Rig Veda on Children

23 O Sages, evermore I crave your favour: be gracious unto all my prayers, O Asvins. 24 With liberal bounty to the weakling's consorts ye, Heroes, gave a son Hiranyahasta; 25 These your heroic exploits, O ye Asvins, done in the days. of old, have men related.

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

son of Krsna, the righteous man who sought your aid and praised you, 24 Asvins, ye raised, like Soma in a ladle Rebha, who for ten days and ten nights, fettered. 25 1 have declared your wondrous deeds, O Asvins: may this be mine, and many kine and heroes.

13 We will rejoice to drink the tenfold present when the twicefive come bearing sacred viands. 14 The sea and all the Deities shall give us him with the golden car and neck bejewelled. 15 Four youthful sons of Masarsara vex me, three, of the king, the conquering Ayavasa.

2 As Priest thou sattest at the seat of worship, furthering us, best Offerer, meet for honour. 3 In thee, still watching, they have followed riches, who goest with much wealth as with an army, 4 They who approached the God's abode with homage, eager for glory, won them perfect glory: 5 On earth the people magnify thee greatly, thee their celestial and terrestrial riches. 6 Dear priest among mankind, adorable Agni hath seated him, joy−giver, skilled in worship. 7 Longing for bliss, pure−minded, God−devoted, Agni, we seek thee, such, meet to be lauded. 8 Sage of mankind, all peoples' Lord and Master, the Bull of men, the sender down of blessings, 9 Agni, the mortal who hath toiled and worshipped, brought thee oblations with his kindled fuel, 10 Mightily let us worship thee the Mighty, with reverence, Agni! fuel and oblations, 11 Thou who hast covered heaven and earth with splendour and with thy glories, glorious and triumphant. 12 Vouchsafe us ever, as man needs, O Vasu, abundant wealth of kine for son and offspring. 13 May I obtain much wealth in many places by love of thee and through thy grace, King Agni;

2 Thee, as thou art, desiring wealth Gotama worships with his song: 3 As such, like Angiras we call on thee best winner of the spoil: 4 Thee, best of Vrtra−slayers, thee who shakest off our Dasyu foes: 5 A pleasant song to Agni we, sons of Rahugana, have sung:

for gain: 27 Who will set free from ruinous woe, or Arya on the Seven Streams: 28 As to Varosusaman thou broughtest great riches, for their gain, 29 Let Narya's sacrificial meed reach Vyasva's Soma−bearing sons: 30 If one should ask thee, Where is he who sacrificed? Whither lookest thou?

2 May the Floods' Offspring, he whose course is rapid, protect that wave most rich in sweets, O Waters, 3 All−purifying, joying in their nature, to paths of Gods the Goddesses move onward. 4 Whom Surya with his bright beams hath attracted, and Indra dug the path for them to travel,

27 True undeniabIc strength he found in Yadu and in Turvasa, 28 Him have I magnified, our Lord in, common, Guardian of your folk, 29 Rbhuksan, not to be restrained, who strengthened Tugra's son in lauds, 30 Who for Trisoka clave the hill that formed a wide receptacle, 31 Whate'er thy plan or purpose be, whate'er, in transport, thou wouldst do, 32 But little hath been heard of done upon the earth by one like thee i 33 Thine then shall be this high renown, thine shall these lofty praises be, 34 Not for one trespass, not for two, O Hero, slay us, nor for three, 35 I fear one powerful like thee, the crusherdown of enemies, 36 O wealthy God, ne'er may I live to see my friend or son in need*: 37 What friend, O people, unprovoked, hath ever said unto a friend, 38 Hero, insatiate enjoy this Soma juice so near to thee, 39 Hither I draw those Bays of thine yoked 40 Drive all our enemies away, smite down the foes who press around, 41 O Tndra, that which is concealed in strong firm place precipitous: 42 Great riches which the world of men shall recognize as sent by thbe:

2 Lit with libation, Agni, thou, deathless, who callest Gods to feast, 3 With splendour, Agni, Son of Strength, thou who art worshipped, wakeful One. 4 With all thy fires, with all the Gods, Agni, exalt the songs we sing. 5 Grant, Agni, to the worshipper wealth rich in heroes, plenteous store,

2 As God comprising Gods by Law Eternal, bear, as the Chief who knoweth, our oblation, 3 When the cow's nectar wins the God completely, men here below are heaven's sustainers. 4 1 praise your work that ye may make me prosper: hear, Heaven and Earth, Twain Worlds that drop with 5 Hath the King siezed us? How have we offended against his holy ordinance? Who knoweth? 6 'Tis hard to understand the Immortal's nature, where she who is akin becomes astranger. 7 They in the synod where the Gods rejoice them, where they are seated in Vivasvan's dwelling, 8 The counsel which the Gods meet to consider, their secret plan,−of that we have no knowledge. 9 Hear us, O Agni, in your comninn dwell ing: harness thy rapid car, the car of Amrta. 2 When speeding ye came nigh us like twin sisters, religious−hearted votaries brought you forward. 3 Five paces have I risen from Earth. I follow her who hath four feet with devout observance. 4 He, for God's sake, chose death to be his portion. He chose not, for men's good, a life eternal 5 The Seven flow to the Youth on whom the Maruts wait: the Sons unto the Father brought the sacrifice.

