra evermore be our protector, and unimperilled may we win the booty.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

101 - Indra

Sing, with oblation, praise to him who makes glad, who with Rjisvan drove the dusky brood away.

Fain for help, him the strong whose right hand wields the bolt, him girt by Maruts we invoke to be our friend. (1)

Indra, who with triumphant wrath smote Vyamsa down, and Sambara, and Pipru the unrighteous one;

Who extirpated Susna the insatiate, him girt by Maruts we invoke to be our friend. (2)

He whose great work of manly might is heaven and earth, and Varuna and Surya keep his holy law;

Indra, whose law the rivers follow as they flow, him girt by Maruts we invoke to be our friend. (3)

He who is Lord and Master of the steeds and kine, honoured -the firm and sure- at every holy act;

Stayer even of the strong who pours no offering out, -him girt by Maruts we invoke to be our friend. (4)

He who is Lord of all the world that moves and breathes, who for the Brahman first before all found the Cows;

Indra who cast the Dasyus down beneath his feet, him girt by Maruts we invoke to be our friend. (5)

Whom cowards must invoke and valiant men of war, invoked by those who conquer and by those who flee;

Indra, to whom all beings turn their constant thought, him girt by Maruts we invoke to be our friend. (6)

Refulgent in the Rudras' region he proceeds, and with the Rudras through the wide space speeds the Dame.

The hymn of praise extols Indra the far-renowned: him girt by Maruts we invoke to be our friend. (7)

Girt by Maruts, whether you delight you in loftiest gathering-place or lowly dwelling,

come thence to our rite, true boon-best-ower: through love of you have we prepared oblations. (8)

We, fain for you, strong Indra, have pressed Soma, and, you sought with prayer, have made oblations.

Now at this sacrifice, with all your Maruts, on sacred grass, team-borne God, rejoice you. (9)

Rejoice you with your own Bay steeds, Indra, unclose your jaws and let your lips be open.

You with the fair cheek, let your Bay steeds bring you: gracious to us, he pleased with our oblation. (10)

Guards of the camp whose praisers are the Maruts, may we through Indra, get ourselves the booty.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

102 - Indra

To you the Mighty One I bring this mighty hymn, for your desire has been gratified by my laud.

In Indra, yea in him victorious through his strength, the gods have joyed at feast and when the soma flowed. (1)

The Seven Rivers bear his glory far and wide, and heaven and sky and earth display his comely form.

The Sun and Moon in change alternate run their course, that we, Indra, may behold and may have faith. (2)

Maghavan, grant us that same car to bring us spoil, your conquering car in which we joy in shock of fight.

You, Indra, whom our hearts praise highly in the war, grant shelter, Maghavan, to us who love you well. (3)

Encourage you our side in every fight: may we, with you for our ally, conquer the foeman's host.

Indra, bestow on us joy and felicity break down, Maghavan, the vigour of our foes. (4)

For here in divers ways these men invoking you, holder of treasures, sing hymns to win your aid.

Ascend the car that you may bring spoil to us, for, Indra, your fixt winneth the victory. (5)

His arms win kine, his power is boundless in each act best, with a hundred helps waker of battle's din

Is Indra: none may rival him in mighty strength. Hence, eager for the spoil the people call on him. (6)

Your glory, Maghavan, exceeds a hundred yea, more than a hundred, than a thousand mid the folk,

The great bowl has inspirited you boundlessly: so mayst you slay the Vritras breaker-down of forts! (7)

Of your great might there is a three counterpart, the three earths, Lord men and the three realms of light.

Above this whole world, Indra, you have waxen great: without a foe are you, nature, from of old. (8)

We invocate you first among the deities: you have become a mighty Conquer in fight.

May Indra fill with spirit this our singer's heart, and make our car impetuous, foremost in attack. (9)

You have prevailed, and have not kept the booty back, in trifling battles in those of great account.

We make you keen, the Mighty One, succour us: inspire us, Maghavan, when we defy the foe. (10)

May Indra evermore be our Protector, and unimperilled may we win the booty.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

103 - Indra

THAT highest Indra-power of yours is distant: that which is here sages possessed aforetime.

This one is on the earth, in heaven the other, and both unite as flag with flag in battle. (1)

He spread the wide earth out and firmly fixed it, smote with his thunderbolt and loosed the waters.

Maghavan with his puissance struck down Ahi, rent Rauhipa to death and slaughtered Vyarnsa. (2)

Armed with his bolt and trusting in his prowess he wandered shattering the forts of Dasas.

Cast your dart, knowing, Thunderer, at the Dasyu; increase the Arya's might and glory, Indra. (3)

For him who thus has taught these human races, Maghavan, bearing a fame-worthy title,

Thunderer, drawing nigh to slay the Dasyus, has given himself the name of Son for glory. (4)

See this abundant wealth that he possesses, and put your trust in Indra's hero vigour.

He found the cattle, and he found the horses, he found the plants, the forests and the waters. (5)

To him the truly strong, whose deeds are many, to him the strong Bull let us pour the soma.

The hero, watching like a thief in ambush, goes parting the possessions of the godless. (6)

Well did you do that hero deed, Indra, in waking with your bolt the slumbering Ahi.

in you, delighted, Dames divine rejoiced them, the flying Maruts and all gods were joyful. (7)

As you have smitten Susna, Pipru, Vritra and Kuyava, and Sambara's forts Indra.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

104 - Indra

The altar has been made for you to rest on: come like a panting courser and be seated.

Loosen your flying steeds, set free your horses who bear you swiftly nigh at eve and morning. (1)

These men have come to Indra for assistance: shall he not quickly come upon these pathways?

May the gods quell the fury of the Dasa, and may they lead our folk to happy fortune. (2)

He who has only wish as his possession casts on himself, casts foam amid the waters.

Both wives of Kuyava in milk have bathed them: may they be drowned within the depth of Sipha. (3)

This has his kinship checked who lives beside us: with ancient streams forth speeds and rules the hero, Anjasi, Kulisi, and Virapatni, delighting him, bear milk upon their waters. (4)

Soon as this Dasyu's traces were discovered, as she who knows her home, he sought the dwelling.

Now think you of us, Maghavan, nor cast us away as doth a profligate his treasure. (5)

Indra, as such, give us a share of sunlight, of waters, sinlessness, and reputation.

Do you no harm to our yet unborn offspring: our trust is in your mighty Indra-power. (6)

Now we, I think, in you as such have trusted: lead us on, Mighty One, to ample riches.

In no unready house give us, Indra invoked of many, food and drink when hungry. (7)

Slay us not, Indra; do not you forsake us: steal not away the joys which we delight in.

Rend not our unborn brood, strong Lord of Bounty! our vessels with the life that is within them. (8)

Come to us; they have called you Soma-lover: here is the pressed juice. Drink thereof for rapture.

Widely-capacious, pour it down within you, and, invocated, hear us like a Father.

105 - Visvedevas

WITHIN the waters runs the Moon, he with the beauteous wings in heaven.

You lightnings with your golden wheels, men find not your abiding-place. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (1)

Surely men crave and gain their wish. Close to her husband clings the wife.

And, in embraces intertwined, both give and take the bliss of love. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (2)

never may that light, you gods, fall from its station in the sky.

Never fail us one like Soma sweet, the spring of our felicity. Mark this my woe you Earth and Heaven. (3)

I ask the last of sacrifice. As envoy he shall tell it forth.

Where is the ancient law divine? Who is its new diffuser now? Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (4)

You gods who yonder have your home in the three lucid realms of heaven,

What count you truth and what untruth? Where is mine ancient call on you? Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (5)

What is your firm support of Law? What Varuna's observant eye?

How may we pass the wicked on the path of mighty Aryaman? Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (6)

1 am the man who sang of old full many a laud when Soma flowed.

Yet torturing cares consume me as the wolf assails the thirsty deer. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (7)

Like rival wives on every side enclosing ribs oppress me sore.

Satakratu, biting cares devour me, singer of your praise, as rats devour the weaver's threads. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (8)

Where those seven rays are shining, thence my home and family extend.

This Trta Aptya knows well, and speaketh out for brotherhood. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (9)

May those five Bulls which stand on high full in the midst of mighty heaven,

Having together swiftly borne my praises to the gods, return. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (10)

High in the mid ascent of heaven those Birds of beauteous pinion sit.

Back from his path they drive the wolf as he would cross the restless floods. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (11)

Firm is this new-wrought hymn of praise, and meet to be told forth, gods.

The flowing of the floods is Law, Truth is the Sun's extended light. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (12)

Worthy of laud, Agni, is that kinship which you have with gods.

Here seat you like a man: most wise, bring you the gods for sacrifice. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (13)

Here seated, man-like as a priest shall wisest Agni to the gods

Speed onward our oblations, God among the gods, intelligent. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (14)

Varuna makes the holy prayer. To him who finds the path we pray.

He in the heart reveals his thought. Let sacred worship rise anew. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (15)

That pathway of the Sun in heaven, made to be highly glorified,

Is not to be transgressed, gods. mortals, you behold it not. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (16)

Trta, when buried in the well, calls on the gods to succour him.

That call of his Brihaspati heard and released him from distress. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (17)

A ruddy wolf beheld me once, as I was faring on my path.

He, like a carpenter whose back is aching crouched and slunk away. Mark this my woe, you Earth and Heaven. (18)

Through this our song may we, allied with Indra, with all our heroes conquer in the battle.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

106 - Visvedevas

CALL we for aid on Indra, Mitra, Varuna and Agni and the Marut host and Aditi.

Even as a chariot from a difficult ravine, bountiful Vasus, rescue us from all distress. (1)

Come Adityas for our full prosperity, in conquests of the foe, you gods, bring joy to us.

Even as a chariot from a difficult ravine, bountiful Vasus, rescue us from all distress. (2)

May the most glorious Fathers aid us, and the two Goddesses, Mothers of the gods, who strengthen Law.

Even as a chariot from a difficult ravine, bountiful Vasus, rescue us from all distress. (3)

To mighty Narasamsa, strengthening his might, to Pusan, ruler over men, we pray with hymns.

Even as a chariot from a difficult ravine, bountiful Vasus, rescue us from all distress. (4)

Brihaspati, make us evermore an easy path: we crave what boon you have for men in rest and stir.

Like as a chariot from a difficult ravine, bountiful Vasus, rescue us from all distress. (5)

Sunk in the pit the Rishi Kutsa called, to aid, Indra the Vritra-slayer, Lord of power and might.

Even as a chariot from a difficult ravine, bountiful Vasus, rescue us from all distress. (6)

May Aditi the goddess guard us with the gods: may the protecting God keep us with ceaseless care.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

107 - Visvedevas

The sacrifice obtains the gods' acceptance: be graciously inclined to us, Adityas.

To this place let your favour be directed, and be our best deliverer from trouble. (1)

By praise-songs of Angirases exalted, may!he gods come to us with their protection.

May Indra with his powers, Maruts with Maruts, Aditi with Adityas grant us shelter. (2)

This laud of ours may Varuna and Indra, Aryaman Agni, Savitar find pleasant.

This prayer' of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

108 - Indra-Agni

ON that most wondrous car of yours, Indra and Agni, which looks round on all things living,

Take you your stand and come to us together, and drink libations of the flowing Soma. (1)

As vast as all this world is in its compass, deep as it is, with its far-stretching surface,

So let this Soma be, Indra and Agni, made for your drinking till your soul be sated. (2)

For you have won a blessed name together: yea, with one aim you strove, Vritra- slayers.

So Indra-Agni, seated here together, pour in, you Mighty Ones, the mighty Soma. (3)

Both stand adorned, when fires are duly kindled, spreading the sacred grass, with lifted ladles.

Drawn by strong soma juice poured forth around us, come, Indra-Agni, and display your favour. (4)

The brave deeds you have done, Indra and Agni, the forms you have displayed and mighty exploits,

The ancient and auspicious bonds of friendship, for sake of these drink of the flowing Soma. (5)

As first I said when choosing you, in battle we must contend with Asuras for this Soma.

So came you to this my true conviction, and drank libations of the flowing Soma. (6)

If in your dwelling, or with prince or Brahman, you, Indra-Agni, Holy Ones, rejoice you,

Even frorn thence, you mighty lords, come here, and drink libation of the flowing Soma. (7)

If with, the Yadus, Turvasas, you sojourn, with Druhyus, Anus, Purus, Indra-Agni!

Even from thence, you mighty lords, come here, and drink libations of the flowing Soma. (8)

Whether, Indra-Agni, you be dwelling in lowest earth, in central, or in highest.

Even from thence, you mighty lords, come here, and drink libations of the flowing Soma. (9)

Whether, Indra-Agni, you be dwelling in highest earth, in central, or in lowest,

Even from thence, you mighty lords, come here, and drink libations of the flowing Soma. (10)

Whether you be in heaven, Indra-Agni, on earth, on mountains, in the herbs, or waters,

Even from thence, you mighty lords, come here, and drink libations of the flowing Soma. (11)

If, when the Sun to the mid-heaven has mounted, you take delight in food, Indra-Agni,

Even from thence, you mighty lords, come here, and drink libations of the flowing Soma. (12)

Thus having drunk your fill of our libation, win us all kinds of wealth, Indra and Agni.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

109 - Indra-Agni

LONGING for weal I looked around, in spirit, for kinsmen, Indra-Agni, or for brothers.

No providence but yours alone is with me so have I wrought for you this hymn for succour. (1)

For I have heard that you give wealth more freely than worthless son-in-law or spouse's brother.

So offering to you this draught of soma, I make you this new hymn, Indra and Agni, (2)

Let us not break the cords: with this petition we strive to gain the powers of our forefathers.

For Indra-Agni the strong drops are joyful-, for here in the bowl's lap are both the press- stones. (3)

For you the bowl divine, Indra and Agni, presses the soma gladly to delight you.

With hands auspicious and fair arms, you Asvins, haste, sprinkle it with sweetness in the waters. (4)

You, I have heard, were mightiest, Indra-Agni, when Vritra fell and when the spoil was parted.

Sit at this sacrifice, you ever active, on the strewn grass, and with the juice delight you. (5)

Surpassing all men where they shout for battle, you two exceed the earth and heaven in greatness.

Greater are you than rivers and than mountains, Indra-Agni, and all things beside them. (6)

Bring wealth and give it, you whose arms wield thunder: Indra and Agni, with your powers protect us.

Now of a truth these be the very sunbeams wherewith our fathers were of old united. (7)

Give, you who shatter forts, whose hands wield thunder: Indra and Agni, save us in our battles.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

110 - Rbhus

The holy work I wrought before is wrought again: my sweetest hymn is sung to celebrate your praise.

Here, you Rbhus, is this sea for all the gods: sate you with Soma offered with the hallowing word. (1)

When, seeking your enjoyment onward from afar, you, certain of my kinsmen, wandered on your way,

Sons of Sudhanvan, after your long journeying, you came to the home of liberal Savitar. (2)

Savitar therefore gave you immortality, because you came proclaiming him whom naught can hide;

And this the drinking-chalice of the Asura, which till that time was one, you made to be fourfold. (3)

When they had served with zeal at sacrifice as priests, they, mortal as they were, gained immortality.

The Rbhus, children of Sudhanvan, bright as suns, were in a year's course made associate with prayers. (4)

The Rbhus, with a rod measured, as it were a field, the single sacrificial chalice. wide of mouth,

Lauded of all who saw, praying for what is best, desiring glorious fame among immortal gods. (5)

As oil in ladles, we through knowledge will present to the heroes of the firmament our hymn,

The Rbhus who came near with this great Father's speed, and rose to heaven's high sphere to cat the strengthening food. (6)

Rbhu to us is Indra freshest in his might, Rbhu with powers and wealth is giver of rich gifts.

gods, through your favour may we on the happy day quell the attacks of those who pour no offerings forth. (7)

Out of a skin, Rbhus, once you formed a cow, and brought the mother close to her calf again.

Sons of Sudhanvan, heroes, with surpassing skill you made your aged Parents youthful as before. (8)

Help us with strength where spoil is won, Indra: joined with the gbhus give us varied bounty.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

111 - Rbhus

WORKING with skill they wrought the lightly rolling car: they wrought the Bays who bear Indra and bring great gifts.

The Rbhus for their Parents made life young again; and fashioned for the calf a mother by its side. (1)

For sacrifice make for us active vital power for skill and wisdom food with noble progeny.

Grant to our company this power most excellent, that with a family all-heroic we may dwell. (2)

Do you, Rbhus, make prosperity for us, prosperity for car, you heroes, and for steed.

Grant us prosperity victorious evermore,

conquering foes in battle, strangers or akin. (3)

Indra, the Rbhus' Lord, I invocate for aid, the Rbhus, Vajas, Maruts to the soma draught.

Varuna, Mitra, both, yea, and the Asvins two: let them speed us to wealth, wisdom, and victory. (4)

May Rbhu send prosperity for battle, may Vaja conquering in the fight protect us.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

112 - Asvins

To give first thought to them, I worship Heaven and Earth, and Agni, fair bright glow, to hasten their approach.

Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids wherewith in fight you speed the war-cry to the spoil. (1)

Ample, unfailing, they have mounted as it were an eloquent car that you may think of us and give.

Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids wherewith you help our thoughts to further holy acts. (2)

You by the might which heavenly nectar gives you are in supreme dominion lords of all these folk.

Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids wherewith you, heroes, made the barren cow give milk. (3)

The aids wherewith the Wanderer through his offipring's might, or the Two-Mothered Son shows swiftest mid the swift;

Wherewith the sapient one acquired his triple lore - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (4)

Wherewith you raised from waters, prisoned and fast bound, Rebha, and Vandana to look upon the light;

Wherewith you succoured Kapva as he strove to win - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (5)

Wherewith you rescued Antaka when languishing deep in the pit, and Bhujyu with unfailing help.

