Rig Veda on Creation

2 The Everlasting Pair, with full streams, rich in milk, in their pure rule pour fatness for the pious man. 3 Whoso, for righteous life, pours offerings to you, O Heaven and Earth, ye Hemispheres, that man succe 4 Enclosed in fatness, Heaven and Earth are bright therewith: they mingle with the fatness which they still 5 May Heaven and Earth pour down the balmy rain for us, balm−dropping, yielding balm, with balm upo 6 May Heaven and Earth make food swell plenteously for us, all−knowing Father, jother, wondrous in the

2 Death was not then, nor was there aught immortal: no sign was there, the day's and night's divider. 3 Darkness there was: at first concealed in darknew this All was indiscriminated chaos. 4 Thereafter rose Desire in the beginning, Desire, the primal seed and germ of Spirit. 5 Transversely was their severing line extended: what was above it then, and what below it? 6 Who verily knows and who can here declare it, whence it was born and whence comes this creation? 7 He, the first origin of this creation, whether he formed it all or did not form it,

2 From that same billowy flood of sea the Year was afterwards produced, 3 Dhatar, the great Creator, then formed in due order Sun and Moon.

2 Indra and Pusan, deft of hand and mighty, well−pleased have drained the heaven's exhaustless udder. 3 Fain to lend vigour to the Bull, the siste.. with reverence recognize the germ within him. 4 Fixing with thought, at sacrifice, the press−stones, I bid the well−formed Heaven and Earth come hither 5 Agni, thy meath−sweet tongue that tastes fair viands, which among Gods is called the far−extended,− 6 Let thy stream give us drink, O God, O Agni, wonderful and exhaustless like the rain−clouds.

2 To mighty Heaven and Earth I sing forth loudly: my wish goes out desirous and well knowing 3 O Heaven and Earth, may your great law he faithful: he ye our leaders for our high advantage. 4 Yea, holy Heaven and Earth, the ancient sages whose word was ever true had power to find you; 5 What pathway leadeth to the Gods? Who knoweth this of a truth, and who will now declare it? 6 The Sage who looketh on mankind hath viewed them bedewed, rejoicing in the seat of Order. 7 Partners though parted, with far−distant limits, on one firm place both stand for ever watchful, 8 All living things they part and keep asunder; though bearing up the mighty Gods they reel not. 9 Afar the Ancient from of old I ponder, our kinship with our mighty Sire and Father,− 10 This laud, O Heaven and Earth, to you I utter: let the kind−hearted hear, whose tongue is Agni, 11 The fair−tongued Savitar, the golden−handed, comes thrice from heaven as Lord in our assembly. 12 Deft worker, skiful−handed, helpful, holy, may Tvastar, God, give us these things to aid us, 13 Borne on their flashing car, the spear−armed Maruts, the nimble Youths of Heaven, the Sons of Order, 14 To Visnu rich in marvels, songs And praises shall go as singers on the road of Bhaga,− 15 Indra, who rules through all his powers heroic, hath with his majesty filled earth and heaven. 16 My Sires are the Nasatyas, kind tokinsmen: the Asvins' kinship is a glorious title. 17 This is, ye Wise, your great and glorious title, that all ye Deities abide in Indra. 18 Aryaman, Aditi deserve our worship: the laws of Varuna remain unbroken. 19 May the Gods' envoy, sent to many a quarter, proclaim us sinless for our perfect safety. 20 Hear us the mouatains which distil the rain−drops, and, resting firm, rejoice in freshening moisture. 21 Soft be our path for ever, well−provisioned: with pleasant meath, O Gods, the herbs besprinkle. 22 Enjoy the offering: beam thou strength upon us; combine thou for our good all kinds of glory.

2 The Goddesses with Gods, holy with holy, the Two stand pouring out their rain, exhaustless: 3 Sure in the worlds he was a skilful Craftsman, he who produced these Twain the Earth and Heaven. 4 O Heaven and Earth, with one accord promoting, with high protection as of Queens, our welfare, 5 To both of you, O Heaven and Earth, we bring our lofty song of praise, 6 Ye sanctify each other's form, by your own proper might ye rule, 7 Furthering and fulfilling, ye, O Mighty, perfect Mitra's Law.