2 Worship, thou hero, chase the arrogant afar: put on auspicious courage for the fight with foes. 3 He with his folk, his house, his family, his sons, gains booty for himself, and, with the heroes, 4 Whoso hath honoured him with offerings rich in oil, him Brahmanaspati leads forward on his way,

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

3 Parjanya is the Father of the Mighty Bird: on mountains, in earth's centre hath he made his home. 4 Thou givest pleasure as a wife delights her lord. Listen, O Child of Pajri, for to thee I speak. 5 As to the men of old thou camest, Indu unharmed, to strengthen, winning hundreds, thousands,

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

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

1 DAWN on us with prosperity, O Usas, Daughter of the Sky, 2 They, bringing steeds and kine, boon−givers of all wealth, have oft sped forth to lighten us. 3 Usas hath dawned, and now shall dawn, the Goddess, driver forth of cars 4 Here Kanva, chief of Kanva's race, sings forth aloud the glories of the heroes' names,− 5 Like a good matron Usas comes carefully tending everything: 6 She sends the busy forth, each man to his pursuit: delay she knows not as she springs. 7 This Dawn hath yoked her steeds afar, beyond the rising of the Sun: 8 To meet her glance all living creatures bend them down: Excellent One, she makes the light. 9 Shine on us with thy radiant light, O Usas, Daughter of the Sky, 10 For in thee is each living creature's breath and life, when, Excellent! thou dawnest forth. 11 O Usas, win thyself the strength which among men is wonderful. 12 Bring from the firmament, O Usas, all the Gods, that they may drink our Soma juice, 13 May Usas whose auspicious rays are seen resplendent round about, 14 Mighty One, whom the Rsis of old time invoked for their protection and their help, 15 Usas, as thou with light to day hast opened the twin doors of heaven, 16 Bring us to wealth abundant, sent in every shape, to plentiful refreshing food,

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

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

2 O Gods, Adityas, well ye know the way to keep all woes afar. 3 As the birds spread their sheltering wings let your protection cover us. 4 To whomsoever they, Most Wise, have given a home and means of life, 5 As drivers of the car avoid ill roads, let sorrows pass us by. 6 For verily men sink and faint through loss of wealth which ye have given. 7 On him shall no fierce anger fall, no sore distress shall visit him, 8 Resting in you, O Gods, we are like men who fight in coats of mail. 9 May Aditi defend us, may Aditi guard and shelter us, 10 The shelter, Gods, that is secure, auspicious, free from malady, 11 Look down on us, Adityas, as a guide exploring from the bank. 12 Ill be it for the demons' friend to find us or come near to us. 13 Each evil deed made manifest, and that which is concealed, O Gods, 14 Daughter of Heaven, the dream that bodes evil to us or to our kine, 15 Even if, O Child of Heaven, it make a garland or a chain of gold, 16 To him whose food and work is this, who comes to take his share therein, 17 As we collect the utmost debt, even the eighth and sixteenth part, 18 Now have we conquered and obtained, and from our trespasses are free.

2 Great in tby power and wisdom, Strong, with thought that comprehendeth all 3 Thou very Mighty One, whose hands by virtue of thy greatness grasp, 4 Your Lord of might that ne'er hath bent, that ruleth over all mankind, 5 Whom, ever furthering, in frays that win the light, in both the hosts 6 Indra, the Strong, the measureless, worthy of praise, Most Bountiful, 7 Him, for his ample bounty, him, this Indra do I urge to drink, 8 Thou Mighty One, whose friendship none of mortals ever hath obtained 9 Aided by thee, with thee allied, in frays for water and for sun, 10 So seek we thee with sacrifice and songs, chief Lover of the Song, 11 O Thunderer, thou whose friendship and whose onward guidance both are sweet, 12 To us, ourselves, give ample room, give for our dwelling ample room 13 We count the banquet of the Gods a spacious pathway for the men, 14 Six men, yea, two and two, made glad with Soma juice, come near to me 15 Two brown−hued steeds, Indrota's gift, two bays from Rksa's son were mine, 16 From Atithigva good car−steeds; from Arksa rein−obeying steeds, 17 Indrota, Atithigva's son, gave me six horses matched with mares 18 Marked above all, amid the brown, is the red mare Vrsanvati, 19 O bound to me by deeds of might, not even the man who loves to blame.