And comforted Karkandhu, Vayya, in their woe - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (6)

Wherewith you gave gucanti wealth and happy home, and made the fiery pit friendly for Atri's sake;

Wherewith you guarded Purukutsa, Prsnigu, -Come here to us, Agvin;, with those aids. (7)

Mighty Ones, with what powers you gave Paravrj aid what time you made the blind and lame to see and walk;

Wherewith you set at liberty the swallowed quail - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (8)

Wherewith you quickened the most sweet exhaustless flood, and comforted Vasistha, you who never decay;

And to Srutarya, Kutsa, Narya gave your help - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (9)

Wherewith you helped, in battle of a thousand spoils, Vispala seeking booty, powerless to move.

Wherewith you guarded friendly Vaga, Asva's son - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (10)

By which the cloud, you Bounteous Givers, shed sweet rain for Dirghasravas, for the merchant Ausija,

Wherewith you helped Kaksivan, singer of your praise - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (11)

Wherewith you made Rasa swell full with water-floods, and urged to victory the car without a horse;

Wherewith Trisoka drove forth his recovered cows - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (12)

Wherewith you, compass round the Sun when far away, strengthened Manddatar in his tasks as lord of lands,

And to sage Bharadvija gave protecting help - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (13)

Wherewith, when Sambara was slain, you guarded well great Atithigva, Divodisa, Kasoju,

And Trasadasyu when the forts were shattered down - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (14)

Wherewith you honoured the great drinker Vamra, and Upastuta and Kali when he gained his wife,

And lent to Vyasva. and to Prthi favouring help - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (15)

Wherewith, heroes, you vouchsafed deliverance to Sayu, Atri, and to Manu long ago;

Wherewith you shot your shafts in Syumarasmi's cause.-Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (16)

Wherewith Patharva, in his majesty of form, shone in his course like to a gathered kindled fire;

Wherewith you helped Suryata in the mighty fray - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (17)

Wherewith, Angirases! you triumphed in your heart, and onward went to liberate the flood of milk;

Wherewith you helped the hero Manu with new strength - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (18)

Wherewith you brought awife for Vimada to wed, wherewith you freely gave the ruddy cows away;

Wherewith you brought the host of kind gods to Sudas-Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (19)

Wherewith you bring great bliss to him who offers gifts, wherewith you have protected Bhujyu, Adhrigu,

And good and gracious Subhara and Rtastup - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (20)

Wherewith you served Krsanu where the shafts were shot, and helped the young man's horse to swiftness in the race;

Wherewith you bring delicious honey to the bees - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (21)

Wherewith you speed the hero as he fights for kine in hero battle, in the strife for land and sons,

Wherewith you safely guard his horses and his car - Come here to us, Asvins with those aids. (22)

Wherewith you, lords of Hundred Powers, helped Kutsa, son of Aduni, gave Turviti and Dabhiti strength,

Favoured Dhvasanti and lent Purusanti help - Come here to us, Asvins, with those aids. (23)

Make you our speech effectual, you Asvins, and this our hymn, you mighty Wonder- Workers.

In luckless game I call on you for succour . strengthen us also on the field of battle. (24)

With, undiminished blessings, you Asvins, for evermore both night and day protect us.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

113 - Dawn

This light is come, amid all lights the fairest; born is the brilliant, far-extending brightness.

Night, sent away for Savitar's uprising, has yielded up a birth-place for the Morning. (1)

The Fair, the Bright is come with her white offspring; to her the Dark One has resigned her dwelling.

Akin, immortal, following each other, changing their colours both the heavens move onward. (2)

Common, unending is the Sisters' pathway; taught by the gods, alternately they travel.

Fair-formed, of different hues and yet one-minded, Night and Dawn clash not, neither do they travel. (3)

Bright leader of glad sounds, our eyes behold her; splendid in hue she has unclosed the portals.

She, stirring up the world, has shown us riches: Dawn has awakened every living creature. (4)

Rich Dawn, she sets afoot the coiled-up sleeper, one for enjoyment, one for wealth or worship,

Those who saw little for extended vision. All living creatures has the Dawn awakened. (5)

One to high sway, one to exalted glory, one to pursue his gain, and one his labour:

All to regard their different vocations, all moving creatures has the Dawn awakened. (6)

We see her there, the Child of Heaven apparent, the young Maid, flushing in her shining raiment.

You soyran Lady of all earthly treasure, flush on us here, auspicious Dawn, this morning. (7)

She first of endless morns to come hereafter, follows the path of morns that have departed.

Dawn, at her rising, urges forth the living him who is dead she wakes not from his slumber. (8)

As you, Dawn, have caused Agni to be kindled, and with the Sun's eye have revealed creation.

And have awakened men to offer worship, you have performed, for gods, a noble service. (9)

How long a time, and they shall be together - Dawns that have shone and Dawns to shine hereafter?

She yearns for former Dawns with eager longing, and goes forth gladly shining with the others. (10)

Gone are the men who in the days before us looked on the rising of the earlier Morning.

We, we the living, now behold her brightness and they come nigh who shall hereafter see her. (11)

Foe-chaser, born of Law, the Law's protectress, joy-giver waker of all pleasant voices,

Auspicious, bringing food for gods' enjoyment, shine on us here, most bright, Dawn, this morning. (12)

From days eternal has Dawn shone, the goddess, and shows this light to-day, endowed with riches.

So will she shine on days to come immortal she moves on in her own strength, undecaying. (13)

In the sky's borders has she shone in splendour: the goddess has thrown off the veil of darkness.

Awakening the world with purple horses, on her well-harnessed chariot Dawn approaches. (14)

Bringing all life-sustaining blessings with her, showing herself she sends forth brilliant lustre.

Last of the countless mornings that have vanished, first of bright morns to come has Dawn arisen. (15)

Arise! the breath, the life, again has reached us: darkness has passed away and light approacheth.

She for the Sun has left a path to travel we have arrived where men prolong existence. (16)

Singing the praises of refulgent Mornings with his hymn's web the priest, the poet rises.

Shine then to-day, rich Maid, on him who lauds you, shine down on us the gift of life and offipring. (17)

Dawns giving sons all heroes, kine and horses, shining upon the man who brings oblations,

These let the soma-presser gain when ending his glad songs louder than the voice of Vayu. (18)

Mother of gods, Aditi's forui of glory, ensign of sacrifice, shine forth exalted.

Rise up, bestowing praise on our devotion all-bounteous, niake us chief among the people. (19)

Whatever splendid wealth the Dawns bring with them to bless the man who offers praise and worship,

Even that may Mitra, Varuna vouchsafe us, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

114 - Rudra

To the strong Rudra bring we these our songs of praise, to him the Lord of heros with the braided hair,

That it be well with all our cattle and our men, that in this village all he healthy and well- fed. (1)

Be gracious to us, Rudra, bring us joy: you, Lord of heroes, you with reverence will we serve.

Whatever health and strength our father Manu won by sacrifice may we, under your guidance, gain. (2)

By worship of the gods may we, Bounteous One, Rudra, gain your grace, Ruler of valiant men.

Come to our families, bringing them bliss: may we, whose heroes are uninjured, bring you sacred gifts, (3)

To this place we call for aid the wise, the wanderer, impetuous Rudra, perfecter of sacri fice.

May he repel from us the anger of the gods: verily we desire his favourable grace. (4)

Him with the braided hair we call with reverence down, the wild-boar of the sky, the red, the dazzling shape.

May he, his hand filled full of sovran medicines, grant us protection, shelter, and a home secure. (5)

To him the Maruts' Father is this hymn addressed, to strengthen Rudra's might, a song more sweet than sweet.

Grant us, immortal One, the food which mortals eat: be gracious to me, my seed, my progeny. (6)

Rudra, harm not either great or small of us, harm not the growing boy, harm not the full- grown man.

Slay not a sire among us, slay no mother here, and to our own dear bodies, Rudra, do not harm. (7)

Harm us not, Rudra, in our seed and progeny, harm us not in the living, nor in cows or steeds,

Slay not our heroes in the fury of your wrath. Bringing oblations evermore we call to you. (8)

Even as a herdsman I have brought you hymns of praise: Father of the Maruts, give us happiness,

Blessed is your most favouring benevolence, so, verily, do we desire your saving help. (9)

Far be your dart that killeth men or cattle: your bliss be with us, you Lord of heroes.

Be gracious to us, God, and bless us, and then vouchsafe us doubly-strong protection. (10)

We, seeking help, have spoken and adored him: may Rudra, girt by Maruts, hear our calling.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

115 - Surya

The brilliant presence of the gods has risen, the eye of Mitra, Varuna and Agni.

The soul of all that moves not or moves, the Sun has filled the air and earth and heaven. (1)

Like as a young man followeth a maiden, so doth the Sun the Dawn, refulgent Goddess:

Where pious men extend their generations, before the Auspicious One for happy fortune. (2)

Auspicious are the Sun's Bay-coloured horses, bright, changing hues, meet for our shouts of triumph.

Bearing our prayers, die sky's ridge have they mounted, and in a moment speed round earth and heaven. (3)

This is the godhead, this might of Surya: he has withdrawn what spread over work unfinished.

When he has loosed his horses from their station, straight over all Night spreadeth out her garment. (4)

In the sky's lap the Sun this form assumeth that Varuna and Mitra may behold it.

His Bay steeds well maintain his power eternal, at one time bright and darksome at another. (5)

This day, gods, while Surya is ascending, deliver us from trouble and dishonour.

This prayer of ours may Varuna grant, and Mitra, and Aditi and Sindhu, Earth and Heaven.

116 - Asvins

I TRIM like grass my song for the Nasatyas and send their lauds forth as the wind drives rain-clouds,

Who, in a chariot rapid as an arrow, brought to the youthful Vimada a consort. (1)

Borne on by rapid steeds of mighty pinion, or proudly trusting in the gods' incitements.

That stallion ass of yours won, Nasatyas, that thousand in the race, in Yama's contest. (2)

Yea, Asvins, as a dead man leaves his riches, Tugra left Bhujyu in the cloud of waters.

You brought him back in animated vessels, traversing air, unwetted by the billows. (3)

Bhujyu you bore with winged things, Nasatyas, which for three nights, three days full swiftly travelled,

To the sea's farther shore, the strand of ocean, in three cars, hundred-footed, with six horses. (4)

You wrought that hero exploit in the ocean which gives no support, or hold or station,

What time you carried Bhujyu to his dwelling, borne in a ship with hundred oars, Asvins. (5)

The white horse which of old you gave Aghasva, Asvins, a gift to be his wealth for ever,

Still to be praised is that your glorious present, still to be famed is the braye horse of Pedu. (6)

Heroes, you gave wisdom to Kaksivan who sprang from Pajra's line, who sang your praises.

You poured forth from the hoof of your strong charger a hundred jars of wine as from a strainer. (7)

You warded off with cold the fire's fierce burning; food very rich in nouripliment you furnished.

Atri, cast downward in the cavern, Asvins you brought, with all his people, forth to comfort. (8)

You lifted up the well, you Nasatyas, and set the base on high to open downward.

Streams flowed for folk of Gotama who thirsted, like rain to bring forth thousandfold abundance. (9)

You from the old Cyavana, Nasatyas, stripped, as it were mail, the skin upon

his body,

Lengthened his life when all had left him helpless, Dasras! and made him lord of youthful maidens. (10)

Worthy of praise and worth the winning, heroes, is that your favouring succour Nasatyas,

What time you, knowing well his case, delivered Vandana trom the pit like hidden treasure. (11)

That mighty deed of yours, for gain, heroes, as thunder heraldeth the rain, I publish,

When, by the horse's head, Atharvan's offspring Dadhyac made known to you the soma's sweetness. (12)

In the great rite the wise dame called, Nasatyas, you, lords of many treasures, to assist her.

You heard the weakling's wife, as it were an order, and gave to her a son Hiranyahasta. (13)

You from the wolf's jaws, as you stood together, set free the quail, heroes, Nasatyas.

You, lords of many treasures, gave the poet his perfect vision as he mourned his trouble. (14)

When in the time of night, in Khela's battle, a leg was severed like a wild bird's pinion,

Straight you gave Vispali a leg of iron that she might move what time the conflict opened. (15)

His father robbed Rjrasva of his eyesight who for the she-wolf slew a hundred wethers.

You gave him eyes, Nasatyas, Wonder-Workers, Physicians, that he saw with sight uninjured. (16)

The Daughter of the Sun your car ascended, first reaching as it were the goal with coursers.

All deities within their hearts assented, and you, Nasatyas, are close linked with glory. (17)

When to his house you came, to Divodasa, hasting to Bharadvaja, you Asvins,

The car that came with you brought splendid riches: a porpoise and a bull were yoked together. (18)

You, bringing wealth with rule, and life with offspring, life rich in noble heroes; Nasatyas,

Accordant came with strength to Jahnu's children who offered you thrice every day your portion. (19)

You bore away at night by easy pathways Jahusa compassed round on every quarter,

And, with your car that cleaves the toe asunder, Nasatyas never decaying! rent the mountains. (20)

One morn you strengthened Vaga for the battle, to gather spoils that might be told in thousands.

With Indra joined you drove away misfortunes, yea foes of Prthusravas, you mighty. (21)

From the deep well you raised on high the water, so that Rcatka's son, Sara, should drink it;

And with your might, to help the weary Sayu, you made the barren cow yield milk, Nasatyas. (22)

To Visvaka, Nasatyas! son of Krsna, the righteous man who sought your aid and praised you,

You with your powers restored, like some lost creature, his son Visnapu for his eyes to look on. (23)

Asvins, you raised, like Soma in a ladle Rebha, who for ten days and ten nights, fettered.

Had lain in cruel bonds, immersed and wounded, suffering sore affliction, in the waters. (24)

1 have declared your wondrous deeds, Asvins: may this be mine, and many kine and heroes.

May I, enjoying lengthened life, still seeing, enter old age as it were the house I live in.

117 - Asvins

ASVINS, your ancient priest invites you here to gladden you with draughts of meath of soma.

Our gift is on the grass, our song apportioned: with food and strength come here, Nasatyas. (1)

That car of yours, swifter than thought, Asvins, which drawn by brave steeds cometh to the people,

Whereon you seek the dwelling of the pious, come thereon to our abode, heroes. (2)

You freed sage Atri, whom the Five Tribes honoured, from the strait pit, you heroes with his people,

Baffling the guiles of the malignant Dasyu, repelling them, you Mighty in succession. (3)

Rebha the sage, you mighty heroes, Asvins! whom, like a horse, vile men had sunk in water,

Him, wounded, with your wondrous power you rescued: your exploits of old time endure for ever. (4)

You brought forth Vandana, you Wonder-Workers, for triumph, like fair gold that has been buried,

Like one who slumbered in destruction's bosom, or like the Sun when dwelling in the darkness. (5)

Kaksivan, Pajra's son, must laud that exploit of yours, Nasatyas, heroes, you who wander!

When from the hoof of your strong horse you showered a hundred jars of honey for the people. (6)

To Krsna's son, to Visvaka who praised you, heroes, you restored his son Visnapu.

To Ghosa, living in her father's dwelling, stricken in years, you gave a husband, Asvins. (7)

Rusati, of the mighty people, Asvins, you gave to Syava of the line of Kanva.

This deed of yours, you Strong Ones should be published, that you gave glory to the son of Nrsad. (8)

Asvins, wearing many forms at pleasure, on Pedu you bestowed a fleet-foot courser,

Strong, winner of a thousand spoils, resistless the serpent slayer, glorious, triumphant. (9)

These glorious things are yours, you Bounteous Givers; prayer, praise in both worlds are your habitation.

Asvins, when the sons of Paira call you, send strength with nourishment to him who knows. (10)

Hymned with the reverence of a son, Asvins you Swift Ones giving booty to the singer,

Glorified by Agastya with devotion, established Vispala again, Nasatyas. (11)

You Sons of Heaven, you Mighty, where went you, sought you, for his fair praise the home of Kdvya.

When, like a pitcher full of gold, Asvins, on the tenth day you lifted up the buried? (12)

You with the aid of your great powers, Asvins, restored to youth the ancient man Cyavana.

The Daughter of the Sun with all her glory, you Nasatyas, chose your car to bear her. (13)

You, ever-youthful Ones, again remembered Tugra, according to your ancient manner:

With horses brown of hue that flew with swift wings you brought back Bhujyu from the sea of billows. (14)

The son of Tugra had invoked you, Asvins; borne on he went uninjured through the ocean.

You with your chariot swift as thought, well-harnessed, carried him off, Mighty Ones, to safety. (15)

The quail had invocated you, Asvins, when from the wolf's devouring jaws you freed her.

With conquering car you cleft the mountain's ridges: the offspring of Visvac you killed with poison. (16)

He whom for furnishing a hundred wethers to the she-wolf, his wicked father blinded,

To him, Rjrasva, gave you eyes, Asvins; light to the blind you sent for perfect vision. (17)

To bring the blind man joy thus cried the she-wolf: Asvins, you Mighty Ones, heroes,

For me Rjrasva, like a youthful lover, has. cut piecemeal one and a hundred wethers. (18)

Great and weal-giving is your aid, Asvins, you, objects of all thought, made whole the cripple.

Purandhi also for this cause invoked you, and you, mighty, came to her with succours. (19)

You, Wonder-Workers, filled with milk for Sayu the milkless cow, emaciated, barren;

And by your powers the child of Purumitra you brought to Vimada to be his consort. (20)

Ploughing and sowing barley, you Asvins, milking out food for men, you Wonder- Workers,

Blasting away the Dasyu with your trumpet, you gave far-spreading light to the Arya. (21)

You brought the horse's head, Asvins, and gave it to Dadhyac the offspring of Atharvan.