2 Thine is the Herald's, thine the Cleanser's office, thinker art thou, wealth−giver, true to Order. 3 To the Gods' pathway have we travelled, ready to execute what work we may accomplish. 4 When we most ignorant neglect the statutes of you, O Deities with whom is knowledge, 5 When, weak in mind, of feeble understanding, mortals bethink them not of sacrificing, 6 Because the Father hath produced thee, Leader of all our solemn rites, their brilliant Banner: 7 Thou whom the Heaven and Earth, thou whom the Waters, and Tvastar, maker of fair things, created,

2 He made the heaven and earth resplendent by his birth: Child of two Mothers he was meet to be implore 3 Within the range of their surpassinq power, by might, the Gods created Agni with inventive thought. 4 Eager to gain, we crave from him the friendly God strength confident, choiceworthy meet to be extolled 5 For happiness, men, having trimmed the sacred grass, set Agni glorious for his strength before them her 6 Around thy dwelling−place, O brightly−shining Priest, are men at sacrifice, whose sacred grass is trimm 7 He hath filled heaven and earth and the great realm of light, when at his birth the skilful held him in thei 8 Honour the oblation−bearer, him who knows fair rites, serve ye the Household Friend who knows all thi 9 They who are free from death, fain for him, purified three splendours of the mighty Agni, circling all. 10 Man's sacrificial food hath sharpened like an axe, for brightness, him the Sage of men, the people's Lor 11 He stirs with life in wombs dissimilar in kind, born as a Lion or a loudly−bellowing Bull: 12 Vaisvanara, as of old, mounted the cope of heaven, heaven's ridge, well greeted, by those skilled in no 13 For new prosperity we seek to Agni, him whose course is splendid, gold−haired, excellently bright, 14 As pure and swift of course, beholder of the light, who stands in heaven's bright sphere a sign, who wa 15 The cheerful Priest, the pure, in whom no guile is found, Friend of the House, praise−worthy, dear to a

2 Giver of vital breath, of power and vigour, he whose commandments all the Gods acknowledge −. 3 Who by his grandeur hath become Sole Ruler of all the moving world that breathes and slumbers; 4 His, through his might, are these snow−covered mountains, and men call sea and Rasa his possession: 5 By him the heavens are strong and earth is stedfast, by him light's realm and sky−vault are supported: 6 To him, supported by his help, two armies embattled look while trembling in their spirit, 7 What time the mighty waters came, containing the universal germ, producing Agni, 8 He in his might surveyed the floods containing productive force and generating Worship. 9 Neer may he harm us who is earth's Begetter, nor he whose laws are sure, the heavens' Creator, 10 Prajapati! thou only comprehendest all these created things, and none beside thee.

2 Thou at thy birth didst fill both earth and heaven, yea, Most Adorable, thou didst exceed them. 3 Both Heaven and Earth and Gods who should be worshipped establish thee as Priest for every dwelling, 4 Firm in the Gods' home is the Mighty seated, between vast Heaven and Earth the well−beloved− 5 Great are the deeds of thee, the Great, O Agni: thou by thy power hast spread out earth and heaven. 6 Bind to the pole with cords of holy Order the long−maned ruddy steeds who sprinkle fatness. 7 Even from the sky thy brilliant lights shone hither: still hast thou beamed through many a radiant morni 8 The Gods who take delight in air's wide region, or those the dwellers in heaven's realm of brightness, 9 With these, borne on one ear, Agni, approach us, or borne on many, for thy steeds are able. 10 He is the Priest at whose repeated worship even wide Heaven and Earth sing out for increase. 11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels. 2 The Male who dwells in heaven hath Mares and Milchkine: he came to Goddesses who bring sweet 3 Wise Master, wealthy finder−out of riches, he mounted those who may with case be guided. 4 Strength−giving streams bear hither him eternal, fain to support the mighty work. of Tvastar. 5 They know the red Bull's blessing, and are joyful under the flaming−coloured Lord's dominion: 6 Yea, by tradition from the ancient sages they brought great strength from the two mighty Parents, 7 Seven holy singers guard with five Adhvaryus the Bird's beloved firmly−settled station. 8 I crave the grace of heaven's two chief Invokers: the seven swift steeds joy in their wonted manner. 9 The many seek the great Steed as a stallion: the reins obey the Lord of varied colour. 10 Rich Lord, the Mornings have gleamed forth in splendour, fair−rayed, fair−speaking, worshipped with 11 As holy food, Agni, to thine invoker, give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