2 Adhvaryus, he ye ready with oblations,, and come with longing to the longing Waters, 3 Go to the reservoir, O ye Adhvaryus worship the Waters' Child with your oblations. 4 He who shines bright in floods, unfed with fuel, whom sages worship at their sacrifices: 5 Those in which Soma joys and is delighted, as a young man with fair and pleasant damsels. 6 So maidens bow before the youthful gallant who comes with love to them who yearn to meet him. 7 He who made room for you when fast imprisoned, who freed you from the mighty imprecation,− 8 Send forth to him the meath−rich wave, O Rivers, which is your offspring and a well of sweetness, 9 Send forth the rapture−giving wave, O Rivers, which Indra drinks, which sets the Twain in motion; 10 These winding Streams which with their double current, like cattle−raiders, seek the lower pastures,− 11 Send forth our sacrifice with holy worship send forth the hymn and prayer for gain of riches. 12 For, wealthy Waters, ye control all treasures: ye bring auspicious intellect and Amrta. 13 When I behold the Waters coming hither, carrying with them milk and mcath and butter, 14 Rich, they are come with wealth for living beings, O friends, Adhvaryus, seat them in their places. 15 Now to this grass are come the longing Waters: the Pious Ones are seated at our worsh

2 Indra and Agni, Hero−lords when Vrtra fell, dwelling together, speeding emulously on, 3 Skilled in the Law I lift the hymn of praise to these, Law−strengtheners, unassailed, and great in majest 4 They with their might have stayed Heaven, Earth, and Prthivi, the Lord of Light, the firmament, −the 5 Bring gifts to Mitra and to Varuna who, Lords of all, in spirit never fail the worshipper, 6 The cow who yielding milk goes her appointed way hither to us as leader of holy rites, 7 The Gods whose tongue is Agni dwell in heaven, and sit, aiders of Law, reflecting, in the seat of Law. 8 Born in the oldest time, the Parents dwelling round are sharers of one mansion in the home of Law. 9 Parjanya, Vata, mighty, senders of the rain, Indra and Vayu, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 10 Tvastar and Vayu, those who count as Rbhus, both celestial Hotar−priests, and Dawn for happiness, 11 They generated prayer, the cow, the horse, the plants, the forest trees, the earth, the waters, and the hill 12 O Asvins, ye delivered Bhujyu from distress, ye animated Syava, Vadhrmati's son. 13 Thunder, the lightning's daughter, Aja−Ekapad, heaven's bearer, Sindhu, and the waters of the sea: 14 With Holy Thoughts and with Purandhi may all Gods, knowing the Law immortal, Manu's Holy Ones, 15 Immortal Gods have I, Vasistha, lauded, Gods set on high above all other beings.

2 Bringing the pleasant mcath as 'twere their own dear son, they sport in sportive wise gay at their gatheri 3 To whomsoever, bringer of oblations, they immortal guardians, have given plenteous wealth, 4 Ye who with mighty powers have stirred the regions up, your coursers have sped forth directed by 5 When they in dazzling rush have made the mountains roar, and shaken heaven's high back in their heroi 6 Terrible Maruts, ye with ne'er−diminished host, with grcat benevolence fulfil our heart's desire. 7 Givers of during gifts whose bounties never fail, free from ill−will, at sacrifices glorified, 8 With castles hundredfold, O Maruts, guard ye well the man whom ye have loved from ruin and from sin 9 O Maruts, in your cars are all things that are good: great powers are set as 'twere in rivalry therein. 10 Held in your manly arms are many goodly things, gold chains are on your chests, and glistering 11 Mighty in mightiness, pervading, passing strong, visible from afar as 'twere with stars of heaven, 12 This is your majesty, ye Maruts nobly born, far as the sway of Adid your bounty spreads. 13 This is your kinship, Maruts, that, Immortals, ye were oft in olden time regardful of our call, 14 That, O ye Maruts, we may long time flourish through your abundant riches, O swift movers, 15 May this your laud, may this your song, O Maruts, sung by the poet, Mana's son, Mandarya,

2 These Brahmanaspati produced with blast and smelting, like a Smith, 3 Existence, in the earliest age of Gods, from Non−existence sprang. 4 Earth sprang from the Productive Power the regions from the earth were born. 5 For Aditi, O Daksa, she who is thy Daughter, was brought forth. 6 When ye, O Gods, in yonder deep closeclasping one another stood,

2 Be his days ended, be he now departed, be he brought very near to death already, 3 With hundred−eyed oblation, hundred−autumned, bringing a hundred lives, have I restored him, 4 Live, waxing in thy strength, a hundred autumns, live through a hundred springs, a hundred winters. 5 So have I found and rescued thee thou hast returned with youth renewed.

