Rig Veda on Desire

2 As giving power and winning light, for Indra and for Vayu he 3 The men conduct him, Soma, Steer, Omniscient, and the Head of Heaven, 4 Longing for kine, longing for gold hath Indu Pavamana lowed, 5 This Pavamana, gladdening draught, drops on the filtering cloth, and then 6 To Indra in the firmament this mighty tawny Steer hath flowed,

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 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 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.

2 Him, Maker of the sky, let stones wet with the Soma ne'er forsake, 3 Indra who knew full well disclosed the kine to the Angirases. 4 Indra, promoter of the song, the sage's Strengthener as of old, 5 Now after their desire's intent the pious singers with the cry 6 With Indra rest all deeds of might, deeds done and yet to be performed, 7 When the Five Tribes with all their men to Indra have sent out their voice, 8 This praise is verily thine own: thou hast performed these manly deeds, 9 At the o'erflowing of this Steer, boldly he strode for life, and took 10 Receiving this and craving help, we, who with you are Daksa's sons, 11 Yea, Hero, with the singers we sing.to the duly−coming Band. 12 With us are raining Rudras, clouds accordant in call to battle, at the death of Vrtra,

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.

3 With milk they made Indra their good Preserver, lauding for help and rule the bounteous rainer. 4 With kine and horses satisfy this longing with very splendid bounty still extend it. 5 Call we on Maghavan, auspicious Indra, best Hero in the fight where spoil is gathered;

2 His task is done: his crushings of the Dasyus are made manifest: 3 Soon as his song of praise is born, the Soma, Indra's juice, becomes 4 Seer and Sustainer, he himself desireth riches for the sage 5 Fain would they both win riches as in races of the steeds. In war

2 Indu, by pressers urged to speed, bellowing out while beautified. 3 Pour on us, Soma, with thy stream manconquering might which many crave, 4 Hither hath Pavamana flowed, Soma flowed hither in a stream, 5 To waters with the stones they drive thee tawny−hued, most rich in sweets, 6 For Indra, for the Thunderer press the Soma very rich in sweets,

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 Protect Tryaruna, as thou art waxing strong and art highly praised, Vaisvanara Agni! 3 So Trasadasyu served thee, God Most Youthful, craving thy favour for the ninth time, Agni; 4 He who declares his wish to me, to Asvamedha, to the Prince, 5 From whom a hundred oxen, all of speckled hue, delight my heart, 6 To Asvamedha who bestows a hundred gifts grant hero power,

2 Sublime from birth, mayst thou O Indra, Hero, with Surya overcome the Dasa races. 3 Answer the votary's hymns, for these thou knowest, craving the Rsis' prayer, thyself a Singer 4 These holy prayers, O Indra, have I sung thee: grant to the men the strength of men, thou Hero. 5 Listen to Prthi's call, heroic Indra, and be thou lauded by the hymns of Venya,

2 Driving off foes, bestowing room upon the presser, willingly 3 Lightly disporting them, the drops flow to one common reservoir, 4 These Pavamanas have obtained all blessings much to be desired, 5 With view to us, O Soma−drops, bestow his manifold desire 6 Bring us our wish with this design, as a wright brings his new−wrought wheel: 7 These drops have cried with resonant voice: like swift steeds they have run the course,

2 Thou art the best of all in sending bounteous gifts, true art thou, lordly in thine act. 3 Prayers unsurpassed are offered up to thee the Lover of the Song. 4 For thou, O Maghavan, art truthful, ne'er subdued and bringest many a Vrtra low. 5 O Indra, thou art far−renowned, impetuous, O Lord of Strength. 6 As such we seek thee now, O Asura, thee most wise, craving thy bounty as our share.