22 What time the loving spirit's word had formed him Chief of all food, by statute of the Highest, 23 The Sage, Celestial, liberal, raining bounties, pours as he flows the Genuine for the Truthful. 24 He who beholds mankind, made pure with filters, the King supreme of Deities and mortals, 25 Haste, like a steed, to vittory for glory, to Indra's and to Vayu's entertainment. 26 Effused by us let God−delighting Somas bring as they flow a home with noble heroes. 27 So, God, for service of the Gods flow onward, flow, drink of Gods, for ample food, O Soma. 28 Thou, yoked by strong men, neighest like a courser, swifter than thought is, like an awful lion. 29 Sprung from the Gods, a hundred streams, a thousand, have been effused: sages prepare and purge the 30 The streams of days, were poured as 'twere from heaven: the wise King doth not treat his friend unkind 31 Now are thy streams poured forth with all their sweetness, when, purified. thou goest through the filter 32 Bright, bellowing aiong the path of Order, thou shinest as the form of life eternal. 33 Pouring out streams at the Gods' feast with service, thou, Soma, lookest down, a heavenly Eagle. 34 Three are the voices that the Courser utters: he speaks the thought of prayer, the law of Order. 35 To Soma come the Cows, the Milch−kine longing, to Soma sages with their hvmns inquiring. 36 Thus, Soma, as we pour thee into vessels, while thou art purified flow for our welfare. 37 Singer of true songs, ever−watchful, Soma hath settled in the ladles when they cleanse him. 38 Cleansed near the Sun as 'twere he as Creator hath filled full heaven and earth, and hath disclosed the 39 He, being cleansed, the Strengthener and Increaser, Soma the Bounteous, helped us with his lustre, 40 In the first vault of heaven loud roared the Ocean, King of all being, generating creatures. 41 Soma the Steer, in that as Child of Waters he chose the Gods, performed that great achievement.

2 Longing for lovely Amrta, by his wisdom he divided, each apart from other, earth and heaven. 3 May those his brilliant rays he ever free from death, inviolate, for both classes of created things,− 4 He, while he is adorned by the ten skilful ones, that he too in the Midmost Mothers may create, 5 He, while he is adorned to stream forth mighty strength, rejoices in his place between the earth and heav 6 Beholding, as it were, Two Mother Cows, the Steer goes roaring on his way even as the Maruts roar. 7 The fearful Bull is bellowing with violent might, far−sighted, sharpening his yellowcoloured horns. 8 Bright, making pure his body free from spot and stain, on the sheep's back the Golden−coloured hath 9 Flow on for the God's banquet, Soma, as a Steer, and enter Indra's heart, the Soma's reservoir. 10 Urged like a car−steed flow to strength, O Soma: Indu, flow onward to the throat of Indra.

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

2 A man should think on wealth and strive to win it by adoration on the path of Order, 3 The hymn is formed, poured are the allotted portions: as to a ford friends come unto the Wondrous. 4 Pleased be the Eternal Lord who loves the household with this man whom God Savitar created. 5 Like the Dawns' dwelling−place be this assembly, where in their might men rich in food have gathered. 6 This Bull's most gracious far−extended favour existed first of all in full abundance. 7 What was the tree, what wood, in sooth, produced it, from which they fashioned forth the Earth and 8 Not only here is this: more is beyond us. He is the Bull, the Heaven's and Earth's supporter. 9 He passes o'er the broad earth like a Stega: he penetrates the world as Wind the mist−cloud. 10 When suddenly called the cow that erst was barren, she, self−protected, ended all her troubles. 11 To Nrsad's son they gave the name of Kainva, and he the brown−hued courser won the treasure.

2 The truthful Deities, the Three−and−Thirty, saw you approach before the Ever−Truthful. 3 Asvins, that work of yours deserves our wonder,−the Bull of heaven and earth and air's mid region; 4 Here is your portion laid for you, ye Holy: come to these songs of ours, O ye Nasatyas.

22 Bound fast to,every tree the cow is lowing, and thence the man−consuming birds are flying, 23 In the Gods' mansion stood the first−created, and from their separation came the later. 24 This is thy life: and do thou mark and know it. As such, hide not thyself in time of battle.

2 May this my truthful speech guard me on every side wherever heaven and earth and days are spread abr 3 No godless man from time remotest draws thee down when thou art driving forth with winged dappled 4 O Surya, with the light whereby thou scatterest gloom, and with thy ray impellest every moving thing, 5 Sent forth thou guardest well the Universe's law, and in thy wonted way arisest free from wrath. 6 This invocation, these our words may Heaven and Earth, and Indra and the Waters and the Maruts hear. 7 Cheerful in spirit, evermore, and keen of sight, with store of children, free from sickness and from sin, 8 Surya, may we live long and look upon thee still, thee, O Far−seeing One, bringing the glorious light, 9 Thou by whose lustre all the world of life comes forth, and by thy beams again returns unto its rest, 10 Bless us with shine, bless us with perfect daylight, bless us with cold, with fervent heat and lustre. 11 Gods, to our living creatures of both kinds vouchsafe protection, both to bipeds and to quadrupeds, 12 If by some grievous sin we have provoked the Gods, O Deities, with the tongue or thoughtlessness of