True, he revealed to you, WonderWorkers, sweet Soma, Tvastar's secret, as your girdle. (22)

Sages, evermore I crave your favour: be gracious to all my prayers, Asvins.

Grant me, Nasatyas, riches in abundance, wealth famous and accompanied with children. (23)

With liberal bounty to the weakling's consorts you, heroes, gave a son Hiranyahasta;

And Syava, cut into three several pieces, you brougnt to life again, bounteous Asvins. (24)

These your heroic exploits, you Asvins, done in the days. of old, have men related.

May we, addressing prayer to you, you Mighty, speak with brave sons about us to. the synod.

118 - Asvins

FLYING, with falcons, may your chariot, Asvins, most gracious, bringing friendly help, come here,

Your chariot, swifter than the mind of mortal, fleet as the wind, three-seated you Mighty. (1)

Come to us with your chariot triple seated, three-wheeled, of triple form, that rolleth lightly.

Fill full our cows, give mettle to our horses, and make each hero son grow strong, Asvins. (2)

With your well-rolling car, descending swiftly, hear this the press-stone's song, you Wonder- Workers.

How then have ancient sages said, Asvins, that you most swiftly come to stay affliction? (3)

Asvins, let your falcons bear you hete, yoked to your chariot, swift, with flying pinions,

Which, ever active, like the airy eagles, carry you, Nasatyas, to the banquet. (4)

The youthful Daughter of the Sun, delighting in you, ascended there your chariot, heroes.

Borne on their swift wings let your beauteous horses, your birds of ruddy hue, convey you near us. (5)

You raised up Vandana, strong WonderWorkers! with great might, and with power you rescued Rebha.

From out the sea you saved the son of Tugra, and gave his youth again to Cyavana. (6)

To Atri, cast down to the fire that scorched him, you gave, Asvins, strengthening tbod and favour.

Accepting his fair praises with approval, you gave his eyes again to blinded Kanva. (7)

For ancient Sayti in his sore affliction you caused his cow to swell with milk, Asvins.

The quail from her great misery you delivered, and a new leg for Vispala provided. (8)

A white horse, Asvins, you bestowed on Pedu, a serpent-slaying steed sent down by Indra,

Loud-neighing, conquering the foe, highmettled, firm-limbed and vigorous, winning thousand treasures. (9)

Such as you are, nobly horn, heroes, we in our trouble call on you for succour.

Accepting these our songs, for our wellbeing come to us on your chariot treasure-laden. (10)

Come to us combined in love, Nasatyas come with the fresh swift vigour of the falcon.

Bearing oblations I invoke you, Asvins, at the first break of everlasting morning.

119 - Asvins

HERE, that I may live, I call to the feast your wondrous car, thought-swift, borne on by rapid steeds.

With thousand banners, hundred treasures, pouring gifts, promptly obedient, bestowing ample room. (1)

Even as it moves near my hymn is lifted up, and all the regions come together to sing praise.

I sweeten the oblations; now the helpers come. Urjani has, Asvins, mounted on your car. (2)

When striving man with man for glory they have met, brisk, measurcIess, eager for victory in fight,

Then verily your car is seen upon the slope when you, Asvins, bring some choice boon to the prince. (3)

You came to Bhujyu while he struggled in the flood, with flying birds, self-yoked, you bore him to his sires.

You went to the far-distant home, Mighty Ones; and famed is your great aid to Divodisa given. (4)

Asvins, the car which you had yoked for glorious show your own two voices urged directed to its goal.

Then she who came for friendship, Maid of noble birth, elected you as Husbands, you to be her lords. (5)

Rebha you saved from tyranny; for Atri's sake you quenched with cold the fiery pit that compassed him.

You made the cow of Sayu stream refreshing milk, and Vandana was holpen to extended life. (6)

Doers of marvels, skilful workers, you restored Vandana, like a car, worn out with length of days.

From earth you brought the sage to life in wondrous mode; be your great deeds done here for him who honours you. (7)

You went to him who mourned in a far distant place, him who was left forlorn by treachery of his sire.

Rich with the light ofheaven was then the help you gave, and marvellous your succour when you stood by him. (8)

To you in praise of sweetness sang the honey-bee: Ausija calleth you in Soma's rapturous joy.

You drew to yourselves the spirit of Dadhyac, and then the horse's head uttered his words to you. (9)

A horse did you provide for Pedu, excellent, white, you Asvins, conqueror of combatants,

Invincible in war by arrows, seeking heaven worthy of fame, like Indra, vanquisher of men.

120 - Asvins

ASVINS, what praise may win your grace? Who may be pleasing to you both?

How shall the ignorant worship you? (1)

Here let the ignorant ask the means of you who know-for none beside you knows aught -

Not of a spiritless mortal man. (2)

Such as you: are, all-wise, we call you. You wise, declare to us this day accepted prayer.

Loving you well your servant lauds you. (3)

Simply, you Mighty Ones, I ask the gods of that wondrous oblation hallowed by the mystic word.

Save us from what is stronger, fiercer than ourselves. (4)

Forth go the hymn that shone in Ghosa Bhrigu's like, the song wherewith the son of Pajra worships you,

Like some wise minister. (5)

Hear you the song of him who hastens speedily. Asvins, I am he who sang your praise.

Here, you lords of Splendour, here turn your eyes. (6)

For you were ever nigh to deal forth ample wealth, to give the wealth that you had gathered up.

As such, you Vasus, guard us well, and keep us safely from the wicked wolf. (7)

Give us not up to any man who hateth us, nor let our milch-cows stray, whose udders give us food,

Far from our homes without their calves. (8)

May they who love you gain you for their friends. Prepare us for opulence with strengthening food,

Prepare us for the food that floweth from our cows (9)

1 have obtained the horseless car of Asvins rich in sacrifice,

And I am well content therewith. (10)

May it convey me evermore: may the light chariot pass from men

To men to the soma draught. (11)

It holdeth slumber in contempt. and the rich who enjoyeth not:

Both vanish quickly and are lost.

121 - Indra

WHEN Will men's guardians hasting hear with favour the song of Angiras's pious

childern?

When to the people of the home he cometh he strideth to the sacrifice, the Holy. (1)

He stablished heaven; he poured forth, skilful worker, the wealth of kine, for strength, that nurtures heroes.

The Mighty One his self-born host regarded, the horse's mate, the mother of the heifer. (2)

Lord of red dawns, he came victorious, daily to the Angirases' former invocation.

His bolt and team has he prepared, and stablished the heaven for quadrupeds and men two- footed. (3)

In joy of this you restored, for worship, the lowing company of hidden cattle.

When the three-pointed one descends with onslaught he opens wide the doors that cause man trouble. (4)

Your is that milk which your swift-moving Parents brought down, a strengthening genial gift for conquest;

When the pure treasure to you they offered, the milk shed from the cow who streameth nectar. (5)

There is he born. May the Swift give us rapture, and like the Sun shine forth from yonder dawning,

Indu, even us who drank, whose toils are offerings, poured from the spoon, with praise, upon the altar. (6)

When the wood-pile, made of good logs, is ready, at the Sun's worship to bind fast the Bullock,

Then when you shinest forth through days of action for the Car-borne, the Swift, tile Cattle- seeker. (7)

Eight steeds you brought down from mighty heaven, when fighting for the well that gives splendour,

That men might press with stones the gladdening yellow, strengthened with milk, fermenting, to exalt you. (8)

You hurled forth from heaven the iron missile, brought by the Skilful, from the sling of leather,

When you, Much-invoked, assisting Kutsa with endless deadly darts compassed Susna. (9)

Bolt-armed, before darkness overtook the sunlight, you cast at the veiling cloud your weapon,

You rent, out of heaven, though firmly knotted, the might of Susna that was thrown around him. (10)

The mighty Heaven and Earth, those bright expanses that have no wheels, joyed, Indra, at your exploit.

Vritra, the boar who lay amid the waters, you sent to sleep with your mighty thunder. (11)

Mount Indra, lover of the men you guard, the well-yoked horses of the wind, best bearers.

The bolt which Kavya Usana erst gave you, strong, gladdening, Vritra-slaying, has he fashioned * (12)

The strong Bay horses of the Sun you stayed: this Etasa drew not the wheel, Indra.

Casting them forth beyond the ninety rivers, you draw down into the pit the godless. (13)

Indra, preserve us from this affliction, Thunder-armed, save us from the misery near us.

Vouchsafe us affluence in chariots, founded on horses, for our food and fame and gladness. (14)

Never may this your loving-kindness fail us; mighty in strength, may plenteous food surround us.

Maghavan, make us share the foeman's cattle: may we be your most liberal feast companions.

122 - Visvadevas

SAY, bringing sacrifice to bounteous Rudra, This juice for drink to you whose wrath is fleeting!

With Dyaus the Asura's heroes I have lauded the Maruts as with prayer to Earth and Heaven. (1)

Strong to exalt the early invocation are Night and Dawn who show with varied aspect.

The Barren clothes her in wide-woven raiment, and fair Morn shines with Surya's golden splendour. (2)

Cheer us the Roamer round, who strikes at morning, the Wind delight us, pourer forth of waters!

Sharpen our wits, Parvata and Indra. May all the gods vouchsafe to us this favour. (3)

And Ausija shall call for me that famous Pair who enjoy and drink, who come to brighten.

Set you the Offspring of the Floods before you; both Mothers of the Living One who beameth. (4)

For you shall Ausija call him who thunders, as, to win Arjuna's assent, cried Ghosa.

I will invoke, that Pusan may be bounteous to you, the rich munificence of Agni. (5)

Hear, Mitra-Varuna, these mine invocations, hear them from all men in the hall of worship.

Giver of famous gifts, kind hearer, Sindhu who gives fair fields, listen with all his waters 1 (6)

Praised, Mitra, Varuna! is your gift, a hundred cows to the Prksayamas and the Pajra.

Presented by car-famous Priyaratha, supplying nourishment, they came directly. (7)

Praised is the gift of him the very wealthy: may we enjoy it, men with hero children:

His who has many gifts to give the Pajras, a chief who makes me rich in cars and horses. (8)

The folk, Mitra-Varuna, who hate you, who sinfully hating pour you no libations,

Lay in their hearts, themselves, a wasting sickness, whereas the righteous gaineth all by worship. (9)

That man, most puissant, wondrously urged onward, famed among heroes, liberal in giving,

Moves a warrior, evermore undaunted in all encounters even with the mighty. (10)

Come to the man's, the sacrificer's calling: hear, Kings of Immortality, joy-givers!

While you who speed through clouds decree your bounty largely, for fame, to him the chariot rider. (11)

Vigour will we bestow on that adorer whose tenfold draught we come to taste, so spake they.

May all in whom rest splendour and great riches obtain refreshment in these sacrifices. (12)

We will rejoice to drink the tenfold present when the twicefive come bearing sacred viands.

What can he do whose steeds and reins are choicest? These, the all-potent, urge brave men to conquest. (13)

The sea and all the deities shall give us him with the golden car and neck bejewelled.

Dawns, hasting to the praises otthe pious, be pleased with us. both offerers and singers. (14)

Four youthful sons of Masarsara vex me, three, of the king, the conquering Ayavasa.

Now like the Sun, Varuna and Mitra, your car has shone, long-shaped and reined with splendour.

123 - Dawn

The Daksina's broad chariot has been harnessed: this car the gods immortal have ascended.

Fain to bring light to homes of men the noble and active Goddess has emerged from darkness. (1)

She before all the living world has wakened, the Lofty One who wins and gathers treasure.

Revived and ever young on high she glances. Dawn has come first to our morning worship. (2)

If, Dawn, you Goddess nobly born, you dealest fortune this day to all the race of mortals,

May Savitar the god, friend of the homestead, declare before the Sun that we are sinless. (3)

Showing her wonted form each day that passeth, spreading the light she visiteth each dwelling.

Eager for conquest, with bright sheen she cometh. Her portion is the best of goodly treasures. (4)

Sister of Varuna, sister of Bhaga, first among all sing forth, joyous Morning.

Weak be the strength of him who works evil - may we subdue him with our car the guerdon. (5)

Let our glad hymns and holy thoughts rise upward, for the flames brightly burning have ascended.

The far-refulgent Mornings make apparent the lovely treasures which the darkness covered. (6)

The one departeth and the other cometh: unlike in hue day's, halves march on successive.

One hides the gloom of the surrounding Parents. Dawn on her shining chariot is resplendent. (7)

The same in form to-day, the same tomorrow, they still keep Varuna's eternal statute.

Blameless, in turn they traverse thirty regions, and dart across the spirit in a moment. (8)

She who has knowledge Of the first day's nature is born refulgent white from out the darkness.

The Maiden breaketh not the law of Order, day by day coming to the place appointed. (9)

In pride of beauty like a maid you go, Goddess, to the god who longs to win you,

And smiling youthful, as you shinest brightly, before him you discoverest your bosom. (10)

Fair as a bride embellished by her mother you showest forth your form that all may see it.

Blessed are you Dawn. Shine yet more widely. No other Dawns have reached what you attainest. (11)

Rich in kine, horses, and all goodly treasures, in constant operation with the sunbeams,

The Dawns depart and come again again assuming their wonted forms that promise happy fortune. (12)

Obedient to the rein of Law Eternal give us each thought that more and more shall bless us.

Shine you on us to-day, Dawn, swift to listen. With us be riches and with chiefs who worship.

124 - Dawn

The Dawn refulgent when the fire is kindled, and the Sun rising, far diffuse their brightness.

Savitar, God, has sentus forth to labour, each quadruped, each biped, to be active. (1)

Not interrupting heavenly ordinances, although she minisheth human generations.

The last of endless morns that have departed, the first of those that come, Dawn brightly shineth. (2)

There in the eastern region she, Heaven's Daughter, arrayed in garments all of light, appeareth.

Truly she fo1loweth the path of Order, nor fails, knowing well, the heavenly quarters. (3)

Near is she seen, as it were the Bright One's bosom: she showeth sweet things like a new song- singer.

She cometh like a fly awaking sleepers, of all. returning dames most true and constant. (4)

There in the east half of the watery region the Mother of the Cows has shown her ensign.

Wider and wider still she spreadeth onward, and filleth full the laps of both heir Parents. (5)

She, verily, exceeding vast to look on debarreth from her light nor kin nor stranger.

Proud of her spotless form she, brightly shiming, turneth not from the high nor froom the humble. (6)

She seeketh men, as she who has no brother, mounting her car, as it were to gather riches.

Dawn, like a loving matron for her husband, smiling and well attired, unmasks her beauty. (7)

The Sister quitteth, for the elder Sister, her place, and having looked on her departeth.

She decks her beauty, shining forth with sunbeams, like women trooping to the festal meeting. (8)

To all these Sisters who before now have vanished a later one each day in course succeedeth.

So, like the past, with days of happy fortune, may the new Dawns shine forth on us with riches. (9)

Rouse up, Wealthy One, the liberal givers; let niggard traffickers sleep on unwakened:

Shine richly, Wealthy One, on those who worship, richly, glad.

Dawn while wasting, on the singer. (10)

This young Maid from the east has shone upon us; she harnesseth her team of bright red oxen.

She will beam forth, the light will hasten here, and Agni will be present in each dwelling. (11)

As the birds fly forth from their resting places, so men with store of food rise at your dawning.

Yea, to the liberal mortal who remaineth at home, Goddess Dawn, much good you bringest. (12)

Praised through my prayer be you who should be lauded. You have increased our wealth, you Dawns who love us.

Goddesses, may we win by your good favour wealth to be told by hundreds and by thousands.

125 - Svanaya

COMING at early morn he gives his treasure; the prudent one receives and entertains him.

Thereby increasing still his life and offspring, he comes with brave sons to abundant riches. (1)

Rich shall he be in gold and kine and horses. Indra bestows on him great vital power,

Who stays you, as you come, with his treasure, like game caught in the net, early comer. (2)

Longing, I came this morning to the pious, the son of sacrifice, with car wealth. laden.

Give him to drink juice of the stalk that gladdens; prosper with pleasant hymns the Lord of heroes. (3)

Health-bringing streams, as milch-cows, flow to profit him who has worshipped, him who now will worship.

To him who freely gives and fills on all sides full streams of fatness flow and make him famous. (4)

On the high ridge of heaven he stands exalted, yea, to the gods he goes, the liberal giver.

The streams, the waters flow for him with fatness: to him this guerdon ever yields abundance. (5)

For those who give rich meeds are all these splendours, for those who give rich meeds suns shine in heaven.

The givers of rich meeds are made immortal; the givers of rich fees prolong their lifetime. (6)

Let not the liberal sink to sin and sorrow, never decay the pious -chiefs who worship!

Let every man besides be their protection, and let affliction fall upon the niggard.

126 - Bhavayavya

WITH wisdom I present these lively praises of Bhavya dweller on the bank of Sindhu;

For he, unconquered King, desiring glory, has furnished me a thousand sacrifices. (1)

A hundred necklets from the King, beseeching, a hundred gift-steeds I at once accepted;

Of the lord's cows a thousand, I Kaksivan. His deathless glory has he spread to heaven. (2)

Horses of dusky colour stood beside me, ten chariots, Svanaya's gift, with mares to draw them.

Kine numbering sixty thousand followed after. Kaksivan gained them when the days were closing. (3)

Forty bay horses of the ten cars' master before a thousand lead the long procession.

Reeling in joy Kaksivan's sons and Pajra's have grounded the coursers decked with pearly trappings. (4)

An earlier gift for you have I accepted eight cows, good milkers, and tree harnessed horses,

Pajras, who with your wains with your great kinsman, like troops of subjects, have been fain for glory.

127 - Agni

AGNI I hold as herald, the munificent, the gracious, Son of Strength, who knows all that live, as holy Singer, knowing all,

Lord of fair rites, a God with form erected turning to the gods,

He, when the flame has sprung forth from the holy oil, the offered fatness, longeth for it with his glow. (1)

We, sacrificing, call on you best worshipper, the eldest of Angirases, Singer, with hymns, you, brilliant one! with singers' hymns;

You, wandering round as 't were the sky, who are the invoking priest of men,

Whom, Bull with hair of flame the people must observe, the people that he speed them on. (2)

He with his shining glory blazing far and wide, he verily it is who slayeth demon foes, slayeth the demons like an axe:

At whose close touch things solid shake, and what is stable yields like trees.

Subduing all, he keeps his ground and flinches not, from the skilled archer flinches not. (3)

To him, as one who knows, even things solid yield: unrough fire-sticks heated hot he gives his gifts to aid. Men offer Agni gifts for aid.

He deeply piercing many a thing hews it like wood with fervent glow.

Even hard and solid food he crunches with his might, yea, hard and solid food with might. (4)

Here near we place the sacrificial food for him who shines forth fairer in the night than in the day, with life then stronger than by day.

His life gives sure and firm defence as that one gives to a son.

The during fires enjoy things given and things not given, the during fires enjoy as food. (5)

He, roaring very loudly like the Maruts' host, in fertile cultivated fields adorable, in desert spots adorable,

Accepts and eats our offered gifts, ensign of sacrifice by desert;

So let all, joying, love his path when he is glad, as men pursue a path for bliss. (6)

Even as they who sarig forth hymns, addressed to heaven, the Blirgus with their prayer and praise invited him, the Bhrigus rubbing, offering gifts.

For radiant Agni, Lord of all these treasures, is exceeding strong.

May he, the wise, accept the grateful coverings, the wise accept the coverings. (7)

You we invoke, the Lord of all our settled homes, common to all, the household's guardian, to enjoy, bearer of true hymns, to enjoy.

You we invoke, the guest of men, by whose mouth, even as a sire's,

All these immortals come to gain their food of life, oblations come to gods as food. (8)

You, Agni, most victorious with your conquering strength, most Mighty One, are born for service of the gods, like wealth for service of the gods.

Most mighty is your ecstasy, most splendid is your mental power.

Therefore men wait upon you, undecaying One, like vassals, undecaying One. (9)

To him the mighty, conquering with victorious strength, to Agni walking with the dawn, who sendeth kine, be sung your laud, to Agni sung;

As he who with oblation comes calls him aloud in every place.

Before the brands of fire he shouteth singerlike, the herald, kindler of the brands. (10)

Agni, beheld by us in nearest neighbourhood, accordant with the gods, bring us, with gracious love, great riches with your gracious love.

Give us Mightiest, what is great, to see and to enjoy the earth.

As one of awful power, stir up heroic might for those who praise you, Bounteous Lord!

128 - Agni

By Manu's law was born this Agni, priest most skilled, born for the holy work of those who yearn therefore, yea, born for his own holy work.

All ear to him who seeks his love and wealth to him who strives for fame,

priest never deceived, he sits in Ila's holy place, girt round in Ila's holy place. (1)

We call that perfecter of worship by the path or sacrifice; with reverence rich in offerings, with worship rich in offerings.

Through presentation of our food he grows not old in this his from;

The god whom Matarisvan brought from far away, for Manu brought from far away. (2)

In ordered course forthwith he traverses the earth, swift-swallowing, bellowing Steer, bearing the genial seed, bearing the seed and bellowing.

Observant with a hundred eyes the god is conqueror in the wood:

Agni, who has his seat in broad plains here below, and in the high lands far away. (3)

That Agni, wise High-priest, in every house takes thought for sacrifice and holy service, yea, takes thought, with mental power, for sacrifice.

Disposer, he with mental power shows all things to him who strives;

Whence he was born a guest enriched with holy oil, born as Ordainer and as priest. (4)

When through his power and in his strong prevailing flames the Maruts' gladdening boons mingle with Agni's roar, boons gladdening for the active One,

Then he accelerates the gift, and by the greatness of his wealth,

Shall rescue us from overwhelming misery, from curse and overwhelming woe. (5)

Vast, universal, good he was made messenger; the speeder with his right hand has not loosed his hold, through love of fame not loosed his hold.

He bears oblations to the gods for whosoever supplicates.

Agni bestows a blessing on each pious man, and opens wide the doors for him. (6)

That Agni has been set most kind in camp of men, in sacrifice like a Lord victorious, like a dear Lord in sacred rites.

His are the oblations of mankind when offered up at Ili's place.

He shall preserve us from Varuna's chastisement, yea, from the great God's chastisement. (7)

Agni the priest they supplicate to grant them wealth: him, dear, most thoughtful, have they made their messenger, him, offering-bearer have they made,

Beloved of all, who knows all, the priest, the Holy one, the Sage-

Him, friend, for help, the gods when they are fain for wealth, him, friend, with hymns, when fain for wealth.

129 - Indra

The car which Indra, you, for service of the gods though it be far away, swift One, bringest near, which, Blameless One, you bringest near,

Place swiftly nigh us for our help: be it your will that it be strong.

Blameless and active, hear this speech of orderers, this speech of us like orderers. (1)

Hear, Indra, you whom men in every fight must call to show your strength, for cry of battle with the men, with men of war for victory.

He who with heroes wins the light, who with the singers gains the prize,

Him the rich seek to gain even as a swift strong steed, even as a courser fleet and strong. (2)

You, Mighty, pourest forth the hide that holds the rain, you keepest far away, hero, the wicked man, you shuttest out the wicked man.

Indra, to you I sing, to Dyaus, to Rudra glorious in himself,

To Mitra, Varuna I sing a far-famed hymn to the kind God a far-famed hymn. (3)

We. wish our Indra here that he may further you, the friend, beloved of all, the very strong ally, in wars the very strong ally

In all encounters strengthen you our prayer to be a help to us.

No enemy-whom you smitest downsubdueth you, no enemy, whom you smitest down. (4)

Bow down the overweening pride of every foe with succour like to kindling-wood in fiercest flame, with mighty succour, Mighty One.

Guide us, you hero, as of old, so are you counted blameless still.

You drivest, as a priest, all sins of man away, as priest, in person, seeking us. (5)

This may I utter to the present Soma-drop, which, meet to be invoked, with power, awakes the prayer, awakes the demon-slaying prayer.

May he himself with darts of death drive far from us the scorner's hate.

Far let him flee away who speaketh wickedness and vanish like a mote of dust. (6)

By thoughtful invocation this may we obtain, obtain great wealth, Wealthy One, with hero sons, wealth that is sweet with hero sons.

Him who is wroth we pacify with sacred food and eulogies,

Indra the Holy with our calls inspired and true, the Holy One with calls inspired. (7)

On, for your good and ours, come Indra with the aid of his own lordliness to drive the wicked hence, to rend the evilhearted ones!

The weapon which devouring fiends cast at us shall destroy themselves.

Struck down, it shall not reach the mark; hurled forth, the fire-brand shall not strike. (8)

With riches in abundance, Indra, come to us, come by an unobstructed path, come by a path from demons free.

Be with us when we stray afar, be with us when our home is nigh.

Protect us with your help both near and far away: protect us ever with your help. (9)

You are our own, Indra, with victorious wealth: let might accompany you, the Strong, to give us aid, like Mitra, to give mighty aid.

strongest saviour, helper you, immortal! of each warrior's car.

Hurt you another and not us, Thunderarmed, one who would hurt, Thunder-armed! (10)

Save us from injury, you who are well extolled: ever the warder-off are you of wicked ones, even as a God, of wicked ones;

You slayer of the evil fiend, saviour of singer such as I.

Good Lord, the Father made you slayer of the fiends, made you, good Lord, to slay the fiends.

130 - Indra

Come to us, Indra, from afar, conducting us even as a lord of heroes to the gatherings, home, like a King, his heroes' lord.

We come with gifts of pleasant food, with juice poured forth, invoking you,

As sons invite a sire, that you mayst get you strength you, bounteousest, to get you strength. (1)

Indra, drink the soma juice pressed out with stones. poured from the reservoir, as an ox drinks the spring, a very thirsty bull the spring.

For the sweet draught that gladdens you, for mightiest freshening of your strength.

Let your bay horses bring you here as the Sun, as every day they bring the Sun. (2)

He found the treasure brought from heaven that lay concealed, close-hidden, like the nestling of a bird, in rock, enclosed in never-enffing rock.

Best Angiras, bolt-armed, he strove to win, as it were, the stall of kine;

So Indra has disclosed the food concealed, disclosed the doors, the food that lay concealed. (3)

Grasping his thunderbolt with both hands, Indra made its edge most keen, for hurling, like a carving-knife for Ahi's slaughter made it keen.

Endued with majesty and strength, Indra, and with lordly might,

You crashest down the trees, as when a craftsman fells, crashest them down as with an axe. (4)

You, Indra, without effort have let loose the floods to run their free course down,

like chariots, to the sea, like chariots showing forth their strength.

They, reaching hence away, have joined their strength for one eternal end,

Even as the cows who poured forth every thing for man, Yea, poured forth all thing- for mankind. (5)

Eager for riches, men have formed for you this song, like as a skilful craftsman fashioneth a car, so have they wrought you to their bliss;

Adorning you, Singer, like a generous steed for deeds of might,

Yea, like a steed to show his strength and win the prize, that he may bear each prize away. (6)

For Puru you have shattered, Indra ninety forts, for Divodasa your boon servant with your bolt, Dancer, for your worshipper.

For Atithigva he, the Strong, brought Sambara. from the mountain down,

Distributing the mighty treasures with his strength, parting all treasures with his strength. (7)

Indra in battles help his Aryan worshipper, he who has hundred helps at hand in every fray, in frays that win the light of heaven.

Plaguing the lawless he gave up to Manu's seed the dusky skin;

Blazing, it were, he burns each covetous man away, he burns, the tyrannous away. (8)

Waxed strong in might at dawn he tore the Sun's wheel off. Bright red, he steals away their speech, the Lord of Power, their speech he steals away from them,

As you with eager speed, Sage, have come from far away to hel

As winning for your own all happiness of men, winning all happiness each day. (9)

Lauded with our new hymns, vigorous in deed, save us with strengthening help, you Shatterer of the Forts!

You, Indra, praised by Divodasa's clansmen, as heaven grows great with days, shall wax in glory.

131 - Indra

To Indra Dyaus the Asura has bowed him down, to Indra mighty Earth with wide- extending tracts, to win the light, with wide-spread tracts.

All gods of one accord have set Indra in front preeminent.

For Indra all libations must be set apart, all man's libations set apart. (1)

In all libations men with hero spirit urge the Universal One, each seeking several light, each fain to win the light apart.

You, furthering like a ship, will we set to the chariot-pole of strength,

As men who win with sacrifices Indra's thought, men who win Indra with their lauds. (2)

Couples desirous of yours aid are storming you, pouring their presents forth to win a stall of kine, pouring gifts, Indra, seeking you.

When two men seeking spoil or heaven you bringest face to face in war,

You showest, Indra, -then the bolt your constant friend, the Bull that ever waits on you. (3)

This your heroic power men of old time have known, wherewith you break down, Indra, autumnal forts, break them down with conquering might.

You have chastised, Indra, Lord of Strength, the man who worships not,

And made your own this great earth and these water-floods; with joyous heart these waterfloods. (4)

And they have bruited far this hero-might when you, Strong One, in your joy help your suppliants, who sought to win you for their friend.

Their battle-cry you made sound victorious in the shocks of war.

One stream after another have they gained from you, eager for glory have they gained. (5)

. Also this morn may he be well inclined to us, mark at our call our offerings and our song of praise, our call that we may win the light.

As you, Indra Thunder-armed, will, as the Strong One, slay the foe,

Listen you to the prayer of me a later sage, hear you a later sage's prayer. (6)

Indra, waxen strong and well-inclined to us, you very mighty, slay the man that is our foe, slay the man, hero! with your bolt.

Slay you the man who injures us: hear you, as readiest, to hear.

Far be malignity, like mischief on the march, afar be all malignity.

132 - Indra

HELPED, Indra Maghavan, by you in war of old, may we subdue in fight the men who strive with us, conquer the men who war with us.

This day that now is close at hand bless him who pours the soma juice.

In this our sacrifice may we divide the spoil, showing our strength, the spoil of war. (1)

In war which wins the light, at the freegiver's call, at due oblation of the early-rising one, oblation of the active one,

Indra slew, even as we know-whom each bowed head must reverence.

May all your bounteous gifts be gathered up for us, yea, the good gifts of you the Good. (2)

This food glows for you as of old at sacrifice, wherein they made you chooser of the place, for you choosest the place of sacrifice.

Speak you and make it known to us they see within with beams of light.

Indra, indeed, is found a seeker after spoil, spoil-seeker for his own allies. (3)

So now must your great deed be lauded as of old, when for the Angirases you openedst the stall, openedst, giving aid, the stall.

In the same manner for us here fight you and be victorious:

To him who pours the juice give up the lawless man, the lawless who is wroth with us. (4)

When with wise plan the hero leads the people forth, they conquer in the ordered battle, seeking fame, press, eager, onward seeking fame.

To him in time of need they sing for life with offspring and with strength.

Their hymns with Indra find a welcome place of rest: the hynins go forward to the gods. (5)

Indra and Parvata, our champions in the fight, di ive you away each man who fain would war with us, drive him far from us with the bolt.

Welcome to him concealed afar shall he the lair that he has found.

So may the Render rend our foes on every side, rend them, hero, everywhere.

133 - Indra

WITH sacrifice I purge both earth and heaven: I burn up great she-fiends who serve not Indra,

Where throttled by your hand the foes were slaughtered, and in the pit of death lay pierced and mangled. (1)

you who castest forth the stones crushing the sorceresses' heads,

Break them with your wide-spreading foot, with your wide-spreading mighty foot. (2)

Do you, Maghavan, beat off these sorceresses' daring strength.

Cast them within the narrow pit. within the deep and narrow pit. (3)

Of whom you have before now destroyed thrice-fifty with your fierce attacks.

That deed they count a glorious deed, though small to you, a glorious deed. (4)

Indra, crush and bray to bits the fearful fiery-weaponed fiend:

Strike every demon to the ground. (5)

Tear down the mighty ones. Indra, hear us. For heaven has glowed like earth in fear, nunder- armed, as dreading fierce heat, Thunder-armed!

Most Mighty mid the Mighty Ones you speedest with strong bolts of death,

Not slaying men, unconquered hero with the brave, hero, with the thrice-seven brave. (6)

The pourer of libations gains the home of wealth, pouring his gift conciliates hostilities, yea, the hostilities of gods.

Pouring, he strives, unchecked and strong, to win him riches thousandfold.

Indra gives lasting wealth to him who pours forth gifts, yea, wealth he gives that long shall last.

134 - Vayu

Vayu, let fleet-foot coursers bring you speedily to this our feast, to drink first of the juice we pour, to the first draught of soma juice.

May our glad hymn, discerning well, uplifted, gratify your mind.

Come with your team-drawn car, Vayu, to the gift, come to the sacrificer's gift. (1)

May the joy-giving drops, Vayu gladden you, effectual, well prepared, directed to the heavens, strong, blent with milk and seeking heaven;

That aids, effectual to fulfil, may wait upon our skilful power.

Associate teams come over here to grant our prayers . they shall address the hymns we sing. (2)

Two red steeds Vayu yokes, Vayu two purple steeds, swift-footed, to the chariot, to the pole to draw, most able, at the pole, to draw.

Wake up intelligence, as when a lover wakes his sleeping love.

Illumine heaven and earth, make you the Dawns to shine, for glory make the Dawns to shine. (3)

For you the radiant Dawns in the fardistant sky broaden their lovely gannents forth in wondrous beams, bright-coloured in their new-born beams.

For you the nectar-yielding Cow pours all rich treasures forth as milk.

The Marut host have you engendered from the womb, the Maruts from the womb of heaven. (4)

For you the pure bright quickly-flowing Soma-drops, strong in their heightening power, hasten to mixthemselves, hasten to the water to be mixed.

To you the weary coward prays for luck that he may speed away.

You by your law protectest us from every world, yea, from the world of highest gods. (5)

You, Vayu, who have none before you, first of all have right to drink these offerings of soma juice, have right to drink the juice out-poured,

Yea, poured by all invoking tribes who free themselves from taint of sin,

For you all cows are milked to yield the soma-milk, to yield the butter and the milk.

135 - Vayu, Indra-Vayu

STREWN is the sacred grass; come Vayu, to our feast, with team of thousands, come, Lord of the harnessed team, with hundreds, Lord of harnessed steeds!

The drops divine are lifted up for you, the god, to drink them first.

The juices rich in sweets have raised thern for your joy, have raised themselves to give you strength. (1)

Purified by the stones the soma flows for you, clothed with its lovely splendours, to the reservoir, flows clad in its refulgent light.

For you the soma is poured forth, your portioned share mid. gods and men.

Drive you your horses, Vayu, come to us with love, come well-inclined and loving us. (2)

Come with hundreds, come with thousands in your team to this our solemn rite, to taste the sacred food, Vayu, to taste the offerings.

This is your seasonable share, that comes co-radiant with the Sun.

Brought by attendant priests pure juice is offered up, Vayu, pure juice is offered up. (3)

The chariot with its team of horses bring you both, to guard us and to taste the well- appointed food, Vayu, to taste the offerings!

Drink of the pleasant -flavoured juice the first draught is assigned to you.

Vayu, with your splendid bounty come both, Indra, with bounty come both. (4)

May our songs bring you here to our solemn rites: these drops of mighty vigour have they beauti fied, like a swift veed of mighty strength.

Drink of them well-inclined to us, come over here to be our help.

Drink, Indra-Vayu, of these Juices pressed with stones, Strength-givers! till they gladden you. (5)

These soma juices pressed for you in waters here, borne by attendant priests, are oficredup to you: bright, Vayu, are they offered up.

Swift through the strainer have they flowed, and here are shed for both ofyou,

Soma-drops, fain for you, over the wether's fleece, Somas over the wether's fleece. (6)

Vayu, pass you over all the,slumberers, and where the press-stone rings enter you both that house, yea, Indra, go you both within.

The joyous Maiden is beheld, the butter flows. With richly laden team come to our solemn rite, yea, Indra, come to the rite. (7)

Ride here to the offering of the pleasant juice, the holy Fig-tree which victorious priests surround: victorious be they still for us.

At once the cows yield milk, the barleymeal is dressed. For you,

Vayu, never shall the cows grow thin, never for you shall they be dry. (8)

These Bulls of yours, Vayu with the arm of strength, who swiftly fly within the current of your stream, the Bulls increasing in their might,

Horseless, yet even through the waste swift-moving, whom no shout can stay,

Hard to be checked are they, like sunbeams, in their course. hard to be checked by both the hands.

136 - Mitra-Varuna

BRING adoration ample and most excellent, hymn, offierings, to the watchful two, the bountiful, your sweetest to the bounteous Ones.

Sovrans adored with streams of oil and praised at every sacrifice.

Their high imperial might may nowhere be assailed, never may their Godhead be assailed. (1)

For the broad Sun was seen a path more widely laid, the path of holy law has been maintained with rays, the eye with Bhaga's rays of light.

Firm-set in heaven is Mitra's home, and Aryaman's and Varuna's.

Thence they give forth great vital strength which merits praise, high power of life that men shall praise. (2)

With Aditi the luminous, the celestial, upholder of the people, come day by day, you who watch sleepless, day by day.

Resplendent might have you obtained, Adityas, lords of liberal gifts.

Movers of men, mild both, are Mitra, Varuna, mover of men is Aryaman. (3)

This Soma be most sweet to Mitra, Varuna: he in the drinking-feasts, shall have a share thereof, sharing, a God, among the gods.

May all the gods of one accord accept it joyfully to-day.

Therefore do you, Kings, accomplish what we ask, you Righteous Ones, whatever we ask. (4)

Whoso, with worship serves Mitra and VaruiIa, him guard you carefully, uninjured, from distress, guard from distress the liberal man.

Aryaman guards him well who acts uprightly following his law,

Who beautifies their service with his lauds, who makes it beautiful with songs of praise. (5)

Worship will I proress to lofty Dyaus, to Heaven and Earth, to Mitra and to bounteous Varuna, the Bounteous, the Compassionate.

Praise Indra, praise you Agni, praise Bhaga and heavenly Aryaman.

Long may we live and have attendant progeny, have progeny with Soma's help. (6)

With the gods' help, with Indra still beside us, may we be held self-splendid with the Maruts.

May Agni, Mitra, Varuna give us shelter this may we gain, we and our wealthy princes.

137 - Mitra-Varuna

WITH stones have we pressed out: come; these gladdening drops are blent with milk, these Soma-drops which gladden you.

Come to us, Kings who reach to heaven, approach us, coming to this place.

These milky drops are yours, Mitra and Varuna, bright soma juices blent with milk. (1)

Here are the droppings; come nigh the soma-droppings blent with curd, juices expressed and blent with curd.

Now for the wakening of your Dawn together with the Sun-God's rays,

juice waits for Mitra and for Varuna to drink, fair juice for drink, for sacrihce. (2)

As it were a radiant-coloured cow, they milk with stones the stalk for you, with stones they milk the soma-plant.

May you come nigh us, may you turn here to drink the soma juice.

The men pressed out this juice, Mitra and Varuna, pressed out this Soma for your drink.

138 - Pusan

STRONG Pusan's majesty is lauded evermore, the glory of his lordly might is never faint, his song of praise is never faint.

Seeking felicity I laud him nigh to help, the source, of bliss,

Who, Vigorous one, has drawn to him the hearts of all, drawn them, the Vigorous One, the god. (1)

You, then, Pusan, like a swift one on his way, I urge with lauds that you mayst make the foemen flee, drive, camel-like, our foes afar.

As I, a man, call you, a God, giver of bliss, to be my friend,

So make our loudly-chanted praises glorious, in battles make them glorious. (2)

You, Pusan, in whose friendship they who sing forth praise enjoy advantage, even in wisdom, through your grace, in wisdom even they are advanced.

So, after this most recent course, we come to you with prayers for wealth.

Not stirred to anger, Wide-Ruler, come to us, come to us in every fight. (3)

Not stirred to anger, come, Free-giver, nigh to us, to take this gift of ours, you who have goats for steeds, Goat-borne! their gift who long for fame.

So, Wonder-Worker! may we turn you here with effectual lauds.

I slight you not, Pusan, you Resplendent One: your friendship may not be despised.

139 - Visvedevas

HEARD be our prayer! In thought I honour Agni first: now straightway we elect this heavenly company, Indra and Vayu we elect.

For when our latest thought is raised and on Vivasvan centred well,

Then may our holy songs go forward on their way, our songs as it were to the gods. (1)

As there you, Mitra, Varuna, above the true have taken to yourselves the untrue with your mind, with wisdom's mental energy,

So in the seats wherein you dwell have we beheld the Golden One,

Not with our thoughts or spirit, but with these our eyes, yea, with the eyes that Soma gives. (2)

Asvins, the pious call you with their hymns of praise, sounding their loud song forth to you, these living men, to their oblations, living men.

All glories and all nourishment, lords of all wealth! depend on you.

The fellies of your golden chariot scatter drops, Mighty Ones! of your golden car. (3)

Well is it known, Mighty Ones: you open heaven; for you the chariotsteeds are yoked for morning rites, unswerving steeds for morning rites,

We set you on the chariot-scat, you Mighty, on the golden car.

You seek mid-air as by a path that leads aright, as by a path that leads direct. (4)

Rich in Strength, through your great power vouchsafe us blessings day and night.

The offerings which we bring to you shall never fail, gifts brought by us shall never fail. (5)

These Soma-drops, strong Indra! drink for heroes, poured, pressed out by pressing-stones, are welling forth for you, for you the drops are welling forth.

They shall make glad your heart to give, to give wealth great and wonderful.

You who accept praise come glorified by hymns, come to us benevolent. (6)

Quickly, Agni, hear us: magnified by us you shall speck for us to the gods adorable yea, to the Kings adorable:

When, you deities, you gave that Milch-cow to the Angirases,

They milked her: Aryaman, joined with them, did the work: he knows her as well as I. (7)

Never may these manly deeds of yours for us grow old, never may your bright glories fall into decay, never before our time decay.

What deed of yours, new every age, wondrous, surpassing man, rings forth,

Whatever, Maruts! may be difficult to gain, grant us, whatever is hard to gain. (8)

Dadhyac of old, Anigiras, Priyamedha these, and Kanva, Atri, Manu knew my birth, yea, tbose of ancient days and Manu knew.

Their long line stretcheth to the gods, our birth-connexions are with them.

To these, for their high station, 1 bow down with song, to Indra, Agni, bow with song. (9)

Let the Invoker bless: let offerers bring choice gifts; Brihaspati the friend doth sacrifice with Steers, Steers that have many an excellence.

Now with our ears we catch the sound of the press-stone that rings afar.

The very Strong has gained the waters by himself, the strong gained many a resting-place. (10)

you Eleven gods whose home is heaven, you Eleven who make earth your dwelling,

You who with might, Eleven, live in waters, accept this sacrifice, gods, with pleasure.

140 - Agni

To splendid Agni seated by the altar, loving well his home, I bring the food as it were his place of birth.

I clothe the bright One with my hymn as with a robe, him with the car of light, bright-hued, dispelling gloom. (1)

Child of a double birth he grasps at triple food; in the year's course what he has swallowed grows anew.

He, by another's mouth and tongue a noble Bull, with other, as an elephant, consumes the trees. (2)

The pair who dwell together, moving in the dark bestir themselves: both parents hasten to the babe,

Impetuous-tongued, destroying, springing swiftly forth, one to be watched and cherished, strengthener of his sire. (3)

For man, you friend of men, these steeds of yours are yoked, impatient, lightly running, ploughing blackened lines,

Discordant-minded, fleet, gliding with easy speed, urged onward by the wind and rapid in their course. (4)

Dispelling on their way the horror of black gloom, making a glorious show these flames Of his fly forth,

When over the spacious tract he spreads himself abroad, and rushes panting on with thunder and with roar. (5)

Amid brown plants he stoops as if adorning them, and rushes bellowing like a bull upon his wives.

Proving his might, he decks the glory of his form, and shakes his horns like one terrific, bard to stay. (6)

Now covered, now displayed he grasps as one who knows his resting-place in those who know him well.

A second time they wax and gather Godlike power, and blending both together change their Parents' form. (7)

The maidens with long, tresses hold him in embrace; dead, they rise up again to meet the Living One.

Releasing them from age with a loud roar he comes, filling them with new spirit, living, unsubdued. (8)

Licking the mantle of the Mother, far and wide he wanders over fields with beasts that flee apace.

Strengthening all that walk, licking up all around, a blackened path, forsooth, he leaves wherever he goes. (9)

Agni, shine resplendent with our wealthy chiefs, like a loud-snorting bull, accustomed to the house.

You casting off your infant wrappings blazest forth as though you had put on a coat of mail for war. (10)

May this our perfect prayer be dearer to you than an imperfect prayer although it please you well.

With the pure brilliancy that radiates from your form, may you grant to us abundant store of wealth. (11)

Grant to our chariot, to our house, Agni, a boat with moving feet and constant oarage,

One that may further well our wealthy princes and all the folk, and be our certain refuge. (12)

Welcome our laud with your approval, Agni. May earth and heaven and freely flowing rivers

Yield us long life and food and corn and cattle, and may the red Dawns choose for us their choicest.

141 - Agni

YEA, verily, the fair effulgence of the god for glory was established, since he sprang from strength.

When he inclines thereto successful is the hymn: the songs of sacrifice have brought him as they flow (1)

Wonderful, rich in nourishment, he dwells in food; next, in the seven auspicious Mothers is his home.

Thirdly, that they might drain the treasures of the Bull, the maidens brought forth him for whom the ten provide. (2)

What time from out the deep, from the Steer's wondrous form, the Chiefs who had the power produced him with their strength;

When Matarisvan rubbed forth him who lay concealed, for mixture of the sweet drink, in the days of old. (3)

When from the Highest Father he is brought to us, amid the plants he rises hungry, wondrously.

As both together join to expedite his birth, most youthful he is born resplendent in his light. (4)

Then also entered he the Mothers, and in them pure and uninjured he increased in magnitude.

As to the first he rose, the vigorous from of old, so now he runs among the younger lowest ones. (5)

Therefore they choose him Herald at the morning rites, pressing to him as to Bhaga, pouring gifts,

When, much-praised, by the power and will of gods, he goes at all times to his mortal worshipper to drink. (6)

What time the Holy One, wind-urged, has risen up, serpent-like winding through the dry grass unrestrained,

Dust lies upon the way of him who burneth all, black-winged and pure of birth who follows sundry paths. (7)

Like a swift chariot made by men who know their art, he with his red limbs lifts himself aloft to heaven.

Your worshippers become by burning black of hue: their strength flies as before a hero's violence. (8)

By you, Agni, Varuna who guards the Law, Mitra and Aryaman, the Bounteous, are made strong;

For, as the felly holds the spokes, you with your might pervading have been born encompassing them round. (9)

Agni, to him who toils and pours libations, you, Most Youthful! sendest wealth and all the host of gods.

You, therefore, even as Bhaga, will we set anew, young Child of Strength, most wealthy! in our battle-song. (10)

Vouchsafe us riches turned to worthy ends, good luck abiding in the house, and strong capacity,

Wealth that directs both worlds as they were guiding-reins, and, very Wise, the gods' assent in sacrifice. (11)

May he, the priest resplendent, joyful, hear us, he with the radiant car and rapid horses.

May Agni, ever wise, with best directions to bliss and highest happiness conduct us. (12)

With hymns of might has Agni now been lauded, advanced to height of universal kingship.

Now may these wealthy chiefs and we together spread forth as spreads the Sun above the rain- clouds.

142 - Apris

KINDLED, bring, Agni, gods to-day for him who lifts the ladle up.

Spin out the ancient thread for him who sheds, with gifts, the soma juice. (1)

You dealest forth, Tanunapat, sweet sacrifice enriched with oil,

Brought by a singer such as I who offers gifts and toils for you. (2)

He wondrous, sanctifying, bright, sprinkles the sacrifice with mead,

Thrice, Narasamsa from the heavens, a God mid gods adorable. (3)

Agni, besought, bring to this place Indra the friend, the Wonderful,

For this my hymn of praise, sweet of tongue, is chanted forth to you. (4)

The ladle-holders strew trimmed grass at this well-ordered sacrifice;

A home for Indra is adorned, wide, fittest to receive the gods. (5)

Thrown open be the Doors Divine, unfailing, that assist the rite,

High, purifying, much-desired, so that the gods may enter in. (6)

May Night and Morning, hymned with lauds, united, fair to look upon,

Strong Mothers of the sacrifice, seat them together on the grass. (7)

May the two priests Divine, the sage, the sweet-voiced lovers of the hymn,

Complete this sacrifice of ours, effectual, reaching heaven to-day. (8)

Let Hotri pure, set amang gods, amid the Maruts Bhirati, Ila, Sarasvati, Mahi, rest on the grass, adorable. (9)

May Tvastar send us genial dew abundant, wondrous, rich in gifts,

For increase and for growth of wealth, Tvastar our kinsman and our friend. (10)

Vanaspati, give forth, yourself, and call the gods to sacrifice.

May Agni, God intelligent, speed our oblation to the gods. (11)

To Vayu joined with Pusan, with the Maruts, and the host of gods,

To Indra who inspires the hymn cry Glory! and present the gift. (12)

Come here to enjoy the gifts prepared with cry of Glory! Come,

Indra, hear their calling; they invite you to the sacrifice.

143 - Agni

To Agni I present a newer mightier hymn, I bring my words and song to the Son of Strength,

Who, Offspring of the Waters, bearing precious things sits on the earth, in season, dear Invoking priest. (1)

Soon as he sprang to birth that Agni was shown forth to Matarisvan in the highest firmament.

When he was kindled, through his power and majesty his fiery splendour made the heavens and earth to shine. (2)

His flames that wax not old, beams fair to look upon of him whose face is lovely, shine with beauteous sheen.

The rays of Agni, him whose active force is light, through the nights glimmer sleepless, ageless, like the floods. (3)

Send you with hymns that Agni to his own abode, who rules, one Sovran Lord of wealth, like Varuna,

Him, All-possessor, whom the Bhrigus with their might brought to earth's central point, the centre of the world. (4)

He whom no force can stay, even as the Maruts' roar, like to a dart sent forth, even as the bolt from heaven,

Agni with sharpened jaws chews up and cats the trees, and conquers them as when the warrior smites his foes. (5)

And will not Agni find enjoyment in our praise, will not the Vasu grant our wish with gifts of wealth?

Will not the Inspirer speed our prayers to gain their end? Him with the radiant glance 1 laud with this my song. (6)

The kindler of the flame wins Agni as a friend, promoter of the Law, whose face is bright with oil.

Inflamed and keen, refulgent in our gatherings, he lifts our hymn on high clad in his radiant hues. (7)

Keep us incessantly with guards that cease not, Agni, with guards auspicious, very mighty.

With guards that never slumber, never heedless, never beguiled. Helper, keep our children.

144 - Agni

The priest goes forth to sacrifice, with wondrous power sending aloft the hymn of glorious brilliancy.

He moves to meet the ladles turning to the right, which are the first to kiss the place where he abides. (1)

To him sang forth the flowing streams of Holy Law, encompassed in the home and birth- place of the god.

He, when he dwelt extended in the waters' lap, absorbed those Godlike powers for which he is adored. (2)

Seeking in course altern to reach the selfsame end the two copartners strive to win this beauteous form.

Like Bhaga must he be duly invoked by us, as he who drives the car holds fast the horse's reins. (3)

He whom the two copartners with observance tend, the pair who dwell together in the same abode,

By night as in the day the grey one was born young, passing untouched by eld through many an age of man. (4)

Him the ten fingers, the devotions. animate: we mortals call on him a God to give us help.

He speeds over the sloping surface of the land: new deeds has he performed with those who gird him round. (5)

For, Agni, like a herdsman, you by your own might rule over all that is in heaven and on the earth;

And these two Mighty Ones, bright, golden closely joined, rolling them round are come to your sacred grass. (6)

Agni, accept with joy, be glad in this our prayer, joy-giver, self-sustained, strong, born of Holy Law!

For fair to see are you turning to every side, pleasant to look on as a dwelling filled with food.

145 - Agni

Ask you of him for he is come, he knows it; he, full of wisdom, is implored, is now implored.

With him are admonitions and with him commands: he is the Lord of Strength, the Lord of Power and Might. (1)

They ask of him: not all learn by their questioning what he, the Sage, has grasped, as it were, with his own mind.

Forgetting not the former nor the later word, he goes on, not careless, in his mental power. (2)

To him these ladles go, to him these racing mares: he only will give ear to all the words I speak.

All-speeding, victor, perfecter of sacrifice, the Babe with flawless help has mustered vigorous might. (3)

Whatever he meets he grasps and then runs farther on, and straightway, newly born,creeps forward with his kin.

He stirs the wearied man to pleasure and great joy what time the longing gifts approach him as he comes. (4)

He is a wild thing of the flood and forest: he has been laid upon the highest surface.

He has declared the lore of works to mortals, Agni the Wise, for he knows Law, the Truthful.

146 - Agni

I LAUD the seven-rayed, the triple-headed, Agni all-perfect in his Parents' bosom,

Sunk in the lap of all that moves and moves not, him who has filled all luminous realms of heaven. (1)

As a great Steer he grew to these his Parents; sublime lie stands, untouched by eld, far- reaching.

He plants his footsteps on the lofty ridges of the broad earth: his red flames lick the udder. (2)

Coming together to their common youngling both Cows, fairshaped, spread forth in all directions,

Measuring out the paths that must be travelled, entrusting all desires to him the Mighty. (3)

The prudent sages lead him to his dwelling, guarding with varied skill the Ever- Youthful.

Longing, they turned their eyes to the River: to these the Sun of men was manifested. (4)

Born noble in the regions, aim of all mens' eyes to be implored for life by great and small alike,

Far as the Wealthy One has spread himself abroad, he is the Sire all-visible of this progeny.

147 - Agni

How, Agni, have the radiant ones, aspiring, endued you with the vigour of the living,

So that on both sides fostering seed and offspring, the gods may joy in Holy Law's fulfilment? (1)

Mark this my speech, Divine One, you, Most Youthful! offered to you by him who gives most freely.

One hates you, and another sings your praises: I your adorer laud your form, Agni. (2)

Your guardian rays, Agni, when they saw him, preserved blind Mamateya from affliction.

Lord of all riches, he preserved the pious the foes who fain would harm them did no mischief. (3)

The sinful man who worships not, Agni, who, offering not, harms us with double-dealing,

Be this in turn to him a heavy sentence may he distress himself by his revilings. (4)

Yea, when a mortal knowingly, Victor, injures with double tongue a fellow-mortal,

From him, praised Agni! save you him that lauds you: bring us not into trouble and affliction.

148 - Agni

WHAT Matarisvan, piercing, formed by friction, Herald of all the gods. in varied figure,

Is he whom they have set mid human houses, gay-hued as light and shining forth for beauty. (1)

They shall not harm the man who brings you praises: such as I am, Agni my help approves me.

All acts of mine shall they accept with pleasure, laudation from the singer who presents it. (2)

Him in his constant seat men skilled in worship have taken and with praises have established.

As, harnessed to a chariot fleet-foot horses, at his command let bearers lead him forward. (3)

Wondrous, full many a thing he chews and crunches: he shines amid the wood with spreading brightness.

Upon his glowing flames the wind blows daily, driving them like the keen shaft of an archer. (4)

Him, whom while yet in embryo the hostile, both skilled and fain to harm, may never injure,

Men blind and sightless through his splendour hurt not: his never-failing lovers have preserved him.

149 - Agni

HERE he hastens to give, Lord of great riches, King of the mighty, to the place of treasure.

lie pressing-stones shall serve him speeding near us. (1)

As Steer of men so Steer of earth and heaven by glory, he whose streams all life has drunken,

Who hasting forward rests upon the altar. (2)

He who has lighted up the joyous castle, wise courser like the steed of cloudy heaven,

Bright like the Sun, with hundredfold existence. (3)

He, doubly born, has spread in his effulgence through the three luminous realms, through all the regions,

Best sacrificing priest where waters gather. (4)

priest doubly born, he through his love of glory has in his keeping all things worth the choosing,

The man who brings him gifts has noble offspring.

150 - Agni

AGNI, your faithful servant I call upon you with many a gift,

As in the keeping of the great inciting God; (1)

You who never movest you to aid the indolent, the godless man,

Him who though wealthy never brings an offering. (2)

Splendid, Singer, is that man, mightiest of the great in heaven.

Agni, may we be foremost, we your worshippers.

151 - Mitra and Varuna

HEAVEN and earth trembled at the might and voice of him, whom, loved and Holy One, helper of all mankind,

The wise who longed for spoil in fight for kine brought forth with power, a friend, mid waters, at the sacrifice. (1)

As these, like friends, have done this work for you, these prompt servants of Purumilha Soma-offerer,

Give mental power to him who sings the sacred song, and listen, Strong Ones, to the master of the house. (2)

The folk have glorified your birth from Earth and Heaven, to be extolled, you Strong Ones, for your mighty power.

You, when you bring to singer and the rite, enjoy the sacrifice performed with holy praise and strength. (3)

The people prospers, Asuras! whom you dearly love: you, Righteous Ones, proclaim aloud the Holy Law.

That efficacious power that comes from lofty heaven, you bind to the work, as to the pole an ox. (4)

On this great earth you send your treasure down with might: unstained by dust, the crowding kine are in the stalls.

Here in the neighbourhood they cry to the Sun at morning and at evening, like swift birds of prey. (5)

The flames with curling tresses serve your sacrifice, whereto you sing the song, Mitra and Varuna.

Send down of your free will, prosper our holy songs: you are sole Masters of the singer's hymn of praise. (6)

Whoso with sacrifices toiling brings you gifts, and worships, sage and priest, fulfilling your desire,

Draw nigh to him and taste his sacrifice. Come well-inclined to us to our songs and prayer. (7)

With sacrifices and with milk they deck you first, you Righteous Ones, as if through stirrings of the mind.

To you they bring their hymns with their collected thought, while you with earnest soul come to us gloriously. (8)

Rich strength of life is yours: you, heroes, have obtained through your surpassing powers rich far-extending might.

Not the past days conjoined with nights, not rivers, not the Papis have attained your Godhead and your wealth.

152 - Mitra-Varuna

The robes which you put on abound with fatness: uninterrupted courses are your counsels.

All falsehood, Mitra-Varuna! you conquer, and closely cleave to the Law Eternal. (1)

This might of theirs has no one comprehended. True is the crushing word the sage has uttered,

The fearful four-edged bolt smites down the three-edged, and those who hate the gods first fall and perish. (2)

The Footless Maid precedeth footed creatures. Who marketh, Mitra-Varuna, this your doing?

The Babe Unborn supporteth this world's burthen, fuIfilleth Law and overcometh falsehood. (3)

We look on him the darling of the Maidens, always advancing, never falling downward,

Wearing inseparable, wide-spread raiment, Mitra's and Varuna's delightful glory. (4)

Unbridled courser, horn but not of horses, neighing he flieth on with back uplifted.

The youthful love mystery thought-surpassing, praising in Mitra-Varuna, its glory. (5)

May the milch-kine who favour Mamateya prosper in this world him who loves devotion.

May he, well skilled in rites, be food, and calling Aditi with his lips give us assistance. (6)

gods, Mitra-Varuna, with love and worship, let me make you delight in this oblation.

May our prayer be victorious in battles, may we have rain from heaven to make us prosper.

153 - Mitra-Varuna

WE worship with our reverence and oblations you, Mitra Varuna, accordant, mighty,

So that with us, you two whose backs are sprinkled with oil, the priests with oil and hymns support you. (1)

Your praise is like a mighty power, an impulse: to you, two gods, a well-formed hymn is offered,

As the priest decks yon, Strong Ones, in assemblies, and the prince fain to worship you for blessings. (2)

Mitra-Varuna, Aditi the Milch-cow streams for the rite, for folk who bring oblation,

When in the assembly he who worships moves you, like to a human priest, with gifts presented. (3)

So may the kine and heavenly Waters pour you sweet drink in families that make you joyful.

Of this may he, the ancient House-Lord, give us. Enjoy, drink of the milk the cow provideth.

154 - Visnu

I WILL declare the mighty deeds of Visnu, of him who measured out the earthly regions,

Who propped the highest place of congregation, thrice setting down his footstep, widely striding. (1)

For this his mighty deed is Visnu lauded, like some wild beast, dread, prowling, mountain-roaming;

He within whose three wide-extended paces all living creatures have their habitation. (2)

Let the hymn lift itself as strength to Visnu, the Bull far-striding, dwelling on the mountains,

Him who alone with triple step has measured this common dwelling-place, long, far extended. (3)

Him whose three places that are filled with sweetness, imperishable, joy as it may list them,

Who verily alone upholds the threefold, the earth, the heaven, and all living creatures. (4)

May I attain to that his well-loved mansion where men devoted to the gods are happy.

For there springs, close akin to the Wide-Strider, the well of meath in Visnu's highest footstep. (5)

Fain would we go to your dwelling-places where there are many-horned and nimble oxen,

For mightily, there, shineth down upon us the widely-striding Bull's sublimest mansion.

155 - Visnu-Indra

To the great hero, him who sets his mind thereon, and Visnu, praise aloud in song your draught of juice,-

gods never beguiled, who borne as it were by noble steed, have stood upon the lofty ridges of the hills. (1)

Your Soma-drinker keeps afar your furious rush, Indra and Visnu, when you come with all your might.

That which has been directed well at mortal man, bow-armed Krsanu's arrow, you turn far aside. (2)

These offerings increase his mighty manly strength: he brings both Parents down to share the genial flow.

He lowers, though a son, the Father's highest name; the third is that which is high in the light of heaven. (3)

We laud this manly power of him the Mighty One, preserver, inoffensive, bounteous and benign;

His who strode, widely pacing, with three steppings forth over the realms of earth for freedom and for life. (4)

A mortal man, when he beholds two steps of him who looks upon the light, is restless with amaze.

But his third step doth no one venture to approach, no, nor the feathered birds of air who fly with wings. (5)

He, like a rounded wheel, has in swift motion set his ninety racing steeds together with the four.

Developed, vast in form, with those who sing forth praise, a youth, no more a child, he cometh to our call.

156 - Visnu

FAR-SHINING, widely famed, going your wonted way, fed with the oil, be helpful. Mitra-like, to us.

So, Visnu, even the wise must swell your song of praise, and he who has oblations pay you solemn rites. (1)

He who brings gifts to him the Ancient and the Last, to Visnu who ordains, together with his Spouse,

Who tells the lofty birth of him the Lofty One, shall verily surpass in glory even his peer. (2)

Him have you satisfied, singers, as well as you know, primeval germ of Order even from his birth.

You, knowing even his name, have told it forth: may we, Visnu, enjoy the grace of you the Mighty One. (3)

The Sovran Varuna and both the Asvins wait on this the will of him who guides the Marut host.

Visnu has power supreme and might iliat finds the day, and with his friend unbars the stable of the kine. (4)

Even he the Heavenly One who came for fellowship, Visnu to Indra, godly to the godlier,

Who Maker, throned in three worlds, helps the Aryan man, and gives the worshipper his share of Holy Law.

157 - Asvins

AGNI is wakened: Surya riseth from the earth. Mighty, refulgent Dawn has shone with all her light.

The Asvins have equipped their chariot for the course. God Savitar has moved the folk in sundry ways. (1)

When, Asvins, you equip your very mighty car, bedew, you two, our power with honey and with oil.

To our devotion give victorious strength in war: may we win riches in the heroes' strife for spoil. (2)

Nigh to us come the Asvins' lauded three-wheeled car, the car laden with meath and drawn by fleet-foot steeds,

Three-seated, opulent, bestowing all delight. may it bring weal to us, to cattle and to men. (3)

Bring here nourishment for us, you Asvins two; sprinkle us with your whip that drops with honey-dew.

Prolong our days of life, wipe out our trespasses; destroy our foes, be our companions and our friends. (4)

You store the germ of life in female creatures, you lay it up within all living beings.

You have sent forth, Asvins passing mighty, the fire, the sovrans of the wood, the waters, (5)

Leeches are you with medicines to heal us, and charioteers are you with skill in driving.

You Strong, give sway to him who brings oblation and with his heart pours out his gift before you.

158 - Asvins

YOU Vasus two, you Rudras full of counsel, grant us, Strong Strengtheners, when you stand beside us,

What wealth Aucathya craves of you, great helpers when you come forward with no niggard succour. (1)

Who may give you aught, Vasus, for your favour, for what, at the Cow's place, you grant through worship?

Wake for us understanding full of riches, come with a heart that will fulfil our longing. (2)

As erst for Tugra's son your car, sea-crossing, strong, was equipped and set amid the waters,

So may I gain your shelter and protection as with winged course a hero seeks his army. (3)

May this my praise preserve Ucathya's offispring: let not these two who fly with wings exhaust me.

Let not the wood ten times up-piled consume me, when fixed for you it bites the ground it stands on. (4)

The most maternal streams, wherein the Dilsas cast me securely bound, have not devoured me.

When Traitana would cleave my head asunder, the Dasa wounded his own breast and shoulders. (5)

Dirghatamas the son of Mamati has come to length of days in the tenth age of human kind.

He is the Brahman of the waters as they strive to reach their end and aim: their charioteer is he.

159 - Heaven and Earth

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. (1)

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. (2)

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, you guard the station of your Son who knows no guile. (3)

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. (4)

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!

160 - Heaven and Earth

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. (1)

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 has clothed them in goodly forms. (2)

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. (3)

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 never decay. (4)

Extolled in song, Heaven and Earth, bestow on us, you mighty Pair, great glory and high lordly sway,

By which we may extend ourselves ever over the folk; and send us strength that shall deserve the praise of men.

161 - Rbhus

WHY has the Best, why has 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. (1)

The chalice that is single make you into four: thus have the gods commanded; therefore am I come.

If, Sudhanvan's Children, you will do this thing you shall participate in sacrifice with gods. (2)

What to the envoy Agni in reply you spake, A courser must be made, a chariot fashioned here,

A cow must be created, and the two made young. When we have done these things, Brother, we turn to you. (3)

When thus, Rbhus, you had done you questioned thus, Where went he who came to us a messenger?

Then Tvastar, when he viewed the four wrought chalices, concealed himself among the Consorts of the gods. (4)

As Tvastar 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. (5)

Indra has yoked his Bays, the Asvins' car is horsed, Brihaspati has brought the Cow of every hue.

You went as Rbhus, Vibhvan, Vaja to the gods, and skilled in war, obtained your share in sacrifice. (6)

You by your wisdom brought a cow from out a hide; to that ancient Pair you gave again their youth.

Out of a horse, Sudhanvan's Sons, you formed a horse: a chariot you equipped, and went to the gods. (7)

Drink you this water, were the words you spake to them; or drink you this, the rinsing of the Munja-grass.

If you approve not even this, Sudhanvan's Sons, then at the third libation gladden you yourselves. (8)

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 you shape the cups, speaking the words of truth. (9)

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! (10)

On the high places you have made the grass for man, and water in the valleys, by your skill, Men.

Rbhus, you iterate not to-day that act of yours, your sleeping in the house of him whom naught can hide. (11)

As, compassing them round, you glided through the worlds, where had the venerable Parents their abode?

You laid a curse on him who raised his arm at you: to him who spake aloud to you you spake again. (12)

When you had slept your fill, you Rbhus, thus you asked, you whom naught may hide, who now has wakened us?

The goat declared the hound to be your wakener. That day, in a full year, you first unclosed our eyes. (13)

The Maruts move in heaven, on earth this Agni; through the mid-firmament the Wind approaches.

Varuna comes in the sea's gathered waters, Sons of Strength, desirous of your presence.

162 - The horse

SLIGHT us not Varuna, Aryaman, or Mitra, Rbhuksan, Indra, Ayu, or the Maruts,

When we declare amid the congregation the virtues of the strong steed, God-descended. (1)

What time they bear before the courser, covered with trappings and with wealth, the grasped oblation,

The dappled goat goes straightforward, bleating, to the place dear to Indra and to Pusan. (2)

Dear. to all gods, this goat, the share of Pusan, is first led forward with the vigorous courser,

While Tvastar sends him forward with the Charger, acceptable for sacrifice, to glory. (3)

When thrice the men lead round the steed, in order, who goes to the gods as meet oblation,

The goat precedeth him, the share of Pusan, and to the gods the sacrifice announceth. (4)

Invoker, ministering priest, atoner, fire-kindler Soma-presser, sage, reciter,

With this well ordered sacrifice, well finished, do you fill full the channels of the rivers. (5)

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. (6)

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. (7)

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 you. (8)

What part of the steed's flesh the fly has 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 you. (9)

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. (10)

What from your body which with fire is roasted, when you are set upon the spit, distilleth,

Let not that lie on earth or grass neglected, but to the longing gods let all be offered. (11)

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. (12)

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. (13)

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 you. (14)

Let not the fire, smoke-scented, make you crackle, nor glowing caldron smell and break to pieces.

Offered, beloved, approved, and consecrated,-such Charger do the gods accept with favour. (15)

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. (16)

If one, when seated, with excessive urging has with his heel or with his whip distressed you,

All these your woes, as with the oblations' ladle at sacrifices, with my prayer I banish. (17)

The four-and-thirty ribs of the. Swift Charger, kin to the gods, the slayer's hatchet pierces.

Cut you with skill, so that the parts be flawless, and piece by piece declaring them dissect them. (18)

Of Tvastar'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. (19)

Let not your dear soul burn you as you come, let not the hatchet linger in your body.

Let not a greedy clumsy immolator, missing the joints, mangle your limbs unduly. (20)

No, here you diest not, you are not injured: by easy paths to the gods you go.

Both Bays, both spotted mares are now your fellows, and to the ass's pole is yoked the Charger. (21)

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!

163 - The horse

WHAT time, first springing into life, you neighedst, proceeding from the sea or upper waters,

Limbs of the deer had you, and eagle pinions. steed, your birth is nigh and must be lauded. (1)

This steed which Yama gave has Trita harnessed, and him, the first of all, has Indra mounted.

His bridle the Gandharva grasped. Vasus, from out the Sun you fashioned forth the courser. (2)

Yama are you, horse; you are Aditya; Trita are you by secret operation.

You are divided thoroughly from Soma. They say you have three bonds in heaven

that hold you. (3)

Three bonds, they say, you have in heaven that bind you, three in the waters,

three within the ocean.

To me you seernest Varuna, courser, there where they say is your sublimest birth-place. (4)

Here-, courser, are the places where they groomed you, here are the traces of your hoofs as winner.

Here have I seen the auspicious reins that guide you, which those who guard the holy Law keep safely. (5)

Yourself from far I recognized in spirit,-a Bird that from below flew through the heaven.

I saw your head still soaring, striving upward by paths unsoiled by dust, pleasant to travel. (6)

Here I beheld your form, matchless in glory, eager to win you food at the Cow's station.

Whenever a man brings you to your enjoyment, you swallowest the plants most greedy eater. (7)

After you, courser, come the car, the bridegroom, the kine come after, and the charm of maidens.

Full companies have followed for your friendship: the pattern of your vigour gods have copied. (8)

Horns made of gold has 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. (9)

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. (10)

A body formed for flight have you, Charger; swift as the wind in motion is your spirit.

Your horns are spread abroad in all directions: they move with restless beat in wildernesses. (11)

The strong steed has come forward to the slaughter, pondering with a mind directed Godward.

The goat who is his kin is led before him the sages and the singers follow after. (12)

The steed is come to the noblest mansion, is come to his Father and his Mother.

This day shall he approach the gods, most welcome: then he declares good gifts to him who offers.

164 - Visvedevas

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. (1)

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. (2)

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. (3)

Who has 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? (4)

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. (5)

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 has stablished and fixed firm these worlds' six regions. (6)

Let him who knows 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. (7)

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. (8)

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. (9)

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. (10)

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, Agni. (11)

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. (12)

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. (13)

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. (14)

Of the co-born they call the seventh single-born; the six twin pairs are called Rishis, 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. (15)

They told me these were males, though truly females: he who has eyes sees this, the blind discerns not.

The son who is a sage has comprehended: who knows this rightly is his father's father. (16)

Beneath the upper realm, above this lower, bearing her calf at foot the Cow has risen.

Witherward, to what place has she departed? Where calves she? Not amid this herd of cattle. (17)

Who, that the father of this Calf discerneth beneath the upper realm, above the lower,

Showing himself a sage, may here declare it? Whence has the godlike spirit had its rising? (18)

Those that come over here they call departing, those that depart they call directed here.

And what so you have made, Indra and Soma, steeds bear as it were yoked to the region's car-pole. (19)

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. (20)

Where those fine Birds hymn ceaselessly their portion of life eternal, and the sacred synods,

There is the Universe's mighty Keeper, who, wise, has entered into me the simple. (21)

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 knows not the Father. (22)

How on the Gayatri. the Gayatri was based, how from the Tristup they fashioned the Tristup forth,

How on the Jagati was based the Jagati, they who know this have won themselves immortal life. (23)

With Gayatri he measures out the praise-song, Sama with praise-song, triplet with the Tristup.

The triplet witli the two or four-foot measure, and with the syllable they form seven metres. (24)

With Jagati the flood in heaven he stablished, and saw the Sun in the Rathantara Saman.

Gavatri has, they say, three brands for kindling: hence it excels in majesty and vigour. (25)

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. (26)

She, lady of all treasure, is come here yearning in spirit for her calf and lowing.

May this cow yield her milk for both the Asvins, and may she prosper to our high advantage. (27)

The cow has 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. (28)

He also snorts, by whom encompassed round the Cow laws as she clings to the shedder of the rain.

She with her shrilling cries has humbled mortal man, and, turned to lightning, has stripped off her covering robe. (29)

That which has breath and speed and life and motion lies firmly stablished in the midst of houses.

Living, by offerings to the Dead he moves immortal One, the brother of the mortal. (30)

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 has 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, has 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 birthb-place: the Father laid the Daughter's germ within it.

341ask you of the earth's extremest limit, where is the centre of the world, I ask

you.

1ask you 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 Visnu'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 movelnopposite 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 Forunate mayst you be with goodly pasture, and may we also be exceeding wealthy.

Feed on the grass, Cow, at every season, and coming hitherward drink limpid water.

41 Forming the water-floods, the buffalo has lowed, one-footed or two-footed or four-

footed, she,

Who has become eight-footed or has got nine feet, the you sand-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 has life.

43 I saw from far away the smoke of fuel with spires that rose on high over 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 has 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, Varuna, Agni, and he is heavenly nobly-winged Garutman.

To what is One, sages give many a title they call it Agni, Yama, Matarisvan.

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 has understood it?

Therein are set together spokes three hundred and sixty, which in nowise can be loosened.

49 That breast of yours exhaustless, spring of pleasure, wherewith you feedest all things that are choicest,

Wealth-giver, treasure. finder, free bestower,-bring that, Sarasvati, that we may drain it. (4)

0 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 Sadhyas, gods of old, are dwelling. (4)

1 Uniform, with the passing days, this water mounts and fails again.

The tempest-clouds give life to earth, and fires re-animate the heaven. (4)

2 The Bird Celestial, vast with noble pinion, the lovely germ of plants, the germ of waters,

Him who delighteth us with rain in season, Sarasvan I invoke that he may help us.

165 - Indra. Maruts

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? (1)

Whose prayers have they, the Youthful Ones, accepted? Who to his sacrifice has turned the Maruts?

We will delay them on their journey sweeping-with what high spirit!-through the air like eagles. (2)

Whence come you alone, you who are mighty, Indra, Lord of the Brave? What is your purpose?

You greetest us when meeting us the Bright Ones. Lord of bay steeds, say what you have against us. (3)

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. (4)

Therefore together with our strong companions, having adorned our bodies, now we harness,

Our spotted deer with might, for you, Indra, have learnt and understood our Godlike nature. (5)

Where was that nature then of yours, Maruts, that you 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. (6)

Yea, much have you achieved with us for comrades, with manly valour like your own, you hero.

Much may we too achieve, mightiest Indra, with our great power, we Maruts, when we will it. (7)

Vritra I slew by mine own strength, Maruts, having waxed mighty in mine indignation.

I with the thunder in my hand created for man these lucid softly flowing waters. (8)

Nothing, Maghavan, stands firm before you; among the gods not one is found

your equal.

None born or springing into life comes nigh you. Do what you have to do, exceeding mighty? (9)

Mine only be transcendent power, whatever I, daring in my spirit, may accomplish.

For I am known as terrible, Maruts I, Indra, am the Lord of what I ruined. (10)

Now, you Maruts, has your praise rejoiced me, the glorious hymn which you have made me, heroes!

For me, for Indra, champion strong in battle, for me, yourselves, as lovers for a lover. (11)

Here, truly, they send forth their sheen to meet me, wearing their blameless glory and their vigour.

When I have seen you, Matuts, in gay splendour, you have delighted me, so now delight me. (12)

Who here has magnified you, you Maruts? speed forward, you lovers, to your lovers.

You Radiant ones, assisting their devotions, of these my holy rites he you regardful. (13)

To this has Minya's wisdom brought us, so as to aid, as aids the poet him who worships.

Bring here quick! On to the sage, you Maruts! These prayers for you the singer has recited. (14)

May this your praise, may this your song, Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's son, Mandarya,

Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance!

166 - Maruts

Now let us publish, for the vigorous company the herald of the Strong One, their primeval might.

With fire upon your way, Maruts loud of voice, with battle, Mighty Ones, achieve your deeds of strength. (1)

Bringing the pleasant mcath as it were 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. (2)

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. (3)

You 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. (4)

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 you drive near, aid the shrubs fly before you swift as whirling wheels. (5)

Terrible Maruts, you with never-diminished host, with grcat benevolence fulfil our heart's desire.

Wherever your lightning bites armed with its gory teeth it crunches up the cattle like a well-aimed dart. (6)

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. (7)

With castles hundredfold, Maruts, guard you well the man whom you have loved from ruin and from sin,-

The man whom you the fierce, the Mighty ones who roar, preserve from calumny by cherishing his seed. (8)

Maruts, in your cars are all things that are good: great powers are set as it were in rivalry therein.

Rings are upon your shoulders when you journey forth: your axle turns together both the chariot wheels. (9)

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. (10)

Mighty in mightiness, pervading, passing strong, visible from afar as it were with stars of heaven,

Lovely with pleasant tongues, sweet singers with their mouths, the Maruts, joined with Indra, shout forth all around. (11)

This is your majesty, you Maruts nobly born, far as the sway of Adid your bounty spreads.

Even Indra by desertion never disannuls the boon bestowed by you upon the pious man. (12)

This is your kinship, Maruts, that, immortals, you 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. (13)

That, you Maruts, we may long time flourish through your abundant riches, swift movers,

And that our men may spread in the encampment, let me complete the rite with these oblations. (14)

May this your laud, may this your song, Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's son, Mandarya,

Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

167 - Indra. Maruts

A THOUSAND are your helps for us, Indra: a thousand, Lord of Bays, your choice refreshments.

Wealth of a thousand sorts have you to cheer us: may precious goods come nigh to us in thousands. (1)

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. (2)

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 Vak also, like to a courtly, eloquent dame, among them. (3)

Far off the brilliant, never-weary Maruts cling to the young Maid as a joint possession.

The fierce gods drave not Rodasi before them, but wished for her to grow their friend and fellow. (4)

When chose immortal Rodasi to follow - she with loose tresses and heroic spirit -

She climbed her servant's chariot, she like Surya with cloud-like motion and refulgent aspect. (5)

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. (6)

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. (7)

Mitra and Varuna they guard from censure: Aryaman too, discovers worthless sinners Firm things are overthrown that never were shaken: he prospers, Maruts, who gives choice oblations. (8)

None of us, Maruts, near or at a distance, has ever reached the limit of your vigour.

They in courageous might still waxing boldly have compassed round their foemen like an ocean. (9)

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! Rbhuksan of the heroes! (10)

May this your laud, may this your song, Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's

son, Mandarya,

Bring offspring for ourselves with. food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

168 - Maruts

SWIFT gain is his who has you near at every rite: you welcome every song of himwho serves the gods.

So may I turn you here with fair hymns of praise to give great succour for the weal of both the worlds. (1)

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. (2)

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 it were a warrior's spear and in their hand they hold a dagger and a ring. (3)

Self-yoked they have descended lightly from the sky. With your own lash, immortals, urge yourselve's to speed.

Unstained by dust the Maruts, mighty in their strength, have cast down even firm things, armed with their shining spears. (4)

Who among you, Maruts armed with lightning-spears, moves you by himself, as with the tongue his jaws?

You rush from heaven's floor as though you sought for food, on many errands like the Sun's diurnal steed. (5)

Say where, then, is this mighty region's farthest bound, where, Maruts, is the lowest depth that you have reached,

When you cast down like chaff the firmly stablished pile, and from the mountain send the glittering water-flood? (6)

Your winning is with strength, dazzling, with heavenly light, with fruit mature, Maruts, fall of plenteousness.

Auspicious is your gift like a free giver's meed, victorious, spreading far, as of immortal gods. (7)

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. (8)

Prani 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. (9)

May this your laud, may this your song Maruts, sung by the poet Mana's son,

Mandarya,

Bring offspring for ourselves with food to feed us. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

169 - Indra

As, Indra, from great treason you protectest, yea, from great treachery these who approach us,

So, marking well, Controller of the Maruts grant us their blessings, for they are your dearest. (1)

The various doings of all mortal people by you are ordered, in your wisdom, Indra.

The host of Marutg goes forth exulting to win the light-bestowing spoil of battle. (2)

That spear of yours sat firm for us, Indra: the Maruts set their whole dread power in motion.

Even Agni shines resplendent in the brush-wood: the viands hold him as floods hold an island. (3)

Vouchsafe us now that opulence, Indra, as guerdon won by mightiest donation.

May hymns that please you cause the breast of Vayu to swell as with the mead's refreshing sweetness. (4)

With you, 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. (5)

Bring forth the Men who rain down boons, Indra: exert you in the great terrestrial region;

For their broad-chested speckled deer are standing like a King's armies on the field of battle. (6)

Heard is the roar of the advancing Maruts, terrific, glittering, and swiftly moving,

Who with their rush overthrow as it were a sinner the mortal who would fight with those who love him (7)

Give to the Manas, Indra with Maruts, gifts universal, gifts of cattle foremost.

You, God, are praised with gods who must be lauded. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

170 - Indra. Maruts

NAUGHT is to-day, to-morrow naught. Who comprehends the mystery?

We must address ourselves to another's thought, and lost is then the hope we formed. (1)

The Maruts are your brothers. Why, Indra, wouldst you take our lives?

Agree with them in friendly wise, and do not slay us in the fight. (2)

Agastya, brother, why dost you neglect us, you who are our friend?

We know the nature of your mind. Verity you will give us naught. (3)

Let them prepare the altar, let them kindle fire in front: we two

Here will spread sacrifice for you, that the immortal may observe. (4)

You, Lord of Wealth, are Master of all treasures, you, Lord of friends, are your

Friends' best supporter.

Indra, speak you kindly with the Maruts, and taste oblations in their proper season.

171 - Maruts

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. (1)

Maruts, to you this laud with prayer and worship, formed in the mind and heart, you gods, is offered.

Come to us, rejoicing in your spirit, for you are they who make our prayer effective. (2)

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. (3)

I fled in terrror from this mighty Indra, my body trembling in alarm, Maruts.

Oblations meant for you had been made ready; these have we set aside: for this forgive us. (4)

By whom the Manas recognize the day-springs, by whose strength at the dawn of endless mornings,

Give us, you Mighty, glory with Maruts. fierce with the fierce, the Strong who give triumph. (5)

Do you, Indra, guard the conquering heroes, and rid you of your wrath against the Maruts,

With them, the wise, victorious and bestowing. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

172- Maruts

WONDERFUL let your coming be, wondrous with help, you Bounteous Ones,

Maruts, who gleam as serpents gleam. (1)

Far be from us, Maruts, you free givers, your impetuous shaft;

Far from us be the stone you hurl. (2)

Bounteous Givers, touch you not, Maruts, Trnskanda's folk;

Lift us up that we may live.

173 - Indra

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. (1)

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. (2)

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, (3)

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 Nasatyas. (4)

Praise you 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; (5)

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 it were a frontlet, (6)

You, hero, guardian of the brave in battles, who roamest in the van,-to draw you here,

Indra, the hosts agree beside the soma, and joy, for his great actions, in the Chieftain. (7)

Libations in the sea to you are pleasant, when your divine Floods come to cheer these people.

To you the Cow is sum of all things grateful when with the wish you seekest men and princes. (8)

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. (9)

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. (10)

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. (11)

Let us not here contend with gods, Indra, for here, Mighty One, is your own portion,

The Great, whose friends the bounteous Maruts honour, as with a stream, his song who pours oblations. (12)

Addressed to you is this our praise, Indra: Lord of bay steeds, find us hereby advancement.

So mayst you lead us on, God, to comfort. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

174 - Indra

You are the King of all the gods, Indra: protect the men, Asura, preserve us.

You Lord of heroes, Maghavan, our saver, are faithful, very rich, the victory-giver. (1)

Indra, you humbledst tribes that spake with insult by breaking down seven autumn forts, their refuge.

You stirredst, Blameless! billowy floods, and gavest his foe a prey to youthful Purukutsa. (2)

With whom you 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. (3)

They through the greatness of your spear, Indra, shall, to your praise, rest in this earthly station.

To loose the floods, to seek, for kine, the battle, his Bays he mounted boldly seized the booty. (4)

Indra, bear Kutsa, him in whom you 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. (5)

You Indra, Lord of Bays, made strong by impulse, have slain the vexers of your friends, who give not.

They who beheld the friend beside the living were cast aside by you as they rode onward. (6)

Indra, the bard sang forth in inspiration: you made earth a covering for the Dasa.

Maghavan made the three that gleam with moisture, and to his home brought Kuyavac to slay him. (7)

These your old deeds new bards have sung, Indra. You conqueredst, boundest many tribes forever.

Like castles you have crushed the godless races, and bowed the godless scorner's deadly weapon. (8)

A Stormer you have made the stormy waters flow down, Indra, like the running rivers.

When over the flood you brought them, hero, you keptest Turvaga and Yadu safely. (9)

Indra, mayst you 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.

175 - Indra

GLAD you: your glory has been quaffed, Lord of bay steeds, as it were the bowl's enlivening mead.

For you the Strong there is strong drink, mighty, omnipotent to win. (1)

Let our strong drink, most excellent, exhilarating, come to you,

Victorious, Indra1 bringing gain, immortal conquering in fight, (2)

You, hero, winner of the spoil, urgest to speed the car of man.

Burn, like a vessel with the flame, the lawless Dasyu, Conqueror! (3)

Empowered by your own might, Sage, you stolest Sarya's chariot wheel.

You barest Kutsa with the steeds of Wind to Susna as his death. (4)

Most mighty is your rapturous joy, most splendid is your active power,

Wherewith, foe-slaying, sending bliss, you are supreme in gaining steeds. (5)

As you, Indra, to the ancient singers were ever joy, as water to the thirsty,

So to you I sing this invocation. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

176 - Indra

CHEER you with draughts to win us bliss: Soma, pierce Indra in your strength.

You stormest trembling in your rage, and findest not a foeman nigh. (1)

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. (2)

Within whose hands deposited all the Five Peoples' treasures rest.

Mark you the man who injures us and kill him like the heavenly bolt. (3)

Slay everyone who pours no gift, who, hard to reach, delights you not.

Bestow on us what wealth he has: this even the worshipper awaits. (4)

You help him the doubly strong whose hymns were sung unceasingly.

When Indra fought, Soma, you help the mighty in the fray. (5)

As you, Indra, to the ancient singers were ever joy, like water to the thirsty,

So to you I sing this invocation. May we find strengthenifig food in full abundance.