2 Thou didst destroy the Dragon: thou sentest the rivers down to earth. 3 Destroyed be all malignities and all our enemy's designs. 4 The robber people round about, Indra, who watch and aim at us,− 5 Whoso assails us, Indra, be the man a stranger or akin, 6 Close to thy friendship do we cling, O Indra, and depend, or, thee. 7 Do thou bestow upon us her, O Indra, who yields according to the singer's longing,

2 In heaven's first region, in the seat of Gods, is he who brings success, 3 Him, to win strength, have I invoked, even Indra mighty for the fray. 4 Indra, Song −lover, here for thee the worshipper's libation flows. 5 Even now, O Indra, give us that which, pressing juice, we crave of thee. 6 What time the zealous worshipper hath boldly sung his songs to thee, 7 Generate songs even as of old, give car unto the singer's call. 8 Sweet strains that glorify him play like waters speeding down a slope, 9 Yea, who alone is called the Lord, the single Ruler of the folk, 10 Praise him, the Glorious, skilled in song, Lord of the two victorious Bays: 11 Put forth thy strength: with dappled Steeds come, thou of mighty intellect, 12 Grant wealth to those who praise thee, Lord of Heroes, Mightiest Indra: give 13 I call thee when the Sun is risen, I call thee at the noon of day: 14 Speed forward hither, come to us, rejoice thee in the milky draught: 15 If, Sakra, Vrtra−slayer, thou be far away or near to us. 16 Let songs we sing and Soma−drops expressed by us make Indra strong: 17 Him sages longing for his aid, with offerings brought in eager haste, 18 At the Trkadrukas the Gods span sacrifice that stirred the mind: 19 When, true to duty, at due times the worshipper offers lauds to thee, 20 That mind of Rudra, fresh and strong, moves conscious in the ancient ways, 21 If thou elect to be my Friend drink of this sacrificial juice, 22 O Indra, Lover of the song, when shall thy praiser be most blest? 23 And thy two highIy−lauded Bays, strong stallions, draw thy car who art 24 With ancient offerings we implore the Young and Strong whom many praise. 25 Wax miglity, thou whom many laud for aids which Rsis have extolled.

2 This very thing do we desire, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 3 These are, each one, our present helps, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman. 4 Ye compass round and guard each man, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 5 Adityas are beyond all foes,−Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 6 These lead us safely over all, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, 7 May they give bliss to aid us well, Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman: 8 As in this place, O Holy Ones, ye Vasus freed even the Gaud when her feet were fettered.

2 Vena draws up his wave from out the ocean. mist−born, the fair one's back is made apparent, 3 Full many, lowing to their joint−possession, dwelling together stood the Darling's Mothers. 4 Knowing his form, the sages yearned to meet him: they have come nigh to hear the wild Bull's bellow. 5 The Apsaras, the Lady, sweetly smiling, supports her Lover in sublimest heaven. 6 They gaze on thee with longing in their spirit, as on a strong−winged bird that mounteth sky−ward;

2 East have we turned the rite; may the hymn aid it. With wood and worship shall they honour Agni. 3 The Prudent, he whose will is pure, brought welfare, allied by birth to Heaven and Earth in kinship. 4 Him, Blessed One, the Seven strong Floods augmented, him white at birth and red when waxen mighty. 5 Spreading with radiant limbs throughout the region, purging his power with wise purifications, 6 He sought heaven's Mighty Ones, the unconsuming, the unimpaired, not clothed and yet not naked. 7 His piles, assuming every form, are scattered where flow sweet waters, at the spring of fatness; 8 Carefully cherished, Son of Strength, thou shoncst assuming lasting and refulgent beauties. 9 From birth he knew even his Father's bosom, he set his voices and his streams in motion; 10 He nursed the Infant of the Sire and Maker: alone the Babe sucked many a teeming bosom. 11 The Mighty One increased in space unbounded; full many a glorious flood gave strength to Agni. 12 As keen supporter where great waters gather, light−shedder whom the brood rejoice to look on; 13 Him, varied in his form, the lovely Infant of floods and plants the blessed wood hath gendered. 14 Like brilliant lightnings, mighty luminaries accompany the light−diffusing Agni, 15 I sacrificing serve thee with oblations and crave with longing thy good−will and friendship. 16 May we, O Agni, thou who leadest wisely, thy followers and masters of all treasures, 17 Ensign of Gods hast thou become, O Agni, joy−giver, knower of all secret wisdom. 18 Within the house hath sate the King immortal of mortals, filling full their sacred synods. 19 Come unto us with thine auspicious friendship, come speeding, Mighty, with thy mighty succours. 20 To thee who art of old these songs, O Agni, have I declared, the ancient and the later. 21 Stablished in every birth is Jatavedas, kindled perpetual by the Visvamitras. 22 This sacrifice of ours do thou, O Mighty, O truly Wise, bear to the Gods rejoicing.