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

2 Goat−borne, the guard of cattle, he whose home is strength, inspirer of the hymn, set over all the world; 3 O Pusan, with thy golden ships that travel across the ocean, in the air's mid−region, 4 Near kinsman of the heaven and earth is Pusan, liberal, Lord of food, of wondrous iustre,

2 Maghavan, help thy worshipper: let him help thee. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 3 Thou aidest Gods with food, and that with might aidg thee, 4 Creator of the heaven, creator of the earth, O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 5 Father of cattle, father of all steeds art thou. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 6 Stone−hurler, glorify the Atris' hymn of praise. O Satakratu, drink Soma to make thee glad. 7 Hear thou Syavagva while he pours to thee, as erst thou heardest Atri when he wrought his holy rites. 2 Thou mighty Conqueror of hostile armaments, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 3 Sole Ruler, thou art Sovran of this world of life, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 4 Thou only sunderest these two consistent worlds, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 5 Thou art the Lord supreme o'er rest and energy, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving help. 6 Thou helpest one to power, and one thou hast not helped, O Indra, Lord of Strength, with all thy saving 7 Hear thou Syavasva while he sings to thee, as erst thou heardest Atri when he wrought his holy rites.

2 So he resplendent in the battle overcame Krivi by might. He with his majesty hath filled the earth and 3 Brought forth together with wisdom and mighty power thou grewest great; with hero deeds subduing th 4 This, Indra, was thy hero deed, Dancer, thy first and ancient work, worthy to be told forth in heaven,

2 Yea, for ourselves we claim the grace of Heaven and Earth, of Saryanavan, of the Hills and Mother 3 May the great Twain, the Mothers, Heaven and Earth, this day preserve us free from sin for peace and 4 May this first Dawn bring us the host of gracious Gods: rich, may it richly shine for us who strive for 5 Dawns, who come forward with the bright beams of the Sun, and at your earliest flushing bring to us th 6 Free from all sickness may the Mornings come to us, and let our fires mount upward with a lofty blaze. 7 Send us to−day a portion choice and excellent, O Savitar, for thou art he who dealeth wealth. 8 Further me this declaring of Eternal Law, the Law of Gods, as we mortals acknowledge it! 9 This day we pray with innocence in strewing grass, adjusting pressing−stones, and perfecting the hymn. 10 To our great holy grass I bid the Gods at morn to banquet, and will seat them as the seven priests,− 11 Come hither, O Adityas, for our perfect weal: accordant help our sacrifice that we may thrive. 12 Adityas, Gods, vouchsafe that this our home may be praise−worthy, prosperous, our heroes' sure defen 13 This day may all the Maruts, all he near us with aid: may all our fires be well enkindled. 14 He whom ye aid, O Deities, in battle, whom ye protect and rescue from affliction,

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 Hither hath Soma flowed unto the beakers, like a chariot−horse, a stallion swift upon his way. 3 While thou art cleansed, O Soma, scatter wealth on us; Indu, bestow great bounty as a liberal Prince. 4 Hither let Pusan Pavamana come to us, Varuna, Mitra, bountiful, of one accord, 5 Both Heaven and Earth, the all−invigorating Pair, Vidhatar, Aditi, and Aryaman the God,

2 O Indu, high o'er heaven and earth be thou, increaser of our might: 3 The winds are gracious in their love to thee, the rivers flow to thee 4 Soma, wax great. From every side may vigorous powers unite in thee: 5 For thee, brown−hued! the kine have poured imperishable oil and milk. 6 Friendship, O Indu, we desire with thee who bearest noble arms,

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

2 Then Trita's Maidens onward urge the Tawny−coloured with the stones, 3 Now like a swan he maketh all the company sing each his hymn: 4 O Soma, viewing heaven and earth, thou runncst like a darting deer 5 The cows have sung with joy to him, even as a woman to her love 6 Bestow illustrious fame on us, both on our liberal lords and me,

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 The Sapient One arrays himself in every form: for quadruped and biped he hath brought forth good. 3 Even he, the God whose going−forth and majesty the other Deities have followed with their might, 4 To the three spheres of light thou goest, Savitar, and with the rays of Sidrya thou combinest thee. 5 Over all generation thou art Lord alone: Pusan art thou, O God, in all thy goings−forth.