2 Well knoweth Savitar, O Child of Waters, where ocean, firmly fixt, o'erflowed its limit. 3 Then, with a full crowd of Immortal Beings, this other realm came later, high and holy. 4 As warriors to their steeds, kine to their village, as fond milk giving cows approach their youngling, 5 Like the Angirasa Hiranvastupa, I call thee, Savitar, to this achievement:

2 Ye, Indra−Soma, gave her light to Morning, and led the Sun on high with all his splendour. 3 Ye slew the flood −obstructing serpent Vrtra, Indra and Soma: Heaven approved your exploit. 4 Ye in the unripe udders of the milch−kine have set the ripe milk, Indra, thou, and Soma. 5 Verily ye bestow, Indra and Soma, wealth, famed, victorious, passing to our children.

2 For not an enemy molests the paths which these Adityas tread: 3 Now soon may Bhaga, Savitar, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman 4 With Gods come thou whose fostering care none checks, O Goddesss Aditi: 5 For well these Sons of Aditi know to keep enmities aloof, 6 Aditi guard our herd by day, Aditi, free from guile, by night, 7 And in the day our hymn is this: May Aditi come nigh to help, 8 And may the Asvins, the divine Pair of Physicians, send us health: 9 May Agni bless us with his fires, and Surya warm us pleasantly: 10 Drive ye disease and strife away, drive ye away malignity: 11 Remove from us the arrow, keep famine, Adityas! far away: 12 Now, O Adityas, grant to us the shelter that lets man go free, 13 Whatever mortal with the powe r of demons fain would injure us, 14 May sin o'ertake our human foe, the man who speaketh evil thing, 15 Gods, ye are with the simple ones, ye know each mortal in your hearts; 16 Fain would we have the sheltering aid of mountains and of water−floods: 17 So with auspicious sheltering aid do ye, O Vasus, carry us 18 Adityas, ye Most Mighty Ones, grant to our children and their seed 19 Sacrifice, O Adityas, is your inward monitor: be kind, 20 The Maruts' high protecting aid, the Asvins, and the God who saves, 21 Grant us a home with triple guard, Aryaman, Mitra, Varuna! 22 And as we human beings, O Adityas, are akin to death,

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

2 Poured forth to Indra, Varuna, to Vayu and the Marut hosts, 3 With stones they press the Soma forth, the Strong conducted by the strong: 4 'Tis he whom Trita must refine, 'tis he who shall make Indra glad: 5 Him do the Sons of Prsni milk, the dwelling−place of sacrifice, 6 To him in one unitcd stream th−,se songs flow on straight forward. he,

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

2 All men are joyful in thy power, O God, that living from the dry wood thou art born. 3 Strong is the thought of Law, the Law's behest; all works have they performed; he quickens all. 4 Seated as Priest with Manu's progeny, of all these treasures he alone is Lord. 5 Eagerly they who hear his word fulfil his wish as sons obey their sire's behest.

2 May Aditi welcome, even as a mother her dear heart−gladdening son, my song that lauds her. 3 In spirit him, the Sagest of the Sages; with sacrificial oil and meath bedew him 4 With willing mind, Indra, vouchsafe us cattle, prosperity, Lord of Bays! and pious patrons; 5 God Bhaga, Savitar who deals forth riches, Indra, and they who conquer Vrtra's treasures, 6 Let us declare his deeds, the undecaying unrivalled Victor whom the Maruts follow. 7 Praise him the Chief who gives the boon of riches, Brhaspati distributor of treasures, 8 Tended, Brhaspati, with thy protections, the princes are unharmed and girt by heroes. 9 Make their wealth flee who, through our hymns enjoying their riches, yield us not an ample guerdon. 10 With wheelless chariots drive down him, O Maruts, who at the feasts of Gods regards the demons. 11 Praise him whose bow is strong and sure his arrow, him who is Lord of every balm that bealeth. 12 May the House−friends, the cunning−handed Artists, may the Steer's Wives, the streams carved out by 13 My newest song, thought that now springs within me, I offer to the Great, the Sure Protector, 14 Now, even now, may thy fair praise, O Singer, attain Idaspati who roars and thunders, 15 May this my laud attain the troop of Maruts, those who are youths in act, the Sons of Rudra. 16 May this my laud reach earth and air's mid−region, and forest trees and plants to win me riches. 17 Gods, may we dwell in free untroubled bliss. 18 May we obtain the Asvins' newest favour, and gain their health−bestowing happy guidance.

2 Or if for Manu.ye prepared the sacrifice, remember also Kanva's son. 3 Those Asvins I invoke who work marvels, brought hither to receive, 4 On whom the solemn rites depend, whose worshippers rise without the Sun: 5 Whether ye, Lords of ample wealth, now linger in the cast or west, 6 Lords of great riches, whether through the firmament ye fly or speed through heaven and earth,

2 Agni, the Sage, the humble, who discerns like the cow's udder, the sweet taste of food, 3 Born in the dwelling like a lovely son, pleased, like a strong steed, he bears on the folk. 4 None breaks these holy laws of thine when thou hast granted audience to these chieftains here. 5 Like the Dawn's lover, spreading light, well−known as hued like morn, may he remember me.