2 Thou art our guileless, most delightful Herald, the God, among mankind, of holy synods. 3 For even the blessed longing that is in thee would bring the Gods down to the singer's worship, 4 Bright hath he beamed, the wise, the far−refulgent. Worship the two widespreading Worlds, O Agni, 5 When I with reverence clip the grass for Agni, when the trimmed ladle, fullof oil, is lifted, 6 Enrich us, O thou Priest of many aspects, with the Gods, Agni, with thy fires, enkindled.

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.

29 My praises when the Sun hath risen, my praises at the time of noon, 30 Praise yea, praise him. Of princes these are the most liberal of their gifts, 31 When to the car, by faith, I yoked the horses longing for the way− 32 May he who gave me two brown steeds together with their cloths of gold, 33 Playoga's son Asanga, by ten thousand, O Agni, hath surpassed the rest in giving. 34 What time her husband's perfect restoration to his lost strength and manhood was apparent,

2 When the Five kindred Companies, active in duty, with the song 3 Then in his juice whose strength is great, have all the Gods rejoiced themselves, 4 Freeing himself he flows away, leaving his body's severed limbs, 5 He by the daughters of the priest, like a fair youth, hath been adorned, 6 O'er the fine fingers, through desire of milk, in winding course he goes, 7 The nimble fingers have approached, adorning him the Lord of Strength: 8 Comprising all the treasures that are in the heavens and on the earth,

2 With this hymn let us honour thee, seeker of horses, Son of Strength, 3 As such, lover of song, with songs, wealth−lover, giver of our wealth! 4 Be thou for us a liberal Prince, giver and Lord of precious things. 5 Such as thou art, give rain from heaven, give strength which no man may resist: 6 To him who lauds thee, craving help, most youthful envoy! through our song, 7 Between both races, Agni, Sage, well skilled thou passest to and fro, 8 Befriend us thou as knowing all. Sage, duly worship thou the Gods,

2 Rich shall he be in gold and kine and horses. Indra bestows on him great vital power, 3 Longing, I came this morning to the pious, the son of sacrifice, with car wealth. laden. 4 Health−bringing streams, as milch−cows, flow to profit him who hath worshipped, him who now will 5 On the high ridge of heaven he stands exalted, yea, to the Gods he goes, the liberal giver. 6 For those who give rich meeds are all these splendours, for those who give rich meeds suns shine in hea 7 Let not the liberal sink to sin and sorrow, never decay the pious −chiefs who worship!

2 Wealth, fully armed, good guard and kind protector, sprung from four seas, the prop and stay of treasure 3 Wealth, with good Brahmans, Indra! God−attended, high, wide, and deep, arid based on broad foundati 4 Victorious, winning strength, with hero sages, confirmed in power, most useful, wealth−attracting, 5 Wealthy in heroes and in cars and horses, strength hundredfold and thousandfold, O Indra, 6 To Saptagu the sage, the holy−minded, to him, Brhaspati, the song approaches, 7 My lauds, like envoys, craving loving−kindness, go forth to Indra with their strong entreaty, 8 Grant us the boon for which I pray, O Indra, a spacious home unmatched among the people.

2 Thou dost desire to drink, each day that passes, the pleasant food which thou hast had aforetime, 3 Thou, newly−born, for strength didst drink the Soma; the Mother told thee of thy future greatness. 4 When thou hast urged the arrocrant to combat, proud in their strength of arm, we will subdue them. 5 I will declare the earliest deeds of Indra, and recent acts which Maghavan hath accomplished. 6 Thine is this world of flocks and herds around thee, which with the eye of Surya thou beholdest. 7 Ye Twain are Lords of wealth in earth and heaven, thou, O Brhaspati, and thou, O Indra. Mean though h

2 Come ye Adityas for our full prosperity, in conquests of the foe, ye Gods, bring joy to us. 3 May the most glorious Fathers aid us, and the two Goddesses, Mothers of the Gods, who strengthen La 4 To mighty Narasamsa, strengthening his might, to Pusan, ruler over men, we pray with hymns. 5 Brhaspati, make us evermore an easy path: we crave what boon thou hast for men in rest and stir. 6 Sunk in the pit the Rsi Kutsa called, to aid, Indra the Vrtra−slayer, Lord of power and might. 7 May Aditi the Goddess guard us with the Gods: may the protecting God keep us with ceaseless care.