2 They paint their bright rays on the sky's far limits. the Dawns come on like tribes arrayed for battle. 3 Wealthy, most like to Indra, Dawn hath risen, and brought forth lauds that shall promote our welfare. 4 Bestow on us, O Dawn, that ample bounty which thou didst send to those who sang thy praises; 5 Impelling every God to grant his bounty sending to us the charm of pleasant voices,

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 Having gone up on high, the God broadhanded spreads his arms widely forth that all may mark him. 3 Though borne by swift steeds he will yet unyoke them: e'en the fleet chariot hath he stayed from going. 4 What was spread out she weaves afresh, re−weaving: the skilful leaves his labour half−completed. 5 Tlirough various dwellings, through entire existence, spreads, manifest, the household light of Agni. 6 He comes again, unfolded, fain for conquest: at home was he, the love of all things moving. 7 The wild beasts spread through desert places seeking their watery share which thou hast set in waters. 8 With utmost speed, in restless haste at sunset Varuna seeks his watery habitation. 9 Him whose high law not Varuna nor Indra, not Mitra, Aryaman, nor Rudra breaketh, 10 May they who strengthen bliss, and thought and wisdom, and the Dames' Lord and Narasamsa aid us. 11 So come to us our hearts' desire, the bounty bestowed by thee, from heaven and earth and waters, 2 Moving at morning like two chr−borne heroes, like to a pair of goats ye come electing; 3 Like to a pair of horns come first to usward, like to a pair of hoofs with rapid motion; 4 Bear us across the rivers like two vessels, save us as ye were yokes, naves, spokes and fellies. 5 Like two winds ageing not, two confluent rivers, come with quick vision like two eyes before us. 6 Even as two lips that with the mouth speak honey, even as two breasts that nourish our existence, 7 Like two hands give ye us increasing vigour; like heaven and earth constrain the airy regions. 8 These prayers of ours exalting you, O Asvins, have the GrtSamadas, for a laud, made ready.

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 So hast thou mounted up before us, Surya, through these our praises, with fleet dappled horses. 3 May holy Agni, Varuna, and Mitra send down their riches upon us in thousands. 4 O undivided Heaven and Earth, preserve us, us, Lofty Ones! your nobIy−born descendants. 5 Stretch forth your arms and let our lives be lengthened: with fatness dew the pastures of our cattle. 6 Now Mitra, Varuna, Aryaman vouchsafe us freedom and room, for us and for our children.

5 Ye six divine Expanses, grant us freedom: here, all ye Gods, acquit yourselves like heroes. 6 Baffling the wrath of our opponents, Agni, guard us as our infallible Protector. 7 Lord of the world, Creator of creators the saviour God who overcomes the foeman. 8 Foodful, and much−invoked, at this our calling mty the great Bull vouchsafe us wide protection. 9 Let those who are our foemen stay. afar from us: with Indra and with Agni we will drive them off.

2 May Agni the resplendent hear my calling through all my songs, Immortal, keen of insight. 3 On wood supine they got the well−formed Infant: a germ in various−fashioned plants was Agni; 4 With oil and sacred gifts I sprinkle Agni who makes his home in front of all things living, 5 I pour to him who looks in all directions: may he accept it with a friendly spirit. 6 By choice victorious, recognize thy portion: with thee for envoy may we speak like Manu.

2 Maruts, to you this laud with prayer and worship, formed in the mind and heart, ye Gods, is offered. 3 The Maruts, praised by us, shall show us favour; Maghavan, lauded, shall be most propitious. 4 I fled in terrror from this mighty Indra, my body trembling in alarm, O Maruts. 5 By whom the Manas recognize the day−springs, by whose strength at the dawn of endless mornings, 6 Do thou, O Indra, guard the conquering Heroes, and rid thee of thy wrath against the Maruts,

1 THIS is that Agni whence the longing Indra took the pressed Soma deep within his body. 2 That light of thine in heaven and earth, O Agni, in plants, O Holy One, and in the waters, 3 O Agni, to the sea of heaven thou goest: thou hast called hither Gods beheld in spirit. 4 Let fires that dwell in mist, combined with those that have their home in floods, 5 Agni, as holy food to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

2 The mighty powers wherewith. ye formed the chalices, the thought by which ye drew the cow from out 3 Friendship with Indra have the Rbhus, fully gained: grandsons of Manu, they skilfully urged the work. 5 O Indra, with the Rbhus, Mighty Ones, pour down the Soma juice effused, well−blent, from both thy ha 6 With Rbhu near, and Vaja, Indra, here exult, with Saci, praised of many, in the juice we pour. 7 Come with the mighty Rbhus, Indra, come to us, strengthening with thy help the singer's holy praise;

2 Whoso to thee, the Mighty, brings oblation, pure Soma unto thee, pure−drinking Vayu, 3 The God whom both these worlds brought forth for riches, whom heavenly Dhisana for our wealth 4 The spotless Dawns with fair bright days have broken; they found the spacious light when they were 5 These with their truthful spirit, shining brightly, move on provided with their natural insight. 6 May these who give us heavenly light, these rulers, with gifts of kine and horses, gold and treasures. 7 Like coursers seeking fame will we Vasisthas, O Indra−Vayu, with our fair laudations.