177 - Indra

The Bull of men, who cherishes all people, King of the Races, Indra, called of many,

Fame-loving, praised, here to me with succour turn having yoked both vigorous bay horses! (1)

Your mighty stallions, yoked by prayer, Indra, your. coursers to your mighty chariot harnessed,

Ascend you these, and borne by them come here: with soma juice out. poured, Indra, we call you. (2)

Ascend your mighty car: the mighty Soma is poured for you and sweets are sprinkled round us.

Come down to us-ward, Bull of human races,come, having harnessed them, with strong bay horses. (3)

Here is God-reaching sacrifice, here the victim; here, Indra,are the prayers, here is the soma.

Strewn is thesacred grass: come here, Sakra; seatthee and drink: unyoke your two bay coursers. (4)

Come to us, Indra, come highly lauded to the devotions of the singer Mana.

Singing, may we find early through your succour, may we find strengthening food in full abundance.

178 - Indra

IF, Indra, you have given that gracious hearing where with you help those who sang your praises.

Blast not the wish that would exalt us may I gain all from you, and pay all man's devotions. (1)

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. (2)

Victorious with the men, hero in battles, Indra, who hearsthe singer's supplication,

Will bring his car nigh to the man who offers, if he himself upholds the songs that praise him. (3)

Yea,Indra, with the men, through love of gloryconsumes the sacred food which friends have offered.

The ever-strengthening song of him who worships is sung in fight amid the clash of voices. (4)

Aided by you, Maghavan, 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.

179 - (inserted)

The deified object of this omitted hymn is said to be Rati or Love, and its Rishis or authors are Lopamudrd, Agastya, and a disciple. Lopamudra is represented as inviting the caresses of her aged husband Agastya, and complaining of his coldness and neglect. Agastya responds in stanza 3, and in the second half of stanza 4 the disciple or the poet briefly tells the result of the dialogue. Stanza 5 is supposed to be spoken by the disciple who has overheard the conversation, but its connexion with the rest of the hymn is not very apparent. In stanza 6 'toiling with strong endeavour' is a paraphrase and not a translation of the original khanamanah khanitraib (ligonibus fodiens) which Sayana explains by 'obtaining the desired result by means of lauds and sacrifices.'

M. Bergaigne is of opinion that the hymn has a mystical meaning, Agastya being identifiable with the celestial Soma whom Lopamudra, representing fervent Prayer, succeeds after long labour in drawing down from his secret dwelling place. See La Religion Vedique, ii. 394 f.

'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 to their spouses. (1)

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 to their husbands. (2)

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. (3)

Cupido me cepit illius tauri (viri) qui me despicit, utrum hinc utrum illinc ab aliqua parte nata sit.

Lopamudra taururn (mariturn suum) ad se detrahit: insipiens illa sapientem anhelantern absorbet. (4)

This Soma I address that is most near us, that which has been imbibed within the spirit,

To pardon any sins we have committed. Verily mortal man is full of longings. (5)

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.

By 'both classes' probably priests and princes, or institutors of sacrifices, are meant. M. Bergaigne understands the expression to mean the two forms or essences of soma, the celestial and the terrestrial. (4)

Membrum suum virile, quod vrotentum fuerat, mas ille retraxit. Rursus illud quod in juvenem filiam sublatum fuerat, non aggressurus, ad se rerahit. (5)

Quum jam in medio connessu, semiperfecto opere, amorem in puellam pater impleverat, ambo discedentes seminis paulum in terrae superficiem sacrorum sede effusum emiserunt. (6)

Quum pater suam nilam adiverat, cum ed congressus suum semen supra wrrarn effudit. Tum Dii benigni precem (brahma) prgeduerunt, et Vastoshpatim, legum sacrarum custodem, formaverunt. (7)

Ille tauro similis spumam in certamine jactavit, tunc discedens pusillaximis huc profectus est. Quasi dextro pede claudus processit, "inutiles fuerunt illi mei complexus," ita locutus. (8)

'The fire, burning the people, does not approach quickly (by day): the naked (Rakasas approach) not Agni by night; the giver of fuel, and the giver of food, he, the upholder (of the rite), is born, overcoming enemies by his might.'

180 - Asvins

LIGHTLY your coursers travel through the regions when round thesea of air your car is flying.

Your golden fellies scatter drops of moisture: drinking the sweetness you atend the Mornings. (1)

You as you 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. (2)

You 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. (3)

You made the fierce heat to be full of sweetness for Atri at his wish, like streaming water.

Fire-offering thence is yours, Asvins, heroes: your car-wheels speed to us like springs of honey. (4)

Like Tugra's ancient son may I, you Mighty, bring you to give your gifts with milk-oblations.

Your greatness compasseth Earth, Heaven, and Waters: decayed for you is sorrow's net, you Holy. (5)

When, Bounteous Ones, you drive your yoked team downward, you 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. (6)

For verily we truthful singers praise you the niggard trafficker is here excluded.

Now, even now do you blameless Advins, you Mighty, guard the man whose God is near him. (7)

You of a truth day after day, Asvins, that he might win the very plenteous torrent,

Agastya, famous among mortal heroes, roused with a thousand lauds like sounds of music. (8)

When with the glory of your car you travel, when we go speeding like the priest of mortals,

And give good horses to sacrificers, may we, Nasatyas! gain our share of riches. (9)

With songs of praise we call to-day, Asvins, that your new chariot, for our own wellbeing,

That circles heaven with never-injured fellies. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

181 - Asvins

WHAT, dearest Pair, is this in strength and riches that you as priests are bring from the waters?

This sacrifice is your glorification, you who protect mankind and give them treasures. (1)

May your pure steeds, rain-drinkers, bring you here, swift as the tempest, your celestial coursers,

Rapid as thought, with fair backs, full of vigour, resplendent in their native light, Asvins. (2)

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 you, for whom we long, have mounted. (3)

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. (4)

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, Asvins they with roars shall stir the regions. (5)

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. (6)

Your constant song has been sent forth, Disposers! that flows threefold in mighty strength, Asvins.

Thus lauded, give the suppliant protection moving or resting hear mine invocation. (7)

This song of bright contents for you is swelling in the men's hall where three-fold grass is.ready.

Your strong rain-cloud, you Mighty Ones, has swollen, honouring men as it were with milk's outpouring. (8)

The prudent worshipper, like Pusan, Asvins! praises you as he praises Dawn and Agni,

When, singing with devotion, he invokes you. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

182 - Asvins

THIS was the task. Appear promptly, you prudent Ones. Here is the chariot drawn by strong steeds: be you glad.

Heart-stirring, longed for, succourers of Vispala, here are Heaven's Sons whose sway blesses the pious man. (1)

Longed for, most Indra-like, mighty, most Marut-like, most w6nderful in deed, car-borne, best charioteers,

Bring your full chariot here heaped with liquid sweet: thereon, you Mvins, come to him who offers gifts. (2)

What make you there, you Mighty? Wherefore linger you with folk who, offering not, are held in high esteem?

Pass over them; make you the niggard's life decay: give light to the singer eloquent in praise. (3)

Crunch up on. every side the dogs who bark at us: slay you our foes, Asvins this you understand.

Make wealthy every word of him who praises you: accept with favour, both Nasatyas, this my laud. (4)

You made for Tugra's son amid the water-floods that animated ship with wings to fly withal,

Whereon with God-devoted mind you brought him forth, and fled with easy flight from out the mighty surge. (5)

Four ships most welcome in the midst of ocean, urged by the Asvins, save the son of Tugra,

Him who was cast down headlong in the waters, plunged in the thick inevitable darkness. (6)

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, you, Asvins, bore him off safely to your renown. (7)

Welcome to you be this the hymn of praises uttered by Manas, Nasatyas, heroes,

From this our gathering where we offer Soma. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

183 - Asvins

MAKE ready that which passes thought in swiftness, that has three wheels and triple seat, you Mighty,

Whereon you seek the dwelling of the pious, whereon, threefold, you fly like birds with pinions. (1)

Light rolls your easy chariot faring earthward, what time, for food, you, full of wisdom, mount it.

May this song, wondrous fair, attend your glory: you, as you travel, wait on Dawn Heaven's Daughter. (2)

Ascend your lightly rolling car, approaching the worshipper who turns him to his duties,

Whereon you come to the house to quicken man and his offspring, Nasatyas, heroes. (3)

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, you Mighty: yours are these vessels, full of pleasant juices. (4)

Gotama, Purumilha, Atri bringing oblations all invoke you for protection.

Like one who goes strai ht to the point directed, you Nasatyas, to mine invocation. (5)

We have passed over the limit of this darkness: our praise has been bestowed on you, Asvins.

Come over here by paths which gods have travelled. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

184 - Asvins

LET us invoke you both this day and after the priest is here with lauds when morn is breaking:

Nasatyas, wheresoever you be, Heaven's Children, for him who is more liberal than the godless. (1)

With us, you Mighty, let yourselves be joyful, glad in our stream of soma slay the niggards.

Graciously hear my hymns and invitations, marking, heroes, with your cars my longing. (2)

Nasatyas, Pusans, you as gods for glory arranged and set in order Surya's bridal.

Your giant steeds move on, sprung from the waters, like ancient times of Varuna the Mighty. (3)

Your grace be with us, you who love sweet juices: further the hymn sung by the poet Mana,

When men are joyful in your glorious actions, to win heroic strength, you Bounteous Givers. (4)

This praise was made, liberal lords, Asvins, for you with fair adornment by the Manas.

Come to our house for us and for our children, rejoicing, Nasatyas, in Agastya. (5)

We have passed over the limit of this darkness: our praise has been'bestowed on you, Asvins.

Come over here by paths which gods have travelled. may we find strengthening food in full abundance.

185 - Heaven and Earth

WHETHER of these is elder, whether later? How were they born? Who knows it, you sages?

These of themselves support all things existing: as on a car the Day and Night roll onward. (1)

The two uphold, though motionless and footless, a widespread offspring having feet and moving.

Like your own fon upon his parents' bosom, protect us, Heaven and earth, from fearful danger. (2)

I call for Aditi's unrivalled bounty, perfect, celestial, deathless, meet for worship.

Produce this, you two Worlds, for him who lauds you. Protect us, Heaven and Earth, from fearful danger. (3)

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. (4)

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. (5)

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. (6)

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. (7)

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. (8)

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, you gods, be strong with food rejoicing. (9)

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. (10)

Be this my prayer fulfilled, Earth and Heaven, wherewith, Father and Mother, I address you.

Nearest of gods be you with your protection. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

186 - Visvedevas

LOVED of all men, may Savitar, through praises offered as sacred food, come to our synod,

That you too, through-our hymn, you ever-youthful, may gladden, at your visit, all our people. (1)

To us may all the gods come trooped together, Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna concordant,

That all may be promoters of our welfare, and with great might preserve our strength from slackness. (2)

Agni I sing, the guest you love most dearly: the Conqueror through our lauds is friendly-minded.

That he may be our Varuna rich in glory and send food like a prince praised by the godly. (3)

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. (4)

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 here. (5)

Moreover Tvastar also shall approach us, one-minded with the princes at his visit.

Here shall come the Vritra-slayer Indra, Ruler of men, as strongest of the heroes. (6)

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. (7)

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. (8)

They hasten on to happy termination their orders when they are made known by

glory.

As on a fair bright day the arrow flieth over all the barren soil their missiles sparkle. (9)

Incline the Asvins to show grace, and Pusan, for power and might have they, their own possession.

Friendly are Visnu, Vata, and Rbhuksan so may I bring the gods to make us happy. (10)

This is my reverent thought of you, you 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.

187 - Praise of Food

Now will I glorify Food that upholds great strength,

By whose invigorating power Trita rent Vritra limb frorn limb. (1)

pleasant Food, Food of meath, you have we chosen for our own,

So be our kind protector you. (2)

Come over here to us, food, auspicious with auspicious help,

Health-bringing, not unkind, a dear and guileless friend. (3)

These juices which, food, are your throughout the regions are diffused.

like winds they have their place in heaven. (4)

These gifts of yours, Food, Food most sweet to taste,

These savours of your juices work like creatures that have mighty necks. (5)

In you, Food, is set the spirit of great gods.

Under your flag brave deeds were done he slew the Dragon with your help. (6)

If you be gone to the splendour of the clouds,

Even from thence, Food of meath, prepared for our enjoyment, come. (7)

Whatever morsel we consume from waters or from plants of earth, Soma, wax you fat thereby. (8)

What Soma, we enjoy from you in milky food or barley-brew, Vatapi, grow you fat thereby. (9)

Vegetable, Cake of meal, he wholesome, firm, and strengthening: Vatapi, grow you fat thereby. (10)

Food, from you as such have we drawn forth with lauds, like cows, our sacrificial gifts,

From you who banquetest with gods, from you who banquetest with us.

188 - April

WINNER of thousands, kindled, you shinest a God with gods to-day.

Bear out oblations, envoy, Sage. (1)

Child of Yourself the sacrifice is for the righteous blent with meath,

Presenting viands thousandfold. (2)

Invoked and worthy of our praise bring gods whose due is sacrifice:

You, Agni, give countless gifts. (3)

To seat a thousand heroes they eastward have strewn the grass with might,

Whereon, Adityas, you shine forth. (4)

The sovran all-imperial Doors, wide, good, many and manifold,

Have poured their streams of holy oil. (5)

With gay adornment, fair to see, in glorious beauty shine they forth:

Let Night and Morning rest them here. (6)

Let these two Sages first of all, heralds divine and eloquent,

Perform for us this sacrifice. (7)

You I address, Sarasvati, and Bharati, and Ila, all:

Urge us on to glorious fame. (8)

Tvastar the Lord has made all forms and all the cattle of the field

Cause them to multiply for us. (9)

Send to the gods, Vanaspati, yourself, the sacrificial draught:

Let Agni make the oblations sweet. (10)

Agni, preceder of the gods, is honoured with the sacred song:

He glows at offerings blest with Hail!

189 - Agni

BY goodly paths lead us to riches, Agni, God who know every sacred duty.

Remove the sin that makes us stray and wander. most ample adoration will we bring you. (1)

Lead us anew to happiness, Agni; lead us beyond all danger and affliction.

Be to us a wide broad ample castle bless, prosper on their way our sons and offspring. (2)

Far from us, Agni, put you all diseases let them strike lauds that have no saving Agni.

God, make our home again to be a b1ess ing, with all the immortal deities, Holy. (3)

Preserve us, Agni, with perpetual succour, refulgent in the dwelling which you love.

Conqueror, most youthful, let no danger touch him who praises you to-day or after. (4)

Give not us up a prey to sin, Agni, the greedy enemy that brings us trouble;

Not to the fanged that bites, not to the toothless: give not us up, you Conqueror, to the spoiler. (5)

Such as you are, born after Law, Agni when lauded give protection to our bodies,

From whosoever would reproach or injure: for you, God, rcscuest from all oppression. (6)

You, well discerning both these classes, come to men at early morn, holy Agni.

Be you obedient to man at evening, to be adorned, as keen, by eager suitors. (7)

To him have we addressed our pious speeches, I, Mana's son, to him victorious Agni.

May we gain countless riches with the sages. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

190 - Brihaspati

GLORIFY you Brihaspati, 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. (1)

On him wait songs according to the season even as a stream of pious men set moving.

Brihaspati - for he laid out the expanses - was, at the sacrifice, vast Matarisvan. (2)

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. (3)

His song of praise pervades the earth and heaven - let the wise worshipper draw it, like a courser.

These of Brihaspati, like hunters' arrows, go to the skies that change their hue like serpents. (4)

Those, God, who count you as a worthless bullock, and, wealthy sinners, live on you the Bounteous,-

On fools like these no blessing you bestowest: Brihaspati, you punishest the spiteful. (5)

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. (6)

He to whom songs of praise go forth like torrents, as rivers eddying under banks flow seaward.

Brihaspati the wise, the eager, closely looks upon both, the waters and the vessel. (7)

So has Brihaspati, great, strong and mighty, the god exceeding powerful, been brought here.

May he thus lauded give us kine and horses. May we find strengthening food in full abundance.

191 - Water. Grass. Sun

VENOMOUS, slightly venomous, or venomous aquatic worm,-

Both creatures, stinging, unobserved, with poison have infected me. (1)

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. (2)

Sara grass, Darbha, Kusara, and Sairya, Munja, Virana,

Where all these creatures dwell unseen, with poison have infected me. (3)

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. (4)

Or these, thesereptiles, are observed, like lurking thieves at evening time.

Seers of all, themselves unseen: be therefore very vigilant. (5)

Heaven is your Sire, your Mother Earth, Soma your Brother, Aditi

Your Sister: seeing all, unseen, keep still and dwell you happily. (6)

Biters of shoulder or of limb, with needle-stings, most venomous,

Unseen, whatever you may be, vanish together and be gone. (7)

Slayer of things unseen, the Sun, beheld of all, mounts, eastward, up,

Consuming all that are not seen, and evil spirits of the night. (8)

There has the Sun-God mounted up, who scorches much and everything.

Even the Aditya from the hills, all-seen, destroying things unseen. (9)

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 has turned you to sweet meath. (10)

This little bird, so very small, has swallowed all your poison up.

She will not die, nor shall we die: his path is far: he whom bay horses bear has turned you to sweet meath. (11)

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 has turned you to sweet meath. (12)

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 has turned you to sweet meath. (13)

So have the peahens three-times-seven, so have the maiden Sisters Seven

Carried your venom far away, as girls bear water in their jars. (14)

The poison-insect is so small; I crush the creature with a stone.

I turn the poison hence away, departed to distant lands. (15)

Forth issuing from the mountain's side the poison-insect spake and said:

The scorpion's venom has no strength; Scorpion, your venom is but weak.