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,

1 THE pleasant Priest is come into the synod, true, skilled in sacrifice, most wise, Ordainer. 2 To thee I offer reverent speech: accept it: to thee who markest it, victorious, faithful! 3 The Two who show their vigour, Night and Morning, by the wind's paths shall haste to thee O Agni. 4 To thee, strong Agni! Varuna and Mitra and all the Maruts sang a song of triumph, 5 Approaching with raised hands and adoration, we have this day fulfilled for thee thy longing. 6 For, Son of Strength, from thee come many succours, and powers abundant that a God possesses. 7 Whatever, God, in sacrifice we mortals have wrought is all for thee, strong, wise of purpose!

2 Lord of the Quarters, flow thou on, boon Soma, from Arjika land, 3 Hither hath Surya's Daughter brought the wild Steer whom Parjanya nursed. 4 Splendid by Law! declaring Law, truthspeaking, truthful in thy works, 5 Together flow the meeting streams of him the Great and truly Strong. 6 O Pavamana, where the priest, as he recites the rhythmic prayer, 7 O Pavarnana, place me in that deathless, undecaying world 8 Make me immortal in that realm where dwells the King, Vivasvan's Son, 9 Make me immortal in that realm where they move even as they list, 10 Make me immortal in that realm of eager wish and strong desire, 11 Make me immortal in that realm where happiness and transports, where

2 As with a hundred hosts, he rushes boldly on, and for the offerer slays his foes. 3 The drops effused, the gladdening draughts, O Indra, Lover of the Son 4 The matchless draught that strengthens and gives eloquence, the sweetest of the meath drink thou, 5 Come quickly to our laud, urged on by Soma−pressers like a horse− 6 With homage have we sought thee as a Hero, strong, preeminent, with unfailing wealth. 7 If now thou art at sacrifice, or if thou art upon the earth, 8 The active, fleet−foot, tawny Coursers that are thine are swift to victory, like the Wind, 9 Indra, from thee so great we crave prosperity in wealth of kine, 10 As, Maghavan, to Kanva, Trasadasyu, and to Paktha and Dasavraja;

2 We pray for wealth to thee most skilled of charioteers, with braided hair, 3 Bright God whose steeds are goats, thou art a stream of wealth, a treasure−heap, 4 Pusan, who driveth goats for steeds, the strong and Mighty, who is called 5 His Mother's suitor I address. May he who loves his Sister hear, 6 May the sure−footed goats come nigh, conveying Pusan on his car, 2 And he is best of charioteers. Indra, the hero's Lord, allied 3 And there the best of charioteers hath guided through the speckled cloud 4 Whate'er we speak this day to thee, Wise, Wondrous God whom many praise, 5 Lead on this company of ours, that longs for kine, to win the spoil: 6 Prosperity we crave from thee, afar from sin and near to wealth,

2 The speaker filleth with a cry to Indra his ears who cometh nigh e'en from a distance. 3 Him have I sung with my best song and praises, Indra of ancient birth and Everlasting. 4 Indra, whom sacrifice shall strengthen, Soma, and song and hymn, and praises and devotion, 5 Him, born for conquering might in full perfection, and waxen strongfor bounty and for glory, 2 Craving the kine, rushing against the mountain led on by Law, with holyminded comrades, 3 This Indu lighted darksome nights, O Indra, throughout the years, at morning and at evening. 4 He shone and caused to shme the worlds that shone not. By Law he lighted up the host of Mornings. 5 Now, praised, O Ancient King! fill thou the singer with plenteous food that he may deal forth treasures.

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 rn all thy forms, O Soma, rest thy powers that influence the heart. 3 Even if, O Soma, I neglect thy laws through my simplicity, 4 Our songs in concert go to thee as streams of water to the wells. 5 O Soma, through thy might who art skilful and strong, these longing men, 6 Our herds thou guardest, Soma, and the moving world spread far and wide. 7 On all sides, Soma, be to us a Guardian ne'er to be deceived. 8 Be watchful, Soma, passing wise, to give us store of vital strength. 9 Chief slayer of our foemen, thou, Indu, art Indra's gracious Friend, 10 Victorious is this gladdening drink: to Indra dear it grows in strength. 11 This to the sage who offers gifts brings power that comes from wealth in kine.