2 Hear this laud, Radiant Priest of many aspects, O Agni with the fires of man enkindled, 3 Mid mortal men that singer thrives in glory who offers gifts with hymns of praise to Agni, 4 He, at his birth, whose path is black behind him, filled heaven and earth with far−apparent splendour: 5 With thy most mighty aid, confer, O Agni, wonderful wealth on us and on our princes, 6 Agni, accept this sacrifice with gladness, which, seated here, the worshipper presenteth. 7 Scatter our foes, increase our store. May we he glad a hundred winters with brave sons.

2 That Agni, when in loftiest heaven he sprang to life, Guardian of Holy Laws, kept and observed them w 3 Wonderful Mitra propped the heaven and earth apart, and covered and concealed 4 The Migbty seized him in the bosom of the floods: the people waited on the King who should be praise 5 In every age bestow upon the singers wealth, worthy of holy synods, glorious, ever new. 6 Do thou bestow, O Agni, on our wealthy chiefs, rule, with good heroes, undecaying, bending not. 7 O thou who dwellest in three places, Helper, keep with effective guards our princely patrons.

2 These hymns brought forth for thee, O Agni, laud thee for bounteous gifts, with cattle and with horses. 3 Agni I deem my Kinsman and my Father, count him my Brother and my Friend for ever. 4 Effectual, Agni, are our prayers for profit. He whom, at home thou, Priest for ever, guardest 5 Men with their arms have generated Agni, helpful as some kind friend, adorned with splendours, 6 Worship, thyself, O God, the Gods in heaven: what, void of knowledge, shall the fool avail thee? 7 Agni, be thou our Guardian and Protector bestow upon us life and vital vigour.

2 The wind, thy breath, hath sounded through the region like a wild beast that seeks his food in pastures. 3 Varuna's spies, sent forth upon their errand, survey the two world−halves well formed and fashioned. 4 To me who understand hath Varuna spoken, the names borne by the Cow are three times seven. 5 On him three heavens rest and are supported, and the three earths are there in sixfold order. 6 Like Varuna from heaven he sinks in Sindhu, like a white−shining spark, a strong wild creature. 7 Before this Varuna may we be sinless him who shows mercy even to the sinner−

2 All that is bare he covers o'er, all that is sick he medicines; 3 Thou, Soma, givest wide defence against the hate of alien men, 4 Thou by thine insight and thy skill, Impetuous One, from heaven and earth 5 When to their task they come with zeal, may they obtain the Giver's grace, 6 So may he find what erst was lost, so may be speed the pious man, 7 Gracious, displaying tender love, unconquered, gentle in thy thoughts, 8 O Soma, terrify us not; strike us not with alarm, O King: 9 When in my dwelling−place I see the wicked enemies of Gods,

2 Agni, burn down the word within their bodies through our newest speech, 3 Agni, I offer hymns to thee, like holy oil within thy moutlh. 4 Agni bestows all vital power even as each man supplicates. 5 Agni hath made himself renowned by wonderful victorious act. 6 Agni knows all that springs from Gods, he knows the mystery of men. 7 Agni inhabiteth with Gods and men who offer sacrifice. 8 Agni who liveth in all streams, Lord of the Sevenfold Race of men, 9 Agni the Wise inhabiteth three gathering−places, triply formed. 10 Our Agni, thou art first among the Gods, and first mid living men.

2 The treasure which his Bay Steeds found at sacrifice,−this wealth made opulent Indra slayer of the foe. 3 When, with the Princes, Maghavari, famed of old, comes nigh the thunderbolt of gold, and the Controlle 4 With him too is this rain of his that comes like herds: Indra throws drops of moisture on his yellow bear 5 We laud and praise his several deeds of valour who, fatherlike, with power hath made us stronger; 6 Indra, the Vimadas have formed for thee a laud, copious, unparalleled, for thee Most Bountiful. 7 Ne'er may this bond of friendship be dissevered, the Rsi Vimada's and thine, O Indra.