2 Come hither, Agni; sit thee down as Hotar; be thou who never wast deceived our leader. 3 Burn thou up all the Riksasas, O Agni; ward thou off curses from our sacrifices. 4 Thou Priest with lip and voice that bring us children hast been invoked. Here with the Gods be seated. 5 As with oblations of the priestly Manus thou worshippedst the Gods, a Sage with sages,

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

2 Cyavana, purposing deceptive presents, with all ingredients, made the altar ready. 3 To his oblations, swift as thought, ye hurried, and welcomed eagerly the prayers he offered. 4 I call on you the Sons of Dyaus, the Asvins, that a dark cow to my red kine be added. 10 Uttering praise to suit the rite Navagvas came speedily to win the damsel's friendship. 11 Swift was new friendship with the maid they quickly accepted it as genuine seed and bounty. 12 When afterwards they woke− and missed the cattle, the speaker thus in joyful mood addressed them: 13 His followers then who dwelt in sundry places came and desired too slay the son of Nrsad. 14 Thou, called Effulgence, in whose threefold dwelling, as in the light of heaven, the Gods are sitting, 15 And, Indra, bring, that I may laud and serve them, those Two resplendent glorious Nasatyas, 16 This King is praised and honoured as Ordainer: himself the bridge, the Sage speeds o'er the waters. 17 Vaitarana, doubly kinsman, sacrificer, shall milk the cow who ne'er hath calved, Sabardhu, 18 Their kin, the Prince in heaven, thy nearest kinsman, turning his thought to thee thus speaks in kindnes 19 Here is my kinship, here the place I dwell in: these are my Gods; I in full strength am present. 20 So mid these tribes he rests, the friendly envoy, borne on two paths, refulgent Lord of fuel. 21 Then went the milch−kine forth to please the damsel, and for the good of every man that liveth. 22 And take thou notice of us also, Indra, for ample riches, King whose arm wields thunder!

2 The will and thoughts within my breast exert their power: they yearn with love, and fly to all the regions 3 To Narasamsa and to Pusan I sing forth, unconcealable Agni kindied by the Gods. 4 How is the Sage extolled whom the loud singers praise? What voice, what hymn is used to laud Brhaspa 5 Aditi, to the birth of Daksa and the vow thou summonest the Kings Mitra and Varuna. 6 May all those vigorous Coursers listen to our cry, hearers of invocation, speeding on their way; 7 Bring ye Purandbi, bring Vayu who yokes his steeds, for friendship bring ye Pusan with your songs of 8 The thrice−seven wandering Rivers, yea, the mighty floods, the forest trees, the mountains, Agni to our 9 Let the great Streams come hither with their mighty help, Sindhu, Sarasvati, and Sarayu with waves. 10 And let Brhaddiva, the Mother, hear our call, and Tvastar, Father, with the Goddesses and Dames. 11 Pleasant to look on as a dwelling rich in food is the blest favour of the Maruts, Rudra's Sons. 12 The thought which ye, O Maruts, Indra and ye Gods have given to me, and ye, Mitra and Varuna,− 13 O Maruts, do ye never, never recollect and call again to mind this our relationship? 14 The Mothers, Heaven and Earth, those mighty Goddesses, worthy of sacrifice, ecune with the race of 15 This invocation wins all good that we desire Brhaspati, highly−praised Aramati, are here, 16 Thus hath the sage, skilled in loud singers' duties, desiring riches, yearning after treasure, 17 Thus hath the thoughtful sage the son of Plati, praised you, O Aaiti and all Adityas.

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

2 Great art thou, Mighty Lord, through manly vigour, O fierce One, gathering spoil, subduing others, 3 He hath surpassed all measure in his brightness, yea, and the Gods, for none may be his equal. 4 To Indra, even as rivers to the ocean, flow forth from days of old the Soma juices; 5 The Soma, Indra, which the earth and heaven bear for thee as a mother bears her infant,

2 The fire well−kindIed sings aloud to greet her, and with their hymns the priests are chaming welcome. 3 Apparent eastward are those lights of Morning, sending out lustre, as they rise, around them. 4 Rich Daughter of the Sky, we all behold her, yea, all men look on Dawn as she is breaking. 5 Inspired with loving thoughts this day to greet thee, we and our wealthy nobles have awakened.

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

2 Wait, Maruts, Heroes, upon him the Prosperer in whom is bliss−increasing wealth; 3 As such, O Agni, deal us wealth and hero might, O Bounteous One! 4 He who made all that lives, who passes all in might, who orders service to the Gods, 5 Give us not up to indigence, Agni, nor want of hero sons, 6 Help us to strength, blest Agni! rich in progeny, abundant, in our sacrifice.