1 YE Asvins, rich in treasure, Lords of splendour, having nimble hands, 2 Ye Asvins, rich in wondrous deeds, ye heroes worthy of our praise, 3 Nisatyas, wonder−workers, yours arc these libations with clipt grass: 4 O Indra marvellously bright, come, these libations long for thee, 5 Urged by the holy singer, sped by song, come, Indra, to the prayers, 6 Approach, O Indra, hasting thee, Lord of Bay Horses, to the prayers. 7 Ye Visvedevas, who protect, reward, and cherish men, approach 8 Ye Visvedevas, swift at work, come hither quickly to the draught, 9 The Visvedevas, changing shape like serpents, fearless, void of guile, 10 Wealthy in spoil, enriched with hymns, may bright Sarsavad desire, 11 Inciter of all pleasant songs, inspirer o all gracious thought, 12 Sarasvati, the mighty flood,− she with be light illuminates, She brightens every pi

2 As these, like friends, have done this work for you, these prompt servants of Purumilha Soma−offerer, 3 The folk have glorified your birth from Earth and Heaven, to be extolled, ye Strong Ones, for your migh 4 The people prospers, Asuras! whom ye dearly love: ye, Righteous Ones, proclaim aloud the Holy Law. 5 On this great earth ye send your treasure down with might: unstained by dust, the crowding kine are in t 6 The flames with curling tresses serve your sacrifice, whereto ye sing the song, Mitra and Varuna. 7 Whoso with sacrifices toiling brings you gifts, and worships, sage and priest, fulfilling your desire,− 8 With sacrifices and with milk they deck you first, ye Righteous Ones, as if through stirrings of the mind 9 Rich strength of life is yours: ye, Heroes, have obtained through your surpassing powers rich far−extend

2 Do ye, O Indra−Agni, hear the singer's call: accept his songs. 3 Give us not up to poverty, ye Heroes, Indra−Agni, nor 4 To Indra and to Agni we bring reverence, high and holy hymn, 5 For all these holy singers here implore these Twain to succour them, 6 Eager to laudyou, we with songs invoke you, bearing sacred food, 7 Indra and Agni, come to us with favour, ye who conquer men: 8 At no time let the injurious blow of hostile mortal fall on us: 9 Whatever wealth we crave of you, in gold, in cattle, or in steeds, 10 When heroes prompt in worship call Indra and Agni, Lords of steeds, 11 Call hither with the song and lauds those who best slay the foemen, those 12 Slay ye the wicked man whose thought is evil of the demon kind.

2 Gandharvi spake: may she, the Lady of the flood, amid the river's roaring leave my heart untouched. 3 Yea, even this blessed Morning, rich in store of food, splendid, with heavenly lustre, hath shone out for 4 And the fleet Falcon brought for sacrifice from afar this flowing Drop most excellent and keen of sight, 5 Still art thou kind to him who feeds thee as with grass, and, skilled in sacrifice, offers thee holy gifts. 6 Urge thou thy Parents, as a lover ' to delight: the Lovely One desires and craves it from his heart. 7 Far−famed is he, the mortal man, O Agni, thou Son of Strength, who hath obtained thy favour. 8 When, Holy Agni, the divine assembly, the sacred synod mid the Gods, is gathered, 9 Hear us, O Agni, in your common dwelling: harness thy rapid car of Amrta.

2 Our sires with lauds burst e'en the firmset fortress, yea, the Angirases, with roar, the mountain. 3 They stablished order, made his service fruitful; then parting them among the longing faithful, 4 Since Matarisvan, far−diffused, bath stirred him, and he in every house grown bright and noble, 5 When man poured juice to Heaven, the mighty Father, he knew and freed himself from close embracem 6 Whoso, bath flames for thee within his dwelling, or brings the worship which thou lovest daily, 7 All sacrificial viands wait on Agni as the Seven mighty Rivers seek the ocean. 8 When light bath filled the Lord of men for increase, straight from the heaven descends the limpid moist 9 He who like thought goes swiftly on his journey, the Sun, alone is ever Lord of riches. 10 O Agni, break not our ancestral friendship, Sage as thou art, endowed with deepest knowledge.

2 His two red horses, all−supporting, let him yoke: let him, well−worshipped, urge them fast. 3 The flame of him the Bountiful, the Much−invoked, hath mounted up, 4 Thee, thee Most Glorious One we make our messenger. Bring the Gods hither to the feast. 5 Thou, Agni, art the homestead's Lord, our Herald at the sacrifice. 6 Give riches to the sacrificer, O Most Wise, for thou art he who granteth wealth. 7 O Agni who art worshipped well, dear let our princes he to thee, 8 They in whose home, her hand bearing the sacred oil, Ila sits down well−satisfied− 9 Do thou, a Priest with pleasant tongue, most wise, and very near to us, 10 They who bestow as bounty plenteous wealth of steeds, moved by desire of great renown− 11 The God who gives your wealth demands a full libation poured to him. 12 Him have the Gods appointed Priest of sacrifice, oblation−bearer, passing wise.

2 What hero hath been made his feast−companion? Who hath been partner in his loving−kindness? 3 How heareth Indra offered invocation? How, hearing, marketh he the invoker's wishes? 4 How doth the priest who laboureth, ever longing, win for himself the wealth which he possesseth? 5 How, and what bond of friendship with a mortal hath the God chosen as this morn is breaking? 6 Is then thy friendship with thy friends most mighty? Thy brotherhood with us, −when may we tell it? 7 About to stay the Indra−less destructive spirit he sharpens his keen arms to strike her. 8 Eternal Law hath varied food that strengthens; thought of eternal Law, removes transgressions. 9 Firm−seated are eternal Law's foundations in its fair form are many splendid beauties. 10 Fixing eternal Law he, too, upholds it swift moves the might of Law and wins the booty. 11 Now, Indra! lauded,− glorified with praises, let power swell high like rivers to the singer.

40 The wave of flowing meath hath wakened up desires: the Steer enrobed in milk plunges into the stream 41 Dear to all life, he sends triumphant praises forth, abundant, bringing offspring, each succeeding day. 42 When days begin, the strong juice, lovely, golden−hued, is recognized by wisdom more and more each 43 They balm him, balm him over balm him thoroughly, caress the mighty strength and balm it with the 44 Sing forth to Pavamana skilled in holy song: the juice is flowing onward like a mighty stream. 45 Dweller in floods, King, foremost, he displays his might, set among living things as measurer of days. 46 Loosed is the heavens! support, the uplifted cheering juice: the triply−mingled draught flows round int 47 Thy strearns that flow forth rapidly collected run over the fine fleece of the sheep as thou art cleansed. 48 Winner of' power, flow, Soma, worthy of our laud: run onward to the fleece as well−beloved meath.

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

2 Agni hath waxen mighty by laudations, to be adored with hymns of those who praise him. 3 Amid men's homes hath Agni been established, fulfilling with the Law, Friend, germ of waters. 4 Agni is Mitra when enkindled duly, Mitra as Priest, Varuna, Jatavedas; 5 The Earth's, the Bird's dear lofty place he guardeth, he guardeth in his might the course of Surya, 6 The skilful God who knows all forms of knowledge made for himself a fair form, meet for worship. 7 Agni hath entered longingly the longing shrine rich with fatness, giving easy access. 8 Born suddenly, by plants he grew to greatness, when tender shoots with holy oil increased him, 9 Extolled, the Strong shone forth with kindled fuel to the earth's centre, to the height of heaven. 10 Best of all luminaries lofty Agni supported with his flame the height of heaven, 11 As holy food, Agni to thine invoker give wealth in cattle, lasting, rich in marvels.

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

2 The thought is deeply fixed; the savoury juice is shed; the tongue with joyous sound is stirring in the 3 He flows about the sheep−skin, longing for a bride: he looses Aditi's Daughters for the worshipper. 4 The Bull is bellowing; the Cows are coming nigh: the Goddesses approach the God's own resting−place. 5 The golden−hued, Immortal, newly bathed, puts on a brightly shining vesture that is never harmed. 6 Even as the beams of Surya, urging men to speed, that cheer and send to sleep, together rush they forth, 7 As down the steep slope of a river to the vale, drawn from the Steer the swift strong draughts have foun 8 Pour out upon us wealth in goods, in gold, in steeds, in cattle and in corn, and great heroic strength. 9 These Pavamanas here, these drops of Soma, to Indra have sped forth like cars to booty. 10 O Indu, flow thou on for lofty Indra, flow blameless, very gracious, foe−destroyer.

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 Drink thou of this whereof at birth, O Indra, thou drankest, Mighty One for power and rapture. 3 The fire is kindled, Soma pressed, O Indra: let thy Bays, best to draw, convey thee hither. 4 Indra, come hither: evermore thou camest through our great strong desire to drink the Soma. 5 Mayst thou, O Indra, on the day of trial, present or absent, wheresoe'er thou dwellest, 2 With that well−formed most wide−extending palate, wherewith thou ever drinkest streams of sweetness, 3 This drop, steer−strong and omniform, the Soma, hath been made ready for the Bull, for India. 4 Soma when pressed excels the unpressed Soma, better, for one who knows, to give him pleasure. 5 We call on thee, O Indra: come thou hither: sufficient be the Soma for thy body. 2 With Soma go ye nigh to him chief drinker of the Soma's juice: 3 What time, with Soma, with the juice effused, ye come before the God, 4 To him, Adhvaryu! yea, to him give offerings of the juice expressed.

2 Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Agnis, with Consorts, sending boons, 3 These are our guardians in the west, and northward here, and in the south, 4 Even as the Gods desire so verily shall it be. None minisheth this power of theirs, 5 The Seven carry seven spears; seven are the splendours they possess, 2 Another, luminous, occupies the place of sacritice, Sage, among the Gods. 3 One brandishes in his hand an iron knife, firm, in his seat amid the Deities. 4 Another holds the thunderbolt, wherewith he slays the Vrtras, resting in his hand. 5 Another bears a pointed weapon: bright is he, and strong, with healing medicines. 6 Another, thief−like, watches well the ways, and knows the places where the treasures lie. 7 Another with his mighty stride hath made his three steps thither where the Gods rejoice. 8 Two with one Dame ride on with winged steeds, and journey forth like travellers on their way. 9 Two, highest, in the heavens have set their seat, worshipped with holy oil, imperial Kings. 10 Some, singing lauds, conceived the Sama−hymn, great hymn whereby they caused the Sun to shine.

2 Thinking aright, praising eternal Order, the sons of Dyaus the Asura, those heroes, 3 Girt by his friends who cried with swanlike voices, bursting the stony barriers of the prison, 4 Apart from one, away from two above him, he drave the kine that stood in bonds of falsehood. 5 When he had cleft the lairs and western castle, he cut off three from him who held the waters. 6 As with a hand, so with his roaring Indra cleft Vala through, the guardian of the cattle. 7 He with bright faithful Friends, winners of booty, hath rent the milker of the cows asunder. 8 They, longing for the kine, with faithful spirit incited with their hymns the Lord of cattle. 9 In our assembly with auspicious praises exalting him who roareth like a lion, 10 When he had won him every sort of booty and gone to heaven and its most lofty mansions, 11 Fulfil the prayer that begs for vital vigour: aid in your wonted manner even the humble. 12 Indra with mighty strength cleft asunder the head of Arbuda the watery monster,

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

2 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 This man, most diligent, seeking after riches, incessantly invokes you for your favour. 3 O Indra−Varuna, ours be this treasure ours be wealth, Maruts, with full store of heroes. 4 Be pleased! with our oblations, thou loved of all Gods, Brhaspati: 5 At sacrifices, with your hymns worship the pure Brhaspati− 6 The Bull of men, whom none deceive, the wearer of each shape at will, 7 Divine, resplendent Pusan, this our newest hymn of eulogy, 8 Accept with favour this my song, be gracious to the earnest thought, 9 May he who sees all living things, see, them together at a glancc,− 10 May we attain that excellent glory of Savitar the God: 11 With understanding, earnestly, of Savitar the God we crave 12 Men, singers worship Savitar the God with hymn and holy rites, 13 Soma who gives success goes forth, goes to the gathering place of Gods, 14 To us and to our cattle may Soma give salutary food, 15 May Soma, strengthening our power of life, and conquering our foes, 16 May Mitra−Varuna, sapient Pair, bedew our pasturage with oil, 17 Far−ruling, joyful when adored, ye reign through majesty of might, 18 Lauded by Jamadagni's song, sit in the place of holy Law:

2 Rise up, O Savitar whose hands are golden, and hear this man while sacrifice is offered, 3 Let Savitar the God he hymned with praises, to whom the Vasus, even, all sing glory. 4 Even he whom Aditi the Goddess praises, rejoicing in God Savitar's incitement: 5 They who come emulous to our oblation, dispensing bounty, from the earth and heaven. 6 This may the Lord of Life, entreated, grant us,−the wealth which Savitar the God possesses. 7 Bless us the Vajins when we call, while slowly they move, strong Singers, to the Gods' assembly. 8 Deep−skilled in Law eternal, deathless, Singers, O Vajins, help us in each fray for booty. 2 Soft to the tread, their sacred grass is scattered: these go like Kings amid the band around them, 3 Here on their path the noble Gods proceeded: in the wide firmament the Beauteous decked them. 4 For they are holy aids at sacrifices: all Gods approach the place of congregation. 5 Agni, to these men's hymns, from earth, from heaven, bring Mitra, Varuna, Indra, and Agni, 6 Even as the holy wish, the gift is offered: may he, unsated, come when men desire him. 7 Now have both worlds been praised by the Vasisthas; and holy Mitra, Varuna, and Agni.

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

2 Win thou the light, win heavenly light, and, Soma, all felicities; 3 Win skilful strength and mental power. O Soma, drive away our foes; 4 Ye purifiers, purify Soma for Indra, for his drink: 5 Give us our portion in the Sun through thine own mental power and aids; 6 Through thine own mental power and aid long may we look upon the Sun; 7 Well−weaponed Soma, pour to usa stream of riches doubly great; 8 As one victorious unsubdued in battle pour forth wealth to us; 9 By worship, Pavamana! men have strengthened thee to prop the Law: 10 O Indu, bring us wealth in steeds, manifold. quickening all life; 2 He, Pavamana, Self−produced, speeds onward sharpening his horns: 3 Brilliant like wealth, adorable, with splendour Pavamana shines, 4 The tawny Pavamana, who strews from of old the grass with might, 5 The golden, the Celestial Doors are lifted with their frames on high, 6 With passion Pavamana longs for the great lofty pair, well−formed 7 Both Gods who look on men I call, Celestial Heralds: Indra's Self 8 This, Pavamana's sacrifice, shall the three beauteous Goddesses, 9 1 summon Tvastar hither, our protector, champion, earliest−born, 10 O Pavamana, with the meath in streams anoint Vanaspati, 11 Come to the consecrating rite of Pavamana, all ye Gods,−

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

2 May Dyaus and Prthivi, wise, true to Holy Law, keep us in safety from distress and injury. 3 Mother of Mitra and of opulent Varuna, may Aditi preserve us safe from all distress. 4 May ringing press−stones keep the Raksasas afar, ill dream, and Nirrti, and each voracious fiend. 5 Full flow libations; on our grass let Indra sit; Brhaspati the singer laud with Sama hymns! 6 Ye Asvins, make our sacrifice ascend to heaven, and animate the rite that it may send us bliss, 7 Hither I call the band of Maruts, swift to hear, great, purifying, bringing bliss, to he our Friends. 8 We bring the Stay of Life, who makes the waters swell, swift−hearing, Friend of Gods, who waits on 9 Alive ourselves, with living sons, devoid of guilt, may we win this with winners by fair means to win. 10 Hear us, O ye who claim the worship of mankind, and give us, O ye Gods, the gift for which we pray, 11 We crave the gracious favour of the Gods to−day, great favour of great Gods, sublime and free from fo 12 In great enkindled Agni's keeping, and, for bliss, free from all sin before Mitra and Varuna. 13 All ye, the Gods whom Savitar the Father of truth, and Varuna and Mitra govern, 14 Savitar, Savitar from cast and westward, Savitar, Savitar from north and southward,