2 For the broad Sun was seen a path more widely laid, the path of holy law hath been maintained with ray 3 With Aditi the luminous, the celestial, upholder of the people, come ye day by day, ye who watch sleepl 4 This Soma be most sweet to Mitra, Varuna: he in the drinking−feasts, shall have a share thereof, sharing 5 Whoso, with worship serves Mitra and VaruiIa, him guard ye carefully, uninjured, from distress, guard 6 Worship will I proress to lofty Dyaus, to Heaven and Earth, to Mitra and to bounteous Varuna, the 7 With the Gods' help, with Indra still beside us, may we be held self−splendid with the Maruts.

2 Sustainer of the heaven, Lord of the whole world's life, the Sage, he putteth on his golden−coloured mai 3 He hath filled full the regions of the heaven and earth: the God for his own strengthening waketh up the 4 Lighting all living creatures, neer to be deceived, Savitar, God, protects each holy ordinance. 5 Savitar thrice surrounding with his mightiness mid−air, three regions, and the triple sphere of light, 6 Most gracious God, who brings to life and lulls to rest, he who controls the world, what moves not and 7 With the year's seasons hath Savitar, God, come nigh: may he prosper our home, give food and noble so

2 Yea, now ye Gods of one accord speed on our car what time among the folk it seeks an act of might; 3 Or may our Indra here, the Friend of all mankind, coming from heaven, most.wise, girt by the Marut ho 4 Or may this Tvastar, God who rules the world with power, one−minded with the Goddesses speed forth 5 Or, seen alternate, those two blessed Goddesses, Morning and Night who stir all living things to act: 6 Your blessing as a boon for suppliants we desire: the Dragon of the Deep, and Aja−Ekapad, 7 These earnest prayers I pray to you, ye Holy: to pay you honour, living men have formed them,

4 Self−yoked they have descended lightly from the sky. With your own lash, Immortals, urge yourselve's 5 Who among you, O Maruts armed with lightning−spears, moveth you by himself, as with the tongue his 6 Say where, then, is this mighty region's farthest bound, where, Maruts, is the lowest depth that ye have 7 Your winning is with strength, dazzling, with heavenly light, with fruit mature, O Maruts, fall of 8 The rivers roar before your chariot fellies when they are uttering the voice of rain−clouds. 9 Prani brought forth, to fight the mighty battle, the glittering army of the restless Maruts. 10 May this your laud, may this your song O Maruts, sung by the poet Mana's son,

2 In the tree−tops the air he hath extended, put milk in kine and vigorous speed in horses, 3 Varuna lets the big cask, opening downward, flow through the heaven and earth and air's mid−region. 4 When Varuna is fain for milk he moistens the sky, the land, and earth to her foundation. 5 I will declare this mighty deed of magic, of glorious Varuna the Lord Immortal, 6 None, verily, hath ever let or hindered this the most wise God's mighty deed of magic, 7 If we have sinned against the man who loves us, have ever wronged a brother, friend, or comrade, 8 If we, as gamesters cheat at play, have cheated, done wrong unwittingly or sinned of purpose,

2 Great is that secret name and far−extending, whereby thou madest all that is and shall be. 3 He filled the heaven and earth and all between them, Gods five times sevenfold in their proper seasons. 4 As first among the lights, O Dawn, thou shonest, whereby thou broughtest forth the Stay of Increase, 5 The old hath waked the young Moon from his slumber who runs his circling course with many round hi 6 Strong is the Red Bird in his strength, great Hero, who from of old hath had no nest to dwell in. 7 Through these the Thunderer gained strong manly vigour, through whom he waxed in power to smite d 8 All−strong, performing works with his companion, All−marking, rapid Victor, Curse−averter,

2 They who with laud extol the ancient statutes, when they shine forth infallible dividers, 3 The Housewife Goddess, Aditi, and Sindhu, the Goddess Svasti I implore for friendship: 4 Aryaman, Varuna have disclosed the pathway, Agni as Lord of Strength the road to welfare. 5 I have besought the favourof the Maruts, of Parvata, of Bhaga God who rescues. 6 Agree, through these our watery oblations, Goddesses, Heaven and Earth, with Ahibudhnya. 7 May Goddess Aditi with Gods defend us, save us the saviour God with care unceasing. 8 Agni is Sovran Lord of wealth, Agni of great prosperity: 9 Hither to us, rich pleasant Dawn, bring many things to be desired, 10 So then may Bhaga, Savitar, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Indra, with bounty come to us.