2 For thou art offering−bearer and loved messenger, the charioteer of sacrifice: 3 As messenger we choose to−day Agni the good whom many love, 4 Him noblest and most youthful, richly worshipped guest, dear to the men who offer gifts, 5 Thee, Agni, will I glorify, deathless nourisher of the world, 6 Tell good things to thy praiser, O most youthful God, as richly worshipped, honey−tongued, 7 For the men, Agni, kindle thee as all possessor and as Priest; 8 At dawn of day, at night, Usas and Savitar, the Asvins, Bhaga, Agni's self: 9 For, Agni, Lord of sacrifice and messenger of men art thou: 10 Thou shonest forth, O Agni, after former dawns, all visible, O rich in light. 11 Like Manu, we will stablish thee, Agni, performer of the rite, 12 When as the Gods' High Priest, by many loved, thou dost their mission as their nearest Friend, 13 Heat−, Agni, who hast ears to hear, with all thy train of escort Gods; 14 Let those who strengthen Law, who bountiUly give, the life−tongued Maruts, hear our praise. 2 Agni, the Gods who understand give ear unto the worshipper: 3 O Jatavedas, great in act, hearken thou to Praskanva's call, 4 The sons of Priyamedha skilled in lofty praise have called for help 5 Hear thou, invoked withholy oil, bountiful giver of rewards, 6 O Agni, loved by many, thou of fame most wondrous, in their homes 7 Thee, Agni, best to find out wealth, most widely famous, quick to hear, 8 Singers with Soma pressed have made thee, Agni, hasten to the feast, 9 Good, bounteous, Son of Strength, this day seat here on sacred grass the Gods 10 Bring with joint invocations thou, O Agni, the celestial host:

2 So, too, like charioteers are they, Mitra and sapient Varuna, 3 These Twain, possessors of all wealth, most glorious, for supremest sway 4 Great Varuna and Mitra, Gods, Asuras and imperial Lords, 5 The offspring of a lofty Power, Daksa's Two Sons exceeding strong, 6 Ye who have gathered up your gifts, celestial and terrestrial food, 7 The Twain, who from the lofty sky seem to look down on herds below, 8 They, true to Law, exceeding strong, have sat them down for savran rule: 9 Pathfinders even better than the eye, with unobstructed sight, 10 So may the Goddess Aditi, may the Nasatyas guard us well, 11 Do ye, O Bounteous Gods, protect our dwelling lace by day and night: 12 May we, unharmed, serve bountiful Visnu, the God who slayeth none: 13 This sure protection we elect, desirable and reaching far, 14 And may the Sindhu of the floods, the Maruts, and the ASvin Pair, 15 Because these warring Heroes stay the enmity of every foe, 16 Here this one God, the Lord of men, looks forth exceeding far and wide: 17 We keep the old accustomed laws, the statutes of supremacy, 18 He who hath measured with his ray the boundaries of heaven and earth, 19 Surya hath spread his light aloft up to the region of the sky, 20 With him who sits afar the word is lord of food that comes from kine, 21 So unto Surya, Heaven, and Earth at morning and at eve I speak. 22 From Uksanyayana a bay, from Harayana a white steed, 23 These two shall bring me further gain of troops of tawny−coloured steeds, 24 And the two sages have I gained who hold the reins and bear the whip,

2 Widely−capacious Pair, mighty, that never fail, the Father and the Mother keep all creatures safe: 3 Son of these Parents, he the Priest with power to cleanse, Sage, sanctifies the worlds with his surpassing 4 Among the skilful Gods most skilled is he, who made the two world−halves which bring prosperity to al 5 Extolled in song, O Heaven and Earth, bestow on us, ye mighty Pair, great glory and high lordly sway,

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

2 What am I now to do with this thy saying? I have gone from thee like the first of Mornings. 3 Like a shaft sent for glory from the quiver, or swift−steed winning cattle winning hundreds. 4 Giving her husband's father life and riches, from the near dwelling, when her lover craved her, 5 Thrice in the day didst thou embrace thy consort, though coldly she received thy fond caresses. 6 The maids Sujirni, Sreni, Sumne−api, Charanyu, Granthini, and Hradecaksus,− 7 While he was born the Dames sate down together, the Rivers with free kindness gave him nurture; 8 When I, a mortal, wooed to mine embraces these heavenly nymphs who laid aside their raiment, 9 When, loving these Immortal Ones, the mortal hath converse with the nymphs as they allow him. 10 She who flashed brilliant as the falling lightning brought me delicious presents from the waters. 11 Thy birth hath made me drink from earthly milch−kine: this power, Pururavas, hast thou vouchsafed m 12 When will the son be born and seek his father? Mourner−like, will he weep when first he knows him? 13 I will console him when his tears are falling: he shall not weep and cry for care that blesses. 14 Thy lover shall flee forth this day for ever, to seek, without return, the farthest distance. 15 Nay, do not die, Pururavas, nor vanish: let not the evil−omened wolves devour thee. 16 When amid men in altered shape I sojourned, and through four autumns spent the nights among them, 17 I, her best love, call Urvasi to meet me, her who fills air and measures out the region. 18 Thus speak these Gods to thee, O son of Ila: As death hath verily got thee for his subject,

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

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

2 He who with dainty food hath won you, Indra and Varuna, Gods, as his allies to friendship, 3 Indra and Varuna are most liberal givers of treasure to the men who toil to serve them, 4 Indra and Varuna, ye hurl, O Mighty, on him your strongest flashing bolt of thunder 5 O Indra−Varuna, be ye the lovers of this my song, as steers who love the milch−Cow. 6 For fertile fields, for worthy sons and grandsons, for the Sun's beauty and for steer−like vigour, 7 For you, as Princes, for your ancient kindness, good comrades of the man who seeks for booty, 8 Showing their strength, these hymns for grace, Free−givers I have gone to you, devoted, as to battle. 9 To Indra and to Varuna, desirous of gaining wealth have these my thoughts proceeded. 10 May we ourselves be lords of during riches, of ample sustenance for car and hones. 11 Come with your mighty succours, O ye Mighty; come, Indra−Varuna, to us in battle. 2 I am King Varuna. To me were given these first existinghigh celestial powers. 3 I Varuna am Indra: in their greatness, these the two wide deep fairly−fashioned regions, 4 I made to flow the moisture−shedding waters, and set the heaven firm in the scat of Order. 5 Heroes with noble horses, fain for battle, selected warriors, call on me in combat. 6 All this I did. The Gods' own conquering power never impedeth me whom none opposeth. 7 All beings know these deeds of thine thou tellest this unto Varuna, thou great Disposer! 8 Our fathers then were these, the Seven his, what time the son of Durgaha was captive. 9 The spouse of Purukutsa gave oblations to you, O Indra−Varuna, with homage. 10 May we, possessing much, delight in riches, Gods in oblations and the kine in pasture;

2 Seven to the one−wheeled chariot yoke the Courser; bearing seven names the single Courser draws it. 3 The seven who on the seven−wheeled car are mounted have horses, seven in tale, who draw them onwa 4 Who hath beheld him as he sprang to being, seen how the boneless One supports the bony? 5 Unripe in mind, in spirit undiscerning, I ask of these the Gods' established places; For up above the year 6 I ask, unknowing, those who know, the sages, as one all ignorant for sake of knowledge, 7 Let him who knoweth presently declare it, this lovely Bird's securely founded station. 8 The Mother gave the Sire his share of Order: with thought, at first, she wedded him in spirit. 9 Yoked was the Mother to the boon Cow's car−pole: in the dank rows of cloud the Infant rested. 10 Bearing three Mothers and three Fathers, single he stood erect: they never make him weary. 11 Formed with twelve spokes, by length of time, unweakened, rolls round the heaven this wheel of durin 12 They call him in the farther half of heaven the Sire five−footed, of twelve forms, wealthy in watery sto 13 Upon this five−spoked wheel revolving ever all living creatures rest and are dependent. 14 The wheel revolves, unwasting, with its felly: ten draw it, yoked to the far−stretching car−pole. 15 Of the co−born they call the seventh single−born; the six twin pairs are called Rsis, Children of Gods. 16 They told me these were males, though truly females: he who hath eyes sees this, the blind discerns no 17 Beneath the upper realm, above this lower, bearing her calf at foot the Cow hath risen. 18 Who, that the father of this Calf discerneth beneath the upper realm, above the lower, 19 Those that come hitherward they call departing, those that depart they call directed hither.

2 May Mitra, Varuna, Aryaman, and Ayu, Indra Rbhuksan, and the Maruts, love us, 3 You will I call to feed the car−horse, Asvins, with the wind's flight swiftest of those who travel: 4 The heavenly Victor, he whose priest is Kanva, Trta with Dyaus accordant, Vata, Agni, 5 Bring ye your riches forward borne on horses: let thought be framed for help and gain of treasure. 6 Bring hither him who yokes the car, your Vayu, who praises with his songs, the God and Singer; 7 I speed to you with powers that should be honoured, with songs distinguishing Heaven's mighty Daught 8 You I extol, the nourishers of heroes bringing you gifts, Vastospati and Tvastar− 9 Ours be the Parvatas, even they, for offspring, free−moving, who are Heroes like the Vasus. 10 Trta praised him, germ of the earthly hero, with pure songs him the Offspring of the Waters. 11 How shall we speak to the great might of Rudra? How speak to Bhaga who takes thought for riches? 12 May the swift Wanderer, Lord of refreshments listen to our songs, who speeds throuih cloudy heaven: 13 We know your ways, ye Mighty Ones receiving choice meed, ye Wonderful, we will proclaim it. 14 Celestial and terrestrial generations, and Waters will I summon to the feasting. 15 Duly to each one hath my laud been offered. Strong be Varutri with her powers to succour. 16 How may we serve the Liberal Ones with worship, the Maruts swift of course in invocation, the Marut 17 Thus thinking, O ye Gods, the mortal wins you to give him increase of his herds of cattle: the mortal w 18 O Gods, may we obtain from you this favour, strengthening food through the Cow's praise, ye Vasus. 19 May Ila, Mother of the herds of cattle, and Urvasi with all the streams accept us;

2 Surya's great ensign, restless as the billow, that urgeth men to action, is advancing: 3 Refulgent from the bosom of the Mornings, he in Whom singers take delight ascendeth. 4 Golden, far−seeing, from the heaven he riseth: far is his goal, he hasteth on resplendent. 5 Where the irrunortals have prepared his pathway he flieth through the region like a falcon. 6 Now Mitra, Varuna, Aryaman vouchsafe us freedom and room, for us and for our children.

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

2 Now whither? To what goal of yours go ye in heaven, and not on earth? 3 Where are your newest favours shown? Where, Maruts, your prosperity? 4 If, O ye Maruts, ye the Sons whom Prsni bore, were mortal, and 5 Then never were your praiser loathed like a wild beast in pasture−land, 6 Let not destructive plague on plague hard to be conquered, strike its down: 7 Truly, they the fierce and mighty Sons of Rudra send their windless 8 Like a cow the lightning lows and follows, motherlike, her youngling, 9 When they inundate the earth they spread forth darkness e'en in day time, 10 O Maruts, at your voice's sound this earthly habitation shakes, 11 O Maruts, with your strong−hoofed steeds, unhindered in their courses, haste 12 Firm be the fellies of your wheels, steady your horses and your cars, 13 Invite thou hither with this song, for praise, Agni the Lord of Prayer, 14 Form in thy mouth the hymn of praise expand thee like, a rainy cloud 15 Sing glory to the Marut host, praiseworthy, tuneful, vigorous: 1 WHEN thus, like flame, from far away, Maruts, ye cast your measure forth, 2 Strong let your weapons be to drive away your foes, firm for resistance let them be. 3 When what is strong ye overthrow, and whirl about each ponderous thing, 4 Consumers of your foes, no enemy of yours is found in heaven or on the earth: 5 They make the mountains rock and reel, they rend the forest−kings apart. 6 Ye to your chariot have yoked the spotted deer: a red deer, as a leader, draws. 7 O Rudras, quickly we desire your succour for this work of ours. 8 Should any monstrous foe, O Maruts, sent by you or sent by mortals threaten us, 9 For ye, the worshipful and wise, have guarded Kanva perfectly. 10 Whole strength have ye, O Bounteous Ones; perfect, earth−shakers, is your might.

2 The Holy, whose are earth and heaven, and succour waits upon his strength; 3 He is the Sage who guides these men, Leader of sacred rites is he. 4 So may the gracious Agni grant most goodly shelter for our use; 5 The singers kindle him, the Priest, Agni the Lord of tribes of men, 6 Help us, thou Brahman, best of all invokers of the Gods in song. 7 Yea, grant us treasure thousandfold with children and with nourishm

2 The Son left not his portion to the brother, he made a home to hold him who should gain, it. 3 Agni was born trembling with tongue that flickered, so that the Red's great children should be honoured. 4 Conquering bands upon the Warrior waited: they recognized great light from out the darkness. 5 The sages freed them from their firmbuilt prison: the seven priests drove them forward with their spirit. 6 When Sarama had found the mountain's fissure, that vast and ancient place she plundered thoroughly. 7 Longing for friendship came the noblest singer: the hill poured forth its treasure for the pious. 8 Peer of each noble thing, yea, all excelling, all creatures doth he know, he slayeth Susna. 9 They sate them down with spirit fain for booty, making with hymns a way to life eternal. 10 Drawing the milk of ancient seed prolific, they joyed as they beheld their own possession. 11 Indra drove forth the kine, that Vrtra−slayer, while hymns of praise rose up and gifts were offered. 12 They made a mansion for their Father, deftly provided him a great and glorious dwelling; 13 What time the ample chalice had impelled him, swift waxing, vast, to pierce the earth and heaven,− 14 I crave thy powers, I crave thy mighty friendship: full many a team goes to the Vrtra−slayer. 15 He, having found great, splendid, rich dominion, sent life and motion to his friends and lovers. 16 Vast, the House−Friend, he set the waters flowing, all−lucid, widely spread, that move together. 17 To thee proceed the dark, the treasure−holders, both of them sanctified by Surya's bounty. 18 Be Lord of joyous songs, O Vrtra−slayer, Bull dear to all, who gives the power of living. 19 Like Angiras I honour him with worship, and renovate old song for him the Ancient. 20 Far forth are spread the purifying waters convey thou us across them unto safety.