2 Worshipping, seeking him with adoration like some lost creature followed by its footprints, 3 On the Cow's forehead, with laborious searching, Trita, the offspring of Vibhiavas, found him. 4 Yearning, with homage, they have set and made him blithe Priest among mankind, oblation−bearer, 5 The foolish brought the ne'er−bewildered forward, great, Victor, Song−inspirer, Fort−destroyer. 6 Holding his station firmly in the houses, Trita sat down within his home surrounded 7 His are the fires, eternal, purifying, that make the houses move, whose smoke is shining, 8 The tongue of Agni bears away the praisesong, and, through his care for Earth, her operations. 9 That Agni, him whom Heaven and Earth engendered, the Waters. Tvastar, and with might, the Bhrgus, 10 Agni, whom Gods have made oblationbearer, and much−desiring men regard as holy,

2 Waxing greatness Indra slayeth Vrtra: the Hero with his aid hath helped the singer. He gave S 4 Thou with thy greatness hast filled full, O Indra, even both the worlds with might, O thou Most Mighty. 5 A Bull begat the Bull for joy of battle, and a strong Mother brought forth him the manly. 6 The people falter not, nor suffer sorrow, who win themselves this God's terrific spirit. 7 Whene'er the elder fain would help the younger the greater cometh to the lesser's present. 8 Thy dear folk, Indra, who present oblations, are, in chief place, thy friends, O Thunder−wielder. 9 To thee the mighty hymn hath clamoured loudly, and, Maghavan, the eloquent hath besought thee. 10 Place us by food which thou hast given, O Indra, us and the wealthy patrons who command us.

2 Effused, he hath, as on a car, invested him in fleecy mail: 3 Effused, this Indu hath flowed on, distilling rapture, to the fleece: 4 For thou thyself, O Indu, God, to every mortal worshipper 5 Good Vrtra−slayer, may we be still nearest to this wealth of thine 6 Whom, bright with native splendour, crushed between the pair of pressingstones− 7 Him with the fleece they purify, brown, golden−hued, beloved of all, 8 Through longing for this sap of yours ye drink what brings ability, 9 Indu at holy rites produced you, Heaven and Earth, the Friends of men, 10 For Vrtra−slaying Indra, thou, Soma, art poured that he may drink, 11 These ancient Somas, at the break of day, have flowed into the sieve, 12 Friends, may the princes, ye and we, obtain this Most Resplendent One.

2 Hither is come the Rbhus' gift of riches; here was the drinking of the well−pressed Soma, 3 Ye made fourfold the chalice that wag single: ye spake these words and said, O Friend, assist us; 4 Out of what substance was that chalice fashioned which ye made fourfold by your art and wisdom? 5 Ye with your cunning made your Parents youthful; the cup, for Gods to drink, ye formed with cunning; 6 Whoso pours out for you, when days are closing, the sharp libation for your joy, O Vajas, 7 Lord of Bay Steeds, at dawn thejuice thou drankest: thine, only thine, is the noonday libation. 8 Ye, whom your artist skill hath raised to Godhead have set you down above in heaven like falcons. 9 The third libation, that bestoweth treasure, which ye have won by skill, ye dexterous−handed,−

2 When, seeking your enjoyment onward from afar, ye, certain of my kinsmen, wandered on your way, 3 Savitar therefore gave you immortality, because ye came proclaiming him whom naught can hide; 4 When they had served with zeal at sacrifice as priests, they, mortal as they were, gained immortality. 5 The Rbhus, with a rod measured, as 'twere a field, the single sacrificial chalice. wide of mouth, 6 As oil in ladles, we through knowledge will present unto the Heroes of the firmament our hymn,− 7 Rbhu to us is Indra freshest in his might, Rbhu with powers and wealth is giver of rich gifts. 8 Out of a skin, O Rbhus, once ye formed a cow, and brought the mother close unto her calf again. 9 Help us with strength where spoil is won, O Indra: joined with the gbhus give us varied bounty.

2 Ask of the sages' mighty generations firm−minded and devout they framed the heaven. 3 Assuming in this world mysterious natures, they decked the heaven and earth for high dominion, 4 Even as he mounted up they all adorned him: self−luminous he travels clothed in splendour. 5 First the more ancient Bull engendered offspring; these are his many draughts that lent him vigour. 6 Three seats ye Sovrans, in the Holy synod, many, yea, all, ye honour with your presence. 7 That same companionship of her, the Milch−cow, here with the strong Bull's divers forms they stablishe 8 Let no one here debar me from enjoying the golden light which Savitar diffuses. 9 Fulfil, ye twain, his work, the Great, the Ancient: as heavenly blessing keep your guard around us. 10 Call we on Indra, Maghavan, auspicious, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered,